Cam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Foster child Cam, after watching a news report, decides he wants to help others so he builds a robot with the help of his foster siblings.
Wonderful illustrations, wonderful story. This is a real feel good kind of book.
Down By The River by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Where does a river begin? What animals and plants call it home? Who uses the river, and for what? Where does the river’s journey end?
Every twist and turn of the river offers new surprises, making each reading an adventure. With vibrant illustrations and engaging text, this interactive book encourages young readers to learn about geography, wildlife, and the many ways both nature and people use rivers.
Down By the River by Tricia Gardella is a wonderful little story that fires the imagination- sparking curiosity about nature- with lovely illustrations are very cute, colourful, and engaging- which made this little adventure come to life.
The story encourages children to learn as they explore nature, rivers, and streams- while delivering environmental messages, wildlife & nature facts, explaining geography, and encouraging young explorers to be curious.
A great little read!
Highly recommended.
Looking forward to whatever Tricia Gardella brings us next.
Happy Reading!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
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
Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue (Luca Magoo Series) by Megan Delgado. This is the cutest book. Its the story of Luca who loves art class and while in art class his mind begins to wander and he wonders what would happen if he actually ate the glue. Luckily for Luca his teacher steps in and tells him not to eat the glue that its bad for him. This story teaches that you can be curious but there are consequences to your actions. Such a well illustrated story with colorful pages and a cute story. My 6 year old nephew loved it and I can’t wait to read more in this cute series.
Down By The River by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
“Down By The River” is a delightful story that promotes learning and appreciation for nature and wildlife in a river setting. The charming illustrations are vibrant and truly bring the story to life, igniting young imaginations.
Embark on this exciting adventure, discovering and learning about the wonders found along the way. “Down By The River” is thoroughly enjoyable and captivating. My grandsons adored it, and now we’re planning an outing to explore a nearby river.
This wonderful picture book would be a fantastic addition to any library, home, school, or as a thoughtful gift.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Down By The River by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely love this kids story. The cadence and rhythm of the words is so soothing and calming and the book is also educational. In this book we follow the river and get to see all of the animals that call the river home, as well as how a river can help people and the environment. But I think my favorite thing about this book is the illustrations. They are breathtakingly beautiful, realistic, and cozy. This is definitely one you’ll want to add to your bookshelf.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
Down By The River by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Down By The River” by Tricia Gardella is a delightful addition to children’s literature that invites young explorers to partake in a whimsical journey through the wonders of rivers and streams. With each turn of the page, children are greeted by vibrant illustrations that leap to life and engaging text that makes learning feel like an exciting adventure.
The book effectively addresses essential questions that pique the curiosity of young minds: Where does a river begin? What flora and fauna inhabit its banks? Who relies on this natural resource, and how? These thought-provoking prompts guide readers through understanding not only the cyclical journey of a river but also the intricate ecosystem it fosters.
Gardella’s ability to blend wildlife exploration, geographical education, and environmental awareness is commendable. Children will encounter playful otters and darting fish, helping to instill a connection to the natural world while nurturing an understanding of the ecological significance of waterways. The interactive nature of the book encourages thoughtful questions, making it an ideal resource for classrooms and bedtime stories alike.
A Pig and A Poke by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a wonderfully illustrated children’s book. Each child trying to catch a piglet on the run is entertaining and fun. I would recommend the reading to a child that has moderate to advanced reading skills.
.•°*°•. BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE .•°*°•.Goodreads – Down By The River by Tricia Gardella
Bookbub –Down By The River by Tricia Gardella
Click here to view the Book Trailer forDown 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.
Cam 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
Cam 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.
A Pig and A Poke by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Pig and a Poke is a children’s book, that while we’ll written, I didn’t like the topic. I chose to read it because my son and i have enjoyed other picture books by this author. I didn’t even know what was going on, and had to google it. Apparently its pig wrestling or pig scramble- was well described in the story. Angela and other children are chasing a pig around a pen, trying to catch it. If they can hold on long enough, they “win” the pig. The author did a good job portraying how the children may feel, tired, defeated, and finally, victorious. But, since I think this activity is pretty mean for the animal, I wouldn’t recommend this book to others. Read others by this author instead.
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
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?!”
Cam 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
Cam 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.
Cam 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.
Cam 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.
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.
Cam 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.
.•°
°•. BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE .•°°•.
Click here to view the Book Trailer for 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.
Decisions Matter: A picture book about learning right from wrong by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I read this book with my two sons – D (age 6) and S (age 2.5). If you’re looking for a book that discusses the importance of telling the truth and owning up to your mistakes, look no further!
A review from an actual kid:
D (age 6) – ”The puppy got caught being bad but it wasn’t him and that makes me sad but it’s okay because the real Trash Bandit got caught at the end.”
S (age 2.5) – “The puppy made a mess in the trash!”
We gave this book 5 out of 5 stars because we loved it and my boys asked to read it multiple times!
A Pig and A Poke by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
If you’ve ever grown up in the country, you’ve probably tried to catch a greased pig or two! Angela has a great strategy to win the greased pig. Bruce the bully has other plans though and thinks he can beat Angela at her own game. I love the pictures of the race. They are very colorful and make you want to jump in the pen with them!
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.
You Are Special by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
You Are Special by Suzanna Lynn is a sweet book with a great message.
Buddy is a blue Corgi that looks very different from his siblings. He doesn’t notice that he is blue and all his siblings are tan. One day Nelly, the horse, points out that difference to him, and Buddy is very saddened and believes that he is somewhat less than his brothers and sisters because he doesn’t look like them. His sweet Momma finds him and explains that there is nothing wrong with being different, pointing out other animal families that don’t look exactly the same, such as the two cow siblings who look entirely different from each other and their mother. She also tells him that everyone is unique, which makes each special.
The book is beautifully illustrated, which should engage younger children. It teaches them that we all feel different at one time or another in our lives. However, being different is what makes us all special and unique.
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: 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
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.
A Pig and A Poke by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cute kid’s story with fun at the fair, a bully, a determined little girl and a cute little pig. Angela and Bruce are not friends but they both have entered the greasy pig wrestling contest. Whoever can hold on the slippery little guy wins! Angela is determined to beat Bruce the Bully.
This story is easy to read. It has adorable pictures with an engaging story.
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!
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.
Decisions Matter: A picture book about learning right from wrong by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another cute and important lesson in this series. Lynn has such a great way of bringing adorable illustrations for children to visualize the story’s concepts and message. Buddy learns through a mess he didn’t make that consequences affect him when he wasn’t in the wrongdoing. The best circumstance is being honest and truthful as well as not taking fault for someone’s wrongdoing. At the end, there is a Bible verse and ties into the story and its message. This is such a great lesson for young children to understand from the beginning as they become integrated with their peers and others moments like these can occur but in essence, it is best to follow through with your honesty.