Posts

The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

The Glow in Loretta's Garden (Loretta's Insects)The Glow in Loretta’s Garden by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautiful watercolor illustrations that bring the pages to life. Lois Wickstrom is a treasure in the way she takes a very common thing, such as a kid interested in bugs and turns it into an informative story for all ages to enjoy. In the story Loretta finds “armadillo bugs” which is the name she gives one of the four stages of a fireflies’ life cycle. While at first Loretta took the bugs and put them in her ant farm to observe them, she later releases them back into her garden. She wants to find more of them but when she discovers the eggs, she respects nature and covers them back up until they hatch on their own. The life of fireflies at the end honestly was informative for the whole family and left us all with one question, There’s glowing turtles?

View all my reviews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Always such colorful illustrations in this fun series. One of my favorite things about Lois Wickstrom’s works is how she gives common items such interesting names that you wouldn’t think of but make perfect sense. The Hidden Present’s new word is for a compass, it is an Inquisitive Indicator and honestly, I will be using it from now on as a compass does point to the wonders of your mind. Like Caspian you may not always know the questions but following isn’t always such a bad thing, you never know what you’ll find at the end.

View all my reviews

The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Natalia Gonzales Castrejon

The Glow in Loretta's Garden (Loretta's Insects)The Glow in Loretta’s Garden by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a great book! I definitely recommend to any kid audiences. I love fun little books. Most especially ones about fireflies! Fireflies are probably my most favorite bug species. This really was enjoyable. My son has really enjoyed books like these because they’re fun and he always learns about new kinds of bugs!

View all my reviews

The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects Book #5) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Hayes

The Glow in Loretta's Garden (Loretta's Insects)The Glow in Loretta’s Garden by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3 Stars

 

The Glow in Loretta’s Garden is the fifth book in the Loretta’s Insects series by Lois Wickstrom. This is another fun children’s illustrated storybook, full of interesting facts about insects- this time we learn about the lifecycle of fireflies. The added educational elements added an extra element of interest to the engaging adventure.
As we discovered previously, Loretta loves insects, and this time she discovers some glowing larvae while digging in her flower bed. She puts them in an empty ant farm and watches them do interesting things. What happens when they finally hatch? You really should discover all the interesting details for yourself – because what happens makes for a fun read.
This is not just a cute story, it also encourages children to learn while they read. I read this story with my grandson, but we wish the illustrations were better, as they are very simplistic and aren’t as bright, bold, or eye catching like a lot of Ms. Wickstrom’s other books- so they didn’t grab or hold his attention like the others have done.
As with the other books in the series, the ‘new’ cover is great, but unfortunately the illustrations inside the book aren’t up to the same standard. With better illustrations, this would have been an even better story, in our opinion.
Loretta’s Insects series contains (so far):
-Ladybugs For Loretta (Book #1)
-Bee’s In Loretta’s Bonnet (Book #2)
-Loretta’s Caterpillar (Book #3)
-What Loretta’s Katydid Did (Book #4)
-The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Book #5)
Happy reading!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

View all my reviews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand Series Book #8) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Hayes

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

The Hidden Present is the eighth book in the Invisible Magic Wand series by Lois Wickstrom. As with the rest of the series the story draws you in right from the get-go, grabbing your attention with the bright and interesting illustrations which accompany the cute storyline.
Caspian’s unbirthday has come around again- but this time Caspian can’t find it and will need to search for it. Lucky he has the Inquisitive Indicator to help his investigation. And so, let the adventure begin….
This is another cute children’s story and a fun addition to series. It has bright and colourful illustrations, fun, educational elements/lessons, and a touch of whimsical fantasy.
As with the other books in this series, it is a slightly quirky tale that proved to be quite engaging- feeding both the imagination, as well providing a few lessons along the way.
Suitable for children aged 4 to 8.
The series consists of:
-The Empty Box (Book #1)
-Things Are Shaking (Book #2)
-Caspian’s Unbirthday (Book #3)
-The Sneaky Kitten (Book #4)
-The Know-It-All Kitten (Book #5)
-The Mind-Reading Hat (Book #6)
-Baking A Bicycle (Book #7)
-The Hidden Present (Book #8)
As you can see, there are plenty of adventures to take with Caspian and Grandpa.
Happy reading!

Thank you, Lois Wickstrom!

 

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

View all my reviews

The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jennifer Crain

The Glow in Loretta's Garden (Loretta's Insects)The Glow in Loretta’s Garden by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“The Glow in Loretta’s Garden” by Lois Wickstrom is a charming and beautifully illustrated children’s book that teaches the importance of gratitude and compassion.

The illustrations in the book are vibrant and engaging, capturing the beauty of nature and the wonder of Loretta’s enchanted garden. The message of the story is delivered in a gentle and uplifting way, making it a perfect read for young children.

View all my reviews

@bookworm1909

The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Kerry Baker

The Glow in Loretta's Garden (Loretta's Insects)The Glow in Loretta’s Garden by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is yet another fun and entertaining story by one of our favourite children’s authors. The book was just as engaging and as the others we have read and this book took no effort at all to get in to. The illustrations were imaginative and added to the whole story. They are always what draws my kids attention to the book initially. The storyline was great and I enjoyed this book as much as my kids did. It is always nice to find a story we all like and can read multiple times and this book is one of them. I always enjoy books by this author and we are counting down until the next one.

View all my reviews

The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

The Glow in Loretta's Garden (Loretta's Insects)The Glow in Loretta’s Garden by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Loretta is taking us in the garden to see what we can find. To Loretta’s surprise, she finds armadillo bugs. What comes upon these armadillo bugs is quite a learning experience….going from little critters to something that glows….what fun!

This is a fun story for ages 4-8 with colorful illustrations. I love how this story comes full circle and I learn something new as well!

View all my reviews

The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Glow in Loretta's Garden (Loretta's Insects)The Glow in Loretta’s Garden by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Loretta is back in a new adventure where she is once again in her garden and this time she learns about Fireflies. The story is cleverly told, and children will learn the life cycle of Fireflies from glowing larvae to the beautiful glowing insects. The narrative is simple and easy to follow along.
The beautiful pictures as always bring the story to life. The story is original and fun and full of interesting facts and always opens discussions with my grandbabies who love Loretta’s stories and exploring the garden themselves.
The story is aimed at children aged between 4 – 8 years old.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Nina Maes

Great nature story of what we can find in our gardens. Fast read that keeps your mind busy. Great for story time or just fun reading for all ages. Love how this author taps into your imagination every time.

The Glow in Loretta's Garden (Loretta's Insects)The Glow in Loretta’s Garden by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great nature story of what we can find in our gardens. Fast read that keeps your mind busy. Great for story time or just fun reading for all ages. Love how this author taps into your imagination every time.

View all my reviews

The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom

🌼 .•°*°•.🌼 BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 🌼 .•°*°•.🌼
The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Kids
Page Count – 32
Cover Designer – Ada Konewki

Goodreads – The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom

Bookbub – The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom


When Loretta digs in the dirt to plant her flower garden, she discovers glowing larvae. Learn about the lifecycle of the firefly as she puts the larvae in her empty ant farm box and watches the larvae build tunnels and mud houses. After they hatch, she also learns the secret to their special flashing messages.

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom

Lois Wickstrom lives in a world where imaginary playmates are real. She doesn’t remember being born, so she finds unbirthdays are more exciting than the official once-a-year date on the calendar. She’s taken so many science classes that she believes science is the solution to almost every problem, including the dilemmas in fairy tales.

Author Interview with Lois Wickstrom

FACEBOOK ~ INSTAGRAM ~ BOOKBUB ~ TWITTER ~ PINTEREST ~ GOODREADS ~ YOUTUBE ~ NEWSLETTER ~

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

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Carrie Reed

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As always, I love the artwork in the Caspian books. The relationship Caspian has with his grandpa is sweet, and I like that they have such a bond. This wasn’t my favorite unbirthday present, but still fun to watch Caspian discover all the same. This book also could start a conversation with children about what a commas can do, and how it can help in different situations.

View all my reviews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My 7yo son and I have been reading Lois Wickstrom books for quite a while now. We have read so many. There hasn’t been one book of hers that we’ve given less than 5 stars. Caspian and his grandpa have a special bond. The books about them are so sweet and fun. Every year, Caspian gets a special gift on his UNbirthday from his grandpa. This year, he couldn’t find it. Did Grandpa forget?! Is he too old for presents? Read to find another Caspian and Grandpa adventure and to find out!

View all my reviews

Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Kelli Harper

Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray)Hay Goes Home by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Here we have another friend of Cray. The Rhymes are spot on, the illustrations are fantastic and engaging as per usual. I really enjoy these stories. The quick easy lessons that captivate the little minds around me. I will continue sharing these stories with the Littles.

View all my reviews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Nina Maes

Great book it will open up your imagination and more. I love how this author always seems to put a smile on my heart with her books. I love reading these for little ones and for myself as well. Recommend for all ages.The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great book it will open up your imagination and more. I love how this author always seems to put a smile on my heart with her books. I love reading these for little ones and for myself as well. Recommend for all ages.

View all my reviews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Caspian and his grandfather have the cutest bond! This is such a great series for younger children to really help spark their imaginations. Caspian has to go on a mini adventure to find his present from his grandfather using his Inquisitive Indicator he finds in the kitchen. This takes him on a fun adventure to hunt for his gift. I always love the illustrations in this author’s books. It makes them bright and engaging for children. Definitely a wonderful story for children of all ages!

View all my reviews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tori Mitton

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/175870263-the-hidden-present” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1696960241l/175870263._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/175870263-the-hidden-present”>The Hidden Present</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/331633.Lois_Wickstrom”>Lois Wickstrom</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6332641693″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
It’s Caspian’s birthday! There was a compass on the table grandpa left for Caspian. The compass will answer Caspian’s questions. But where is his gift? Grandpa tells him he has to eat because it’ll help him think better. (Very true!) this was another amazing Caspian story!!
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/6813301-tori”>View all my reviews</a>

Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Stephanie Robb

Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray)Hay Goes Home by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have really enjoyed this series so far. Each story is full of beautiful illustrations and wonderful prose. In this story we learn that it is ok to be afraid and admit you are afraid. I would highly recommend all of the books in this series for all ages and abilities to either read together or alone.

View all my reviews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Natalia Gonzales Castrejon

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was so cool and different! I loved the whole story. This is something I need to read my 3 year old! I think he would love this story and I might have to start doing this with him too! It’s super fun and a quick, happy read!

View all my reviews

Nessie and the Celtic Maze (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Stephanie Robb

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

This is a fun and engaging read. I am really enjoying this series as we visit Nessie in Loch Ness. We follow Craig and Linda as they journey from Quebec to Scotland to help Nessie. This story was full of drama, intrigue and mystery that children will love.

View all my reviews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Katie Matthews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

These books are such sweet reads and I love to see what Caspian is going to get for his ‘unbirthday’. This year Grandpa is making Caspian search for his present. I love the magical themes that run through this story – they certainly get children’s imaginations going. Children will enjoy following Caspian and helping his solve clues to find the hidden present. The story is short and easy to follow – perfect for children aged 4-6 in my opinion and it is accompanied by lovely, bright colourful illustrations.

@katiem
View all my reviews

Nessie and the Celtic Maze (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom- Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

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

It is summer time and Craig and Linda are on another adventure, however, this time they are not at Loch Ness in Scotland, they are at another place in Quebec, Lake Memphrémagog, far away from any monsters. Meanwhile, Angus, a seven-year-old boy, and his older sister Haining are holidaying at Loch Ness, and they are staying at the same place as Craig and Linda did.

One day Craig and Linda are talking to one of the people who live around Lake Memphrémagog and are asking about the lake and what lives there and in the end, they start talking about Nessie, so they make a plan to explore, after they have learnt how to properly do this.

This is how they find out about Princess Sheona who they find stuck in an underwater maze, but how will they be able to get her out and can Angus and Haining be convinced to help? This is a fantasy adventure which grips you from start to finish and teaches us all about bravery and being kind.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

View all my reviews

Nessie and the Celtic Maze (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Heather Bass

Nessie and the Celtic Maze (Nessie, #3)Nessie and the Celtic Maze by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have read a few books from this and she always takes me on a journey. This book is from the very addictive series Nessie Grotto. I read this to my son and we enjoyed reading as a family read. You will fall in love with the characters right from the beginning. I can’t wait to see what the next book will be about.
Craig and Linda are taking a vacation to Canada for the summer. They are excited because Loch Ness is not in Canada. They find out that there is a maze that is in Canada. Craig and Linda find out that Nessies daughter is trapped so they need to help once again. Will Craig and Linda work together to get Nessies daughter out of the maze or is too dangerous?

View all my reviews

🐶 .•°*°•.🐶 PREORDER 🐶 .•°*°•.🐶 Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog by Giselle Nevada and Jennie Chen

🐶 .•°*°•.🐶 PREORDER 🐶 .•°*°•.🐶
Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Kids, Family
Page Count – 32

Goodreads – Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog by Giselle Nevada and Jennie Chen

Bookbub – Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog by Giselle Nevada and Jennie Chen

Join Lora and CJ on an exciting journey as they discover the importance of thorough research and preparation before welcoming a new dog into their home. Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities takes children on an educational adventure that covers various aspects of puppy care from the essential tasks of grooming and feeding to the critical elements of training and socialization. Through catchy rhymes, children will gain a deep understanding that responsible pet ownership goes beyond the basics of providing food and shelter. To raise a well-rounded, happy dog requires love, play, and engagement.   As readers follow along, they’ll witness Lora and CJ’s dedication to becoming responsible pet owners, highlighted by their commitment to regular vet visits and the careful selection of the right breed or rescue dog that matches their family’s lifestyle. This captivating story is a valuable resource for parents and educators seeking to instill important values such as responsibility, empathy, and a genuine love for animals into the hearts of young readers.

FACEBOOK ~ INSTAGRAM ~ GOODREADS ~ YOUTUBE ~ WEBSITE ~

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

Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Nicole Thompson

Let me tell you, “Hay Goes Home” by G Pa Rhymes is an absolute gem of a children’s book. I loved the way it emphasizes friendship and overcoming those little hiccups we all face in life. Cray the Crab and Hay the Fox make an adorable pair, and their journey to Hay’s mother’s birthday party is a blast to follow.

What really struck me about this book is the way G Pa Rhymes uses playful rhymes. They flow perfectly, making the story a treat to read aloud. Plus, Erica Leigh’s illustrations are super charming and really bring Cray, Hay, and the world they travel through to life.

The friendship between Cray and Hay is so heartwarming. They support and encourage each other the entire way, making it a great example for kids. And as they face their challenges, you really see how important it is to persevere and know when to ask for a helping hand.

Honestly, “Hay Goes Home” is the kind of book that stays with you. The story’s great, the illustrations are a joy, and the messages about friendship and overcoming obstacles are spot on. I’d definitely recommend this one for any child’s library.

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

The Hidden Present is part of the Invisible Magic Wand series and lots of fun to read. My great nieces, great nephew and I enjoy reading what is in store next for Caspian and his Unbirthday and what Caspian’s grandpa has in store next!

When Grandpa does not leave a special box under Caspian’s Unbirthday…what can possibly happen? Thinking and searching Caspian is on the hunt for his special box..when he notices an Inquisitive Indicator!! What can this possibly be and can it help Caspian find his special box? Grandpa keeps Caspian guessing with clues…

Fun, enjoyable read and the illustrations are colorful and engaging. Always looking forward to what is in store next in the Invisible Magic Wand series!

View all my reviews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 stars

It’s another Unbirthday for Caspian and another magical gift from Grandpa only this time when Caspian wakes things are a little different from the usual.
Lois gives us another charming, original and imaginative tale for children between the ages of 4 – 8 years old.
Like all of Loi’s stories this story has magic and adventure and there is always a message featured with each one.
The Hidden Present is a children’s story that has colourful illustrations, is fun, and educational.
What is an Inquisitive Indicator you ask. Well have a read to find out.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Candice Estes

Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray)Hay Goes Home by G Pa Rhymes

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hay the Fox is headed home for her mother’s birthday party, and she is taking Cray the crab with her. Along the way, Hay and Cray learn how to be braver and how to ask for help. From being afraid of crossing rapidly moving water, to being afraid of an unexpected animal in a cave, the friends must learn how to manage and find their way safely home. The illustrations are beautiful, and the story is short with a rhyming cadence that makes it quick and easy to share with young children. I would recommend this book for any child who may be struggling with feeling scared or unsure. This is a great book for young kids, preschool age or older.

View all my reviews

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jennifer Crain

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)” by Lois Wickstrom is a delightful and heartwarming story about a boy named Caspian who receives a mysterious gift from his Grandpa on his Unbirthday. The story captures the magic and wonder of childhood, as Caspian goes on a hunt to find his hidden present with the help of an Inquisitive Indicator.

The relationship between Caspian and his Grandpa is beautifully portrayed, depicting a bond built on love and shared experiences. The author does a wonderful job of creating a sense of anticipation and excitement as Caspian searches for his gift, keeping readers engaged and invested in the outcome.

View all my reviews

@bookworm1909

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand)The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such a cute book. His unbirthday present is to be found and he gets to use a compass. Oh, what fun he has with grandpa. An entertaining story with bright, fun illustrations that will keep any child glued to the story. We love reading this series. Another welcome addition to our family library. It will also go well in the classroom.

View all my reviews