Blog Archives
Words
Words by Katherine Davis-Gibbon is a vibrant and heartfelt exploration of language through the eyes of children at a local park. Young readers are introduced to a diverse group of kids, each from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds, who begin to discover the transformative power of words. Whether used to comfort or to wound, words carry weight, and through this story, children learn just how deeply language shapes their interactions and emotions.
What sets this book apart is its imaginative portrayal of words as loyal companions, friends that appear just when they’re needed, reflecting thoughts and feelings with uncanny precision. Davis-Gibbon crafts an emotional journey that resonates with children learning to navigate their inner worlds. As they grapple with how to name what they feel, Words offers gentle guidance and affirmation.
The illustrations elevate the story with a whimsical richness. From clouds that morph into meaningful words to butterfly wings forming the shape of hearts, each page brims with visual surprises. These details invite readers to engage actively, perfect for turning storytime into a scavenger hunt of hidden meanings and visual metaphors.
One particularly inventive touch is how the author personifies words as companions. It’s a brilliant way to show children that language isn’t just a tool; it can be a friend. And perhaps the most powerful message of all is the idea that the very same words that hurt can also heal, a concept delivered with grace and emotional depth.
Beyond language, the book gently weaves in lessons of empathy, patience, kindness, and the importance of offering second chances. These are values that children, especially in their formative years, benefit greatly from absorbing.
This beautifully crafted story deserves a place in every elementary school and library. Ideal for children who are just beginning to understand and articulate their emotions, Words offers reassurance that even imperfect expressions are valid and that their feelings always matter.
Pages: 36 | ISBN : 1737957671
Dogg the Cat
Dogg the Cat is a playful and tender picture book about a cat who dreams of becoming a dog. His owner, kind-hearted and open-minded, doesn’t just accept this unique wish, he embraces it. With curiosity, compassion, and a bit of internet research, they explore the world of dogs together. Along the way, we learn all sorts of fun facts about dogs, from their superpowered sense of smell to their ability to understand words and routines. The book ends on a joyful note: a cat named Dogg who feels fully seen, supported, and happy just as he is (or wants to be).
I really enjoyed this wonderful children’s book. The writing is simple but clever, with just the right amount of humor and heart. It walks a fine line—playful enough to charm kids, thoughtful enough to tug gently at adult emotions. The pacing is quick, but not rushed. There’s a natural rhythm to it, and the voice of Dogg is both quirky and honest. The blend of storytelling and animal trivia is surprisingly smooth. It never feels preachy or forced—it’s more like a cat joyfully rambling on about why dogs are awesome, and it’s kind of delightful.
What really stuck with me, though, was the message. It’s subtle, but strong: you can be who you want to be, especially when someone’s in your corner. There’s something sweet and quietly profound about a story that encourages kids to follow their instincts and to love others for exactly who they are—or who they’re becoming. And the illustrations are bright and full of character. They add extra warmth and energy to a book that’s already got a lot of heart.
I’d absolutely recommend Dogg the Cat to families with little ones, especially ages 4 to 8. It’s great for animal lovers, daydreamers, and any kid who’s ever felt a little different. Teachers and librarians will also find it useful for classroom read-alouds. It’s short, funny, and ends on a sweet, positive note.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0DZW5WB11
Animals are Great
Animals are Great is a playful, rhythmic children’s picture book that invites young readers on an imaginative journey through the animal kingdom. Structured as a song, the book follows a simple repeating pattern: each spread introduces a different animal through short, catchy verses, with a recurring chorus that celebrates the wonder of animals in general. Whether it’s a wolf howling at the moon, a bird flying through the sky, or a monkey swinging through the trees, the animals come alive with a joyful voice and a sense of childlike curiosity. The story is peppered with gentle observations and ends on a high note of imagination, encouraging kids to think freely and dream big.
What I loved most about this book is how much fun it is to read aloud. The repetition, rhyme, and rhythm make it feel more like a song than a story, and that’s a huge win for group read-alouds or bedtime routines, especially when paired with the sing-along video on YouTube. The writing is cheerful and bouncy, and even though the words are simple, they convey a great deal of charm. It maintains a light and upbeat mood from start to finish.
The illustrations are bursting with color and energy. Each page features bright, cheerful animals that are irresistibly cute, with big, expressive eyes and playful poses that perfectly match the upbeat tone of the text. The vibrant backgrounds and friendly designs make the animals feel alive. Adding to the experience, the sing-along song available on YouTube is a fantastic bonus. It brings the book to life with music and movement, making it even more engaging for little ones who love to sing, dance, and explore the animal world in a fun and interactive way.
Animals are Great is a bright and joyful ode to the wild world around us. It’s ideal for very young children, especially those who love animals, singing, or imaginative play. Parents, teachers, and caregivers seeking a lively book to read aloud will find this a welcome addition to their collection.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0DKT8CDDC
Saanvi’s Bad Day
Saanvi’s Bad Day is a sweet and honest look into a young girl’s very bad Tuesday and how she learns to deal with her overwhelming emotions. After a series of small but frustrating mishaps—forgotten homework, spilled lunch, a lost umbrella, and a final splash of humiliation in the school parking lot—Saanvi comes home soaked, mad, and defeated. Her father gently listens and shares a story of his own tough day, guiding Saanvi through the process of naming her emotions, accepting them, and finding simple ways to feel better. Later in gym class, Saanvi draws on these lessons to navigate another tough moment with courage and calm. It’s a story about the everyday emotional hurdles kids face and the quiet strength that comes from love, connection, and a little bit of perspective.
What I really liked about this children’s book is how tender and grounded it is. The writing is straightforward, but there’s a warm rhythm to it, like a conversation between a parent and child after a long day. The dialogue feels real. Saanvi talks the way actual kids talk when they’re upset. Her dad’s calm, understanding tone never feels preachy. He doesn’t swoop in with a magical fix; he just offers empathy and tools. That small moment of emotional coaching felt big. I love that this picture book treats children’s emotions with seriousness but not drama.
Teaching kids to name their emotions and give themselves permission to feel them was such a valuable lesson, and Sharma delivers it in a way that feels safe and relatable. No big lectures, just lived experience and gentle encouragement. I especially liked the follow-up scene at gym class—how Saanvi uses what she learned. It’s hopeful without being cheesy.
I’d absolutely recommend Saanvi’s Bad Day to parents, teachers, or anyone with a kid navigating big feelings. It’s perfect for ages 4 to 8—especially the ones who come home after school a little soggy in spirit. This book doesn’t just tell kids it’s okay to feel upset, it shows them how to ride it out and bounce back.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0DSJYJRQP
Harry the Hedgehog’s Harvest
In Harry the Hedgehog’s Harvest, author Rayner Tapia tells a warm, spirited tale of teamwork, friendship, and resilience through the eyes of a lovable cast of garden animals. The story kicks off with the eager Harry and his friends, Danny the Dog and Milo the Teddy Bear Dog, excited for the annual harvest festival. But when a heavy rain washes away many of the acorns and seeds, the festival seems in danger. Instead of giving up, the animals rally together, plant anew, and discover the power of kindness and community. It’s a cozy, feel-good story filled with heart and life lessons wrapped in autumn leaves and animal chatter.
I loved the rhythm of the writing. There’s something so endearing about the onomatopoeic lines, “Crunch, scrunch, crunch,” “Pat, pat, push,” and “Splish, splash, splosh.” They brought the story to life in such a vivid, tactile way. I could almost hear the rustling leaves and feel the chill in the breeze. It made the garden feel like a living, breathing world, full of tiny, busy creatures doing their part. It’s rare for a children’s book to strike that perfect balance between being simple enough to read aloud and still managing to feel magical.
The characters are a joy. Harry, with his determined little paws, Milo with his goofy energy, and Danny, who finds yesterday’s bone mid-dig, are all instantly lovable. I found the moment when Danny the Dog excitedly uncovered his bone from the previous day particularly charming; it was a classic and endearing portrayal of canine behavior. The way they all pitch in, from the rabbits nibbling weeds to the birds scattering seeds, made the whole thing feel like a sweet, fuzzy orchestra of teamwork. It doesn’t preach; it just shows. And somehow, that makes the message hit even harder. You don’t need a superhero when you’ve got a garden full of friends and a good idea.
The ending, where the friends curl up under twinkling stars after a joyful celebration, was tender and satisfying. “Not just food but friendship, kindness, and joy.” This line captures what this book does so well: it’s not just about what you grow, but what grows between you when you care and share. I found myself smiling as I turned the last page. There’s something quietly powerful about a story that makes you feel hopeful in such a gentle way.
I’d recommend Harry the Hedgehog’s Harvest to parents, teachers, or anyone who loves reading to children. It’s ideal for ages 3–7, but I think older readers will find joy in it too. It’s perfect for autumn reading, snuggled under a blanket, or as a sweet classroom read-aloud. If you believe that kindness and a little hard work can turn things around, this book is for you.
Pages: 31 | ASIN : B0F4RSSYYV
Quest for Cookies
At the end of a dusty little trail lies a charming mushroom dwelling that is home to one friendly but somewhat lonely gnome. When Gnomey receives a letter from his beloved grandmother inviting him to pay her a visit and indulge in his favorite sweet treat, he jumps at the opportunity. Gnomey sets off on what can only be described as an enviable adventure as he heads for Grandma Ruth’s house and her famous lavender cookies.
Quest for Cookies, written and illustrated by Natalia Morris, takes young readers on a fantastic journey through the forest, across the ocean, and over the moon alongside Gnomey, a sweet-natured little gnome who is always thinking of others and is sure to lend a hand whenever the need arises. Children will, no doubt, find themselves drawn to Gnomey’s adventurous spirit and will marvel at the bravery and quick wit he displays in his close encounter with a dragon.
Morris has gifted readers with a picture book that is truly visually stunning. There is a delightful softness to the colorful imagery, and it complements the innocence of Gnomey’s tale in the most wonderful way. I love the way Morris added illustrations within the text to emphasize the meaning of certain words. This is a fabulous tool for beginning readers who need to make connections to new vocabulary.
In addition, I have to say that Morris does not shy away from using more complex terms in her narrative. As a teacher, I could not be more pleased to see words like “monocled” and “expedition” included in the text. What wonderful opportunities for parents and teachers alike to have engaging conversations about new words!
It is often difficult to find children’s books that offer more complex verbiage with topics and characters young readers find relatable. Gnomey, Bean the bunny, and Grandma Ruth are the perfect cast of characters for budding readers, and the lovingly illustrated pages make it the ideal addition to a home or classroom library.
Pages: 39 | ASIN : B0CKJW6TGX
Every Day Magic
In Every Day Magic, author Melanie Lane Durham introduces us to Edie, a young girl who, having completed her schoolwork and chores, finds herself facing the familiar pang of boredom. Her mother gently suggests that everyday routines can feel extraordinary when viewed through the lens of intentionality. What follows is a charming and thoughtful exploration of how ordinary tasks can transform into meaningful rituals when infused with a little creativity and mindfulness.
As the story unfolds, Edie’s mother introduces her to the concept of rituals, not as rigid obligations, but as imaginative acts that bring joy and purpose to the mundane. Together, they begin to shape their daily chores into moments of connection and delight. Through this shared experience, Edie learns not only how to manage responsibilities more efficiently but also how to nurture a mindset rooted in positivity and wonder.
The storyline is refreshingly original. Durham skillfully captures the perspective of a child, one who sees the world in simple, straightforward terms and offers a new way of approaching routine tasks with imaginative flair. I especially appreciated the morning candle ritual, where lighting a candle becomes a symbolic gesture of welcoming the day’s light and possibility. It’s a beautiful, tactile way to teach children to embrace each new day with intention and optimism.
Durham’s message encourages young readers to step beyond a one-dimensional view of chores. Instead of seeing them as dull duties, children are invited to discover the hidden magic in everyday life. It’s a valuable lesson in cultivating creativity and resilience, skills that extend far beyond the home.
Another highlight of the book is the warm, collaborative relationship between Edie and her mother. Their bond is evident on every page, reminding readers that spending time together, even when doing housework, can be an opportunity for joy, learning, and togetherness. These shared moments subtly reinforce the idea that contributing to household tasks can be both meaningful and enjoyable, especially when done with love and imagination.
The illustrations by Naty Scabuso elevate the story even further. Vibrant, textured, and rich with detail, her artwork captures the emotional depth of each scene and draws young readers into Edie’s world. Every page brims with color and charm, beautifully complementing the narrative and enriching the reading experience.
Every Day Magic is a delightful blend of whimsy and wisdom. With its engaging characters, insightful message, and enchanting visuals, it offers children a gentle but powerful reminder that even the smallest tasks can hold great meaning. A lovely, well-crafted book that deserves a place on every child’s shelf.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0F2XGKRCN
Definitely: A Story of Empathy and Kindness
Definitely: A Story of Kindness and Empathy invites readers into a single, eventful day in the life of Matthew, a spirited, curious young boy heading off to school with excitement and grand plans, most of which revolve around his love for bears and time with friends. As the day progresses, Matthew finds himself navigating a series of small but significant mishaps, familiar hurdles for any child. He forgets his backpack, loses a crayon, knocks over a friend’s block tower. Yet, rather than becoming overwhelmed, he learns to manage these moments with the gentle support of his classmates.
Through these ordinary yet impactful situations, the story subtly introduces themes of empathy, perseverance, and collaboration. Each challenge Matthew encounters is met not with scolding or frustration, but with kindness, understanding, and teamwork. It’s a quiet, meaningful lesson in how children can show up for each other, even when the day doesn’t go as planned.
One particularly endearing moment comes early in the story, when Matthew proudly announces to his mom that he’ll be learning about bears at school. That small burst of excitement feels genuine and familiar, a snapshot of childhood curiosity that young readers will instantly recognize. Equally relatable are the scenes where things go awry; they’re not dramatized, just honest portrayals of how a child’s day can take sudden, unexpected turns.
What stood out to me most was how the author, Sara Brown, captures the emotional intelligence of children in such a natural, effortless way. The narrative never lectures. Instead, it shows kids solving problems together, forgiving one another, and staying kind. Even as Matthew forgets things or makes mistakes, his friends remain patient, offering solutions instead of criticism. It’s a refreshing and realistic portrayal of supportive peer relationships.
The illustrations add another layer of charm. Lively, warm, and full of subtle details from the scribbles on the chalkboard, the classroom wall art, even the expressive face of Matthew’s beloved teddy bear, each page offers visual delights that deepen the reading experience.
Parents and educators will appreciate the built-in opportunities for discussion. At the end of the book, a “Think About It” section encourages reflection through gentle questions tied to the story’s themes. It’s an excellent tool for guiding young readers through conversations about problem-solving, kindness, and emotional awareness. And, of course, the long-awaited bear facts Matthew learns bring a fun and informative close to his day, something he (and readers) can celebrate.
Definitely: A Story of Empathy and Kindness isn’t just a story about one boy’s school day. It’s about how children can rise to small challenges with resilience, how kindness becomes a steadying force, and how friendships help shape us. I highly recommend this book to parents, teachers, and anyone working with young children. Thoughtful without being heavy-handed, sweet without tipping into sentimentality, it’s a gem for storytime and beyond.
Pages: 31 | ASIN : B0F1YVF3W4
LITERARY TITAN 