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Down By The River by Tricia Gardella

🌼 .•°*°•.🌼 BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 🌼 .•°*°•.🌼
Down By The River by Tricia Gardella
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Kids
Page Count – 36
Cover Designer – Praise Saflor
Illustrator – Kristen Abbot

Goodreads – Down By The River by Tricia Gardella


Down by, down in, above, beside, over, across…there’s always something exciting going on along a river. Follow the prepositions and you will see.
Where does a river come from? Where is it going? Who uses a river? Where does a river end? Every river can be an amazing and different adventure.

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer forDown By The River by Tricia Gardella

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of Down By The River by Tricia Gardella

Tricia Gardella is an award-winning author whose picture book ideas are inspired by family, friends, traditions, and travel. Her diverse hobbies include canning, cooking, knitting, rug-making, and gardening, but writing remains her true passion. After a twenty-year hiatus, Tricia is thrilled to return to the literary world. In the 1990s, she published several books traditionally, before pausing her writing career to open an ice cream parlor. Tricia holds a BA in Ancient History and Classical Archaeology. She lives in Central California with her two self-centered cats and draws inspiration from her three children, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Author Interview with Tricia Gardella

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series Book #2) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Angela Hayes

Cam Creates a HeroCam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 Stars

 

Cam Creates a Hero is the second book in the Courage Tales series by Dagmara Sitek, who has lovingly crafted another wonderfully meaningful children’s story – with lovely, colourful illustrations that help to bring the story to life.

When Cam hears about a little girl who was hurt by her stepmother, he can’t stop thinking about her and how he can help, so using his creativity he sets out to do something about it- building a hero-bot to help protect kids in trouble. With a whole lot of determination, planning, persistence, trial + error, and a touch of magic – Hero Bot Georgio comes to life.
This little adventure is aimed at children aged 6 to 12 years-old — but I feel there is value to the story that will ensure that the book can be enjoyed and appreciated by all ages.
This is not only a cute tale but teaches valuable life lessons along the way. Inspiring emotional empathy/compassion, creativity, persistence, strength of character, kindness, resilience, following your dreams, problem solving, and more.
This was such a lovely, heartwarming story that left me with all the ‘feel-good’ vibes of a meaningful story.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series…

Thank you, Dagmara Sitek!

 

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Krystal Compton

Cam Creates a HeroCam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek – 4 Stars

Artistic Cam is doing a school project when he sees the news of a little girl in the hospital because her step mom hurt her. Cam feeling so sad and upset decides to make a hero robot that will help protect little kids.
After seeing the robot is not working; Cam has a dream about Giorgio and writes a book that he can share with his foster family and the sick kids in the hospital. The kids loved it so much it brought Giorgio to life.

To think the magic that was found all started with a simple drawing and a dream.

I think it’s an adorable book about determination, dreams and empathy for those around us; how we can bring light and magic to others. We can achieve our goals with a little determination, dreams and a little bit of magic inside us.

I love the story behind the book. Well written and very inspiring. I would give it 5 stars if the chat boxes were easier to follow in order of conversation (thinking from a child’s perspective).
Overall the message it sends is hope, love for others and we all have a little bit of magic in ourselves.

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Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue (Luca Magoo Series) by Megan Delgado – Review by Julie Johnson

Luca Magoo, Don't Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression.Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression. by Megan Delgado
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kids everywhere are going to love this story of Luca and his art class! Adults will love it too! I laughed out loud at several pages of instances that Luca was imagining himself in. The illustrations are very well done and colorful. I love the rhyming in the book and the story if very fun and imaginative! Time to get creative and ask your littles, “what would you do with glue?!”

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Jenni Bishop

Cam Creates a HeroCam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Cam Creates A Hero is an engaging and captivating read for the curious and kind at heart. Imagine wanting something and it comes to life right out of your drawing. I imagined the Transformers sounds when he came to life. Your very own hero bot. It is thanks to Lau Franks wonderful colourful illustrations that this story comes to life.
This is the second engaging educational tale in the Courage Tales series where fostering children’s self-esteem, emotional wellbeing and feeling safe for those in foster care is the name of the game. As with Loris Opens Up His Heart this one will hit you in all the feels as well. It teaches valuable and important life lessons all rolled up in a great tale.
Cam has a big heart and doesn’t want anyone being hurt if he can help it. What would be more help than a robot that could defend those who are in need of defending.
Its not just a story there are added goodies to be found as well. Happy Reading.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Crystal Brehant

Cam Creates a HeroCam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a really sweet book. Cam is a foster kid with a mission. There are a few darker mentions in this story, so be prepared. It is handled very well though. I believe in kids knowing these types of things happen in life. This author touches on them gently and beautifully. This story mentions real life things, including heavy emotions, but also includes a little imagination for the young reader. Cam feels a lot of sadness and tries to build a robot. Can he succeed? Is there hope out there when so many bad things happen? This is the perfect book to answer that question.

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Kerry Baker

Cam Creates a HeroCam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I picked up this book expecting quite a fun and lighthearted kids story. But what we got felt like it was so much more than that. I loved the fact that Cam is a foster kid. This is something we have talked about as a family quite a lot recently as one of our close friends has an adopted little girl. And although there is a difference, this really helped to reinforce the message of being able to choose your family and who you want to love!
The book itself was really well written and genuinely a joy to read. We all seemed to get so much from this book and both my kids and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This is one of those books that seems to stay with you long after reading it and I personally already cannot wait to read it again! I would highly recommend this book.

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Cam created a hero (courage tale series) by Dagmara Sitek -Reviewed by Ella Gleason

Cam Creates a HeroCam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cam creates a hero by Dagmara Sitek and illustrated by Lau Frank. This is a childrens book about kids in a foster home who hear about a kid being hurt by her step mom. Cam wants to do something about it so he creates a robot that is meant to help protect. Upon it not working he gets upset. This book will show you the art of story telling and how the power it can have in healing. With beautiful illustrations we get to see all the children and have a very beautiful visualization through the art work. This is a great story to tell your children and grandchildren along with generations yet to come. it shows them the importance of story telling and its healing power through words and art.

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Jennifer Crain

Cam Creates A Hero: Growth Mindset Book For Kids (Courage Tales)Cam Creates A Hero: Growth Mindset Book For Kids by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cam Creates A Hero” is a delightful addition to children’s literature that successfully blends a heartwarming narrative with essential life lessons. Dagmara Sitek has crafted a story that not only entertains young readers but also empowers them with vital skills for personal growth.

The book addresses heavy themes such as courage, compassion, and emotional intelligence, making it an exemplary growth mindset resource for kids. Children are encouraged to dream big, to not shy away from their emotions, and to understand the value of inner strength. The relatable characters and scenarios reflect real-life challenges, enabling children to see themselves in the story, making the lessons feel applicable and accessible.

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Shelly Kittell

Cam Creates a HeroCam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book really tugs at the heartstrings. Cam wans to create something to help other children that have been hurt or traumatized by adults. My eyes tended to leak as I read this story because as one of those kids growing up, I wish someone had been there. Cam wanted to make a robot protector but it didn’t go very well. As a bookworm, I loved his idea of turning his robot into a book that could be shared with the children in the hospital. This was such a wonderful idea. Cam is one of my favorite series because it brings such hopeful messages. This story brings up so many emotions. As a nubie author, I would love to create a superhero story like Cam for all the hurt kids. This story gives hope and love. I shared it and hugs with my grandchildren. It’s been requested a couple times already. I’m going to buy some extra copies for our Kinship agency to give out. It’s a wonderfully illustrated story that should be shared with everyone. The message it delivers is worth sharing everywhere.

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek

🌈 .•°❤️°•.🌈 BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 🌈 .•°❤️°•.🌈
Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Family Adventure
Page Count – 54
Cover Designer – Lau Frank


RUMBLE! CLICK! WHOOSH! Suddenly, Cam’s sketches burst into life with mysterious sounds echoing through his world. What was once just drawings on paper has now transformed into an incredible hero bot!
Dive into this touching, inspirational tale of resilience as Cam and his foster siblings tackle challenges, discover inner strength, and turn everyday moments into something magical.
This emotional story will grip young hearts, teaching them about compassion, creativity, and determination.

~ AMAZON ~

 

Click here to view the Book Trailer for Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek

Dagmara is a Montreal-based mother of two, who is committed to children’s education and emotional well-being. Born in Poland, and living in Canada, Dagmara Sitek wears many hats—a mom, a wife, and a digital marketer in her 9-to-5 world.
Once a kid who loved drawing and writing, she jumped into writing children’s books because she realized something important – not all kids get a fair shot at life. Her debut as an author merges childhood passions with a new mission – to bring hope and awareness to children’s struggles.


“Loris Opens Up His Heart” by Dagmara Sitek was inspired by the tragic story of 8-year-old Kamilek from Czestochowa, who died due to mistreatment by his stepfather. It is a testament to the power of empathy and compassion. It models positive interactions and helps kids put themselves in someone else’s shoes. More importantly, it encourages them to help one another and overcome fears.

Author Interview with Dagmara Sitek

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Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue (Luca Magoo Series) by Megan Delgado – Review by Kerry Baker

Luca Magoo, Don't Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression.Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression. by Megan Delgado
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is such a fun and entertaining kids story. It had both of my children hooked from the start and I could see the delight they took from it. At times, the book had them laughing out loud. It is an engaging story from the moment you start reading. Luca is a great main character too. He is the reason why you engage in the story and is definitely the reason why you stay invested.
I loved the way this book was written as well. Rhyming books are some of my favourite as they are fun to read out loud and it makes it more enjoyable for me. This is a brilliant book that I would highly recommend for its intended audience.

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Erin Dodson


Hi Little Brother, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Brother to the Family.

Hi Little Brother, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Brother to the Family. by Deniese Dennis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis is a five star-heartfelt book, that I would highly recommend to any new “Big Brothers, or Big Brothers to be”. I loved that this book showcased what it means to be a big brother. I love that affection was shown in the form of hugs and kisses. I loved that there is a theme of sharing and protection. I also enjoyed that the book showcased how wonderful it can be to have a little brother. This book can be used to introduce the idea of a new baby brother coming into the family, and used as a reminder of what an important role a big brother has in the life of his little brother. This book would be a great gift that can be shared and read for years. I loved the illustrations, they were adorable, and colorful that will keep the attention of younger kids. I am excited to check out other books by Deniese to see if there are also big sister books too.

The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Trista Baldwin

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Places We Call Home was a very cute book and informative for children of all ages. It explores identity and belonging and the connections we form in our enviroments, with universal themes this is an easy to read book with the kids as a way to explain that everyones home can look different from person to person

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Marisa Riebe

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5/5 stars
For being my first book and my very first review, I thoroughly enjoyed this little kids book. Featuring all the places that someone or something can live was interesting. I liked the illustration and the wording was just right for the young ones to understand. I read this book to my kids and they asked so many questions and were so intrigued. Definitely worth the read.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Places We Call Home showcases many different places people call home in a kid friendly, rhyming manner that will draw young children’s attention to the story while it’s being read and can generate curiosity and questions for lots of fun discussions. Happy Reading!

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Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue (Luca Magoo Series) by Megan Delgado – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

Luca Magoo, Don't Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression.Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression. by Megan Delgado
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In Luca Magoo: Don’t Eat the Glue Luca’s teacher announces they will have a day full of art and she brings out a bunch of art supplies, markers, crayons, paint, glue, etc. Luca immediately decides that he will do something with glue. Luca’s school story is a cute, fun, well illustrated stories that helps kids understand that all behaviors have consequences, and what could potentially happen if he did in fact have a taste of glue.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Heather Bass

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a cute picture book that tells us about where other people live. I read this with my niece and she absolutely loved it. She loved the pictures which matched the story perfectly. We loved how the story also included some animals as well . I can’t wait to read more from this author to my niece.

Review by @heatherbass
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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Brandy Vaughn

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a book about the different homes we live in. Ann, did a wonderful job of comparing the text similar to poetry. The illustrations are full of color and details to keep the reader engaged with the story.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Shannen Kern

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was such a delightful journey into the enchanting world of homes in all their forms. I read this with both of my kiddos and although they are older than the target audience, we still enjoyed ourselves! I feel like rhymes are captivating no matter your age and work their magic even more so when paired with a heartfelt adventure and beautifully crafted illustrations. The rhyming flows smoothly which makes it an excellent choice for classroom read-alouds or bedtime stories. What stood out to me the most was the message that home isn’t just a physical space, but a place filled with love, safety, and connection. I highly recommend grabbing a copy to share the joyous exploration of homes with the little ones in your life. It’s a beautiful reminder that home is truly where the heart resides!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Emmye Marihugh

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My daughter thought learning about different homes was great and really loved the illustrations as well! Her reading level is fairly low and she was able to breeze through with only minor assistance. I myself thought the layout and all the different types of homes were great and the story flowed well.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Angela Plate, September 2024

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This charming children’s tale educates young minds about the diverse habitats where various living things reside. It’s an engaging and informative read with simple language and vibrant illustrations. I would age this book at about Pre-K level or just a fun, short read before bed.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Places We Call Home is a children’s picture book designed for kids between the ages of newborn to six years of age. It is a cute little book that talks about all the different places that people live. Some people may live in a big home, while other people may live in a small home. Some people may live in the woods, while some people may live in a great big busy city. Some people may live with their families while other people may live alone. Regardless of where we live, home is where the love is. It is where we feel safe and loved. This is a great book that teaches children about different living environments, diversity, community, and belonging. The story is told in rhymes, which makes it fun and entertaining for children of all ages. The bright and colorful illustrations really helped bring the story to life.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by La Toya Lewis

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Places We Call Home is a children’s book by Kim Ann. This book has smooth rhymes and colorful illustrations. Children will love reading along with easy sentences about all the places to live in the world. We learn about habitats for both animals and humans. We also explore how beings live. We get to see family units and those who live alone. This is a great book for young children to discover all the ways and places we live in.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Cindy Rushin

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a cute little story and I think many kids will enjoy it. The story let’s children know that whatever their home is, that it is perfectly okay, because there are many different kinds of homes. I think this story gives hope and joy. I recommend that parents check this book out for their children. I think they will find it enjoyable.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Christie Mitchum

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Places We Call Home is a delightful book that teaches children the true meaning of home.

It’s a beautifully illustrated book that parents can read to their children that explains the different places people live, such as the city, the countryside, or the beach. She even includes different places that animals inhabit.

It teaches the importance of love, family, and community. The overall lesson is that home isn’t a place but a feeling. Home is wherever your heart is, and it is a place of love.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

The Places We Call HomeThe Places We Call Home by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann

The Places We Call Home is a cute children’s book that would be perfect for bedtime. The colorful illustrations help to bring the story to life and shows children different and unique ways and places people and animals live. Follow along on this adventure as we learn the importance of our Home and the memories and love shared within. My son loved this book. We highly recommend reading this book and look forward to reading more from this Author.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Lisa Helmick

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A short book that shows the different places that people and animals can live. I think I would have liked this better if it was worked into a story. Each page is a picture and it says “some live …..( whatever the picture is)” and another different in the next page. No storyline. Then the ending makes note of how people are happy in families or alone. It rounds out nicely but the delivery could have been better. On the illustration side of things the pages are very well done and colorful.

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Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue (Luca Magoo Series) by Megan Delgado – Review by Crystal Brehant

Luca Magoo, Don't Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression.Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression. by Megan Delgado
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a silly story! First of all, I love when children’s books rhyme. It usually is more likely to keep a child’s attention. Second, this story had my 7 year old son cracking up the whole way through. I think it would make any little kid laugh. Maybe even some adults. Morals in kids books are fantastic. Sometimes, kids just need to smile and have fun. This book is perfect for that.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Julie Johnson

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great book to share with young ones in your life. Curl up together and read about different home structures, both physically and from within. Learn about where different people can live and how they may set up their homes. The illustrations are very well done and vibrant. They will engage the youngest of readers learning more about homes. Most importantly, home is where all the love begins!

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