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The REAL 12 Days of Christmas
The REAL 12 Days of Christmas takes the familiar carol and spins it into a whimsical love story. Travis Trulove, a young man with more persistence than sense, tries to win over Taylor by giving her increasingly outrageous gifts over twelve days. Birds, cows, maids, dancers, lords, pipers, even a dog band with drummers, all tumble into her life in a kind of joyful chaos. What starts as a quirky attempt at romance blossoms into a fairy-tale ending where love, music, and laughter rule the season.
I found myself smiling through most of it. The writing has a playful rhythm, almost like someone telling you a story out loud, a little tongue-in-cheek and never taking itself too seriously. I liked that. It reminded me of being a kid, when stories didn’t need logic to make sense, just a sense of fun. The humor is lighthearted, and I could feel the author’s love for exaggeration in every chapter. The French hens with lipstick and wine glasses might be my favorite detail.
Once I gave in to the idea that this was a story more about spectacle than sentiment, I enjoyed the ride even more. It’s a book for anyone who wants to laugh at the absurdity of grand gestures in love. One of the things that stands out in this picture book is the artwork; it feels alive and playful. The colors are bright and full of warmth. Each scene feels like a painting you could hang on a wall.
I’d recommend The Real 12 Days of Christmas to families looking for a festive story to read together, as well as to adults who want a little humor mixed into their holiday traditions. It’s playful, colorful, and best enjoyed with the same “childish enthusiasm” the author says life should have. If you go in expecting lighthearted fun and a good laugh, you’ll find yourself charmed.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0FLT64PMG
When Bad Things Happen
Facilitating meaningful discussions about the complexities of life with young readers, Donna Carr Roberts delivers a poignant narrative in When Bad Things Happen. Through the endearing character of Mr. Fuzzy Ears, Roberts gracefully navigates the delicate theme of acceptance amidst loss. Set against the backdrop of an eagerly anticipated annual canoe race, the story unfolds with palpable enthusiasm as Mr. Fuzzy Ears embarks on his day. However, it’s the unexpected turn of events following the race, when his dear friend Izzy falls ill, that propels the narrative into a realm of emotional depth. As Izzy’s condition worsens and the inevitable loss looms, Mr. Fuzzy Ears must embark on a journey of acceptance, learning to cherish the memories of his friend.
Roberts demonstrates adept storytelling prowess, seamlessly blending moments of joy, sorrow, and reflection into a narrative tapestry accessible to young readers. The clarity of her prose, characterized by succinctness and concise ideas, ensures comprehension while maintaining engagement throughout. Complemented by illustrations imbued with a deep reverence for nature, the warm colors and tender depictions forge an intimate connection with the reader, fostering a sense of comfort and affection. Though some may find the occasional use of handwritten script charming, it’s worth noting its potential impact on readability for younger audiences.
When Bad Things Happen is a commendable exploration of life’s cyclical nature, offering invaluable guidance for parents and educators navigating conversations surrounding loss and resilience with children. Roberts’ narrative serves as a beacon of empathy and understanding, illuminating the path toward healing and acceptance.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0CWVTPJYM
The Adventures of Mr. Fuzzy Ears: Mystery of the Missing Bunnies
Mr. Fuzzy Ears: The Mystery of the Missing Bunnies by Donna Carr Roberts is a fun and adventurous tale of Mr. Fuzzy, a dog who aspires to become a police officer. When a group of bunnies goes missing, the mystery becomes an opportunity when Mr. Fuzzy is tasked with the investigation. Taking his job seriously, he quickly and diligently gets to work, visiting neighborhood animals, pets, and characters around town to find the bunnies. It’s a fun but meaningful journey that helps Mr. Fuzzy learn new skills while solving a mystery.
The author does a wonderful job of introducing the reader to Mr. Fuzzy’s world and his enthusiasm for becoming part of an important investigation. As Officer Fuzzy, the dog embraces his new role, collecting clues and information and making inquiries to find the bunnies, tracing their every move and where they were last seen. Not only is the author a creative writer but also an excellent illustrator for the book.
I read the book to my kids, who enjoyed how well Mr. Fuzzy put together different clues, or puzzle pieces, to find out where the bunnies were located. It’s a fun story for elementary school kids and a fantastic way to develop reading skills while enjoying beautiful illustrations. I like how the story and Mr. Fuzzy’s character promote a sense of curiosity and looking for answers by using different resources and making inquiries to find a solution.
Mr. Fuzzy Ears: The Mystery of the Missing Bunnies is a fantastic picture book for a young audience. I especially enjoyed the likable characters, the illustrations of animals, and the confidence that comes with solving a problem and helping others. It’s a great read and a visually appealing children’s book.
Pages: 52 | ASIN: B092RMH9TJ
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