This is another lovely children’s book by this author. Nothing is what it seems when it comes to Mr Barsin’s toy store, which makes this a very interesting and fun story for kids whilst also giving lessons here and there (e.g. the rules about wishing/bargaining statements). The story line was fun and placed a lot of focus on imagination, full of fantasy creatures and adventure. The characters each had their own stories leading them to the store and reflecting their reactions to the unfolding events. The writing style was great and flowed very well for the most part. The descriptions made it easy to picture the scenes unfolding and feel involved. Overall, this was an enjoyable story as an adult, an even better for the kids. A lovely story to read together and a reminder not to let the imagination fade.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-01 16:59:582023-10-10 07:30:58Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This author is quickly becoming a staple in our home. My kids are drawn to the artwork in every book as well as the stories. This book is no exception to that. The imagination that goes into every page is fantastic. The way it makes my kid want to keep reading and turning pages is just awesome. I also find myself enthralled at the visions Lois Wickstrom manages to incorporate in every book. I can not wait to see what the next book will have in store for us.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kelli Harperhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKelli Harper2023-10-01 03:23:492023-10-09 14:41:45Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom Review by Kelli Harper
This book is such a cute book! I got it for my 8 year old, but after reading it all together by 11 year old enjoyed it as well! I have gotten and read a few of this authors books and I must say that you can’t go wrong with any of her stuff. She’s such a wonderful children’s book author!! I can’t wait to read more with my kids from her. This small children’s chapter book takes place in Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium. This toy shop is a world a magical world where imaginary friends are real. The book follows four children in their quest for imagination and adventure. A world where it’s all four season and there are creatures all around. Lily, Jack, Audrey, and Nick are all drawn to the Emporium in different ways, but their stories slowly connect at the shop. The book is full of magic and adventures, but like everything there is a price to pay for the imaginary friends and it isn’t money! This book captures you in it’s grip and you just can’t wait to read it. It only took a couple days for my children and I to read and that was with us taking turns reading chapter by chapter.
This author does such a good using her imagination. You are immediately enthralled in several different stories of kids and a magic toy store. I love how she draws you in and keeps you interested until the last word. Come enjoy a magical experience.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heather Goodmanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeather Goodman2023-09-30 21:42:362023-10-09 14:38:55Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom Review By Heather Goodman
This book is an exploration of a child’s imagination, and what it’s like to lose it. This book follows Nick, Audrey, Lily and Jake as they are drawn to what appears on the outside to be just a plain toy store, but is really much more. The most important thing to remember in Mr. Barsin’s toy emporium is that nothing is as it seems. Mr. Barsin’s toy store has a hidden greenhouse only accessible through a door in a wall that isn’t real, that allows elementals of all kinds to live and be adopted by a child. Mr. Barsin has a rule, though: Only one elemental per child. He also doesn’t tell them all of the rules, such as statements like, “I’d give anything, if…” are taken literally and as a binding agreement. The children, as the only ones who can see the imaginary elementals (such as dragons, sylphs, mermaids, gnomes and others), select a new imaginary friend, and are allowed to take them home. Many of the children’s adult family members are able to see their imaginary friends after Mr. Barsin sprinkles sylph dust on them, allowing them to be a part of the fun and imagination, while others chose not to as they see it as silly and overindulgent of the child in question. Overall this was an interesting and unexpected book, that would be great for upper elementary age children.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Candice Esteshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCandice Estes2023-09-30 19:42:402023-10-09 14:34:28Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom by – Review by Candice Estes
Ehli-nikkalu is a daughter of the Hittite Emperor, not just any daughter, his eldest and has been married off to one of his vassals in a political alliance, she has never been truly loved by her family and she is not much more successful at being loved by her husband, he has in fact very rarely visited her chambers and any friendship, or tenderness between them has been replaced by bitterness and anger and all because she hasn’t produced an heir and is considered barren. This wedge has not just driven itself between the King and Queen, it has been driven through the entire court and has left her all but bereft from the workings of the Kingdom and its subjects and she is not happy about it, but there is nothing she can do when her husbands family only tolerate her presence and she cannot truly trust anyone around her. One day her husband visits her chambers, but it is only to make a request of her not to make a fool of herself or his court when visitors come, however, when he leaves her, he also leaves something behind and so she requests her scribe to attend to her and read what has been left, it happens to be an incriminating letter showing treasonous activities against the Emperor.
Astonished by her luck finding this, she immediately dictates a letter to her father and requests that her scribe delivers it to her most trusted courier immediately, however, when she wakes in the morning, she finds that both of them have been murdered and she believes that all is lost, that is until their daughter arrives returning the letters and the Queen sees another chance for redemption, so after giving her condolences, she finds out that this young woman was a witness and she immediately decides to take her and her siblings under her protection until the culprits are caught. This is where the Queen decides that she needs to take this adopted family she is growing fond of to somewhere safer and nearer to their blood relatives, so while she is planning this, as scribe comes to call and express his condolences and help if she needs it, so when she requests a new scribe, he knows just the one and it happens to be another family member of her newly adopted one, he seldom speaks and has a gruff attitude, he is also ex-military, a proficient scribe and loyal to her.
When the Queen is finally able to make her journey to take her wards to their relatives under the guise of paying a visit to some of her estates, she is waylaid by the plans of others and she ends up in the middle of a war between distant relatives and a plan to overthrow her husband, as well as the information which she holds closely to her chest with nobody to rely on but her adopted family and the self doubt they all possess, but can she get the information she holds to her father in time to stop the coup, or will she fall victim before she can truly experience that love she has been craving all her life? This is an epic tale of lies, truths, trust and intrigue as you are led on a journey through a historic time where nobody shows their true colours and danger lurks around every turn.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Roxsanne Lesieurhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRoxsanne Lesieur2023-09-30 17:32:492023-10-09 14:33:28The Moon That Fell From Heaven by N. L. Holmes – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.
Four children visit Mr. Barsin’s Toy Emporium to find imaginary friends. The twist: Mr. Barsin doesn’t ask for money in return for the imaginary friends…but something else. The author does an amazing job at creating a fun world where imaginary friends are real. The story follows the four children, each with a unique situation and personality. Fast-paced and magical, this book is full of fun and adventure.
This was a very fun little book. The exploration of a child’s imagination and how wonderful it can be was fascinating. I enjoyed the interesting world created by the author and the characters as well. I recommend this book to parents who have children that like to read and enjoy exploring new ideas and have great imagination.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Cindy Rushinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCindy Rushin2023-09-30 12:56:562023-10-09 14:36:19Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom Reviewed by Cindy Rushin
The Moon That Fell From Heaven by N.L. Holmes is a story about an emperor’s daughter named Ehli-nikkalu. She is married to King Niqmaddu, and it is quite evident from the start that their relationship is not one crafted of love or respect for one another. When Ehli-nikkalu discovers a secret the King has been plotting, it sets her forth in motion to try to do the right thing and warn her father of the King’s deceit, along with the evidence. However, things do not go as well as she had hoped. More twists and turns take the reader on a bumpy road with Ehli-nikkalu. With elements of history, suspense and mystery, I feel the author did marvelous work crafting this adventurous tale. The story is well-written with lots of detail to really make your own imagination come alive as you read along.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katiehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatie2023-09-30 07:53:572023-10-09 14:35:25The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Katie Turner
This book is a captivating and imaginative story but an author that really knows how to wield her words. There is such beautiful word building in this book that it was so easy to picture everything going on. I had a clear image in my mind that took my through the whole book. The story is creative, complex and detailed in a way that has you hooked from the moment you start reading. I really enjoyed reading about the characters. They all had a depth that match the story perfectly. This is an author that I enjoy more and more with every book I read. They are all so detailed and intricate and I always know I am in for a treat when I pick up one of her books. This was a fantastic read and probably my favourite so far.
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 Baker2023-09-29 13:51:572023-10-09 14:23:26The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Kerry Baker
Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom. I absolutely love this author and always read her books! My nephews love them too! This one is really fun being about imaginary friends being real! There are 4 children Jack, Lily, Audrey and Nick are all going to the Toy Emporium to find their imaginary friends. There are Sylphs, mermaids, gnomes and dragons as imaginary friends and the kids all pick their favorites. The owner of the toy store doesn’t ask for money but he does ask for payment in a different form. The story helps kids and parents with grief, neglect and family dysfunction. Reading this as a family would be a great therapy for a lot of people. I love Mrs. Wickstrom’s books because not only are they great for kids but they are really good for a lot of adults too! These books make great gifts as well!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tausha Treadwayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTausha Treadway2023-09-27 14:04:232023-10-02 19:02:40Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom-Review by Tausha Treadway
As usual with a historical fiction novel in this series I was hooked from start to finish. Once again I was transported back in time through the wonderfully detailed descriptive narrative which sets the scene, and the added historical elements which bring the era vividly to life. The storyline flows well and the plot kept me happily turning the pages, as we are introduced to the eldest daughter of the Hittite Emperor, Ehli-nikkalu. She is married to a vassal of her fathers but as she’s unable to produce an heir she is not respected at court. Then at a time when the loyalty to the Emperor is questioned, Ehli-nikkalu’s secretary is murdered whilst delivering a message to him which would indict their loyalty. Ehli-nikkalu then adopts her secretary’s children as she feels guilty at their fathers death.
When her young cousin becomes a pretender to the throne and begins to mobilise roving armies her loyalties become questioned further. She then discovers a terrible secret that could ruin the present regime if the pretender knew about it, and so along with a kindly scribe, her young ward, and a former soldier Ehli-nikkalu goes on a journey to prove herself to her father and save the kingdom. She may even learn about love along the way in this well written and obviously well researched story. Each of the characters have their own backstories and add to the overall story, my only concern is that there are a lot of them to remember. I found the brief authors notes at the end of each chapter a little off putting as it took me out of the story, I would have preferred a longer section at the end. Overall this was a gripping story full of historical details and intriguing characters and I definitely recommend reading it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2023-09-27 12:08:332023-10-09 14:16:53The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jennifer Gordon
The Moon that Fell from Heaven is the fifth book in the Empire at Twilight series by N.L Holmes. As with everything that Ms. Holmes does, this is very detailed and descriptive- full of rich historical details that she infuses into all her stories. The Moon That Fell from Heaven is an interesting historical fiction story blended with historical facts, some mystery, angst, emotion, drama, politics, agendas, scheming, corruption, power plays, family dynamics, religion, loyalty, duty, responsibility, intrigue, and conflict. I have read most of Ms. Holmes’ books now and am always quite taken with her passion for history which is very evident in all her writing. This passion definitely adds to the enjoyment of her story/s. Although I did enjoy the story for the most part- it isn’t my favourite of this series. It was a little slow to get going, which then made it hard for me to find my groove and ‘get into’ it- but the further into the story the better it got, the pace picked up more, and the story got more interesting. There are a lot of characters to keep track of, and a lot of information, which, for me at times, felt like a bit of an info dump. I also had trouble connecting with Enli-nikkalu, even though I did ‘feel’ for her at times, she just frustrated me so much at the beginning that I didn’t become invested in her or her story like I was hoping to. But maybe that’s just a ‘me’ thing- so you probably should read the story for yourself and make up your own mind. Because if you love ancient history mixed with fiction, original stories with interesting settings and characters- as well as a little mystery and intrigue, then you will probably enjoy this book. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2023-09-26 23:54:392023-10-09 14:07:49The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight Book #5) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Angela Hayes
Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium is an enchanting children’s story that takes place in a world where imaginary friends are real! Four children – Lily, Jack, Audrey and Nick – are drawn to the Toy Emporium to claim their own imaginaries. Soon they, and their families, are caught up in the fantastic world of mermaids, dragons, sylphs and gnomes. But while Mr Barsin doesn’t ask for money in exchange for the imaginaries, there is still a cost he expects to be paid.
This is an engaging “be careful what you wish for” story. It explores different family dynamics as well as challenges that children face, including grief and neglect. Parents try and do what’s best for their children, and don’t always get it right. There are many times when a child and/or their parents are in danger, so for sensitive readers it may be good to read this book together to reduce anxiety.
This book gets four stars from me! I’d recommend it to kids, and grown ups, who love to play with their imaginary friends!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Francis O'Sullivanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFrancis O'Sullivan2023-09-26 09:54:212023-10-02 19:02:27Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Francis O’Sullivan
This is a story by an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. This is one of my favorites yet. I enjoy this author’s writing skills and their attention to details that make the stories realistic. This story is no different. This is a well written story about Ehli-nikkalu. A story that will take you on a journey of discovery of love and a determination to save a kingdom. I enjoyed her character and what she brought to the story. She is a strong character that is determined and has great growth throughout. I enjoyed how I was pulled into the story from the start and was kept engaged to the end. This is a fast paced story that is easy to read and entertaining. There is great growth of the plot which added to the story as well. I enjoyed reading this book which I highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2023-09-26 09:31:002023-10-09 14:10:17The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Bobbi Wagner
These just keep getting better and better. I didn’t think I had a favorite but this might be it. I found the story ran smooth. The characters were absolutely wonderful in where they fit in the story. Again, you could tell that the author did her part in researching the timeline. This is one of those series that really is a must read.
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 Kittell2023-09-26 06:56:272023-10-09 14:05:38The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell
I have enjoyed the progression of this series as it goes along. We watch the new King worry as to if he can handle the job. This author does such a good job of writing about these issues that you often wonder how does she do this so well. I can tell that she does her research. These books are so well and yet not dry. I look forward to each new one that comes out. This was another that I just dove right on into and couldn’t put down.
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 Kittell2023-09-26 06:37:042023-10-09 14:05:30The Sun At Twilight (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell
What an amazing story! The author really does a wonderful job of weaving together historically accurate fiction. She always creates story that make me want to just dive right into and stay. This one involves a deadly secret. I found the characters to be quite exciting and interesting. The writing in the books is always very very interesting and catches your attention with the details. I couldn’t put this one down.
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 Kittell2023-09-26 06:20:292023-10-09 14:05:23The Queen’s Dog (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell
The Moon That Fell from Heaven by N.L. Holmes is an historical story, a mystery that is full of rich and vibrant historical details. The passion and vivid descriptions of a time from long ago brought to life by NL’s loving passion. I enjoy learning just that little bit of the history with each story NL shares. The Moon That Fell from Heaven is a slow cosy read even though there is a lot going on, that transports the reader to a different time and world and way of life. It is a story where court politics, intrigue, lies, secrets, murder, danger, threating war, espionage, passion and proving oneself has been woven together to give us an exciting read and the pages turning.
This suspenseful tale sees our characters having to deal with scepticism, malice, and much much more.
Ehli-nikkalu has a kind heart and it is so easy to feel for her, but she has much to prove to those who see her has much lesser than them. She finds herself between a rock and a hard place when she learns of a secret but decide to take matters into their own hands to try to keep the kingdom from war and threats. If you like a story where fiction meets historical mystery, then give this one a shot.
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 Bishop2023-09-26 05:57:162023-10-09 14:05:16The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jenni Bishop
Ehli-nikkalu, eldest daughter of the Hittite emperor, is married to a mere vassal of her father. But despite her status, her foreignness and inability to produce an heir drive a wedge between her and the court that surrounds her. When her secretary is mysteriously murdered while carrying the emperor a message that would indict the loyalty of his vassal, Ehli-nikkalu adopts the dead man’s orphaned children out of a guilty sense of responsibility.
A young cousin she has never met becomes a pretender to the throne and mobilizes roving armies of the poor and dispossessed, which causes the priority of her loyalties to become even more suspect. However, Ehli-nikkalu discovers a terrible secret that could destabilize the present regime if the pretender ever learns of it.
With the help of a kindly scribe, her brave young ward, and an embittered former soldier trapped in debt and self-doubt, Ehli-nikkalu sets out to save the kingdom and prove herself to her father. And along the way, she learns something about love.
N.L. Holmes is the pen name of a professional archaeologist who received her doctorate from Bryn Mawr College. She has excavated in Greece and in Israel and taught ancient history and humanities at the university level for many years. She has always had a passion for books, and in childhood, she and her cousin (also a writer today) used to write stories for fun.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/cover-image-moon-that-fell.jpg1200751itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-09-26 00:03:342023-10-18 20:24:37The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes
This is one of those books that you wish could be real. So nicely written, it’s a great example of a true imagination. Friends, mystery, action, and drama, amazing and descriptive characters and scenes reall make this an overall great read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kasandrahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKasandra2023-09-25 11:20:032023-10-02 19:02:16Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Kasandra Nunez
Another great kids book by this author. I really love how this author is able to bring the characters to life and help teach kids and build their imagination. I really like how the author is able to create a vivid world and broaden children’s imaginations and teaching them at the same time. I really wish that my kids were young enough to read these and I would definitely recommend these books to anyone with small children.
Excellent! I love this author; she knows how to tap into your imagination and run with it. Strong characters, storyline and very bold picturesque. Fast read, keeps you engaged to the end. Recommend for any new or older readers.Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom My rating: 5 of 5 starsExcellent! I love this author; she knows how to tap into your imagination and run with it. Strong characters, storyline and very bold picturesque. Fast read, keeps you engaged to the end. Recommend for any new or older readers.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ninahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNina2023-09-24 20:27:152023-10-02 19:01:55Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom by Nina Maes
This is an interesting read that will grab the imagination of young readers. The four young children have an adventure that they will always remember. The toy store and Mr. Barsin is a world full of magic and wonder. Each of the children have unique stories and they must come together on this journey. Just like in this author’s other books there are lessons to be learned. The children must find a way to work together and help each other to defeat Mr. Barsin. It was nice to see the children grow and find there way. Magic and friendship shine throughout this story giving young readers an exciting ride.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Gabrielle Leehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngGabrielle Lee2023-09-24 01:28:572023-10-02 19:01:46Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom Review by Gabrielle
I picked up this book thinking it is another picture book, but this one is for a slightly older audience, but enjoyable nevertheless. Four friends are drawn to a toy emporium for different reasons, they are all seeking something which they do not. The toy emporium holds the answers to their longings, imaginary friends, adventures, mystery, drama and danger lurking in the corner. It is a very creative story where the friends in the toy shop influence the real kids to do something good or evil. It was quite a cool tale, except that I felt the flow was not smooth at times. There were abrupt changes in the narrative. But overall I enjoyed it.
What a cute and magical story. It kind of reminded me of being young and having an imaginary friend. With great and vivid story telling, wonderful world building, and so many awesome characters, you can’t not enjoy this story… I absolutely recommend this story for an older class, maybe 2nd grade and up. But younger kids would definitely like this story being read to them, also.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Manda Kellyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngManda Kelly2023-09-23 19:36:492023-10-02 19:01:23Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom Review by Manda Kelly
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61406409-oscar-and-emmy-lose-a-friend” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5.” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1657209343l/61406409._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61406409-oscar-and-emmy-lose-a-friend”>Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5.</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16236301.Terri_Sabol”>Terri Sabol</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5857584418″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> This book was so gentle in explaining loosing a pet. I enjoyed how the vet explained to the kids one step at a time what was happening and allowed them to sit with their sadness. Me and my kiddo both cried it was such a beautiful story.<br /> <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.pngTorimitton2023-09-21 09:06:322023-10-07 12:28:58Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend (Oscarand Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Tori Mitton
Mr. Barsin’s Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom is a great little children’s chapter book. Again, this is another book that is a little different from most of her other works as it doesn’t contain any illustrations. It is also a much longer story. What we get is an interesting fantasy story with adventure, imaginary friends, paranormal creatures, friendship, action, suspense, intrigue, mystery/mysteriousness, imagination, drama, and a little danger. What will we find at Mr. Barsin’s Toy Emporium- join Jack, Audrey, Nick, and Lily on an adventure they won’t ever forget… Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2023-09-20 23:43:182023-10-02 19:00:45Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Hayes
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56692110-rocketship-made-of-stars” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Rocketship Made of Stars: Naming Constellations (I am an Alien)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1610863895l/56692110._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56692110-rocketship-made-of-stars”>Rocketship Made of Stars: Naming Constellations</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/5856237703″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> Me and my daughter loved this book. Eee-aah went to school with shirl so she could hear stories from the teacher. And everyone got to learn about constellations and their names. I love at the end how there are actual constellations so we can go out at night and try to find them! <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.pngTorimitton2023-09-20 17:18:422023-10-07 12:08:29Rocketship Made of Stars (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tori Mitton
I enjoyed this book as an adult, definitely a middle school aged book. I liked that Lily, Jack, Audrey and Nick were able to form a friendship over their battle to keep their imaginary friends and defeating Mr. Barsin. It seemed like Lily’s Sylphs and Audrey’s dragon were the only imaginary friends that wanted to help and weren’t trying to force their human friends to do something bad. Very imaginative and fun story.
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