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Balu the Paw Traveler
Balu the Paw-Traveler Visits the Seven Modern Wonders by Miry Bejerano is a cheerful travel adventure that turns geography and world culture into an imaginative trip for young readers. Balu, a friendly black puppy, invites children to climb aboard an imaginary airplane, train, and hot-air balloon as he travels to Chichen Itza, Machu Picchu, Christ the Redeemer, the Colosseum, Petra, the Taj Mahal, and the Great Wall of China. At each stop, a local animal friend welcomes Balu and shares a few facts about the landmark, along with greetings, foods, traditions, or activities connected with the country. That repeating structure gives the book an easy rhythm and makes each new destination feel familiar while still offering something different.
One of the book’s strongest features is the way it encourages children to participate instead of simply listening to information. Readers are asked to imagine themselves flying through the clouds, practice samba steps in Brazil, try a yoga pose in India, and wield an imaginary bamboo stick at the Great Wall. The cultural details are presented in small, kid-friendly pieces, such as tacos in Mexico, ceviche and pan flutes in Peru, gelato and pizza in Italy, and hummus and dates in Jordan. There are also simple introductions to words such as hola, ciao, marhaban, and namaste. The result feels part story, part introductory geography lesson, and part activity book, with Balu serving as an enthusiastic guide.
The pages are filled with bright, colorful cartoon scenes showing Balu at each landmark alongside animals such as a jaguar, llama, toucan, camel, tiger, and panda. The landmarks are large and immediately recognizable, while speech bubbles make the encounters feel a little like a comic book. I especially liked the “Balu’s Notes” pages, which mix maps, flags, food illustrations, cultural objects, and short facts into scrapbook-style layouts. The pictures do more than decorate the story because they help young readers connect a place with its landscape, flag, language, food, and traditions. Balu’s expressive face and frequent appearances in tiny planes, trains, and balloons also keep the educational material playful.
The book also extends the adventure well beyond the final destination. After Balu returns home, readers get a family trivia game, thirty questions based on the journey, several “Adventure Snapshot” pages for recording their own trips, and a glossary of words introduced throughout the book. Those extras make the book especially suited to families, classrooms, or children who like to revisit what they’ve learned instead of putting the story away after one reading. Balu the Paw-Traveler Visits the Seven Modern Wonders is an energetic introduction to world travel that combines facts, imagination, movement, language, and colorful illustration in a way that’s accessible for curious young readers. It leaves children with the sense that learning about faraway places can be something they actively take part in.
Pages: 43 | ASIN : B0FRKP8F42
Fresh, Funny Ideas
The Adventures of Mo follows a curious dog who finds a key in the forest and decides to go on an adventure, traveling across all 50 US states to try to return it to its owner, making new friends along the way. What sparked the idea for Mo and his cross-country adventure?
The original inspiration behind The Adventures of Mo was to honor our beloved family dog, Mozart, after we lost him to cancer. As a retired journalist/writer, I used my skills to convert my grief into a playful adventure for kids, one that turns discovery about the US–its land, people, and places–into smart fun. Mo’s focus is on learning US geography through stories, not memorization.
The book has laugh-out-loud moments alongside quieter, thoughtful ones. How did you strike that balance?
I had to unfocus so I could focus. I unfocused by talking long walks, swimming, and even vacuuming! This is when I developed story ideas along with balanced laugh-out-loud and thoughtful moments. My mind had to be clear to make room for fresh, funny ideas.
How did you decide which facts to include without making it feel like a lesson?
I dug deep into every state to uncover fun facts that kids may not learn in the classroom. That research became the backdrop for each story, creating learning opportunities for readers without them realizing it. Mo complements classroom lessons about US geography and can also prompt fun conversations around the dinner table.
What kind of curiosity do you hope this story sparks in young readers?
To encourage readers–regardless of age–to wonder about the different people who live in this country, where they live, how they live, or simply to learn more facts about US states that might surprise them. Mo can help them imagine a world beyond their own backyard or neighborhood.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The Adventures of Mo
This charming children’s book follows Mo, a sweet and curious dog who finds a strange shiny object in the forest and soon gets swept into a huge adventure. Along the way, he meets Monta the Moose, a giant whale named Blue, and a nonstop-talking bird named Finchy. Before long, Mo is traveling across the United States on the roof of a delivery truck, visiting wild places, escaping danger, learning about humans, and trying to return the mysterious key to its rightful owner. The whole thing feels like a road trip mixed with a treasure hunt and a friendship story, all rolled into one.
Reading it felt warm and goofy and kind of chaotic in the best way. The writing has this bright, playful energy that made me smile a lot. I liked how Mo is always trying to be polite even when he’s scared or confused, and how Finchy never shuts up but somehow grows on you. Their friendship feels real. I found myself rooting for them while laughing at how often they got lost or sidetracked. The author slips in bits of real-world info about states and landmarks, and it surprised me how naturally it fit into the story. It felt like learning by accident, the way a kid would when traveling with a chatty adult.
Mo trying on human clothes had me laughing, and Finchy stealing a scientist’s “important” piece of paper only to discover it’s a grocery list made me snort. Then there were parts that were thoughtful, like Mo nearly floating away on a paddleboard or realizing how far he is from home. Those scenes had this soft ache to them. The book balances that feeling well, mixing silliness with little flickers of courage and homesickness. I liked that a lot. It kept the story from feeling too fluffy.
Mo is a little geography lesson wrapped in an adventure story. While kids follow Mo from Alaska to places like Missouri or South Carolina, they end up learning where these states are and how different parts of the country feel. The story drops in cardinal directions at the start of chapters, so readers start to understand north, south, east, and west without even trying. Teachers and homeschoolers can use Mo as a fun add-on to US geography because it makes kids want to look at a map and find out where Mo is headed next, which is a huge win for a subject that can sometimes feel a little dry.
I’d recommend this children’s chapter book to kids who love animal stories, big adventures, and characters who get themselves into wild situations but somehow wiggle their way out. It’s also great for adults reading aloud because the humor hits on both levels. If you want something light and sweet that still has heart, this feels like a good pick.
Pages: 313 | ASIN : B0BN29YX96
Places I Had Visited
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA West follows a travel-loving snake and his friends as they enjoy some of the sights on the West coast of the USA, from Hollywood California to Alaska and Waikiki Beach, Hawaii. What was the inspiration for the destinations they visit in your story?
Fred asked me which places I had visited and liked best.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Meeting the bear in Alaska. “If you meet a bear, be brave, shout out loud, and madly wave. Get together in a bunch to avoid becoming lunch.”
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
The old word “Eskimo” is no longer proper. We should refer to the different nations, like Inuit and Aleut.
What is your favorite place to visit, and does it hold any special meaning or memories for you?
San Francisco was the first US city I visited in 1971 while still living in England. I was impressed by its grandeur, pretty houses, sunshine, and hamburgers.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When Fred the Snake and Friends explore USA-West (Fred the Snake Series Book 9)
Peter B. Cotton’s When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA West is a playful, rhyming adventure following Fred and his friends as they travel through the western United States. From the glitz of Hollywood to the icy tundra of Alaska, the group encounters famous landmarks, wild landscapes, and even a few unexpected mishaps along the way. The book, filled with Bonnie Lemaire’s lively illustrations, is both a fun journey and an introduction to geography, history, and culture for young readers.
What makes this book shine is its whimsical storytelling. Cotton’s rhymes are bouncy and engaging, pulling kids along from place to place without ever feeling forced. Take, for example, the moment in San Francisco when Jim daringly flies through the Golden Gate Bridge, “Devilishly he flew right through it. You are not supposed to do it!” That cheeky humor, combined with the fun rhythm, keeps the story moving at a delightful pace. The book doesn’t just inform, it entertains, making each stop on the journey feel like an adventure.
The illustrations add even more charm. Bonnie Lemaire’s artwork is bright and full of personality. Each scene bursts with color and detail, making every location feel distinct. In Yosemite, when Jack helps rescue a wounded eagle, the expressive characters and dramatic action pull kids right into the moment. There’s a warmth to the way she brings these animal friends to life, making their friendships feel genuine. Whether it’s Fred grinning under the Hollywood sign or the group bundled up under the northern lights in Alaska, the images make the book feel like a travel scrapbook of unforgettable memories.
The book moves at an exciting pace, making it a thrilling journey from one destination to the next. With so many places to explore, each stop offers a glimpse of adventure before the group moves on. For children who love rich details, it might spark curiosity and inspire them to learn more about specific locations. Meanwhile, the fast-moving storyline is perfect for kids with shorter attention spans or those just beginning to explore these places. It’s a whirlwind tour full of energy, ideal for bedtime reading and sure to leave young minds eager for more discoveries!
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA West is a delightful read for young adventurers and parents who want to introduce their kids to the wonders of travel. The rhymes are catchy, the illustrations are vibrant, and the humor keeps it light and engaging. It’s perfect for kids who love animals, geography, or just a fun, fast-paced story. Whether you’re looking for a way to spark a child’s curiosity about the world or just want a fun book to read aloud, Fred’s latest adventure is a great pick.
Pages: 66 | ASIN : B0CHWMWVV6
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA Central (Fred the Snake Series Book 8)
Peter B. Cotton’s When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA Central is a lively, rhyming adventure that follows Fred and his crew as they travel across the central United States. Through colorful illustrations and playful verse, the book introduces young readers to famous landmarks, historical sites, and natural wonders, from the Alamo to Mount Rushmore and the Grand Canyon. Along the way, Fred and his friends engage in fun activities, attending a rodeo, panning for gold, and even witnessing a wedding in Las Vegas. The book is a celebration of exploration, friendship, and curiosity, all wrapped in a lighthearted storytelling style.
The whimsical rhymes and bouncy rhythm make this book a delight to read aloud. Cotton keeps the energy high with short, punchy lines that carry a singsong quality, making the journey feel even more exciting. The humor is gentle but effective, as seen when Jack mistakes a bison for an enormous cow or when Fred and Bernadette try their luck on a trapeze. These little moments add charm and keep the narrative engaging. The writing style is simple yet expressive, ensuring that kids stay entertained while subtly absorbing geographical and historical facts.
The illustrations by Bonnie Lemaire add another layer of magic to the story. Each page bursts with vibrant colors and lively characters, bringing the adventures to life. The depiction of famous locations, like the towering sandstone formations of Monument Valley and the fiery eruption of Old Faithful, captures their grandeur in a way that’s accessible to children. The expressive faces of Fred and his friends make their experiences even more relatable, whether they’re braving a storm or marveling at presidential sculptures. Lemaire’s artwork complements the story perfectly, enhancing the book’s fun and educational value.
One of the standout elements of the book is how seamlessly it blends fun with learning. While Fred and his friends are busy having adventures, young readers are exposed to American history and geography in a way that feels effortless. The mention of Crazy Horse, the importance of the Alamo, and the vastness of the Grand Canyon are woven into the storyline without feeling like a lesson. Even practical life lessons, like the warning against gambling in Las Vegas, are sprinkled in with humor. The book strikes a great balance, never too serious, never too silly.
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA Central is a fantastic pick for young readers who enjoy adventure, animals, and travel. It’s an excellent choice for parents looking for an engaging way to introduce their kids to famous American landmarks, as well as for teachers who want to add a fun book to their geography lessons. The rhymes, the humor, and the lively illustrations make this a book that kids will want to revisit, and the promise of more Fred the Snake adventures to come makes it even better. If you love books that entertain while they educate, this one is a great addition to your collection.
Pages: 48 | ASIN : B0BSVHYVGG
Ava’s Amsterdam Tour: A Travel Troupe Adventure
Ava’s Amsterdam Tour: A Travel Troupe Adventure by Bailey Clark offers a delightful way for children to explore different cultures, providing a window into the vibrant diversity of our world. In this charming tale, readers follow the cheerful Ava as she embarks on a fun-filled adventure through Amsterdam’s most iconic landmarks. Riding her bike through the bustling streets, Ava begins her journey at Dam Square and continues to explore a variety of must-see spots. From the historic Westerkerk Church to the picturesque Canal District, the famous Rijksmuseum with its grand library, and even a trip to Artis Zoo and the Butterfly Pavilion, Ava’s tour reveals the heart and soul of the city. Each location offers something unique, with its own story to tell.
This book is not only entertaining but also highly educational. It’s thoughtfully designed with young readers in mind, featuring a map at the end to help visualize Ava’s journey. Fun facts and trivia sprinkled throughout make it even more engaging, transforming the book into a comprehensive guide for young explorers. Bailey Clark’s writing is clear and simple, while still providing vivid descriptions that capture the magic of each destination. Every page showcases a new location, brought to life by beautifully vibrant illustrations that spark the imagination and encourage curiosity. Ava herself is an endearing character—bright, enthusiastic, and full of energy—which helps bring the story to life. Travel stories like Ava’s Amsterdam Tour have a special way of igniting children’s imaginations, and this book is perfect for doing just that. It introduces young readers to a wide vocabulary, not only through place names but also through the rich descriptions of Amsterdam’s attractions. The narrative has a rhythmic flow, reflecting the joy of discovering new cultures and experiences. Although the story is engaging, it does move at a slower pace, as Ava’s journey is more about exploration than overcoming challenges or obstacles.
Ava’s Amsterdam Tour: A Travel Troupe Adventure is a fantastic resource for inspiring children to love travel, exploration, and cultural discovery. It encourages curiosity about the world around them and will leave young readers eager to embark on adventures of their own.
Pages: 31 | ASIN : B0CW1GQKRX
Discovering New Places and Forming Connections
A World of New Beginnings follows a brother and sister who are relocating to a new country and working through the challenging emotions that come with such a big change. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for A World of New Beginnings came from my personal journey as a writer, a nomad child, and an expat mom. Before embarking on our first relocation with my own children, Emma and Eliott, I searched for a book to help explain the process and what to expect. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find anything that spoke to the entire experience. Drawing from my own background and experiences, I felt compelled to fill this gap and provide a reassuring resource for children facing similar transitions. As a result, I decided to channel my creativity into crafting a story that would normalize the whirlwind of emotions that come with relocating to a new country and prepare children for this life-changing experience.
I found the art in this book greatly enhances the story and helps children relate to the characters. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Ale Tadeo?
The collaboration process with illustrator Ale Tadeo was an absolute delight. Ale not only brought my vision to life with her vibrant illustrations, but she also understood the sensitivity of the theme and added depth to the characters and the entire universe of the story. Our collaboration was smooth and seamless, with Ale meticulously following my brief and storyboard to the letter. The artwork in A World of New Beginnings greatly enhances the story and helps children relate to the characters on a deeper level. I’m thrilled to say that Ale and I will continue collaborating on future projects, bringing more enchanting stories to life together.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
In A World of New Beginnings, it was important for me to convey the significance of family support throughout the relocation process. I wanted to highlight how the unwavering support of loved ones is fundamental for navigating the challenges of change and embracing new beginnings. Additionally, I aimed to showcase the beauty of discovering new places and forming connections with people from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing that every destination holds wonderful treasures waiting to be explored and cherished.
It was also important for me to convey the message of resilience and hope amidst change. I wanted to feature the rollercoaster of emotions that children may experience when relocating to a new country, while also emphasizing the strength and adaptability they naturally possess. I aimed to normalize the feelings of uncertainty and fear, reassuring young readers that it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions during times of transition and that eventually, everything will be alright.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, A World of New Beginnings is the first book in a series focusing on the topic of life as kids living abroad. While A World of New Beginnings sets the stage for the series, upcoming books will delve deeper into various aspects of relocating to a new country and the experiences of being a child abroad.
The first few books will focus on topics related to the “preparation” period, offering guidance and reassurance for children and families as they embark on their journey. Subsequent books will explore themes relevant to life in the new environment, providing insights and support for navigating the challenges and joys of settling into a foreign land.
Readers should definitely stay tuned for more adventures and valuable insights in the upcoming installments of the series!
Author Links: Goodreads | Website | Instagram | Amazon
★★ This #1 New Release Children’s book, transforms moving abroad into an exciting adventure, and helps kids cope with the moving process: Normalizes Emotions: Acknowledges the range of emotions children may feel during a big move.
Step-by-Step Guide: Takes kids through the moving process, making it less confusing. They’ll know what to expect!
Love Amidst Changes: Reminds kids that some things (and people) remain the same, no matter where you go.
Promotes Resilience: The characters demonstrate how embracing change can lead to new opportunities, friendships, and joy.
Provide a Safe Space: By offering a relatable and empathetic storyline, the book serves as a safe space for children to explore and express their own feelings about the transition.
★ Ideal for third culture kids, expats, families relocating, and any child going through a big change!
★ Let “A World of New Beginnings” be your child’s comforting companion.
★ Grab your copy today and turn moving into an exciting journey!
