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The Charms of US Farms
When I finished The Charms of US Farms I sat back and smiled because the whole story feels like a warm class trip rolled into a picture book. It follows a group of kids as they head out to visit two farms where they learn about crops, animals, tractors, corn, cotton, and even how baseball connects to farming. The kids ask playful questions, the farmers share fun facts, and the day ends with everyone realizing just how much of their everyday life comes from the work done on farms.
I enjoyed the easy way the book explains big ideas. It feels light and friendly. Nothing ever gets bogged down. I also loved the characters and the way the kids react to everything. Billy starts out bored and grumbly. Then he slowly wakes up to how cool farming actually is. The writing made me feel like I was tagging along with the class. The artwork is bright, detailed, and reflects the charming nature of the story.
I also had a soft spot for the little moments that sneak up with charm. Ms. Della serving date cake. Farmer Dole casually pulling a baseball from his pocket like some kind of farm magician. The cow named Bessie leaning into scratches. These details gave the story a cozy feeling that stuck with me. The ideas in the book go beyond farms. They nudge kids to wonder where things come from. Paper. Crayons. Milk. Even clothes. I like that the book makes learning feel natural. You pick up facts without ever noticing you are learning them.
I would say this children’s book is great for kids who like field trips, animals, or anything hands-on. It would also be fun for any young reader who enjoys stories that mix real facts with friendly characters. Parents and teachers could use it to spark conversations about food, work, nature, or even history. I’d happily recommend it to early elementary kids and to grown-ups looking for a cheerful read-aloud.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0G1CK9BN8
Instigating a Sense of Adventure
Hedgehog’s Winter follows a hedgehog full of energy and curiosity who isn’t quite ready to hibernate, so he bundles up in his warmest winter clothes and ventures outside, eager to embrace the snow-filled world around him. What was the inspiration for your story?
For a child, exploring and experiencing the magical world of winter is wonderous! I wrote Hedgehog’s Winter to capture the enchanting spirit of the season, and instigate a child’s curiosity and sense of adventure.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The storyline was originally written in a lyrical format, as a lullaby or whimsical ode to winter and nature. At the same time, incorporating various animals and concepts about hibernation, the book was written as an organic educational tool, as well.
When I visit classrooms, I spark conversations with young students about wintertime – what happens? How does the natural world around us change? Why don’t you see a snake during Christmastime? Where do chipmunks go when the season is snowy? It’s a wonderful way to engage their inquisitive minds. I offer students the opportunity to grow more appreciative and aware of what the season offers us.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Jeanne Ee Wei Yen?
My wonderful editor had everything to do with acquiring the illustrator. The watercolor media Jeanne used exemplify the mood and conjured a winter wonderland.
What next book are you working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m excited about my upcoming book, Grandma Yogini, a fun story to introduce children to yoga and meditation. Grandma is not your typical, run-of-the-mill Granny. She’s spunky and happily greets the team of neighborhood kids to show them a few fun yoga moves. The kids decide: best grandma visit ever!
Author Links: GoodReads | BlueSky | Facebook | Website
But his friends, Bear, Raccoon, and Chipmunk, don’t want to play. They are ready to hibernate in their warm dens.
So, Hedgehog puts on his hat, his coat, and his mittens and tries to find someone to have a winter adventure with him. As he skates on the frozen pond, he wonders what a falling snowflake tastes like. Then, Deer arrives and helps him build a snowman and find a piece of bark for a sled.
After sledding, Hedgehog and Deer share some leftover berries. But Hedgehog’s eyes are growing sleepy. He still doesn’t know what a falling snowflake tastes like as he walks toward his warm burrow. Only then, at the last minute, a little bit of magic happens.
Hedgehog’s Winter
As autumn fades into winter, Hedgehog savors one last playful moment with his friends in Hedgehog’s Winter, a charming tale by Raven Howell. Raccoon, Chipmunk, Snake, and Bear are all preparing for hibernation, ready to settle into a season of slumber. But Hedgehog, full of energy and curiosity, isn’t quite ready to rest. With no companions left to play with, he bundles up in his warmest winter clothes and ventures outside, eager to embrace the snow-filled world around him.
As he frolics through the winter landscape, one question lingers in his mind—what does a snowflake taste like when it lands on the tongue? His solo adventure takes an uplifting turn when his friend, Deer, appears. Together, they revel in the season’s magic, building a snowman and enjoying the crisp, snowy air. Eventually, even Hedgehog begins to tire, realizing that perhaps, after all his fun, a long winter’s nap sounds rather inviting. But just as he makes his way home to his cozy burrow, something special happens—something that makes his journey even more memorable.
This delightful children’s story radiates warmth and charm. One of its most endearing qualities is Hedgehog’s ability to find joy in solitude. Despite his friends being unavailable, he remains cheerful, confident, and eager to explore. Howell beautifully conveys a meaningful message: while playing with friends is wonderful, there’s also value in learning to enjoy one’s own company. Young readers will find comfort in Hedgehog’s self-assurance, discovering that moments of solitude can be just as fulfilling as time spent with others.
Jeanne Ee Wei Yen’s illustrations complement the story with breathtaking beauty. Nearly every page showcases her soft, detailed artwork, rendered in muted tones that perfectly capture the tranquility of a winter’s day. The imagery enhances the narrative, bringing Hedgehog’s adventure to life in a way that feels both whimsical and serene.
In sum, Hedgehog’s Winter is an enchanting read that will resonate with audiences of all ages. The story is heartwarming, the characters are irresistible, and the illustrations add an extra layer of charm. This book is a must-have for any child’s collection—kudos to Ms. Howell for crafting such a delightful wintertime tale!
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DRWF6NS8
Pinkies Up
Pinkies Up, written by Raven Howell and illustrated by Lisa Rush, is a charming children’s book that invites young readers to a whimsical tea party attended by a delightful cast of animal friends. Through its rhythmic verses, the story celebrates diversity, community, and the simple joy of coming together. Each page showcases a different group of animals, each with their own distinct quirks and tea-time traditions, creating a vivid, lively narrative that culminates in a heartwarming celebration of togetherness.
The writing is both engaging and enchanting. Howell’s rhythmic verses are a joy to read aloud, making the story accessible and enjoyable for young children. The playful language infuses the narrative with a lighthearted tone, enhancing the overall reading experience. The rhyme scheme flows naturally and consistently, a feat not always easy to achieve in children’s literature, which helps sustain the reader’s interest and makes this book an excellent choice for bedtime reading.
One of the standout aspects of the book is its subtle yet impactful message about manners and the value of community. Amid the chaos of the tea party—with spills and overturned tables—the story beautifully resolves through cooperation and kindness. The wise old owl, who steps in to guide the other animals in tidying up, delivers a moment that is both heartwarming and educational. This scene imparts an essential lesson about teamwork and consideration for others, adding depth to the story.
Lisa Rush’s illustrations are a perfect complement to Howell’s lively text. They burst with color and personality, bringing the animal characters to life with flair. The artwork is not merely decorative but integral to the storytelling, adding layers of humor and depth that keep young readers engaged.
Pinkies Up is a delightful and highly recommended book for parents and educators seeking a fun and meaningful story. Ideal for children aged 3-7, though older readers may also appreciate its playful language and captivating illustrations. Whether the goal is to teach lessons about diversity and manners or simply to share a joyful story, this book is a delightful choice that is sure to become a treasured favorite in any child’s book collection.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0CJ61M4PN
LITERARY TITAN 