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Chicken Little Investigates (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Reviewed by Jamie Burns

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Lois Wickstrom has created a fun fractured tale based on Chicken Little. In this tale, Chicken little isn’t so naïve, and decides to investigate about “the sky falling”. Chicken Little tests her theory that it was really an acorn that fell and bumped her head. When she and her friends have come to a conclusion that something DID fall and hit her head, they cannot decided what to call this “thing” they discovered. They quickly decide the king is the best person to ask for help! On their trip, others try to help them and then join their efforts to name the discovery. Soon a whole crowd joins Little Chicken on her trip to see the king. But a hungry cunning fox might just stop the friends from visiting the king for help. How will they escape? Will the king help name their discovery? What do you think Chicken Little should call it when something drops from the sky? To find out what the King calls object dropping, read Chicken Little Investigates!

Falling for You (Buckeye Falls Book 2) by Libby Kay – Review by Jamie Burns

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Take a trip (or two) to Buckeye Falls where you will meet CeCe and Evan, the main characters. CeCe is a grumpy and cynical pastry chef who bakes her heart out. She does not need a man to distract her from her love of baking. Plus it is safer and less likely for her to get hurt again if she only loves baking…. Right? Then there is Evan, he is her polar opposite, he is loving and filled to the brim with optimism. He is trying to woo CeCe, but will he be able to succeed? Will she let him in and give love a chance? While Falling for You is the second book in the Buckeye Falls series, each book can be read as stand alone books. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book, Falling Home! I adored this second book. Libby Kay has a fantastic lawyer of bringing her characters, the story, and the community to life. Reading both Buckeye Falls books was like seeing a movie in my mind as I read each book.

What Loretta’s Katydid Did (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jamie Burns

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What Loretta’s Katydid Did By Lois Wickstrom is a great book to spark an interest in trees and insects. Loretta’s grandmother comes into town to visit her and gives her an orange tree. Loretta notices various insects on the orange tree which might not be healthy for her tree. However, she leaves the insects on the trees and begins to witness the insect food chain as other insects are attracted to the tree. This is a great book to help children learn that not all insects are bad, most insects have a big job to help take care of the ecosystem. I know most kids do not like spiders, but this story includes one that eats insects that were on the tree. This can spark a great conversation about not always liking insects but knowing that they have an important job. This book would be a great introduction to food chains or to introduce the concept of a science fair. Wickstrom does a fantastic job of integrating science into her books.

The Empty Box (Invisible Magic Wand Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jamie Burns

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The Empty Box is the first book in the Invisible Magic Wand series by Lois Wickstrom. It is February 14th, which is Caspian’s Un-Birthday. Each year like clockwork, his grandpa gives him a silly present. Only this year, there is NOTHING in the box… Or at least that is what he thinks at first until his grandpa tells him about his present- an invisible wand that allows him to control time. The wand can be used to speed up time or to slow time down. Wickstrom creates a fascinating magical power for the wand which I would not mind using myself. I can just see children using their imaginations to try to use their own invisible wand. I know that I would have taken the idea of a time-controlling wand and let my imagination run wild when I was little. If you know a child or adult who loves magic and using their imagination, they would love this book!

To find out how Caspin will use his wand, read The Empty Box today!

The Letter Carrier by L.C. Lewis – Review by Jamie Burns

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The Letter Carrier by Laurie L.C. Lewis is an amazing historical fiction book. Historical fiction is not in my top five favorite genres, BUT let me tell you, I LOVED this book! Lewis did an amazing job collecting background information for over three years, she talked with Michelle Naget and studied french documents to fully immerse the reader in Michelle’s story. Michelle was not even twelve when Germany invaded her village and tore her world apart making her once peaceful life full of fear and hardships. Michelle and her family faced many challenges but never lost faith. Her steadfast faith inspires me and makes me want to try better with my own faith. I cannot praise this book enough! It is a must-read!

Real Movie Hero (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 2) by Debra Parmley – Review by Jamie Burns

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The real Movie Hero is the second book in the Green Brotherhood SEAL Team. While I read and finished this book this hours after finishing the first book, it could be read as a stand alone book. This series is following the SEALS from a specialized unit who are one by one finding the women of their dreams. In the second book, Reed and Christie meet at a movie premiere. Christie is dressed to the tens in her 1940s style dress and impeccable peep toe heels which Reed appreciates in all its glory. Everything is going fine, Reed is enjoying Christie and the movie when he notices an activity shooter. Pure instinct and adrenaline rushes to the forefront. Will this shared trauma bring them together or be too much to process? After the shooting Christie does not feel as safe in her surroundings, can Reed help her feel safe once again? Find out by reading Real Movie Hero!

Finding Bryce (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 1) by Debra Parmley- Reviewed by Jamie Burns

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Finding Bryce by Debra Parmley is an amazing book! This is one of the few books that I read within hours of beginning. The storyline is fast paced, filled with twists and turns. This books is about Diesel and Pippa who meet one magical night at a masquerade party. They had one night, a night filled with fun and passion, but they did not reveal their identities to each other. Not a big deal, right? Pippa soon finds out some news she she would love to share with her mystery man, but does not know how to reach him. Years pass and life goes on until Diesel’s father sees Pippa at the park. His father becomes intrigued and tells Diesel what he has discovered. Diesel Decides to do some investigating of his own when he discovers Pippa is missing. Will Diesel and his Navy SEAL brothers find Pippa before it is too late? What did Pippa need to tell Diesel? Find out by reading Finding Bryce!

A Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale by K.L. Small – Review by Jamie Burns

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Princess Zarina comes from a large family and is very selfish. She is going to have her royal advancement is approaching. In true Princess fashion she must have a magically beautiful dress, but little does she know, she should be careful what she wishes for. This enchanting dress is just the beginning of her adventure. This book is captivating from beginning to end. You will not be disappointed.

Saving the Gingerbread House by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jamie Burns

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Saving the Gingerbread House by Lois Wickstrom is a wonderful picture book packed full of wonderful topics to talk to your child about. The first thing that stood out to me is that you should always know your way home- the crumb trail. Another thing that children should be taught is not to wander away from their parents because it is not safe. I love how Wickstrom has created such an outstanding retelling of Hansel and Gretel. The illustrations and storyline works well together, and are entertaining for children.

Loretta’s Caterpillar (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jamie Burns

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Loretta’s Caterpillar is another amazing book by Lois Wickstrom! The illustrations and storyline are amazing together. I love how the story includes rich vocabulary and is connected to science. This book would be great to include in a classroom or homeschooling environment. This book’s back matter contains information about Monarch Butterflies migration, how to obtain Milkweed seeds, and information on how to tell if the butterfly is male or female. If your little scientist enjoys learning about insects, they will love this book!

Grace Under Fire (The Anderson Sisters Book 2) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Jamie Burns

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Grace Under Fire is the second book in The Anderson Sisters Series by Jennifer Raines. I did not read the first book and really enjoyed the second book. Grace has been put through an emotional wreck first with her best friend committing suicide, then her father loses great dairyland, and her mother faces health issues. Ryan feels guilty about his brother’s death. He is in the process of trying to sell his mother’s farm. The land could be the perfect solution for Grace’s problem. Unfortunately, life happens and someone tries to make the purchase fall through. Can shared hardship bring the two together? Find out by reading Grace Under Fire!

Echoing Hearts (The Echo Series Book 1) by C.R. Alam – Review by Jamie Burns

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Echoing Hearts is the first book of this series by C.R. Alam. This is a book that I was not able to put down.Rae Allen and Dean Rowland are both set in their ways, but a thrown into each other’s lives. Both Rae and Dean have past hurts that act as hurdles in the path of their story. There were many times that I could identify with Dean because of the twists and turns that life has thrown. This is not your typical romance story where a girl meets a boy and they instantly fall in love. Each Rae and Dean have their own baggage that causes twists and turns throughout the book. I am looking forward to reading the second book.

The Authorpreneur Yellowpages by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Jamie Burns

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I have always been an avid reader, and have always dreamed of becoming an author one day. So, when I came across this book, I decided it was a MUST READ. I am a librarian/book worm by day, but dreamer by night. I have a handy notebook for writing. This book has enticed my creative side, and magnified my desire to become an author. While I know it is not an easy journey, I have people that will support me. I also have an amazing new resource to help guide me through the process. I am looking forward to putting the steps to the test. As a librarian, I had a basic understanding of some of the information about books, but I love how this book dove into the deep end to give me a better understanding of the process of becoming an author.

The Muffin Shop Murder: A Delilah Crumbworth Mystery Reviewed by- Jamie Burns

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The Muffin Shop Murder is the first book in the Delilah Crumbworthy Mystery series by Holly Tierney. If you like mysteries and baking, look no further because this book is divine! Something goes awry with the McArdles bakery, someone has been baking up more than sweets; they have been baking up rumors. Rumors that could cost the McArdles everything. Tragedy strikes the bakery causing the family to lose the bakery. Delilah Crumbworthy takes over the bakery and is soon swarmed with customers. Will history repeat itself and drive Delilah Crumbworthy out of business as well? Find out by reading The Muffin Shop Murder!

My Inner Critic by Christine Bernard – Review by Jamie Burns

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My Inner Critic by Christine Bernard is extremely related to me. I have not read a book in a long time that I could connect with in such a manner. I have been known to make myself sick with worry and become anxious over so many things I face in daily life. People have not always been the kindest to me throughout my life, so I have the tendency to beat myself up for every little thing that I do “wrong”. My life has been slowly getting better, but I still have my moments where anxiety takes over. This book is such a great read!

Hush, My Darling (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 2) by Winter Austin – Review by Jamie Burns

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Hush, My Darling is the second book in the Benoit and Dayne Mystery series by Winter Austin. I flew through the first book in this series and could not wait to get my hands on the second book! Hush, My Darling did not disappoint! This book had me on the edge of my seat as I completed the investigation with Lila Dayne, the Deputy, and Sheriff Benoit. Two bodies that have similar features make for the possibility of a serial Killer. Will they catch the killer before he/she strikes again? Pick up a copy of Hush, My Darling to find out.

I will have to say that it has been a hot minute since I read a mystery/thriller book that has captivated my attention and immersed me so fully into the action. If you like mystery books, you will LOVE this book!

Caspian’s UnBirthday (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jamie Burns

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Caspian’s UnBirthday is the third book in the Invisible Magic Wand series by Lois Wickstrom. This book is another great addition to the Invisible Magic Wand series. I love the creativity that was used by Wickstrom with the hot chocolate socks. I enjoyed Caspian and his grandpa’s adventures for his unbirthday.

This book is about the birthday present Caspian’s grandpa gave him, it was not your average birthday present. This year all Caspian got was a pair of brown socks from his grandpa called “Hot Chocolate Socks”. What is so special about these socks? They make Caspian float up in the air, but the best part is that grandpa says he cannot go to school on his unbirthday. He has to have a fun adventure instead. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and a copy of Caspian’s UnBirthday to find out about the adventures Caspian and his grandpa have.

Arrrgh! Me Hate To Wait! by Mary Bleckwehl – Review By: Jamie Burns

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Arrrgh! Me Hate to Wait! By Evanson Bleckwehl is one of my all time favorite children’s books. This book is about how a pirate pig named Half-Pint Porky is in a rush to go up so she can attend Pearl of Pork Pirate School. I love all of the fun names for the characters and the language used throughout the book is right on hook (I mean point) with pirate speech. The illustrations that accompany the story are simply amazing creations by Gabby Correa. Gabby did a wonderful job ensuring that each illustration captured the essence of the story. This book is great for children who are impatient. You can have a little lesson about waiting and how waiting can sometimes be hard.

Straight for the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 3) by Winter Austin – Review by Jamie Burns

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Sheriff Benoit and Deputy Dayne are back at it investigating another crime in the book, Straight for The Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery #3) by Winter Austin. This is another wonderful mystery, crime, and suspense story that will have readers at the edge of their seats. I could not put this book down, and to be honest I ended up reading all three of the Benoit and Dayne Mystery books over this past week. This book has kept me guessing and wondering, who did it? Will they find the killer before there is another victim?

Hush, My Darling (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 2) by Winter Austin – Review by Jamie Burns

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Hush, My Darling is the second book in the Benoit and Dayne Mystery series by Winter Austin. I flew through the first book in this series and could not wait to get my hands on the second book! Hush, My Darling did not disappoint! This book had me on the edge of my seat as I completed the investigation with Lila Dayne, the Deputy, and Sheriff Benoit. Two bodies that have similar features make for the possibility of a serial Killer. Will they catch the killer before he/she strikes again? Pick up a copy of Hush, My Darling to find out.

I will have to say that it has been a hot minute since I read a mystery/thriller book that has captivated my attention and immersed me so fully into the action. If you like mystery books, you will LOVE this book!

Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Byrd Nash – Review by Jamie Burns

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Delicious Death is the second book in a six part novella series called Madame Chalamet by Byrd Nash. This book took me back to my roots of loving mysteries! Nash has created a wonderful series so far with captivating characters that readers love. Elinor is by far my newest favorite sleuth-ghost whisperer- who is balancing the food competition and trying to help a lady in distress. One cannot forget that there’s an assassin who is out to cause harm. Nash has a wonderful knack for keeping the reader at the edge of their seat in anticipation about what will happen next. I am looking forward to reading the third book in this series.

Things are Shaking (Invisible Magic Wand Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jamie

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Things are Shaking is the second book in the Invisible Magic Wand series by Lois Wickstrom. I have always enjoyed reading and how it opens a world of imagination for children. Even as an adult, I wish I could have a magic time-controlling wand to slow down time. When I am enjoying something, it always seems time speeds by at triple speed so, I would love to be able to slow it down some. I can only imagine all the adventures this book can spark for children who use their imagination and pretend that they have magic wands just like in the book.

This book is about how Caspin can use his magic wand to control time. He shows his cousin, Belinda how he can use his wand and she demands a wand. Grandpa gives her one just as an earthquake begins shaking the house. Can Caspin, Belinda, and Grandpa use the wands to get to safety? Find out by reading the book, Things are Shaking!

Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Jamie Burns

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Operation Blackbird is the second book of the Brass Compass series by Ellen Butler. The reader is teleported straight back in time to 1952 with Mirriam as the female lead character whose mission is to help a scientist defect from communist Russia. Unfortunately, things go sideways, and she must find a way to save the family. I was fully immersed in the book from the beginning and could not put it down. I have never read a book that had me on the edge of my seat like Operation Blackbird. If you know someone who loves a thrilling spy book, this is the perfect read for them!

Falling Home (Buckeye Falls Book 1) by Libby Kay – Review by Jamie Burns

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Falling Home is the second book in the Buckeye Falls series by Libby Kay. This is such a cute book about Max and Ginny who are no longer married, but Max is still in love with Ginny. Ginny doesn’t want anything to do with Max but needs to come home to Buckeye Falls to help her father as he recovers from hip surgery. Max has thrown himself into his diner, which is the main reason that he and Ginny are no longer together. Will Max be able to show Ginny that he still loves her and wants a relationship with her? Find out by picking up our own copy of Falling Home: A Buckeye Falls Novel! This is the perfect book to help you get into the holiday spirit!

Where Do Pirates Go on Vacation? by Kim Ann – Review by Jamie Burns

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This lively tale will take you across the seven seas on a pirate vacation! Kim Ann created a cute and adventurous children’s book. Where do Pirates go on Vacation is sure to spark any child’s imagination. Have a discussion about places you’d want to travel to as a pirate. Teachers can extend the story by having students write about their own pirate travels. Another activity could be to create a map of their travels. This book is perfect for any sea lovin’ pirate! Grab your pirate ship, patch, pirate hat, and sword to se sail with this book for the perfect adventure.

Ladybugs for Loretta (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jamie Burns

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Ladybugs for Loretta is another great book by Lois Wickstrom! This book does not disappoint with a great educational storyline. Children will learn about ladybugs and how they help gardens. The book also talks about the life cycle of a ladybug. A great learning experience could include getting ladybug eggs so that children can explore the life cycle of a ladybug themselves.

Amaleigha Loves a Good Story by Janice Pratt – Review by Jamie Burns

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As an elementary librarian, I adore the book, Amaleigha Loves a Good Story. Amaleigha has the world’s biggest heart and always finds ways to help the people around her. She loves to read books but soon notices that the bilingual section of her school library does not have many books. She crafts a plan to enhance her school library collection and soon has the whole community’s support.

Janice Pratt has a knack for writing amazing stories that show children how to be better people in a relatable manner. One of my favorite things about this book is that it provides a message that children need access to bilingual books at school and in the community. Pratt even included the mayor’s message in different languages which makes the message shine through her book.

Many social-emotional points can be spoken about within the story… Speaking to children about these different points can help them become more like Amaleigha.

– How can we have big hearts?
– How can we help others?
– How can we work together as a community?
– Even as a child, you can do great things.

This book would be a great way to spark the interest of children in creating a little library. Speaking of which, the back of the book provides information about creating a little library.

I also want to give a shout-out to Alina Kralia who truly brings the story to life with vivid illustrations. Kralia does an amazing job even with the smallest details of the illustrations.

As a side note… I have to say that for one of two reasons, the dedication made my heart smile: I serve as a school librarian and I know of a few librarians in the Oklahoma area.

 

Snow in Love by Libby Kay – Review by Jamie Burns

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Ski straight into love with a cup of cocoa, Snow in Love is the perfect sweet and steamy book to get you in the Christmas spirit. Sienna and Connor are polar opposites, Sienna is the seemingly innocent Golden Girl while Connor has been known to be a player. You know what they say, opposites attract each other. However, Sienna is on a strict schedule to keep her on track to bring home a gold medal in the paralympics. Will Connor be able to convince Sienna to live and love a little? Will Sienna be able to break free from her mother’s strict and aggressive demeanor to give love a chance? Find out by picking up a copy of Snow in Love!

Super Enemies by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jamie Burns

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Lois Wickstrom created a realistic and entertaining story of the relationship between a brother and a sister. The siblings cannot agree on an activity much less get along with each other. Wickstrom shows that even if you do not always get along with your sibling or do exactly the same activity, you can still do things together. This story reminds me of many squabbles with my own brother. I recommend this book to any parent at their wit’s end with their children who have declared themselves enemies.