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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

What an engaging, colorfully illustrated, fun book of starfish as we count from 1-10. The story is wonderful and I love the rhyme that goes along each page. The starfish are in the sandy beach floor as they find their way to the rocks or on the ocean floor.

I loved that learning tidbits at the end of the story as well about starfish….this book can be enjoyed from very young to old….I never stop learning and I learned some interesting facts about starfish!

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Magic Carousel is Book One in The Brass Ring Series. It is a Kids Fantasy book designed for children ages nine to twelve years of age. This book was very entertaining and would be a good read for anyone that considers themselves to be young at heart. The story centers around the character of Russell who has dreamed of becoming a firefighter when he grows up, but he feels like he will never be brave enough. Ever since his seventh birthday his young life seems to be going downhill and he feels like a failure. Russell is failing fifth grade, his dad is a drunk, his mom works all the time, and he is being bullied by someone who used to be his best friend. When Russell’s grandfather moved in not only did he lose his room but he was moved into the cold, damp, smelly basement.

Now Russell is expected to take his grandfather to the park everyday after school so that his grandfather can ride the carousel. He loves his grandfather and enjoys hearing stories of his wild adventures but is afraid he will be bullied farther if someone sees him at the park. When Russell reluctantly agrees to ride the carousel with his grandfather everything changes, and he realizes that his grandfather’s tall tales are actually true. With the help of a bit of magic he sets off on a series of adventures on the carousel that transport him back in time. During each adventure he sees new places, learns new things, and eventually learns how to be brave.

I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait to read more in this series! The storyline was riveting, the settings throughout were spectacular, and the characters were relatable and lovable. I loved watching the transformation of Russell as he grew and learned how to be brave. Through a series of terrifying near-death experiences, he was able to overcome his fears. The horses and secondary characters all played a part in how Russell was able to push through his fears and face them head on. Now I want my own magic carousel so I can be transported through time and go on exciting new adventures. I highly recommend this book!

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ten Little Starfish is a beautifully written and entertaining book designed for children ages two through six years of age. Each page comes to life with beautiful illustrations of starfish, crabs, and the ocean as it teaches children how to count to the number ten. The book is designed to be interactive so that children can count the number of starfish on each page before turning to the next page. The rhymes are cute, engaging, and entertaining for children of all ages. This book would be a great addition to any home library as it teaches children about counting, the beach, and ocean life in a creative and fun manner. I highly recommend this book!

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Jennifer Crain

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Reminiscent of the popular Magic Tree House series, I enjoyed the time traveling historical fiction book The Magic Carousel even better. Kept my interest as well, because you never knew which chapter would land you on which year or story, and I could see kids looking up even more about a favorite story (as a side note, I would have liked to know about the historical notes for each chapter/adventure- I did the ebook and didn’t think to flip to the end).

Loved how the storyline was unique and you grew to love the characters and the bond between grandparent and grandchild. The problems he encounters children (and adults) can relate to. Unlike the previously mentioned series that oftentimes seems flat (let’s go to the Middle Ages…. with not much story line), this reads like a novel/story. I can’t wait to see the series continue.

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Carrie Reed

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The art in this book is absolutely beautiful. I love the way this book is interactive, so the child will have to count the starfish on each prior to reading. Also, the end has different facts about starfish which is excellent to teach and learn as well as a search and find. Perfect book for children to learn counting.

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a cute counting book that any child would enjoy. It is full of illustrations to keep them engaged and asking questions. It not only will help them learn about numbers but it takes them on an adventure along the way. It is easy to understand and read. This is a fun story that brings an educational aspect as well as the imagination. I highly recommend this children’s book.

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Review by @bjwagner

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Rayne East

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Delightful, magical read
A great fantasy read for young and old, this brilliantly written book has a unique storyline. The author weaves a story filled with imagery and quirky characters that keeps the reader engaged right through until the end. With an easy to relate to MC and nostalgia of the carousel ride, this story would appeal to a wide audience. Highly recommend.

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Rayne East

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Love the illustrations
This engaging picture story counting book is brilliantly presented. With so much to engage with on each page from the illustrations to the language, this book would make a great addition to a home or class library. I really like the wide range of descriptive words used as it can appeal to older children too. Recommend.

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Michelle Mulvey

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great counting book for the littles. They even enjoyed the song that comes with it. Every day the 4 and 3 year old ask to read it and sing along with it. Beautiful colorful illustration!

review by @xchellex

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Magic Carousel is the unique award-winning first book in this series the Brass Ring. It is an adventure story for tweens between 8 – 12 years old but will capture the heart of anyone.
Rusty soon learns there is more to the crazy old man he calls Grandpa, and his adventure begins.
Time travel, a brass ring, magical powers, a gateway to magic are what you will find in this magical adventure fantasy.
There is fun, heartache, drama, tragedy, bullying and much more. The characters are relatable with the story is told in the first-person.
The Magic Carousel is an exciting educational history lesson. It is original and imaginative and an action-packed wild adventure where a young boy Rusty learns true courage and bravery.
I wonder what new adventure will come next for Rusty.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Jenni Bishop

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ten Little Starfish is an imaginative and fun counting book. It is aimed at children aged 2 to 4 years old and impressionable little minds.
With its vivid bright and colourful pictures, it is a winner with children as they learn to count to ten. It also full of interesting facts of creatures and nature that the world has to offer.
Kim Ann stories are valuable tools that help with shaping and the development of young minds and skills as they get to enjoy sea creatures, the beach and nature.
The story is told in a rhyming manner which delighted my grandchildren. What more could you ask for.
This wonderful adventure story is a must as a gift for a special occasion or just because.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a fun story. Russell has to take his grandfather to the carousel at the park every day. The same routine…. One day, his grandfather opens an adventure and the fun starts there. This is an amazing history adventure that brings stories to life. Each chapter is a history lesson brought to life. A fun chapter book that will be a great addition to any child’s library. I will be adding it to our homeschool library.

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Shelly Kittell

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a sweet little counting book for children. It is bright, colorful and a fun way to learn some new facts about starfish. The illustrations are so cute that they will catch children’s attention and start conversations. The activities and fun facts at the end of the story help to continue that learning. This would be a wonderful addition to any child’s library.

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Tonya Merritt

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such a cute book! A perfect book to read and help teach your littles about counting and ocean life. At the end there is a scan code to hear the song which is just as fun as the reading. An interactive search at the end of the book will have your children searching and having fun!

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small

~ ☆ ~ 🌈 ~ ☆ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ~ ☆ ~ 🌈 ~ ☆
The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small
Genre – Kids, Fantasy
Page Count – 192
Cover Designer – Brandon Dorman

THE MAGIC CAROUSEL PROMISES ONE THING: ADVENTURE!

When Russell’s eccentric, storytelling grandpa moves in with the family, Russell loses his bedroom and has to take Grandpa to the carousel in the park every day. As if he doesn’t have enough to deal with already. He’s flunking fifth grade, bullied at school, and his dad’s drinking has made him feel like a failure. Russell dreams of being a firefighter but fears he isn’t courageous enough.

Then Russell rides a carousel horse with Grandpa. Thanks to a magic brass ring, he finds himself magically transported into the past, where he faces life-and-death challenges. Each ride is a new, risky adventure. If he’s not careful, he could be trapped in one of his wild adventures forever!

This is the award-winning first story in the Brass Ring Series.

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small

  1. L. Small is the author of fantasy stories for the young and the young at heart, including A Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale, the Brass Ring fantasy novels for young readers, and the Strand trilogy for young adults. She was born in Queens, New York, the oldest of nine children.

She was an avid reader as a child, and her father often told her “to get your nose out of that book and go outside.” While she did go outside, she never lost her love of reading, especially horse stories and fantasy novels. Some of her treasured possessions are several much-loved books by Marguerite Henry. She has taken one of the books, Five O’clock Charlie, into classrooms for the Great American Teach-In and shared the story with children, along with the letter she received from Ms. Henry in response to her fan letter to the author.

She attended Binghamton University, starting as a Creative Writing major. After earning a master’s degree from Syracuse University, she spent her professional career in the electric utility business in a variety of roles, ranging from environmental work, community relations, communication, and change management.

Her childhood dream was to own a horse and be an author. She is living her dream in Brooksville, Florida, with her husband, Rick, on a ranch called Carousel Acres. They own two horses: an off-the-track Thoroughbred named Rory and an American mustang called Skylark. They share the barn with three cats named after the Golden Girls: Blanche, Dorothy, and Rose. A fourth cat, Stan, has decided to join the barn crew.

You can learn more about K. L. Small and her current writing projects by subscribing to her newsletter  here.

Author Interview with K.L. Small

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann

𓇼 .•°*°•. 𓇼 BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 𓇼 .•°*°•. 𓇼
Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann
Genre – Kids, Family
Page Count – 32

Ten little starfish love the ocean waves! How many little starfish can you find along the shore?

On a sunny day at the beach, these little starfish crawl along the sand and rest on the ocean floor. They play in the tidepools and spend time with their friends as they dance with the tide! These little starfish glow bright with brilliant colors. They’re having so much fun!

This beautifully illustrated rhyming book is designed to help your little one learn to count from one to ten. Journey through the pages in perfect rhythmic meter, and learn fun, interesting facts about the many different kinds of starfish that live in the world’s oceans.

Ten Little Starfish is an excellent learn-to-count picture book and a much-loved sequel to the popular Ten Little Sandpipers. Looking for an upbeat reading adventure with a nature-driven chance to learn? This book is for you!

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann

Kim Ann is a bestselling and multi-award-winning author whose fun, imaginative books help young readers develop a love of reading. She has published many children’s books, including Ninja School Rules and Ten Little Sandpipers, as well as Amazon’s Teachers’ Pick Ruby the Rainbow Witch®, Goldy the Puppy®, Go On Vacation, and Quick Affirmations book series.

Kim has sold 100k+ units online, in various retail spaces, and at author events. Always working on her next story, she looks forward to sharing many more books with her readers.

Author Interview with Kim Ann

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I always enjoy getting an opportunity to check out this author’s works and again this story did not disappoint. Even in Kindle format the illustrations were delightful. I enjoyed the twist on a classic story and getting to see things from a giant’s perspective. I found his methods of infomercials and selling his tricks to other giants hilarious. For kids, I think this would be a great way to open up some engaging conversations about problem solving and safe ways to interact with others. It had a cute twist at the end that was very entertaining. This is a great book for younger youth and even some older grade school youth as well!

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shea Gilkerson 7/26/23

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another win, this is an updated version of “Jack and the Beanstalk” told from the giants side of things. He is selling instructions and items needed to catch little boys to eat! It leads through the steps of the story while he is trying to make Jack stay comfortable. There is a twist at the end showing Jack is more than the giant gives him credit for.

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Elisha Johnson

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

How to catch little boys and eat them by Lois Wickstrom- 3 out of 5 stars

Similar to the classic fairytale Jack and the Bean Stalk but with a twist. The clever giant devises a plan to catch a boy and eat him while advertising his method to other giants via an infomercial to make money. The giant’s plan was going as planned when the boy’s curiosity took him up the bean stalk. The first time was pure curiosity but the many times after was greed. The boy had stealing items from the giant’s house to make money. Since the boy was never caught, he felt comfortable returning to steal more. The giant revealed that he had set up the boy and he was trapped. The boys quick witts saved him in the end when he was able to convince the giant to let him go.
I was personally not a big fan of this book. I did like that the author kept some key items from the classic fairytale but I find it to be very greed driven. I don’t really think the message of the story was portrayed in a positive way.

Review by @elishajohnson

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Dr. Anya Schultz

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Well, this was a weird retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk, with really not that much from the original story. This blue genie lives in the clouds via the stalk and likes to eat little boys. He tricks them because he says earth boys are lazy. Well, Jack climbs the stalk but our wits the genie thing, while stealing his stuff. Once he “got caught” they make a deal to help each other out. However, once again Jack outsmarts him to destroy the stalk but get rich at the same time. Did that sound like a weird summarization, well that is how I felt when I read it. This story to me made no sense, especially toward the end. The title and concept were just creepy, in this form. The illustrations were fine but no real message or point for a kid’s story.

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom

We absolutely loved reading How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them. This is a fun children’s book aimed for children ages 4-8. It’s a fun and colorful retelling of a classic Jack and the Beanstalk but with a twist. My son giggled throughout the story and we read it several times. I love this author and highly recommend reading this story. We look forward to reading more from this Author.

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Megan Pesek

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A clever retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk with a twist you won’t expect. This book is great for problem solving skills and discussions about what others would have done differently. And the twist at the end is unexpected and fun!
The bright illustrations do a great job enhancing the story.

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Carrie Reed

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The art in the book is beautiful, my favorite character is the giant, with his colors and facial features. This was an interesting take on Jack and the beanstalk. The giant wants to eat the kids but then on the other hand Jack is stealing his possessions, I think its a nice way to teach kids not to steal other’s things and not to talk to random giants.

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Hole in the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff – Review by Christine Baranek

Hole in the RockHole in the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hole in the Rock
By: Rebecca Bischoff

I truly enjoyed this story. Especially once I found out that the cave that Lizza and her family lives in is based on an actual cave house in Utah. I loved the amount of eccentricity in the family, especially in Lizza. This is definitely what I think of when I think of a middle grade novel. It is a family that is going through a lot of changes, a teen that is having a hard time dealing with the changes, and all the chaos of being a teenager. Add to that the family seems to be asking a lot of said teenager and you have a book that will suck in a middle grade child whether they are a boy or a girl. Overall, I found Lizza completely endearing, especially her love of animals. I definitely recommend reading this! This is truly a great book!

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Carlie Del Gallo

Goldilocks and the Six Simple MachinesGoldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am obsessed with Lois Wickstrom and her books! The illustrations are always so bright and engaging! As soon as I saw this book I knew that I had to read this one too. The best thing about these stories are that they are perfect not only for children but adults as well!! This story was a cute fun read and I cannot wait to read more of her stories!

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Bobbi Wagner

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an author that I have enjoyed reading her children’s books from the first one. This one just might be my favorite. The characters are engaging and bring the story to life. I enjoyed the illustrations that will keep your child engaged and asking questions to expand the story some. A story where a giant needs to eat and little boys are just his flavor. This is a fun story that any child would enjoy. I highly recommend this book and this author.

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Review by @bjwagner

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Emily H

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk with the Giant setting a trap to catch little boys to eat. Jack though has his own plan to thwart the Giant.

Great illustrations and a unique twist to this story.

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tausha Treadway

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom. I LOVE this author and her books. My nephews love them too. This is another retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk but with a twist. The Giant is makes a plan to catch a boy and eat him. Enter Jack who is fascinated with the giant stalk and wantt to check it out. Will Jack get eaten by the Giant? Read this fun filled book to find out. The story and pictures are wonderful! These books make great gifts and like I said my 5 and 10 year old nephews both love them!

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Manda Kelly

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A super cute story. A cross between Jack and The Beanstalk and Hansel & Gretel, but retold to be more modernized. My 3 yr old nephew loved it. I feel that older kids would probably enjoy it more, as they would understand it a bit more. The pictures are cute and engaging. Awesome world building and interactions between the characters. I would absolutely recommend this for a classroom book for grade 1 & 2 teachers.

Review by Manda Kelly 2023

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shannon Fowler

Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales #3)Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a retelling of the beloved and well known children’s tale, Goldilocks and the Three Bears. This time a little more science has been thrown in for more educating fun! Goldilocks helps the Bear family in this version instead of being an intruder.

This author writes the best kids stories. I wish I had known about her when I was a preschool teacher. Now, I am looking forward to sharing her stories with my granddaughter and future grandchildren..

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Reviewed by @shannonlovesbooks