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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Nicole Thompson

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“Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail” is an enchanting chapter book adventure by MJ Murray and is an absolute gem for young readers! This captivating story kicks off with a stroke of serendipity when Dylan’s mailbox delivers a detective kit right when his neighbor’s mail goes missing.

Dylan embarks on an exhilarating quest, unraveling the mystery behind the vanishing letters. He canvases the town, quizzing locals, and gradually piecing together the puzzle. With each step of his journey, Dylan crafts a brilliant scheme to recover the pilfered mail. The book maintains an airy and cheerful tone, featuring straightforward language and concise sentences that make it a delightful and engaging read for kids.

The vivid and vibrant illustrations enrich the story’s appeal, immersing young readers in the enchanting world of Detective Dylan. In the end, this book ingeniously blends mystery and humor, imparting valuable lessons of perseverance, teamwork, and the art of problem-solving. It’s an enchanting adventure that deserves a resounding five-star rating!

The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 2) by K. L. Small – Review by Kimberly Filer

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series, Book 2)The Christmas Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

K.L. Small has done it again with another fantastic story. The second book in the Brass Ring Series takes place right before Christmas. The outdoor Carousel is closed for the season and Rusty misses the the Carousel so badly. His grandfather is forgetting more and more and Rusty is so sad. One day when Rusty goes holiday shopping with his mother, he encounters a Christmas Carousel in the mall. Will the magic work on these carousel animals or is the magic reserved just for horses? Join Rusty on a wonderful set of adventures as he travels back in time to learn the true meaning of Christmas.

This Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

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This Egg Won't HatchThis Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautiful story about mothers and babies. Lovely illustrations.

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Katie Matthews

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a lovely story! It was really easy to read and follow and has a great meaning behind it. It is really important for children to understand that not everything is easy and sometimes we do have really persevere with things in life. I think using baking as an idea for this was great as baking can be one of those things you really do have to preserver with to get it right. There are lots of talking points in this book for children to discuss what is happening in the story and think of things that they have had to try hard with. I love that the recipe was included as well.

@katiem
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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Tanya Wall, November 2023

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My son found a love for baking and cooking when he was a child. This book encompasses the idea that kids can love to experiment in the kitchen and can do well at it! I love that Ben persevered to find a way to get his biscuits to be the best ever! Being a problem solver with the grit to continue on is the trait of a winner. The illustrations in this book are an added joy while reading.

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Tanya Wall, November 2023

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Who didn’t grow up wanting to be a top secret spy? When David gets his spy kit in the mail, he is pleasantly surprised to get a job right away. Even though he is irritated that his little sister has to tag along, he finds they make a great team. I enjoyed this short children’s book – I think this would be a great addition to a early-reader’s bookshelf. It is engaging, has action, and could be a start to a enjoying new series!

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Carrie Reed

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great story about not giving up! I love that Ben kept trying out new recipes to find out what would make his biscuits different from he year before and better. Sofia encourages him, which is what we all should do in a competition, encourage each other. I can’t wait to try out the recipe at the end of the book! Beautiful art work and story.

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series Book #1) by MJ Murray – Review by Angela Hayes

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail is the first book in A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series, and debut novel, by M.J. Murray.
Budding detective Dylan is on the case when his neighbour’s mail goes missing. With the help of his sister, Emily, and their dog Theodore, these sleuths are determined to solve their first case. What ensues makes for a fun read.
This is a children’s chapter book with an easy to read and understand plot that captures the imagination by engaging the reader with a fun story that contains some ‘learning’ opportunities along the way. There are some fun, black and white, illustrations sprinkled throughout that help inspire the imagination.
This is aimed at children who are just starting to read ‘chapter books’ on their own, or with help- and contains a few ‘harder’ words to challenge them as they read (Reading Tier 2). There are also lessons in problem solving, working together, perseverance, taking initiative, finding ‘clues’, family, friendship, and more.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, M.J. Murray!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautiful and fluffy. This book was beautiful and honestly not the best thing to read while hungry. Lol. I love how it has Ben sticking to what he loves to make as he learns a “new” way of making it the try and finally win first place over Sofia. It’s always the simple differences that make all the change and love how Miss Kitty is his inspiration to try something new. The recipe at the back yes please I will certainly be trying it soon.

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Julie Johnson

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a cute book about a young man who is ready to enter a baking contest. He makes really good biscuits, but they are pretty basic and not “good enough” to win the contest. With the encouragement of his dad, who becomes his taste tester, he finds the perfect recipe for his biscuits.
This book is about practice and perseverance. It would be a great teaching tool for a young child experiencing life’s difficulties. It could be a great encouragement if read to them/with them by someone who would become their “taste tester” and cheerleader in life.

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 2) by K. L. Small – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series, Book 2)The Christmas Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Christmas Carousel is book Two in The Brass Ring Series. It is a kids book that delivers a powerful message about the true meaning of Christmas. Rusty is back with the magic ring his grandpa gave him but the magic carousel in the park is shut down for winter. He finds a small Christmas themed carousel in the mall and decides to ride each of the different animals. To be able to afford each ride Rusty shovels snow in his neighbor’s driveways. He wants to go on adventures on the Christmas carousel while also saving money to buy his family gifts. During each of his rides he learns about the true meaning of Christmas and receives the powerful message that Christmas is about love. The character of Rusty is well written, and I love the special bond that he has with his grandfather. The author does a great job of creating vivid, magical scenes that fully immerse you into the story alongside the characters. I am a huge fan of this wonderful series and believe it delivers an important message for readers of all ages. I highly recommend this book!

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Candice Estes

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dylan is excited for his new Youth Sleuth kit to come in the mail so that he can become a detective like the Youth Sleuths on his favorite program. When his kit arrives, he and his sister Emily and their dog Theodore set out to help their neighbor figure out what has happened to her missing mail. Their neighbor usually has another neighbor pick up her mail, but doesn’t this time, and suddenly her mail has gone missing. As the kids set out to uncover clues and try to solve the mystery, they learn to ask questions, research and interpret clues together. This is a great book for young kids; rather it is read to them by a parent or as a newer independent reader.

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 2) by K. L. Small – Review by Paula Sayers

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series, Book 2)The Christmas Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this addition to the Brass Ring series. Rusty wants to buy a Christmas present for his grandfather but does not have enough money. Rusty goes on some great adventures with the brass ring his grandpa gave him. Maybe Rusty will learn the true meaning of Christmas.

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This Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jenni Bishop

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This Egg Won't HatchThis Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This Egg Won’t Hatch is fun, interesting, and entertaining children’s tale by Lois with illustrations by Francie Mion. There is always something for young ones to learn in her tales.
This colourful tale takes young readers on an adventure, where Mama Warbler is waiting for her last egg to hatch.
The cute characters bring the story to life that any 4 – 8 year-old is sure to love. The use of fantasy teamed with science, engages both imagination and learning.
Grab a copy to see what Mama Warbler does to encourage her baby to come into the world.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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This Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

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This Egg Won't HatchThis Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Wonderful children’s story that was very enjoyable, colorful illustrations and lessons learned about patience and courage. Mama Warbler’s babies are starting to hatch from her nest of eggs, starting with the biggest egg. As Mama Warbler is hard at work to find food for her babies, one little egg is left a bit timid to come out into the world….until it is time to make their appearance.

What a great story.

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kneading a Winning Idea is a fun story with a prized recipe just waiting to be taste tested to boot. Terri has incorporated a message for young or old to take to heart.

But it is not just a story it is a learning tool as well as Ben learns the importance of trying and sticking it through to the finish whether you win or lose. It teaches them to problem solve whilst also being taught that losing or failure is not a bad thing. I think this is a message that is severely missing in children of today.

It is aimed at pre tweens, children aged between 3–8-year-olds who just love to be involved in cooking.

The beautiful pictures done by Pei Jen are bright and colourful and really help to bring this story to life.

A great idea for Christmas which is coming up. Enjoy.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail is an adventure story in the A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book series that will delight young ones. MJ has written a story that is fun and interesting.
We all love a good mystery but no one more than Dylan. So, when the mail goes missing Dylan is your man or should I say Detective Dylan is your man, err boy? I mean who are you going to call when a crime goes down in the neighbourhood?
As Dylan and his tribe of one little sister and a furry four-footed friend set out to find the truth the fun and mayhem begins.
MJ has given her readers a unique story and her wonderful narrative brings it to life.
This book is aimed at Tweens who I am sure would love to receive it as a gift with Christmas or birthdays coming up.
It is a fun tale that should not be missed.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Angela Hayes

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 Stars

 

Kneading A Winning Idea by Terri Sabol is a cute children’s picture book story with a bit of an educational component about the value of patience, practice, perseverance, not giving up, problem solving, recipes, and cooking.
The story is woven around some lovely, bright, and interesting illustrations which really help to bring everything to life.
Ben is determined to win the annual bake-off, but things don’t seem to go to plan. What happens makes for a sweet read.
Happy Reading…

 

Reviewed By @angelahayes

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book #2) by K. L. Small – Review by Angela Hayes

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series, Book 2)The Christmas Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

The Christmas Carousel is the second book in The Brass Ring Series by K.L. Small. It is a wonderful children’s chapter book that weaves a wonderful fantasy adventure full of action, carousel horses/animals, a brass ring, magic, the Christmas spirit/the true meaning of Christmas, imagination, drama, and learning.
As with the first book, this second instalment is a captivating fantasy where we follow along with Rusty and Grandpa as the story comes alive before our eyes.
It’s a great addition to the series and another fun read from this talented author. A story for the young- as well as the young at heart to enjoy.
Looking forward to ‘The Haunted Carousel (Book #3).
Happy Reading…

Thank you K.L. Small!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Kelli Harper

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

classic tale of “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again”. Great story about not giving up, practice makes perfect and many other things. Wonderfully illustrated as well

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Kelli Harper

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is super fun. The hunt is on for the neighbor’s mail. Can Dylan with his new Sleuth set find the clue to help find the missing mail? Short, easy to read chapters that are fun and engaging. Great illustrations and the clues help you find the answer to the “where”.

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Brandy Vaughn

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a cute book! I read this to my grandson who loved the animals and Ben making his biscuits. The story was engaging and the illustrations keeps the reader turning the pages. I enjoyed how Ben came up with his idea from watching his cat! The author also includes the recipe at the end of the book for readers to try on their own. It was an enjoyable read!

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Tonya Merritt

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is such a fun children’s book. Who would have thought kneading like a cat could help? I really loved how the story took something that many children don’t know about and showed them how it can help them find a solution. Ben does a wonderful job learning and growing with his biscuit recipe.

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Emily H

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ben is ready to enter the annual bake off and is wondering if he should veer away from his buttermilk biscuit recipe which has gotten him second place in the past. Finding inspiration to improve his recipe. Will he figure out a new technique to help him win first place?

I liked the way that Ben worked through trying to figure out whether to use a new recipe or improve his recipe. I think this is a great book to interact with young children about cooking.

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Shannon Fowler

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dylan is an 8-year-old boy on summer break. He has his heart set on being a detective. With his 5-year-old sister, Emily, their dog Theodore and a detective kit Dylan gets in the mail, Detective Dylan is looking for a mystery to solve. Luckily enough, his neighbor, Mrs. Lane, is missing her mail. The kids use their detective skills to solve the mystery while learning a few things about their neighbors and themselves.

This is a cute story with age-appropriate wording and simple illustrations to keep a young reader engaged.

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Julie Johnson

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Detective Dylan is super excited when his new detective kit comes in the mail. His sister is also excited but told to stay far away from his kit, as it cost him 8 weeks worth of allowance! When the neighbor lady can’t seem to locate her missing mail, including pictures of her grandkids, Dylan and his faithful sister assistant jump into action. They interview the neighbors, collect fingerprints, and keep notes in their notebook. When a set of symbols occur in the mud, they have a big clue and they are eventually able to solve the mystery of the missing mail.

This was a great book that includes some slightly bigger words that some kids may not know. There is a section at the end of the book that goes over these words. A great vocabulary builder for the eager reader! I’m looking forward to the next book to come out, expected in 2024!!

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This Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jennifer Crain

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This Egg Won't HatchThis Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This children’s book tells a story about a little bird who is eagerly anticipating the hatching of an egg that has been laid in her nest. However, as time passes, the bird becomes worried when the egg won’t hatch, and she tries everything she can to encourage it to hatch. She sings to the egg, sits on it longer, and even tries to teach it to hatch. But nothing seems to work.

As the story progresses, the little bird learns an important lesson about nature and the different ways that living things develop. She comes to realize that some things are out of her control and that sometimes the best course of action is to let nature take its course.

The book is beautifully illustrated, and the story is engaging and informative for children. It teaches them about the natural world and the importance of patience and acceptance. Overall, “This Egg Won’t Hatch” is a delightful read that is both educational and entertaining for kids.

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 2) by K. L. Small – Review by Jennifer Crain

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series, Book 2)The Christmas Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Christmas Carousel by KL Small is a heartwarming holiday read for children. The story follows Rusty, a young boy who wants to buy his grandfather a special present to show his gratitude. Rusty’s grandfather gave him a magic brass ring that transports him on time-traveling adventures every time he takes a ride on a carousel.

The plot is centered around Rusty’s desire to buy his grandfather a gift for Christmas, with Rusty learning the lesson that the best gifts are not necessarily the ones that cost a lot of money. The inclusion of talking animals on Santa’s Christmas Carousel adds a magical dimension to the story that will appeal to children.

KL Small’s writing style is straightforward and engaging, and the illustrations by
Brandon Dorman are delightful. The book would be an excellent addition to any family’s holiday book collection, and it would make a fun and festive read-aloud for parents to share with their children.

Overall, Christmas Carousel is a charming and heartwarming holiday story that teaches young readers the value of the gift of time and thoughtfulness. I would recommend it to parents and caregivers looking for a wholesome and entertaining book for their children.

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Jennifer Crain

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Terri Sabol’s book Kneading a Winning Idea is beautifully illustrated.

I enjoyed how the story was told through dialogue making it feel authentic. I also enjoyed Ben’s trial-and-error experimentation and thought process as he tries to perfect his recipe. I also thought exposure to more than one “knead” definition would broaden kids’ vocabulary. Loved the twist of what/who helps Ben save his recipe! Overall, a sweet never-give-up boy that shows grit and has a fantastic story to tell.

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Jennifer Crain

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In this book, Detective Dylan is on the case of missing mail. The story starts with Dylan receiving a detective kit in his mailbox, in perfect timing for his neighbors mail is missing.

Dylan takes up the challenge and starts his investigation. He goes around the town asking questions and starts to pick up clues. As he proceeds with his investigation, Dylan devises an ingenious plan to retrieve the stolen mail. The tone of the book is light-hearted, and the author has used simple language and short sentences, making it an easy and enjoyable read for children. The illustrations are bright and colorful, adding to the charm of the book.

Overall, “Detective Dylan and The Case of The Missing Mail” by MJ Murray is a delightful children’s book that combines mystery and humor in clever ways. It teaches children the value of problem-solving, perseverance, and friendship.

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