I found this childrens story to be entertaining. I read it to my grandson at bedtime and we had some nice conversations over the adventures of the children and Nessie. The author always has some wonderful lessons to be learned in the story. This was a different story than we were used to reading from this author previously yet we enjoyed it very much. My grandson loved hearing about the Loch Ness Monster after the story and talking about Nessie. He has a big imagination and this author’s story always help kick his imagination into gear even more. I was not aware that there are two to this book. We’ll have to go back and read the other.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-12-22 06:55:152024-01-02 12:14:03Nessie and the Living Stone (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Shelly Kittell
Nessie and the Living Stone is full of magic and wonder. There is much in this book that is different to some of Lois’s other books but there is still the underlying messages and teaching. I really liked the way the cover of this book caught my attention as did the beautiful illustrations. With monsters, precious stones, interesting symbols and ideals for children to learn from this is a wonderful and fun read for children of any age. It was fun to sit and reminisce about my time sitting and looking out over Loch Ness to see if Nessie would show herself. Read along as the children in this story got much more than they bargained for when on the hunt for Nessie.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2023-12-22 05:41:102024-01-04 12:51:03Nessie and the Living Stone (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Jenni Bishop
Nessie and the Living Stone is a chapter book for 6 – 10 year olds.Craig’s family, including his bratty little sister Linda, are on holiday at Loch Ness.Craig finds a blue stone that lets him breathe under water.An old woman calls it a living stone. Thanks to the stone, Craig and Linda are able to enter the cave of Nessie, herself, where she guards her secret realm at the bottom of the loch.But the door to her magical chamber came loose in a recent earthquake. She needs the blue stone to hold her door in placeCraig will face Vikings and a treacherous mermaid before his final decision — is it worth risking his life to save the Loch Ness Monster?
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.
Jean Lorrah is a New York Times Best Selling author. She is also a retired English teacher, and an award winning artist. She has written Star Trek books with Jacqueline Lichtenberg, and books in worlds of her own creation. Together with Lois, she is co-author of Coal for Christmas which won the Gold Remi at Worldfest.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/IMG_9382.jpeg724700itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-12-22 00:01:172024-01-08 12:43:33Nessie and the Living Stone (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah
Carrie’s Flight” by Lois Wickstrom is a captivating tale that effortlessly intertwines the magic of familial love and the wonder of childhood imagination. When Carrie discovers a set of antique wings belonging to her Grandma, a whimsical journey begins to unfold. The four mysterious boxes Grandma left behind—Wandas, Fascinator, Dowse, and Feathers—become the keys to unraveling a deeper connection and understanding of life’s mysteries. Through Carrie’s determination and creativity, the story beautifully teaches about the transformative power of love and the enduring bonds that transcend the boundaries of life and death.
Wickstrom’s storytelling is both poignant and enchanting, with starlings playing a symbolic role that adds a touch of natural beauty and wonder to the narrative. “Carrie’s Flight” is a heartfelt exploration of the magical moments that exist in the ordinary, reminding readers of the extraordinary power of love that continues to soar beyond the physical realm. This five-star journey not only captures the essence of childhood innocence and familial ties but also delicately imparts profound lessons about life’s transitions, making it a truly enriching read for all ages.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Nicole Thompsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNicole Thompson2023-12-21 06:50:362024-01-04 12:10:54Carrie’s Flight (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Nicole Thompson
This was a great book to read with both of my kiddos! I have an 8-year-old and 12-year-old, and we really enjoyed reading this together. It was a perfect fit for my youngest as he sometimes gets bored by chapter books because he still enjoys the pictures. We were pleased to find that there are lovely illustrations that broke up paragraphs and chapters to keep our interest. It’s fun to hear how everyone’s imagination works as we read through and played detective on our own! I highly recommend this fun and engaging story that is easy to follow, and we can’t wait to see what the next book brings!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2023-12-20 20:46:062024-01-04 12:09:33Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Shannen Kern
This is the 4th book of the series and can be read as a stand alone book. However, if you want more details on what is going on; I highly suggest reading them in order. It will help fill in the gaps of background that you will be wanting in the beginning of this book. This book is a spirited tale that is geared for 8-13 year olds but I feel like if the reader likes a hauntingly tale that isn’t super scary this would work for them as well. I enjoyed the book and felt it was an easy read. So, if your child isn’t to terribly into reading but you are trying to encourage them to do so, this book/series might be a good start for you. It has an easy to follow plot. It has relatable characters or characteristics. The characters sure do know how to get into some mischievous situations. This is what makes the book fun. Does the show go on, will they figure out what needs to be done, or will the ghosts do what they set out to do. These thoughts are what will keep any reader turning the pages. I highly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who has a dancer in their life that loves a little mystery. Reviewed by: @bbohls
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Barbara Bohlshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBarbara Bohls2023-12-20 05:56:482024-01-04 12:15:37Triple Trouble at Amberwood (The Amberwood Hall Ballet School Series) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Barbara Bohls
Detective Dylan was a super cute, fairly easy read for a young child. I have two kids the ages as the siblings (Dylan and his younger sister, Emily) and enjoyed them solving the mystery together! There was definitely some sibling bickering in the beginning, which I feel like most children will relate to, and Theodore, the dog, as the sidekick was perfect! Some of the things I really loved about this book was a few themes about not giving up and looking at all of the clues. They really did a great job “solving the case” and this is definitely a book I’ll have my kids read! I see many potential Detective Dylan books in the future!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sharonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSharon2023-12-19 20:47:032024-01-04 11:55:27Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Sharon Funkhouser
My family and I always love it when we pick up a book from this author because we know we’re going to learn something. This book focuses on the beautiful starlings and the generational bond that Carrie shares with her grandmother. We especially enjoyed the education about starlings because their evening murmurations are a sight to see. I loved the illustrations as well as the way the font changed with certain words. My kids liked the way the words looked how they sounded which was really cool! I highly recommend sharing this book with the young ones in your life to show the magic of love and starlings.
Carrie watches the starlings and shares her joy of their flight with her Grandma. Finding magical wings so she can take a flight herself, Carrie gets to experience the journey that the starlings have taken.
This was delightful. Carrie and her Grandmother are close and enjoy the fascinating starlings. I think this is a great story for children and a way to engage with nature.
This author has done it again. She has such a way to draw you in and keep you captivated no matter what the subject is. This book has a great message of encouragement and hope. It’s also very lighthearted with a touch of seriousness.
What a beautiful story! Another great story told by Ms. Wickstrom. I’ve read quite a few of her books already and love each one. Wickstrom has the amazing ability of creating a cute family story as well as making the reading experience a learning one too! This story tells of the amazing bond between grandmother and granddaughter and one of their favorite pastimes. When grandmother moves away, her granddaughter, Carrie, shares her memories and finds new ways to solidify their bonding over Starling bird watching. As a mother and former teacher, this book is great for a gift as well as one to share within the classrooms.
Another great book by this author. My son and I always love her stories. This is a beautiful story that was loved by both of us. I am still very close to my grandma. My son unfortunately was born after my mom (his grandma) had passed. This was a lovely story about how important and loving grandmas can be.
This was a cute little story. I love how it showcased a little girl’s imagination and love of her grandmother. I think children who have a great imagination will really enjoy this story about Carrie and her magical wings. The story is very interesting and I recommend it for anyone who has children who love magic and fantasy.
I am loving this series of books that Nevada and Chen are putting out for children, doggos, and owners alike! The concepts are easy to grasp, inclusive, and so well explained. The illustrations are absolutely phenomenal. I really just cannot get over how beneficial this book is not only for the dogs, but also the owners and their children. It is so educational and age-appropriate. This is definitely a must read and should be on your list of gifts to give new dog owners (especially if they have children). I cannot wait to see what these authors do next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Megan Kimleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMegan Kimley2023-12-19 14:06:402024-01-04 12:03:53Porter and Midge: Paws and Playtime: A Kid’s Guide to a Happy Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Megan Conley
Typically Wickstrom’s stories have a very overt lesson to be learned in them. This one takes a little longer to come to the surface. This is not one of my favorites from Wickstrom and it’s because I think that what she’s trying to convey to her readers isn’t overt enough. I understand that she is tackling the IDEA of loosing a loved one; however, it’s not clear and I think it may be hard for children to grasp that concept with the way that it’s been conveyed here. However, I think Wickstrom has opened the door for parents to talk about the loss of loved ones with this book and that may have been her intention all along. I always love Wickstrom’s combination of nature and science and learning into her life lessons. And per usual, the illustrations are wonderfully done. This book is just not as whimsical as her others (and dealing with the topic it does, it makes sense) so that could be why it just doesn’t catch my eye like most of her other books do. But like I said earlier, I think this book can open up a conversation about a very difficult topic. Reviewed by @meggs1717
This is the fourth book in this school age children’s book. The series is about a boarding school for children not only studying the expected curriculum but also learning ballet. We continue to learn about Lauren and Grace (the resident ghost and Lauren’s best friend) in this paranormal adventure series. There’s mischief, drama, loyal friends, some misunderstandings between good friends and so much more. The author has created wonderful characters and world where young readers can learn about friendships. Each book in this series can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading them in order. The books are geared toward 8-13 year olds but can definitely be read by those young at heart. I know I would have loved this series as a kid.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Betsy Melanohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBetsy Melano2023-12-19 04:16:302024-01-04 11:59:42Triple Trouble at Amberwood (The Amberwood Hall Ballet School Series) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Betsy Melano
This is a beautiful, whimsical story about dreams, family connections and how love can conquer any distance. With beautiful adjectives throughout, the story captures the imagination of young and old and allows us to imagine what it would be like if we could really have wings and take off to join the birds!
Carrie’s Flight (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom. This has quickly become my favorite children’s author and my 5 year old nephew agrees. This book is a lovely description of being so close to a grandparent and trying to keep that relationship close. This books teaches that you can keep memories alive by things that make you think of that person. When Carrie’s grandma moves across town she is very lonely without her. Carrie and her grandma used to watch the starlings together so when she sees some she calls her grandma and then she finds some wings in a box that was left by her grandmother. Can she figure out how to fly to her grandmothers? This book teaches you about lots of different birds and the bond between a child and grandparent. All of this authors books have a life lesson in them and the pictures are always amazing as well. Another 5 star read!
This was a cute story. It’s a beginner chapter book great for children ages 7-10. It’s well written and the illustrations are nicely done. It’s a nice little mystery story that will keep the littles entertained.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angelahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela2023-12-18 19:26:242024-01-04 11:46:46Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Angela Plate, December 2023
We are always on the lookout for new books we can share with our children, and having read the first of these books, we knew we had to get the next. This book is a fun and educational story about a bond between children and their canine friends. It is a great way to showcase the kind of activities that can be used to create that bond. This is the kind of book that can appeal to a wide age range. For children, it can be educational and fun. For adults, it can give new ideas as to how to interact with an important member of their family. This is a fun book that we thoroughly enjoyed. I would highly recommend this book to all.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2023-12-18 14:36:492024-01-04 11:34:04Porter and Midge: Paws and Playtime: A Kid’s Guide to a Happy Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Kerry Baker
I read this one to my kids they enjoyed it a lot. Short chapters about Dylan and his sister trying to solve the case of missing mail. My kids had all sorts of fun theories as we went through involving their imagination as the story went on and the case of the missing mail was solved. Super cute to read to younger kids and ask questions or for older kids to read alone.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa2023-12-18 12:54:292024-01-04 11:33:42Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Melissa Saxton
Who doesn’t love a good detective book? I’m sure many of us read Nancy Drew growing up! I love Detective Dylan books, and this one is no exception. The author provides a story that is entertaining, fun, and mysterious. In the case of the missing mail, Dylan, his sister, and a lovely dog set out on their next mystery. Of course no story is complete without a bit of ruckus to follow. I remember growing up and reading chapter books for this first time, and this book is the epitome of that core memory for me. You just can’t go wrong with a good detective book as a solid starter series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Trishahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTrisha2023-12-18 08:01:222024-01-04 11:33:10Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Trisha Cargile
I had an exceptionally close relationship with my grandma, and I was lucky enough not to lose her until I was old enough to understand death and what happened. However, if it had occurred when I was younger, my younger self would have loved this story and telling of how a grandma’s love is endless and a bond that can never be broken, even by death. This story book truly lays the foundation for children with the story telling and art as well as metaphors with death, birds, and flight. This was a lovely read and highly recommend it for any children going through loss.
My son and I read a lot of books by this author, and we usually love them. Carrie’s flight was not a favorite of his. He hadn’t heard of a lot of the birds mentioned, and didn’t know how to read their names. I think the story was a little too much of a mix of reality and imagination, and the lines were too blurred for his practical thinking 7 year old mind. I enjoyed the mixed fonts, to help bring focus to certain words along the story. I like that the Grandma and Carrie stayed connected with video chat, and could still have their special time together, when they were across town from each other. It was a cute story, with good illustrations, just not one of our favorites.
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201492977-porter-and-midge” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Porter and Midge: Paws and Playtime: A Kid’s Guide to a Happy Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1699025972l/201492977._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201492977-porter-and-midge”>Porter and Midge: Paws and Playtime: A Kid’s Guide to a Happy Dog</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/29768385.Giselle_Nevada”>Giselle Nevada</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6057832428″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> Cute book. Teaches kids to let their dogs enjoy play time. Ways to help stimulate them by playing hide and seek with foods and treats. Shows you how to let your dog guide you way when out and about. We really enjoyed this book. <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/6813301-tori”>View all my reviews</a>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Torimittonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTorimitton2023-12-17 17:55:012024-01-04 11:37:07Porter and Midge: Paws and Playtime: A Kid’s Guide to a Happy Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Tori Mitton
Porter and Midge: Paw and Playtime is a fun, educational and colorfully engaging story. Lora and CJ take their dogs, Porter and Midge around to learn all about new activities that can the dogs be happy and healthy. Learning as we go from food and treats to sensory and sniffing. Lora and CJ learn so much to help Porter and Midge gain confidence in teaching them daily and taking it slow each day.
This story can be enjoyed from young to young at heart. I even learned some new activities I can work with my dog, Boe. This is a great story and I love the educational value and learning lessons.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorralei Hoernerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorralei Hoerner2023-12-17 17:15:532024-01-04 11:36:41Porter and Midge: Paws and Playtime: A Kid’s Guide to a Happy Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Lorralei Hoerner
Carrie’s Flight by Lois Wickstrom- 5 out of 5 stars
I love how this author’s books always have such beautiful illustrations. Each book also has their own meaning but in a way that makes hard life events or choices more understandable to children. I appreciate that this author goes out of their way to help teach lessons to children in such a unique way. I highly recommend this book.
5 Stars Carrie’s Flight (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom
Carrie’s Flight is the first book in the Grandma’s Closet is a wonderfully written children’s book that children of any age will enjoy. My son and I are huge fans of this author and this one is definitely one of our favorites yet. This is a story about a young girl named Carrie who finds a pair of antique wings. They belong to her grandmother who now lives across town. Can she figure put how to get the wings to fly? Get ready for an adventure as we follow along with Carrie. Will she figure out the magic pf love? I highly recommend reading this cute book to find out what happens next. My son and I can’t wait to read more from this Author.
Carrie’s Flight(Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom is a fun book that stokes the imagination and also teaches a lesson. When Carrie’s grandmother moves away she finds a box with antique wings. Carrie gets to engage in trying to make the wings work. In this story, we get to see a beautiful bond between grandmother and grandchild. We also get a lesson on birds. This book has beautiful illustrations. My sons loved reading this and imagining what it would be like to fly. This is a heartwarming story that had me missing my grandmother.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00La Toya Lewishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLa Toya Lewis2023-12-16 14:49:512024-01-04 11:05:52Carrie’s Flight (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by La Toya Lewis
This was a quick, cute read! My son was only disappointed that it’s winter here and there are not as many birds that we can watch outside. He laughed at my attempts of the bird sounds. The facts at the end of the story were interesting and a great addition to the book.
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Nessie and the Living Stone by Lois June Wickstrom
