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A Miracle In Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo – Review by Tonya Merritt

A Miracle In Muffin: A True StoryA Miracle In Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a wonderful story! I absolutely adored it. The illustrations were great. A Miracle in Muffin tells us about how a cat missing brought her to God. I have recommended it to my daughter and even our church youth pastor.

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Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first children’s book by this author which I enjoyed. Some of my favorite parts are the illustrations and how the author was able to bring them to life with their writing skills. This is a fun story about Seal Gray and his journey of mishaps, mistakes and consequences. I enjoyed this character and what he brought to the story. This is a story that any child would enjoy over and over. An interactive story that I highly recommend.

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Review by @bjwagner

Nessie and the Viking Gold (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Trisha Cargile

Nessie and the Viking GoldNessie and the Viking Gold by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Nessie and the Viking Gold” is a captivating adventure that seamlessly blends folklore with historical intrigue, creating a magical tale for young readers. The author’s skillful storytelling weaves together elements of mystery, friendship, and courage, making it an engaging read from start to finish. The vivid descriptions of the Scottish landscapes and the lovable character of Nessie add an extra layer of charm to the narrative. The clever incorporation of Viking history and mythology not only educates young minds but also sparks their curiosity. With its clever plot twists and endearing characters, “Nessie and the Viking Gold” is a delightful literary journey that leaves a lasting impression and encourages a love for both storytelling and history.

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Cray Saves the Day (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Trisha Cargile

Cray Saves the Day (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Cray Saves the Day by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Cray Saves the Day” is an absolute delight for young readers! The vibrant illustrations are captivating, bringing the adorable character Cray to life on every page. The storyline is not only entertaining but also carries a valuable lesson about teamwork and friendship. The clever use of colors and simple language makes it accessible for early readers, fostering a love for books. The interactive elements in the book, such as engaging activities and challenges, make it an engaging and educational experience for children. Overall, “Cray Saves the Day” is a charming and heartwarming addition to any child’s bookshelf, guaranteed to spark their imagination and leave them with a smile.

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A Miracle In Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo – Review by Angela Plate, February 2024

A Miracle In Muffin: A True StoryA Miracle In Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a heartwarming Christian based book based on a true story. Wonderfully written with beautiful illustrations. This book is geared towards children 6 and up.

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Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Natalia Gonzales Castrejon

Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book! It was so good, I can’t wait to read it to my 3 year old little boy! I really love the lesson they learn in this book. It was very much really thought out and it was fun! I love the names of the characters! It really is a fun and lesson filled book for little kids and even adults!

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Sasha Smart by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Sasha Smart: Short Stories for GirlsSasha Smart: Short Stories for Girls by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sasha Smart: Short Stories for Girls is a collection of short stories for girls from the ages of eight to twelve years of age. Each story centers around a young girl named Sasha as she navigates her way through life and tries to overcome things like peer pressure, bullying, and low self esteem. The stories are empowering and encourage young girls to learn self acceptance, overcoming obstacles, standing up for oneself as well as others, and positivity. The messages contained within this collection are great for both boys and girls, and young and old alike. The illustrations throughout the book are bright, colorful and really bring the stories to life. I highly recommend this book for all ages!

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Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Carrie Reed

Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once again another G Pa Rhymes book with absolutely beautiful artwork and a wonderful lesson. This book is great to show kids, lying can hurt others and yourself, and friends will always understand and help you in any situation. I love following along with this group of friends and learning different life lessons along with them.

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Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Cray Crab and his friends, Gray, Fay and Ray are back for another adventure in Beach Ball Blunder, which is part of the Adventures of Cray on the Bay series. I just absolutely adore this series so much and so do my great nieces and nephew as well. The illustrations are beautiful and engaging and the story is just wonderful.

Seal Gray is enjoying a beautiful day playing with his colorful beach ball…but gets in a pickle when his ball bounces away. What happens after the ball causes a mess….Seal Gray learns a valuable lesson…

I do not want to give the story away or any spoilers, but this story is more for baby – 7 years of age, this could be enjoyed even if you are young at heart….and learning a valuable lesson too that we could take to heart.

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Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Jenni Bishop

Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Beach Ball Blunder is another wonderful and exciting book from G Pa that kids will fall in love with.

Not only is it a fun tale but it teaches children that things that they do or say have consequences. It is a good opening to discuss these things with your kids and help them learn. Friendship, trust, forgiveness and truthfulness are very powerful things for children to learn from the get-go.
The bright and colourful illustrations by the talented Erica Leigh bring the narrative alive and is as catching as the rhyming the story is told in.
Read along as Gray learns a very valuable lesson.
This cute story is full of fun and is easy to read.

I look forward to sharing more of G Pa’s stories with my grandbabies.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Nessie and the Viking Gold (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Jules Herbert

Nessie and the Viking GoldNessie and the Viking Gold by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As always this wonderful author has brought us another truly imaginative and creative story filled with fun to spark imaginations. Teamed up with fantastic illustrations this is a book not to be missed.
I mean come on it has the Loch Ness Monster and Viking treasure who wouldn’t want to read about that!

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A Miracle in Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo Review by Phylis Carpenter February 2024

A Miracle In Muffin: A True StoryA Miracle In Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a very short read that I think my grandchildren would enjoy. Muffin is a cat that disappeared and was later found.

A Mother and her daughter are trying to find their way when they see a church with people outside standing around talking. They decided to go.

This story will teach your children about trust and faith.

A must read for children these days.

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Sasha Smart by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Megan Conley

Sasha Smart: Short Stories for GirlsSasha Smart: Short Stories for Girls by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I liked the premise of this book and I think it was well executed for the most part. I liked that the stories were short and to-the-point to keep the attention of the reader. I also felt that the “lessons” in the stories were very poignant and spot on for today’s girls. The only thing that gives me pause is how much emphasis is put on Sasha being able to attain these attributes comes from her friends. While I completely understand the importance of friends and friendship (especially at this age) I think it is also important to stress that you also have your family (which is shown in the book) but also that these attributes can come from within as well and you don’t always need (or will have) that outside influence there to positively push you. But overall, I would recommend this book and I like the message it sent and the illustrations were absolutely amazing.
Reviewed by @meggs1717

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Nessie and the Viking Gold (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Tori Mitton

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1448103.Nessie_and_the_Viking_Gold” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Nessie and the Viking Gold” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1183706701l/1448103._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1448103.Nessie_and_the_Viking_Gold”>Nessie and the Viking Gold</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2948111.Lois_June_Wickstrom”>Lois June Wickstrom</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6237392514″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Craig, Linda and their parents are back at the loch bnb for vacation. The kid’s mom tells them to stay away from the lake after last years incident. When they arrive there is another family at the bnb as well. Anna, who is Craig’s age, and her father. Anna wants to take Linda to Portia’s concert. But one the kids get on Mcduff’s boat because he wants to record Nessie’s voice.<br />As Portia and her band are practicing for the concert, the boat tips over. Linda is able to get down to the grotto and talk to Nessie about what’s happening to the Loch Ness. Now it’s up to Craig, Linda and Portia to save the Loch Ness before it all comes crashing and floods. This was such an amazing ending to the Nessie series!!
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Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Jennifer Crain

Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The characters in this book are lovable and relatable, making it easy for children to connect with the story and learn from Gray’s mistakes. The illustrations are colorful and engaging, adding to the overall appeal of the book. The rhyming text makes the story fun to read aloud, creating a playful and enjoyable reading experience for children.

Overall, Beach Ball Blunder is a fantastic book that teaches important life lessons in a fun and engaging way. It is a must-have for any child’s bookshelf and is sure to be a favorite for years to come. Highly recommended for parents, educators, and children alike.

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@bookworm1909

Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Shelly Kittell

Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great teachable story about telling lies. Gray is playing with his ball on the beach and things get out of control. We see Gray take responsibility for his actions. I love the bright and colorful illustrations. They rhymes and rhythms of the story really make reading it such a neat adventure when you’re doing storytime with your grandchildren. Mine love it when I read this author’s books . Gray, Cray, Turtle Fay, Hay and the others are such a fun crew and teach at the same time. A must add to family libraries or the classroom library.

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Nessie and the Viking Gold (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Megan Conley

Nessie and the Viking Gold (Nessie's Grotto)Nessie and the Viking Gold by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second installment in the Nessie series with Craig and Linda along for another adventure! I never hesitate to pick up one of Wickstrom’s books and I love her chapter books as much as I do her picture books. She’s always weaving lessons and learning together in such a way that kids don’t even know they are getting something out of it! This is a book that your older ones can read on their own or you can use this as a family read-aloud. I love the illustrations sprinkled throughout the book and I can’t wait to see what Nessie’s (and Craig and Linda’s) next adventure will be.

Reviewed by @meggs1717
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A New Day for Cray (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Crystal Brehant

A New Day For Cray (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)A New Day For Cray by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a really cute story. My 7yo son and I enjoyed it. It’s about a bully who starts to lose friends because of always being mean. It is good for teaching about friendship, change and overcoming struggles. This is a great rhyming story with a great meaning. The illustrations are beautiful.

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Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes

🦀 .•°*°•.🦀 BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 🦀 .•°*°•.🦀
Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Kids, Family
Page Count – 32

Bookbub – Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes


Seal Gray loves to spin his beach ball. Does his playing get out of hand? Can Cray the Crab and his friends help Gray learn to do the right thing?
When Seal Gray’s beach ball spins out of control, he has to make a quick decision on what to do, and the story follows his journey of learning from mistakes and the consequences of lying. With endearing characters, beautiful illustrations, and fun rhyming text, this book will become one your child can enjoy over and over.
Beach Ball Blunder is perfect for parents and educators, as it teaches children valuable life lessons such as trust, friendship, and forgiveness.
This fun rhyming tale takes its readers on a journey of learning the consequences of not being truthful, guilt, and forgiveness. In this story, Gray loses his beach ball, and it bounces all over the place, causing some unexpected events. Readers will see how Gray’s actions can have consequences.
Dive into Beach Ball Blunder and join the friends as they bounce around ideas about kindness, friendship, and forgiveness—a perfect addition to any child’s or classroom library.

~ AMAZON ~

 

Click here to view the Book Trailer for Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes

Gary Wakstein is known to young readers as G Pa Rhymes! After a lifetime in the restaurant industry, Gary discovered his true passion: writing children’s books that teach important life lessons through the magic of rhyme and reading. Partnering with the talented illustrator Erica Leigh, G Pa Rhymes created The Adventures of Cray book series, inspired by his own family’s adventures. 

G Pa Rhymes captivates kids with his “rappin’ and rhymin'” stories and instills values like friendship, honesty, bravery, and environmental stewardship. Now a sought-after speaker, he travels to schools, museums, libraries, and anywhere else he can bring joy to children’s lives. 

G Pa Rhymes tries to inspire young readers with every book he writes. He resides in Plymouth, MA, and spends his days with his children and grandchildren on Cape Cod, Asheville, NC, and Victor, Idaho.

Author Interview with G Pa Rhymes

FACEBOOK ~ INSTAGRAM ~ YOUTUBE ~

WEBSITE ~ FACEBOOK ~ TWITTER ~ PINTEREST ~ YOUTUBE ~ INSTAGRAMFACEBOOK GROUP ~ TIKTOK ~

Nessie and the Viking Gold (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Emily H

Nessie and the Viking GoldNessie and the Viking Gold by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Craig took something that did not belong to him. Now he is back and their is a new family who has a young girl who is quite boisterous. With a talented singer coming to perform a concert, Craig and Linda find that their is something afoot with Nessie. Can they stop the harm that is threatening Nessie and her family before it is too late?

Another good one in this series. I think the story delved into some of the emotional influences children can have at their ages. The illustrations are beautiful and just enhance the story.

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A New Day for Cray (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

A New Day For Cray (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)A New Day For Cray by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cray the crab is always pinching his friends. After an accident, Cray finds the true meaning of friendship. This book has a great message for kids and is beautifully illustrated. I love the rhyming rhythm of the book, very catchy for kids.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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A New Day for Cray (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Melissa Fink

https://www.amazon.com/review/R177HP50W8Q0LY/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6235764225
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/2813559665

A New Day For Cray (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

A New Day For Cray (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)A New Day For Cray by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

We loved A New Day For Cray. It was such a fun, rhyming, kid friendly way to take a look at bullying! So well illustrated. Cray was such a bully to his friends just because he could but Hay stood her ground and explained to him that as friends they would always be there but they didn’t like the way he treated them. Poor Cray had a healthy dose of karma before he realized that what Hay said was right and all his friends agreed. I really like the author/illustrators bio at the end and how G PA Rhymes was a fun, grandkid loving, rapping, rhyming Grandpa whose kids encouraged him to publish these. They are great stories.

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Cray Saves the Day (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Jamie Truex

Cray Saves the Day (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Cray Saves the Day by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another cute story about Cray the crab and his adventures. This time him and his friends help clean up the beach and the ocean. This is a good way to teach children to clean up after themselves to protect our environment. The illustrations are beautiful.

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A New Day for Cray (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Jamie Truex

A New Day For Cray (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)A New Day For Cray by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a very cute book about learning to be nice. Cray’s friends don’t like it when he pinches and pushes them. The illustrations are very good. My 5 year old granddaughter really enjoyed this book. She said it’s not nice to pinch.

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Nessie and the Viking Gold (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Alison Risher

Nessie and the Viking GoldNessie and the Viking Gold by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another adventure with the legendary creature residing beneath a famous lake. The sibling duo has returned to the famous tourist attraction a year after their unforgettable first visit. During this visit, readers learn the difference between looking less childish, and the actions required to lead them on their pathways to adulthood. The main characters must battle their own selfish tendencies, and convince adults around them to do likewise. This is a great children’s book, and it features Celtic folklore as well as Celtic folk songs.

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A New Day for Cray (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Gillian Fawell

A New Day For Cray (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)A New Day For Cray by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A beautiful story that will help kids to understand both the consequences of bullying and the importance of forgiveness and friendship. The rhythm of the story flows well and keeps it simple for younger kids whilst also getting the point across. Would be great to read with an early childhood class.

Reviewed by @sparkinside

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Nessie and the Viking Gold (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Brandy Vaughn

Nessie and the Viking Gold (Nessie's Grotto)Nessie and the Viking Gold by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a wonderful addition to the series. It has appealing illustrations that match perfectly for the book. There is Scottish culture spread throughout this cute story about the Loch Ness Monster. The reader is on an adventure that is entertaining and engaging with thrilling adventures!

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A New Day for Cray (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Cindy Mayberry

A New Day For Cray (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)A New Day For Cray by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A delightful children’s book with lessons to be learned. Friendships are built on kindness and respect. This can sometimes be a hard lesson to learn. But this story is a great tool for helping our little ones. Pushing and pinching can hurt, but teaching our children what feels better will be found in this charming series. This author impressed me with this story. I love well written children’s books. This has it all. Including opening a conversation with our children. This is a must have for your childrens bookshelves.

Review@cinful

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Nessie and the Viking Gold (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Nina Maes

Great story, thrilling and full of adventure. This is a fast read, that will draw you in to the end. Recommend for book lover. This is an all-time favorite author of mine. This author grabs your imagination and paints a beautiful story every time.