Treasures of the Seasons

Pittmann, J.V. (2015). Treasures of the Seasons. Eden 3000, Inc.

Children's Illustrated / Poetry / Nature

I gave this book 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Treasures of the Seasons is a wonderful compilation of stunning illustrations, fun poems, and even some craft projects, all focusing on the "exciting adventures of childhood" found in each of the four seasons. Children will be drawn to the vibrant colors of the illustrations, as well as the reflections on everything from bugs to the magic of the wind.  J.V. Pittmann hits on the major joys and wonders of each season, all presented from the child's perspective, which will delight children and adults alike.

In Treasures of the Seasons, Pittmann uses interesting effects on the photographs, so that they feel almost like pop art and images feel surreal -- I am surprised that one of those illustrations wasn't used for the cover art. Though the enhanced photographs were my favorite illustrations, the drawings were also excellent (absolutely gorgeous, magical illustration with the poem "Winter") and really depicted the topics in the poems; children will definitely spend time studying the illustrations as they read and re-read the poems.

Pittmann's descriptive writing and use of figurative language really bring the poems to life in a manner to which kids will relate -- for example, saying a snail "shell-hides" is the perfect way to describe how snails disappear into their shells. "After Rain" delightfully captures the world when it's wet, and the informality of the rhyme will bring smiles.

The three craft projects provide a nice break from the poetry and will appeal to kids. Adults will likely need to supervise the crafts, as the directions may be a bit overwhelming for younger readers. Treasures of the Seasons will encourage readers to slow down and enjoy the miracles of nature, while also showing the fun of colorful, creative language. It could be an excellent springboard for kids to try writing their own poetry of the seasons.

There were a few minor errors and some interesting uses of the apostrophe, but they didn't interfere with the story. I would recommend this as a read-aloud for younger kids and on up to fifth grade.

This book was reviewed for Readers' Favorite, who provided an eBook in exchange for my honest review -- the only kind I give.

Fly Guys: Monday Madness

Thandi, B. and Leverton, E.(2014). Fly Guys: Monday Madness. (Volume 1). Self-published.

Children's / Illustrated / Rhyming / Issue

I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars.

Bold illustrations by Joe Sharpe and clever rhyming will have children requesting re-reads again and again.  Readers will appreciate that this self-published book is a well edited, well written story, (The Grammar Police -- that's me -- found only one capitalization error and a missing apostrophe towards the end of the story.) and the rhyming, alliteration, and onomatopoeia will keep the kids entertained especially when the story is being read aloud. Go ahead! Say, "What is that Buzzy-Bug-Fly-Flappy sound?" out loud a few times. Joe Sharpe's illustrations perfectly capture the moods of the characters through the clear expressions on their faces, and the sequences drawn on the dad's face are outstanding, with him going from passive to annoyed to maniacal to sheepish. I recommend this book for kids ages 2-7, with the note that for little ones, they could get quite anxious at some parts, and that it's likely adults will never be allowed to swat a fly again. 

Thank you to Authoramp for giving me a free eBook in exchange for my honest review -- the only kind I give. Please continue reading for the book's Press Release. 

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Press Release

New Children’s Book ‘Fly Guys’ Deals With Prejudice

A new young children’s book, ‘Fly Guys: Monday Madness’ tells the fun story of two unlikely best friends, a fly called Fuzz and 5-year-old Alice. Their mop-based adventure to the moon is brought crashing back to Earth when Alice’s Dad attempts to swat Fuzz.  When Fuzz asks Alice why her Dad hates flies, the story takes a thoughtful turn and raises questions about difference, diversity and friendship.

The book’s creator Bobby Thandi said, “the book helps parents and teachers to broach the tricky subject of prejudice. The main challenge was writing a book that deals with prejudice in a fun yet effective way to engage children. I hope readers enjoy discovering the deeper meanings within the rhyming narrative. No child is born with prejudice and I’d love to keep it that way."

Monday Madness is the first in a series of seven books, which will launch Fuzz and Alice on a new adventure each day of the week. As well teaching children the days of the week, the ending of the first book invites readers to use their imagination and submit ideas to help shape Fuzz and Alice's next adventure. 

Bobby Thandi – Creator of ‘Fly Guys’

Bobby has a bold vision - he wants his daughter to grow up in a world free from prejudice. To do his part in making this vision become a reality he has created a book aimed at young children called ‘Fly Guys: Monday Madness’. The book helps parents and children to think about difference, diversity and friendship.

The book was inspired by conversations with his daughter Avani who was aged 3 at the time.

When he’s not working on Fly Guys, Bobby is VP Digital at Dubit. They create kids entertainment products for clients such as Nickelodeon, Disney, PBS KIDS and Cartoon Network.

  

Feedback:

Bill Schultz, CEO Home Plate Entertainment, four-time Emmy-award winning animation producer and Studio Executive with more than 25 years of experience, producing such hit shows as “The Simpsons”, “King of the Hill” and “Garfield” -  “This book shows the sensitivity and creativity of an experienced creator.  Fly Guys is a fun read and the art style is light and very appealing.  The heavy and important subject is easily conveyed through the author’s careful use of color and action.  Fly Guys is a must read for any parent of a child living in a diverse world.  Meaning – Planet Earth.  Bravo Bobby!”

Mandip Sahota, Private Secretary to Minister of State at Foreign & Commonwealth Office, UK Government – “I loved this book. At a time when we hear reports of prejudice on the increase, the challenge is how to promote equality. Fly Guys is a fun story with a reassuring reminder – children are not born with prejudice. Bobby Thandi has definitely achieved something special here – a series that will help us all tackle prejudice one day at a time. Fuzz and Alice should be on every child’s bookshelf!”

Stephanie Gauld, Children’s Digital Media Consultant, and former Head of Disney’s Club Penguin and Digital Publisher at Egmont -  “Fly Guys' creator, Bobby Thandi, has an excellent understanding of this target reader-base and knows just how important building friendships and fitting in is to young children, in the process of forming their identities. This is a charming tale of diversity and acceptance... with fantastic illustrations to boot!”

Maria O'Loughlin, Children's TV Scriptwriter (CBBC, Discovery Channel, Disney Junior) – “I found ‘Fly Guys’ utterly charming! It strikes just the right balance between action, comedy and warmth to deliver a very important message about tolerance - something we need a lot more of in today's world! I can't wait to see what Bobby Thandi does with the rest of the series!”

Shahneila Saeed, Director of the Digital Schoolhouse (funded by The Mayor of London) - “With a layout and style that highly appeals to the younger audience, the book provides a strong message to promote diversity and the importance of friendship in a subtle but very effective way. Highly recommended.”   

Thaddaeus Varey, Research Manager, BBC – “Fantastic book! Can't wait to see what is in store for Fuzz on Tuesday. I love the theme of a father learning to see things from a different perspective. And of course it is fun to rhyme out loud on any day of the week.”

Feedback from Teachers:

Claire Jackson, The Froebelian School, Leeds, England – “A colourful, bold, easy read, touching on inclusion and diversity. Fantastic rhyming which engages the listener. A welcome addition to our school library.”

Nicholas Farmer, SEFE, São José dos Pinhais, Brazil - “Fantastic book for young children exploring their imaginations by delving into the fascinating relationships children create with animals whilst incorporating the importance of parental tolerance of the child's free-thinking.  Highly creative ideas coupled with interesting rhyming and dynamic illustrations, which is always essential for the target age group."

Kiren Rana, Arden Primary School, Birmingham, England - "A fun, enjoyable read for children of all ages. This story cleverly captures the value of friendship and inclusion through the use of an exciting storyline, eye-catching imagery and literary techniques."  

  

Feedback from Parents:

Elizabeth Kennedy, Australia - “Lovely book with nice bright pics, amazing rhymes and lots of fun onomatopoeic words that my kids (aged 2 and 5) love!”

Michael Smith, U.S.A – “Your kid will love this book! It was requested to be read 3 times in a row, which is a rare feat in my household. The book was recommended to me by a friend as they said it really got their 4 year old to use their imagination. I wasn't clear on how this book would do this, but it resulted in a 10 min conversation with my 4 year old about the ending of the book. Never thought I'd have such a long conversation over a book with my boy! The social message about respecting diversity and standing up for your friends is also really sweet. Not to mention the very modern and bold illustrations. And your kid will love the rhyming, as did I!”

Faye Lightowler, England - “My son loved this book, it is the first book that he asks me to read to him before going to sleep every evening. I love the fact it touches upon diversity and inclusion and another important factor is for all parents it's such an easy read. We can't wait for further books to become available.”

Bally D., England - “Me and my kids loved Fly Guys! A fun story that's cleverly rhymed and complimented by cool, bold illustrations. A welcome addition to the competitive kids market. If you love Julia Donaldson books & the like, you'll love this!”

Pariya Savarabadi, U.S.A - “This book is amazing for children. It is also my daughters favourite book so far... I have recommended this book to absolutely everyone, as it is so far the only book that I've read that teaches kids to stick up for their friends. It also teaches them diversity and friendship which is vital for growing kids.”

Quentin's Problem

Baker, M. (2014) Quentin's Problem. Self-Published.

Children's Picture Book 

I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars

Quentin the Quick is a young pirate who must pass his Piratish Exam. He nails swashbuckling and is a natural with a peg leg and eye patch, but what's a young pirate student to do when he can't say, "Arrr?" He'd better figure it out because the stakes are high -- if Quentin fails the test, he walks the plank! 

Quentin's Problem is a delightful story set in the pirate world with its not so scary pirates and slightly scary sharks for children to enjoy. Despite being in a fantasy world, readers will identify with Quentin and his fears, and the story offers good lessons about honesty, bravery, and overcoming adversity.  The subject creates great talking points for kids and parents to share. What really brings the story together are the expressive and colorful illustrations by K.A. King. King brings a variety of textures to each page, which children will love to look at as they read along. 

I highly recommend this book for pre-K through 2nd grade, to be read independently, with an adult, or as a read aloud to groups. Thank you to the author who gave me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review -- the only kind I give.

Click here to buy this book on Amazon

About the Author

Misty Baker is an author, freelance editor, and shameless chocoholic. She writes romance under her pen name Mysti Parker. Her other writings have appeared in numerous anthologies, and she has two more children’s books in the works. Misty lives in Buckner, KY with her husband, three children and a great many pets.

Author links:  

Misty's Blog, Unwritten

Misty's Romance Website

Follow Misty on Twitter

Follow Misty on Facebook

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Bielawski, R. (2014). Bees Like Flowers. Self published.

Children's / Picture Book / Informational

I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars!

Children will read along and learn as our happy young narrator shows readers, in a very simple and non-threatening way, that bees are worthy of a closer look. Author Rebecca Bielawski uses rhyme along with beautiful illustrations to explain the process of pollination and where bees live, and she throws in a few gentle words of caution about stings. In a supplemental section at the end, insects are defined and flowers shown in the story are identified, and there’s even an invitation to the readers to go back and find the flowers in the illustrations. Whether used as a read-aloud or for new readers to tackle alone, Bees Like Flowers is a fun and appealing teaching tool about the life of bees.

The rhyming is very well done and kudos to Bielawski for using easy simple phrases and easy to read print.  There is a repeated use of “cos,” which could create some confusion since the target audience is children learning to read and it’s not a word.  It sounds good when read aloud – though “‘cause” would have worked just as well -- but its use may need to be explained. The illustrations are what really put it over the top. This book is so cute that readers will want to hug it. For starters, the sweet-faced little girl narrating the story is precious and obviously precocious, and she’s not afraid to climb a tree or get her hands dirty as she tromps about nature.  And NATURE! Nature is drawn so vividly and beautifully – the bees have soft, gentle expressions and are definitely represented as friends, not foes. While some of the flowers do have faces, others are drawn very realistically where children would be able to identify them in their own yards and gardens.  Though the location isn’t ever told, readers will want to immerse themselves in the lovely setting of Bees Like Flowers, and this book will be read again and again.

Bees Like Flowers is book two in a series called Mummy Nature.

This book was reviewed for Readers' Favorite, who provided me a free eBook in exchange for my honest review -- the only kind I give.

Jack the Puddle Jumper

Maddox, T.K. (2014). Jack the Puddle Jumper. Self-published.

Children's Picture Book

I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars

In Thomas Key Maddox's picture book, Jack the Puddle Jumper, readers are introduced to the peaceful town of Pockinshook, where rebellious young Jack bucks the rules by doing what he loves the most: jumping in puddles. Much to the chagrin of the townspeople, Jack isn't like the other children who are quiet, calm, and neat. No other children join Jack to play, which leaves Jack feeling lonely and discouraged until local scientist, Doctor Calabash, discovers that the town is in dire environmental danger and that Jack just might have the answer to saving it. Will the townspeople believe Doctor Calabash and put their faith in Jack?

This is a terrific story and what is equally impressive is that author Thomas Key Maddox was just ten years old when he penned it. Jack the Puddle Jumper is a fun and imaginative story, written at a level well beyond Maddox's ten years. There is plenty of scientific terminology thrown in, the meanings of which readers will hopefully be encouraged to investigate (and perhaps discover that it is force, not velocity, which equals mass times acceleration). Truly, the book could be used in a science class as a springboard for students to come up with their own theories. The illustrations were colorful and interesting, but they were a little small to see in eBook format and didn't necessarily match-up with the text. Nonetheless, the illustrations will be a big attraction to readers since they were made by children from all around the world. A short explanation at the end of the book, telling how Maddox went about getting and choosing the pictures, would be a great addition to future editions. The book's content will challenge and entertain young readers, and it's likely to inspire young readers to write their own stories and make their own illustrations.

This book was reviewed for Readers' Favorite, who provided me a free eBook in exchange for my honest review -- the only kind I give.

The Blue Baboon and the Big Balloon

Mostyn, S. (2014). The blue baboon in the big balloon. Self-published by Mostyn Books.

Children's Picture Book

I gave this book 3.5 out 5 stars on Goodreads.

Fun and funny illustrations make this rhyming "a-la-Seuss-style" picture book worth a look. Warning: kids might LEARN by reading this. I especially recommend it to be read aloud BY children (age 7ish, depending on strength of reader) with an adult on hand for guidance. Here's why. . .

I initially read this myself (actually, I read it to my husband), and I was hooked on the illustrations, but not so much on the text. Though the it does rhyme and pile-on, like a Seuss book, it lacked the lyrical sound you find when reading Seuss. I found myself editing out/in words of my own so that it flowed better, and I also was concerned about some of the vocabulary being well beyond the audience. And then I took the book to my seven-year-old niece. She's going into second grade and reading a little above grade level, and she also has a pretty broad vocabulary.

What a different experience reading this book with a child! What I heard were giggles from the silly rhymes and illustrations, and LEARNING going on! Those vocabulary words that concerned me? My little niece used the rhymes to figure out how to pronounce them (veranda, for example) and context clues to define them. We did have quite an interesting conversation about the definition of a mite. Some kids might get freaked out by the idea that mites exist and there's nothing to be done, but my niece just uttered an "ewwwww" and we moved on.

Her two complaints were that it was a bit long and that the mice liked fried rice (umm, she's seven).

If your kids like rhyming and silly adventure, they'll like this book.

Thank you to the author for providing me a free eBook copy in exchange for my honest review -- the only kind I give! 

Want to learn more about the author/illustration team? Go to their website or follow them on Facebook.  

The Invention of Hugo Cabret

Selznick, B. (2007). The Invention of Hugo Cabret. NY: Scholastic Press.
YA Lit / Graphic novel / mystery / historical fiction / picture book

This was an incredible book and quite possibly my favorite of the year.  The drawings were amazing - all 284 pages of them! Even the format of the book in its layout, coloring, style, and construction truly contributed to the storyline.  And the storyline was great and kept me turning the pages.

Prior to starting the book, I had read an article that talked about the automaton (I want one of these of my very own!!! Maillardet's Automaton) and another about Selznick's inspirations.  It is fascinating, shows a bunch of Selznick's drawings from the book, and lists his 20 favorite books. It's easy to see who influenced him, and I encourage anyone who's read or not read the book to check it out:
Author Brian Selznick Shares 20 Favorite Children's Books

In case you haven't figured it out, I HIGHLY recommend this book to young and old.  It's a treasure.

UPDATE: I made this little book trailer after I named this book my favorite book from 2011.  Enjoy!