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The Secret of the Magic eyePad: Novel Study, Activities, 7 STEM Projects, Bonus Audiobook Guide
This book is a hands-on, activity-packed companion to the novel The Secret of the Magic eyePad, designed to bring STEM concepts to life through fun, challenging experiments and problem-solving tasks. It’s not a storybook in the traditional sense but a full-blown interactive workbook, complete with guided science experiments, engineering design challenges, and math integration, all inspired by the characters and events in the original fiction. Readers explore everything from volcano-building and rapid prototyping to room design and physics tricks, with each section laid out in an engaging and accessible way.
I was really impressed by how approachable the writing is. Marsha Tufft clearly knows her stuff. Her engineering background shows, but she doesn’t talk down to the reader. She brings a friendly, encouraging tone that makes even more complex ideas feel doable. What really stuck out to me was how she built in failure as a natural part of the process. It didn’t feel like school. It felt like playing and building and figuring things out. That balance between structure and freedom is tough to hit, but she nails it. I found myself wanting to try some of the challenges myself, and I’m well past the target age group.
There were a few moments that felt a little too structured or worksheet-heavy, like the design evaluation charts or standards alignment bits. They’re useful though, especially for teachers or homeschoolers. Still, the overall energy of the book was high. It sparks curiosity and encourages kids to think like inventors. You don’t need fancy supplies either, just stuff around the house, some curiosity, and a bit of patience. That makes it feel empowering and realistic, which I loved.
This is a great resource for curious kids, especially those between 9 and 13, and for the adults who teach, parent, or coach them. If you’re a teacher looking to bring STEM alive or a parent trying to get your child off screens and into the world of building, this book delivers. I’d especially recommend it for girls interested in science. It subtly works to build confidence and independence without making a big deal about it. Highly recommended for anyone ready to tinker, explore, and learn by doing.
Pages: 226 | ISBN: 195825133X
Treehouse Rescue (Change of plans)
Treehouse Rescue by Veronica Puig is a charming and imaginative story that follows Mike, a young boy whose simple trip to the grocery store becomes an unexpected rescue mission. Mike wants to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, but his family is out of peanut butter. His mother sends him to the supermarket, hoping he returns before the rain begins. Along the way, Mike meets Mr. and Mrs. Carter, the caterpillars, Mrs. Birdie and her babies, an ant crew, and many other animals in danger of the coming storm. Instead of focusing only on his errand, Mike helps them reach safety in his treehouse. This delightful book offers a meaningful mix of adventure, humor, and heart, creating a story children will enjoy.
I found Treehouse Rescue to be an engaging and inspirational story with a warm message for young readers. One of the things I appreciated most was Mike’s independence. His mother trusts him to go to the grocery store on his own, which gives the story a sense of responsibility and adventure. What begins as a simple task quickly turns into something much more meaningful.
Mike’s empathy is another strong part of the story. He notices that the animals are in danger and immediately chooses to help them. He does not ignore their problem or rush past them to finish his own errand. Instead, he thinks quickly, changes his plan, and leads them to safety. This makes him a wonderful example of kindness, courage, and problem-solving.
The illustrations also add to the charm of the book. They are enjoyable to look at and help bring Mike’s adventure to life. I especially liked how the animals are addressed as Mr. and Mrs., which makes Mike sound polite, respectful, and well-mannered.
This story is perfect for teaching children the importance of helping others. It shows that plans do not always go the way we expect, but kindness can lead to something even better. The ending is sweet and satisfying because Mike is rewarded with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and shares the moment with the animals he saved.
Pages: 32 | ASIN: B0GTT6Y69M
The Wind Blows Sometimes Gently or Wildly
Away from the City follows the journey of a maple leaf, leaving the noise behind and finding calm in the wild, made even more moving by your real-life reflections on family, travel, and nature as comfort during ALS. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
There are so many inspirations for the story, and none of them are specific to any one order. Fall is my favorite season of the year, especially when it has just started. The green is still very present, but yellow and orange decide they want to be a part of the aesthetics. The wind blows sometimes gently or wildly, while that swoosh sound is all you hear. It’s peaceful. When I was younger, we would often go wood hauling to prepare for the Winter season. My mother grew up in the Chuska Mountains, and my dad grew up near Gallup, NM, where the Cibola National Forest and the Zuni Mountains are accessible. My family lived near large hills, so my sisters and I were always up in them for hours. My parents always took my sisters and me on nature drives, so some of my best memories are from those trips. If we stayed at home, we planted or gardened, but we were always outside, and there was nothing better. As my parents grew older, our trips lessened, but I ended up working in Yellowstone National Park for five seasons as a younger woman. It was the absolute best experience of my life. Later in life, my mom was diagnosed with ALS, which was very frightening for my family. Even at her weakest, my mom loved nature until the very end, even when all she could do sometimes was look out the window. There was comfort in knowing that nature still brought her inner joy.
How did you decide which “stops” the leaf would make, and did any scenes get cut along the way?
I have loved writing poetry for many years. I have many poems that no one has read before. I wrote “Away from the City” about a beautiful leaf envisioned. I have seen some beautiful waterfalls while living in Yellowstone National Park, and I have seen just beautiful scenery from where both my parents grew up. I used those memories as a stop for the leaf to visit because they are magical. Because the story started off as a poem, thankfully, I didn’t cut any scenes.
The artwork balances peaceful melancholy with warmth and light. What visual choices were most important to you in showing that seasonal transition?
I envisioned all the colors of early fall. It’s so vibrant. The colors are prominent and pop. The green looks greener, and the leaves are in transition from green to yellow, orange, and brown. It’s just beautiful how that happens. The Earth lets you know it’s alive, and it changes just like people do. The sky has this wonderful way of somehow matching the fall hue. As for the photos in the book, my agent, Amanda Zillman, thought it would be a unique touch to add photos. She added beautiful notes to each of my photos, clarifying some of the memories that inspired my first story.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am a Native American from the Navajo tribe. My next children’s book is a hommage to my cultural roots. It’s called “The Hogan that Cheii Built.” I have many stories to share, and I hope the readers will love them.
Author Links: Amazon | Website
Away from the City is a short melodic story about appreciating Autumn’s vibrant colors in the fall season while giving credit to nature’s beauty.
The Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Lobo
Edgar Garcia breathes new life into a timeless tale with The Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Lobo. This fresh retelling blends the familiar story with a vibrant Spanish twist, making it both engaging and educational for readers of all ages. Each pig sets out to build a home, selecting materials that reflect their distinct personalities. The first, lazy and carefree, opts for straw. The second, impatient and eager to finish quickly, builds with mud and sticks. The third, cautious and resourceful, carefully constructs her house from sturdy bricks. When the Big Bad Lobo arrives, each pig faces a daunting challenge, will their homes withstand his powerful breath?
What makes this retelling stand out is Garcia’s seamless integration of Spanish elements. This clever adaptation introduces readers to simple Spanish vocabulary in a natural and accessible way. A helpful glossary at the end of the book provides translations, allowing children to expand their language skills as they follow the story. This interactive approach transforms a classic tale into a bilingual learning experience, making it both fun and enriching.
The illustrations elevate the book to another level. Unlike traditional children’s books, this one showcases the work of thirty artists from around the world. Each page bursts with unique artistic styles, creating a visually dynamic reading experience. The variety of interpretations adds depth and excitement, ensuring that every page turn offers something fresh. This global collaboration makes the picture book truly one-of-a-kind an artistic masterpiece as much as a literary one.
Garcia, a Texas-based children’s author, has a deep appreciation for classic fairy tales. His passion shines through in this creative retelling, which marks his third published book. His ability to weave cultural elements into beloved stories demonstrates a gift for storytelling that is both innovative and meaningful.
The Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Lobo is a delightful reimagining that captivates with its bilingual twist and stunning illustrations. The fusion of storytelling, language learning, and artistic diversity sets it apart from other children’s books on the market. Young readers and adults alike will find joy in this imaginative retelling.
Pages: 37 | ASIN: B0DD92SZ8J
The 12 Dogs of Christmas
In The 12 Dogs of Christmas, Huntly and Raylee, two children brimming with excitement for the holiday, just can’t wait for Christmas day. Huntly dreams of receiving a pug puppy, while Raylee imagines a world where she could have every dog. That night, inspired by the “12 Days of Christmas” song, Huntly envisions receiving various dogs in a delightful twist called “The 12 Dogs of Christmas.” The assortment of dogs ranges from one pug puppy to two tiny terriers and three French bulldogs, and more, each adding to a festive tapestry of canines at the end. Though the dream ends in the morning, a special surprise awaits Huntly, making his Christmas wish come true.
This children’s book is a warm embrace of the holiday spirit, reminiscent of classic Christmas tales. It captures the boundless imagination of children and introduces young readers to the diverse and joyful world of dogs. The story beautifully captures the essence of childhood wonder, particularly through Huntly’s dream sequence, which cleverly plays on the traditional “12 Days of Christmas” with a canine twist. This imaginative journey through a parade of puppies not only adds a layer of whimsy but also allows young readers to explore their own fantasies about holiday gifts and magical moments.
The story is crafted in simple and accessible language, making it a joy for early readers to read independently and a delight for younger children to experience with their parents. The illustrations by Allan and Deborah Drew-Brook-Cormack are vibrant and lively, perfectly capturing the festive atmosphere. I loved the scene where the Scotties were sitting in front of the fire place where the cute stockings were hanging.
The 12 Dogs of Christmas is an excellent picture book for families eager to indulge in the holiday spirit. It encourages children to dream big and celebrates the joy of the season. I highly recommend this charming children’s book as a perfect holiday read for young children.
ASIN: B0DJWSLD8L
The Night Sky Lined With Silver
The Night Sky Lined with Silver is an engaging and culturally rich story that follows Abbie and her three best friends, Stephen, Martin, and Eliot as they look forward to celebrating Hanukkah together in the snow-dusted Catskills. The group, fondly known as the “Bieman Buddies,” loves nothing more than sharing adventures, hearing Uncle Morrie’s riveting tales of wartime heroics, and enjoying winter’s many delights. But when a fierce snowstorm strikes and Uncle Morrie suddenly vanishes, the festive season takes a serious turn. Fear grips the children as they rally with their close-knit community to search for their beloved war hero.
This children’s book paints a vivid picture of Jewish life in pre-World War II America. The author’s meticulous research shines through, from the authentic Yiddish phrases to the nostalgic details, like Abbie’s treasured Shirley Temple doll. The story brims with the spirit of the era, evoking the charm of an old black-and-white film or a classic American Girl story, with lush illustrations by Robert Sauber that add to the book’s enchanting atmosphere.
One of the book’s standout strengths is how it honors Jewish heritage while also celebrating the broader fabric of 1940s American life. The depiction of tradition is both heartfelt and accessible for younger readers, making the story an excellent introduction to Jewish customs and values. The story delicately touches on the early rumblings of World War II, offering just enough context to educate without overwhelming.
The themes of community, faith, and resilience are interwoven beautifully, providing a meaningful and uplifting reading experience. The suspense surrounding Uncle Morrie’s disappearance may prove intense for some readers. The pacing is great, with bursts of tension interspersed with scenes that fill in the backstory and enrich the world. While these interludes offer depth, the reader can’t help but share Abbie’s anxiety, making the unfolding search all the more nerve-wracking. Sensitive readers might need some reassurance that the story concludes positively.
The Night Sky Lined with Silver is a heartwarming and artfully crafted tale. Its strong themes of faith, friendship, and the enduring bonds of community make it a perfect holiday read for children. Though it contains moments of stress, injury, and peril, the resolution is satisfying and leaves space for future adventures.
Pages: 113 | ASIN: B0CKK7B7HW
A Parrot Tail Lily
A Parrot Tail Lily by Tuula Pere tells the story of Cosmo, a dedicated gardener who prides himself on his lush garden full of rare and beautiful flowers. However, when an exceptionally rare parrot tail lily sprouts unexpectedly, Cosmo becomes obsessed with nurturing and protecting this single plant. His obsession, though well-intentioned, leads to unintended consequences that threaten his once-thriving garden and his own well-being. The tale unfolds as Cosmo learns the importance of balance and community, culminating in a heartwarming message about the interconnectedness of nature.
One of the most charming aspects of the book is how Cosmo’s relationship with his plants is depicted. He knows every bloom by name, speaking to them with care and pride. The vivid descriptions of Cosmo’s garden are delightful, painting a lush, colorful world that feels almost magical. I was drawn in by lines like, “Cosmo proudly presented his flowerbeds and greenhouses… I know every flower by name!” These details give Cosmo depth, but as his obsession grows, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness watching his world shrink to one plant. It’s a clever reflection of how single-minded passion can sometimes make us lose sight of what’s truly important. The author’s writing style is both simple and engaging, which makes it perfect for a younger audience while still providing layers of meaning for older readers. The narrative picks up in intensity as Cosmo’s fixation deepens. The story’s resolution, when Cosmo’s niece Nelly arrives, is touching and effective. Nelly’s presence brings a breath of fresh air to both Cosmo and the garden. Her simple, heartfelt advice carries a wisdom that’s easy for readers of all ages to understand. I loved how the author used Nelly’s character to gently nudge Cosmo toward self-realization. The moment when new buds sprout where the parrot tail lily once stood is beautifully hopeful, reminding us that life finds a way, even after our mistakes.
A Parrot Tail Lily is a charming story that skillfully weaves lessons about patience, balance, and the beauty of natural interdependence into its narrative. Tuula Pere’s tale would be especially good for young readers or anyone who loves nature and thoughtful, heartwarming stories. It’s the kind of book that leaves you with a warm feeling and a newfound appreciation for the simple wisdom in letting things unfold as they’re meant to.
Pages: 38 | ISBN : 9528200931
A Freezing Ski Trip
A Freezing Ski Trip, written by Tuula Pere and illustrated by Catty Flores, is a heartwarming children’s adventure story that follows siblings Liam and Lily on an exciting yet challenging ski trip through the snowy woods to Pine Cottage. The plot starts with the siblings’ enthusiasm and eagerness to ski on their own, but as they journey across a frozen lake and navigate unexpected challenges like broken ski bindings and freezing cold temperatures, they have to rely on each other and show resilience. By the end of the book, Liam and Lily not only make it back home safely but also return full of pride, having survived their harrowing winter adventure.
I loved how the author captured children’s pure excitement and spirit of adventure. Right from the beginning, when Lily couldn’t wait to set off and had been “ready all morning with her wool hat on,” I could feel her thrill and impatience. The writing brought back memories of childhood adventures, where even the smallest journeys felt grand. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the reality of the unexpected, like when Liam’s warnings about the steep hill become prophetic, and Lily ends up crashing into a snowdrift. This mixture of excitement and realism makes the story relatable, and the stakes feel genuine, even if they remain accessible to a young audience. The tension and the relationship between the siblings are beautifully woven into the story. Liam, being the older brother, alternates between protective and exasperated, especially when Lily refuses to listen to his cautions. I found myself smiling when he scolded her for speeding, only for Lily to boast about her “young bones.” It’s a classic sibling dynamic that feels both authentic and heartwarming. Yet, Liam’s care for his sister is evident, particularly when the trip becomes tougher, and he reassures her despite his own fear. Their bond is the emotional heart of the book, and the way they look out for each other as things get darker and colder is genuinely touching. The story ends with a sense of triumph as the siblings realize that their courage and determination have carried them through.
A Freezing Ski Trip is a delightful and adventurous read perfect for children who love tales of outdoor excitement. It also carries meaningful themes of courage, sibling support, and perseverance in the face of challenges. I’d recommend it to kids who enjoy adventure stories with a hint of danger or for families who want a cozy storytime book with a wintery theme. It’s a simple yet powerful tale that warms the heart as much as a steaming mug of hot chocolate on a cold winter’s day.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 9528200613
