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Shogologo Babies
The story follows Auntie Miisher, who wakes up each morning with a sign that she will have a baby by dusk. Each day of the week brings a new child, and each baby is tied to the cultural significance of being born on a particular day. Their names, traits, and destinies reflect the traditions of West African day naming. The rhythm builds as we meet Kwesi, Ajua, Kobina, Ekuba, Aba, Kofi, Amba, and more, until Auntie Miisher finally decides she has had enough babies. Alongside the story are playful rhymes, interactive activities, and bright illustrations that capture both humor and heritage.
Reading this felt whimsical and rhythmic. I liked the way the repetition pulled me along, almost like a song, with each new baby bringing a fresh description and name. There’s something very charming about how each baby is tied to nature and elements like breezes, sunsets, waves, and trees. It felt magical and grounding at the same time. The writing has a sing-song quality that would work well when read aloud, especially to young children.
What really stood out to me was how the book weaves in culture without being heavy-handed. The idea of day names and their meanings is not only explained but also celebrated through the babies’ personalities. It’s educational without feeling like a lesson. The trilingual presentation (English, French, and Ga) adds another layer, making it both inclusive and rich.
This is a joyful, vibrant children’s book best suited for young children and families who enjoy storytelling traditions. It would be especially meaningful for readers with connections to West African culture, but honestly, any child could find delight in the rhyme and repetition. I’d recommend it to parents who like to read aloud with energy and to classrooms that want to celebrate diversity and language in an engaging way.
Pages: 100 | ISBN : B0FRYJV96C
Cows With Bangs
Claire may be a cow, but her true passion lies in hairstyling, a dream that sets her apart in Cows with Bangs: A Stylish Tale of Acceptance by Joan Enockson. While her peers mock her unique interest, Claire presses on, masking her hurt behind a brave exterior. Their teasing stings, driving her to seek solace in private tears.
Everything changes when a glamorous, world-renowned Highland cow arrives in town. She’s not just any visitor; she’s a star of stage and screen. Ignoring the herd of autograph-seeking bulls, she insists on one thing first: getting her hair styled by Claire. And the transformation? Stunning. Suddenly, the same cows who once sneered are lining up, eager for Claire’s magic touch. From outcast to icon, Claire’s journey is both heartwarming and triumphant.
There’s so much to love about this delightful story. First and foremost, the rhythmic, rhyming text adds a musicality that makes reading aloud a joy. Children and adults alike will fall into an effortless cadence, amplifying the charm and liveliness of each page.
Beneath the whimsy lies a powerful message: being different is not a flaw; it’s a strength. Claire’s struggle will resonate deeply with young readers who may have felt out of place for embracing something they love. She does nothing to harm others yet becomes the target of ridicule, a scenario all too familiar. Her response is dignified, persistent, and graceful offering a meaningful lesson in resilience and self-worth.
Equally impressive are the illustrations, also created by Joan Enockson. Every page bursts with color and expression, visually enhancing the narrative with whimsical charm. The artwork not only complements the text, it brings it to life, inviting the reader to linger, explore, and connect with each scene.
Enockson weaves her background in education, music, and storytelling into a seamless tapestry that captivates children while offering thoughtful, age-appropriate themes. Her dedication to teaching shines through, as she subtly introduces ideas of friendship, problem-solving, and self-acceptance.
Cows with Bangs is more than just a stylish story, it’s a celebration of individuality, a tribute to kindness, and a joyful reminder that sometimes, standing out is the best thing you can do. With engaging characters, a vibrant plot, and radiant illustrations, this book is a must-have for every young reader’s shelf.
Pages: 28 | ISBN : 1958023531
Carried by Wings
Carried by Wings is a heartwarming children’s book that tells the story of two young condor brothers, Arthur and Walter, as they grow and prepare for flight. Arthur is bold and eager, ready to take to the skies without hesitation, while Walter is hesitant, clinging to the safety of the nest. As the story unfolds, Walter struggles with fear and doubt, but with gentle encouragement from his parents, he eventually finds the courage to spread his wings and embrace his destiny. It’s a beautiful tale about facing fears, growing at your own pace, and discovering the confidence that was inside you all along.
What I love most about this picture book is the way it captures emotions so simply and honestly. Walter’s fear of flying feels so real. He isn’t just nervous, he’s absolutely terrified. When he tries to dig himself into the ground instead of taking off, I couldn’t help but smile. His slow journey to bravery, from watching his parents soar to finally taking that first leap, felt natural and deeply relatable.
The writing itself is easy and rhythmic, making it a great read-aloud book. The dialogue between Walter and his parents feels warm and reassuring, just like a parent encouraging a child who’s scared to try something new. The descriptions of the Andes mountains, the roaring sea, and the wind rushing around the nest create a vivid. The balance between action and introspection keeps the story moving, while still letting kids connect with Walter’s thoughts and emotions.
Catty Flores has done an incredible job bringing the story to life. The colors are rich, the landscape is breathtaking, and the condors themselves have so much personality. You can see Walter’s uncertainty in the way he tucks his wings in, the way he looks up at the sky with a mix of awe and fear.
I’d recommend Carried by Wings to any child who has ever been afraid to try something new. It’s perfect for bedtime reading, classroom storytime, or even as a gentle reminder to adults that sometimes, you just have to trust yourself and take the leap. It’s uplifting, beautifully written, and full of heart.
Pages: 40 | ISBN : 9528201970
Okay Anyway
Chandra Bozier’s Okay Anyway is a heartwarming and inspiring story about resilience, hope, and the power of a positive mindset. The book follows Malia Cantu, a bright and determined young girl who faces a serious illness with unwavering optimism. Despite the challenges she encounters, Malia refuses to let her struggles define her. Instead, she repeats a powerful mantra: “I don’t feel my best, but I’ll be okay anyway.” Her journey from a talented student to a compassionate doctor is nothing short of remarkable, offering readers a touching narrative about perseverance in the face of adversity.
What I love most about this book is its message of strength without sugarcoating hardship. Malia doesn’t pretend everything is fine, but she refuses to let her illness control her. There’s a line early on that stuck with me: The one thing most people didn’t know was how dreadful the illness was that Malia did not show. That sentence hit hard. It captures the quiet battles so many people fight every day. The way Bozier brings Malia’s inner world to life, especially her ability to inspire others while struggling herself, makes the story feel raw and real.
Another thing that makes Okay Anyway special is the writing itself. It’s lyrical and rhythmic, almost like a spoken-word poem. Sentences flow in a way that makes the book easy to read but still packed with meaning. The repetition of Malia’s phrase, I don’t feel my best, but I’ll be okay anyway, becomes a comforting refrain, almost like a reminder to the reader that no matter what they’re going through, they can keep moving forward. I also loved how Bozier weaves in Malia’s acts of kindness, like giving up her toys and time to help others. It reinforces the idea that resilience isn’t just about enduring, it’s about lifting others up, too.
This children’s book keeps the story moving at an engaging pace, covering years of Malia’s life in just a few pages. The book does a great job of making her journey accessible to young readers. It balances emotional depth with readability, offering a meaningful and thoughtful story that can spark important conversations between kids and parents.
Okay Anyway is a great read for kids facing challenges, whether illness, loss, or any hardship that makes them feel like the odds are against them. It’s also a great read for parents, teachers, or anyone who wants to introduce young readers to themes of perseverance and hope. Malia’s story is a reminder that while life isn’t always fair, we have the power to face it with courage and grace. And sometimes, even when we don’t feel our best, we can still be okay anyway.
Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0DPGRRD8N
A Firefly Named Felix
Understanding what bullying is and how to identify it empowers children to break cycles of abuse and foster safe, healthy school environments. A Firefly Named Felix by Deanna Hart assists in this crucial task. This is a fantastic children’s book that promotes respect for others and acceptance of our differences.
Felix, the protagonist, is a boy who loves spending time with his friends. However, he harbors a secret: unlike his peers, he cannot glow. This difference saddens him as he watches his friends play with their lights. One day, some classmates notice this and start teasing him. Felix’s teacher then engages him in a reflective conversation, helping him recognize his unique qualities and face his situation with a new perspective.
A Firefly Named Felix is a remarkable picture book that skillfully addresses the themes of resilience and friendship. Many children will find the situations presented highly relatable. Deanna Hart explores the importance of acceptance and tackling difficult situations, imparting valuable life lessons to young readers. The book’s final section, featuring questions for parents and teachers to ask children before, during, and after reading, enhances its interactive quality. Additionally, fun facts about fireflies are included, adding an educational element.
The narrative is characterized by clear and concise sentences, perfect for children to practice reading, while the engaging plot transitions smoothly from one scenario to another. The illustrations are captivating and colorful and depict expressive characters that draw children into the story. The school setting helps children better understand how to interact with their peers. The book imparts beautiful lessons on maintaining friendships and learning to forgive.
A Firefly Named Felix is an invaluable resource for parents and teachers, providing children with the confidence to express their concerns openly. It is a delightful read for children and adults, fostering conversations about empathy, collaboration, and kindness.
Pages: 43 | ASIN : B0D3NLKTC3
The Kitten That Could Not Meow
In The Kitten Who Could Not Meow by Lolisa Marie Monroe, a litter of five kittens is born on a sunny May morning. Each kitten, varying in color and size, is distinct. As they grow and are ready for adoption, the litter quickly finds homes, except for one little orange kitten who cannot meow. Her mother fears that this unique trait might deter potential adopters. However, hope arises when a family expresses interest in meeting her to see if she would be a perfect companion for their daughter, Grace.
I found this children’s book to be a heartwarming example of the adage, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” The orange kitten’s inability to meow does not make her weak; instead, it highlights her unique charm. This story teaches children that being different is something to celebrate and appreciate. Embracing our uniqueness is what sets us apart and makes us special.
Monroe’s storytelling is captivating, particularly in her portrayal of the little orange kitten. Without revealing too much, the family that visits the kitten seems destined to be her perfect match. As I read, I felt a surge of anticipation, hoping they would love her as much as I did. I am confident that children will fall in love with the orange kitten just as easily. The illustrations by the Draw & Care Ukraine team are remarkably lifelike. The illustrations perfectly capture the essence of the kittens and add depth to the story.
The combination of Monroe’s engaging narrative and the Draw & Care Ukraine team’s stunning illustrations creates a picture book for any child to cherish. This is an endearing children’s book that shows a love for children and animals.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0D4GWQJGC
Titan’s Smelly Adventure
Titan’s Smelly Adventure by the remarkably talented 5th-grade author Ally Wilburn is an engaging and educational tale that captures the challenges and delights of personal hygiene through the eyes of Titan, a young tiger with an aversion to baths. This charmingly narrated story sees Titan’s sister, Talia, employing various creative strategies in an attempt to address his reluctance and improve his scent, from rolling in flowers to frolicking in fragrant fruit. It’s a journey that culminates in an enlightening and enjoyable discovery for Titan about the pleasures of bath time.
Wilburn’s narrative is both entertaining and instructive, offering young readers a subtle yet effective lesson on the importance of cleanliness. The story is brought to life by vivid illustrations, which add a layer of enjoyment and engagement to the reading experience. Titan, with his playful nature and initial obliviousness to his body odor, is a character that children can easily connect with, while Talia’s supportive and understanding approach embodies patience and ingenuity. Together, these characters form a relatable duo that young audiences are sure to find appealing and memorable.
Titan’s Smelly Adventure is a delightful and instructive tale for young readers. Wilburn’s skill in creating a narrative that is both educational and entertaining is commendable, especially considering her young age. Her ability to connect with her readers and convey essential life lessons through the adventures of Titan and Talia is a notable achievement in children’s literature.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0CSXKSHLY
Harvey’s Special Mission
Harvey’s Special Mission by Robyn Burns introduces us to Harvey, a spirited puppy from a litter of seven who embarks on an extraordinary journey. The story begins with Harvey and his siblings enjoying their playful days together until a pivotal moment arrives. A compassionate woman named Mommy Claire, grappling with a heart condition, seeks a puppy to train as her service dog. Harvey, chosen for this role, navigates the bittersweet transition from his family to a life of significant responsibility.
This children’s book serves as an educational tool, illuminating the crucial role of service dogs in assisting their human companions. It effectively communicates the message that service dogs are not just pets but highly trained helpers performing vital tasks. The narrative is particularly suitable for young readers, subtly educating them on the importance of these animals in a manner that is both engaging and informative. Robyn Burns skillfully weaves the story around Harvey’s training and his visit to a school with Mommy Claire, where they teach students about proper behavior around service dogs.
The inclusion of seven key rules for interacting with service dogs is a highlight, offering practical guidance in an accessible way. One rule, emphasizing the invisibility of some disabilities and the importance of kindness and non-judgment, resonates deeply. This message extends beyond the young audience, serving as a reminder to all ages about the diversity of disabilities and the respect owed to individuals and their service animals. The illustrations by Olha Stor complement the narrative beautifully, presenting charming and heartwarming visuals that will appeal to children and adults alike. The artistic portrayal of Harvey and his siblings adds a delightful layer to the story, making the book a visual as well as a literary treat. An intriguing aspect of this book is its autobiographical element; the character Harvey is inspired by Burns’ own service dog. This personal connection adds authenticity and depth to the story, making it a valuable addition to any children’s library, school curriculum, or public library collection. It’s an educational resource that not only entertains but also informs about disabilities and the role of service dogs.
Harvey’s Special Mission is a commendable first entry in what promises to be an enlightening series about Harvey’s adventures as a service dog. It is a highly recommended read, offering a blend of education, empathy, and enjoyment, making it an excellent choice for children and adults alike.
Page 26 | ASIN : B0CPCCK6FS
LITERARY TITAN 