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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Tausha Treadway

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: 5 of 5 stars

Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek. This book is a little heavier than most for kids but its about a very real subject. Its about Cam who after hearing a news story about a 8 year old girl getting hurt by her step mom and ending up in the hospital, Cam wants to try to help her and others like her. He decides he’s going to build a robot to help protect kids but the outcome is not what he imagined. He goes to sleep defeated but has a dream the robot is real and is very helpful. The robot tells Cam to keep drawing and those drawings will help. So he does and he comes up with a book about helping kids! This is a very neat book that is unfortunately needed in this day and age. This is a wonderful book for kids that are a bit older than can understand more and it teaches believing in yourself and never giving up on your dreams. It also teaches children to be thankful to live in a safe, healthy environment.

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Karrie Sears

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such a cute Halloween book to read to little ones. It teaches them it’s okay to be from everyone else and shows how everyone else can accept who you are. I love Tricia Gardella books. They always have a great story to them and the illustrations are amazing.

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Michelle Troyer

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: 5 of 5 stars

Cam wants to help people. He creates a hero bot story where it helps people and makes them happy. A cute kids story.

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Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf review by Crystal Beadles

Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series 3)Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf by M.J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cute book for kids! My boys would’ve loved this series when they were younger. Camp has started out rainy and boring, now a missing trophy stands to threaten the fun games. Can Dylan and his trusty detective kit find who stole it? Tag along for the adventure and friendship, and learn the surprising reason the trophy was taken! This book is part a series but completely stands on its on as well.

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Mommy, am I Indian today by Sheeba Varghese

Mommy, Am I Indian Today?Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese

It is always good to learn about your family’s culture. Kids viewpoints are so fun especially when it comes to their heritage and learning about where our family lineage comes from is super important.

I Move a Lot and That’s Okay: A Book for Military Families by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Jennifer Crain

I Move A Lot and That's Okay: A Book for Military FamiliesI Move A Lot and That’s Okay: A Book for Military Families by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The author perfectly captures the bittersweet nature of these transitions—military family– mixing feelings of sadness and loss with hope and acceptance.

One of the standout features of this book is its ability to honor the emotions of military children, validating their experiences while also helping them recognize that their feelings are normal and shared by many. The narrative encourages young readers to find comfort in the fact that moving, while often difficult, can lead to new adventures and opportunities for growth.

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I’ll Find My I Miss My Friend and That’s Okay by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Jennifer Crain

I Miss My Friend And That's OkayI Miss My Friend And That’s Okay by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

One of the book’s most commendable aspects is its willingness to tackle complex emotions such as anxiety, sadness, and the excitement of new beginnings. The narrative encourages young readers to acknowledge their feelings while also highlighting the constructive nature of friendship as a source of comfort and strength. The way Grace learns to adapt to her new environment and make new friends beautifully illustrates that while change can be daunting, it can also lead to personal growth and discovery.

The illustrations, coupled with the engaging text, make the book suitable for children aged 7 to 10, capturing their attention and sparking their imaginations. The large print format further enhances accessibility for younger readers or those who may struggle with typical text sizes.

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I’ll Find My Way And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story (Axel’s Story Series) by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Jennifer Crain

I'll Find My Way And That's Okay: Axel's StoryI’ll Find My Way And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a delightful children’s book that takes readers on a heartwarming journey filled with bravery and friendship through the eyes of Kody, a spirited dinosaur. The narrative artfully captures the challenges and fears of being separated from a loved one, all while imparting valuable life lessons.

The author does an excellent job of making Kody a relatable character, embodying both excitement and nervousness as he navigates through an unfamiliar environment. Perry-Knights skillfully illustrates Kody’s emotional journey, teaching young readers about the importance of courage and resilience in the face of challenges.

One of the standout aspects of this book is its ability to address themes of fear and discovery in a manner that is accessible and engaging for children. The lessons about embracing new experiences and overcoming obstacles resonate well, making it not just an entertaining read but also an educational one.

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It’s Cool to be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights Review by Phylis Carpenter October 2024

It's Cool To Be Kind: A Children's Book on Kindness and FriendshipIt’s Cool To Be Kind: A Children’s Book on Kindness and Friendship by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a cute children’s book that I am going to read to my new grand daughter when we move back there in a couple of weeks. I want her to enjoy the pictures and to learn to enjoy reading as much as I do.

I think any child will be happy to get this book or have it read to them.

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It’s Cool to Be k

I Miss My Friend And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story (Axel’s Story Series) by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Jenni Bishop

I Miss My Friend And That's Okay: Axel's StoryI Miss My Friend And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I Miss My Friend And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story is another heartwarming story, told from Axel’s perspective. Axel’s mum is a soldier in the army and their family moves around a lot. Due to this he misses his best friend Kerrington. Even though there are miles between them they keep in contact through writing letters to each other. I liked that the story is written in the format of letters.
The colourful illustrations bring the story to life as Axel shares his new experiences with his best friend whilst learning it’s okay to miss them just as it is ok to make new friends as well.
As with the first book, I Move A Lot and That’s Okay: Axel’s Story it was an interesting read and a valuable story for anyone moving at a young age.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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I’ll Find My Way And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story (Axel’s Story Series) by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Jenni Bishop

I'll Find My Way And That's Okay: Axel's StoryI’ll Find My Way And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ll Find My Way And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story is another beautiful tale from Shermaine M. Perry. It is a tale of Kody one courageous dinosaur gets lost whilst moving with his best friend Axel due to his mum being in the Army.
The lovely illustrations bring the story to life to this children’s picture book.
This heartwarming tale takes Kody on an adventure as he tries to find Axel, but he must face his fears and find the courage to set forth on this journey. Follow along in this wonderful tale as Kody finds strength, courage, and confidence and steps out of his comfort zone to embrace the unknown all that he finds along the way.
My grandsons loved this book and all things Kody, and I am sure you will too.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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I Move A Lot and That’s Okay: Axel’s Story (Axel’s Story Series) by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Jenni Bishop

I Move A Lot and That's Okay: Axel's StoryI Move A Lot and That’s Okay: Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Axel as the title suggests a 7-year-old boy learning that being uprooted and moving all the time is not all bad. It teaches skills to deal with moving to new places and experiencing the fears and scariness that comes with the unknown. It also shows just how resilient kids of that age are.
Kyle’s mixed emotions and anxieties are real are all valid when he must move again because his mum is in the Army. Why does he have to move again? Why can’t he stay with his friends? Where will his new home be? What will it be like? Will he make friends? What will his new school be like?
I Move A Lot and That’s Okay: Axel’s Story is a delightful heartwarming colourful picture book is seen through Axels eyes as he shares his concerns and fears as he is helped by his family to overcome them and learns to see them and embrace them as an adventure.
Not having to go through the same struggles it was an interesting read and a valuable story for anyone moving at a young age.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Heather Goodman

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

This is such a great gift for any kid that is getting a little brother or a sibling period. It’s a great book to be able to read with the sibling and new baby or if the sibling is old enough for them to read to the new baby. It highlights all the great things you get to do for your younger sibling. It shows you what family is about. I would definitely recommend this book for any family that’s adding another sibling to the mix.

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Arianna Westmoreland

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gadrella by Tricia Gardella

I read this book with my two sons – ages 6 and 3. This was a sweet story, perfect for the spooky season.

A review from an actual kid:
D (age 6) – ”Gadrella did lots of different things but she still ended up happy.”
S (age 3) – “It was spooky with witches and potions!”

We gave this book 5 out of 5 stars.

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I’ll Find My Way And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story (Axel’s Story Series) by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Megan Kimley

I'll Find My Way And That's Okay: Axel's StoryI’ll Find My Way And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a really cute story about a stuffed animal who gets separated from his boy and the adventures he has to get back to him. Kody wakes up on the airplane being carried but it’s not Axel who’s carrying him! How will Kody get back to Axel?! Perry-Knights does a wonderful job of showing children it’s okay to be scared and go through a gamut of emotions. I loved the creativity of this story and the wonderfully bright illustrations. And it’s always fun to think of what our stuffed animals do when we aren’t around 😉
Reviewed by @meggs1717

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

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

This book is an introduction for all big brothers to be, it shows some things that they will have to do, silich as play peekaboo and teach them all that they learned as a little one.

It shows how to be protective, loving, gentle and how to share both people and things, how life will change and all the exciting things to look forward to in the future.

It is charming, easy to understand and made from the child’s perspective, which makes it adaptable and inclusive of all, a must have for all big brothers to be!

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Tausha Treadway

It's Cool To Be Kind: A Children's Book on Kindness and FriendshipIt’s Cool To Be Kind: A Children’s Book on Kindness and Friendship by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights. This is such a great book about just being kind. Kids of all ages can learn from this sweet book. It teaches us that even the small things that you help people with are just as kind as the big things. It teaches kids that take what you are good at and help people with that skill. You can help in all kinds of ways. It is geared at kids 7 to 9 years of age but even my nephew who is younger really enjoyed it. It would make a great book for your upper elementary teachers for their classroom. I loved this book and I am making it a part of our family library.

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Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese – Review by Debbie Best

Mommy, Am I Indian Today?Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Sheeba Varghese does a fine job of interweaving cultural identification into daily life for an American child born of the Indian culture. The little boy in her story speaks of his curiosity regarding his identity – is he American on some days, and Indian on special occasions? The boy’s mother uses his innocent question as a teaching opportunity regarding their shared history and their family’s immigration from India, while simultaneously emphasizing cultural heritage via dress. The little boy explains to the reader, that in his culture, women wear a garment known as a Sari, while men and boys wear Kurta pajamas and a Stole. All in the context of attending a wedding.

The story is wonderful for its ability to help children of Indian heritage, become less confused about cultural differences. In addition, I believe it is a valuable tool for teaching others a smattering about the Indian culture and should be included in both elementary grade and community libraries everywhere. Suitable for ages 3 – 5, and for parental reading.

I would be remiss if I did not mention the gorgeous illustrations in this book. The end papers are stunning. Tori Tilahun uses a technique that is part intensive illustration combined with a watercolor wash to produce the books pictures – especially effective in capturing aging family photos.

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It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Michelle Troyer

It's Cool To Be Kind: A Children's Book on Kindness and FriendshipIt’s Cool To Be Kind: A Children’s Book on Kindness and Friendship by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great book that teaches kindness. Great with activities also. Very educational but yet fun!

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Shadel Ayerbe

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 great kids book

An exciting period of development and change occurs when a new baby brother joins the family. By encouraging acceptance and involvement in taking care of a younger brother, this book is excellent for preparing your “not so little one” for the new position of big brother. The big brother in this endearing book is ecstatic to have a younger sibling and gives him a kiss upon arrival. Big brother is excellent at teaching the baby how to do things, from playing peek-a-boo to teaching them that cows moo. Not only does he assist in determining the baby’s requirements and teach them how to share, but his greatest contribution as a big brother is his unwavering presence and friendship.

This is a great book for kids who are getting a sibling. This shows them a greater understanding of the meaning of having a sibling

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Down By The River by Tricia Gardella – Review by Candice Estes

Down By The RiverDown By The River by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is targeted toward a young audience, and I would definitely recommend it to parents and teachers and even children’s librarians. The illustrations are vibrant and beautiful. As I was moving from page to page, I felt almost like I was near the river, seeing the animals described and drawn. This book is short, making it a perfect bedtime story, or quick read for a squirmy kid. Themes covered within the book are “hard hitting”, such as pollution, yet touched on lightly in a way that won’t confuse young children and may even go unnoticed but be a good jumping off point for further discussion.

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I’ll Find My Way And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story (Axel’s Story Series) by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Shelly Kittell

I'll Find My Way And That's Okay: Axel's StoryI’ll Find My Way And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kody gets left on the plane and goes on a mighty adventure. He shares how you can have an adventure also. I love this little story. It’s entertaining and teaches a really fun lesson. I loved the little lesson on counting to 10 in Italian at the end. Always dream. It has bright pictures and a story that will keep the kids engaged. It was a winner in my house.

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I Miss My Friend And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Shelly Kittell

I Miss My Friend And That's Okay: Axel's StoryI Miss My Friend And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A beautiful story about friendship. The back and forth of letters shares the love of friends. Beautiful and colorful illustrations that will keep children engaged. A fun and entertaining story that shows them that change is okay. This is a wonderful book that was a hit in our house. Having grown up as a military kid myself, I wish we had had books like this back then.

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I Move A Lot And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Shelly Kittell

I Move A Lot and That's Okay: Axel's StoryI Move A Lot and That’s Okay: Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is another book that I sure wish we had had when I was younger. Having grown up as a military kid, this would have helped with transitions. It’s a wonderful story that helps explain transitions and how they go. There are bright illustrations that will hold onto the child’s attention. This is really a neat series of books that helps kids understand a little about being a military family and having to move around a lot. A winner in our house.

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I’ll Find My Way and That’s Okay! Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights

⭐️ .•°*°•.⭐️ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ⭐️ .•°*°•.⭐️
I’ll Find My Way And That’s Okay: Axel’s Story (Axel’s Story Series) by Shermaine Perry-Knights
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Kids, Military
Page Count – 40

Goodreads – I’ll Find My Way and That’s Okay! Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights

Bookbub – I’ll Find My Way and That’s Okay! Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights


The “Axel’s Story” series teaches empathy for thoughts, feelings, and experiences of military-connected kids. Readers will journey through their unique lifestyle.
This series encourages important conversations about:
● Moving
● Making new friends
● Social anxiety
● Culture
● Big feelings
● New environments
● Problem-solving
● Positive mental health
● Accepting each other’s differences

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for I’ll Find My Way and That’s Okay! Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of I’ll Find My Way and That’s Okay! Axel’s Story by Shermaine Perry-Knights

Shermaine Perry-Knights is a TedX speaker, award-winning facilitator, world traveler, and author. Serving military families through quality literature is her goal and passion. Shermaine’s memories of growing up as a military child inspire her stories. She writes to encourage warmth, joy and understanding for military children and families. Shermaine simply writes the books that she wanted as a kid growing up across the globe. Her books make military-connected families feel “heard, seen and represented”. Check out her 13+ children’s books including the award-winning I Move A Lot And That’s Okay, Sasha Smart, and others.

Author Interview with Shermaine Perry-Knights

FACEBOOK ~ INSTAGRAMGOODREADS ~ BOOKBUB ~ STORYGRAPH ~ TWITTER ~ TIKTOK ~ LINKEDIN ~

WEBSITE ~ FACEBOOK ~ TWITTER ~ PINTEREST ~ YOUTUBE ~ INSTAGRAMFACEBOOK GROUP ~ TIKTOK ~

It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Crystal Brehant

It's Cool To Be Kind: A Children's Book on Kindness and FriendshipIt’s Cool To Be Kind: A Children’s Book on Kindness and Friendship by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great story about how being kind doesn’t require someone to do really big things. That being kind can be little things like helping someone tie a shoe, or helping carry bags of groceries. You can make a difference every day by being kind and helping others. I think it has a great lesson. The extras at the end really add a lot to this book too.

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Crystal Brehant

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a really cute story. I love the vibrant colors of the illustrations. It’s a great book to explain to kids that it is okay to be different. That they can be whoever they want to be. That trying new things can turn out really well. I read this with my 7 year old son. He loved that it was a story about witches.

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Down By The River by Tricia Gardella

Down By The RiverDown By The River by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Down by the River by Tricia Gardella
4 stars
This is a cute book. Very different from what I would normally read. However, that being, said I can see it being very educational for children. It’s almost like a poem set to illustration. The pictures are beautiful, and the descriptions are worded wonderfully. I read it to my daughter she loved it.

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Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills (Donut & Peanut Collection) by Debbie Sullivan – Review by Gabrielle

Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social SkillsFinally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills by Debbie Sullivan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a cute and helpful book for young children to learn how to make new people. Showing the reader that different approaches may be needed and that what seems harmless to you may come off as different to others. It was nice to see Donut learn from the mistake and try again with each new approach. Peanut also learns to understand someone else’s way of friendliness. With the help of Bobo, the two become friends and even include Bobo in that friendship. I like the message that this tale has for young reader.

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It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Cindy Rushin

It's Cool To Be Kind: A Children's Book on Kindness and FriendshipIt’s Cool To Be Kind: A Children’s Book on Kindness and Friendship by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great story. It helps remind children that sometimes it is the smallest things that make them special. I agree that often it is the big splashy things that make the most noise and leave people feeling like they are not important because they are not able to do that big splashy thing or only able to do it but not at the level of someone else. I love how this story brings home the message that being kind and helping others is equally valuable and worthy of being rewarded. I recommend this book to anyone with children who need this kind of affirmation.

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