The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a sweet book that helps teach kids about the many types of housing that there and who might live there. It’s a sweet story. I found it to be informative. The pictures are bright and colorful to hold a child’s imagination. It’s easy to read for the little beginning reader. It’s also a nice story to share for family storytim, nap time, etc.
.•°*°•. 
BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE .•°*°•. 
Click here to view the Book Trailer for The Places We Call Home 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.
Word Play by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a fun and engaging booked about a child’s first day at school. Joe is desperate to learn how to read and this book is all about the adventure he goes on to try and satisfy this need. Both my kids are big readers so they found it fascinating to watch Joe on his mission.
For me, the illustrations in this book are what make it as good as it is. They really bring the story to life and make it feel like you are on the adventure with Joe, not just reading about him. I always enjoy a book my kids connect with, and this is definitely one of those. A fantastic story and I am sure it will be a household favourite.
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was a complete hit with all of the family from the minute we started reading. Both my kids have a really close and lovely relationship with their of “Gramma” so I think they found this story really easy to connect with. They couldn’t wait to find where Gramma would next be found.
The illustrations really added so much to the story. They really seemed to bring it to life and made it all the more enjoyable to read. The book is fun, lively and engaging from the first page. This really is a brilliant story that our whole family loved.
“ABSURD,” SAID BIRD.: A mouse plans a trip to the moon. by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Such a cute children’s book. I loved the lesson this book taught about never giving up even if others do not believe you. The illustrations were very cute and went perfectly with the story.
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This children’s book was a delightful and uplifting read that encourages young readers to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams with confidence. It teaches valuable lessons on forgiveness, bravery, and the importance of community, while emphasizing God’s presence and support. Warm and vibrant illustrations bring the story to life, featuring a diverse cast of characters. A gem of a book that will leave a lasting impression on its readers!
This children’s book was a delightful and uplifting read that encourages young readers to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams with confidence. It teaches valuable lessons on forgiveness, bravery, and the importance of community, while emphasizing God’s presence and support. Warm and vibrant illustrations bring the story to life, featuring a diverse cast of characters. A gem of a book that will leave a lasting impression on its readers!
Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet: A book to explain how visiting the vet with your pets can be fun! by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet is an adorable picture book written by Terri Sabol. The story follows Oscar and Emmy, the cats, along with their humans: Abby, Charlie, and their mom. Terri does a wonderful job introducing children to different veterinary terms throughout the story as Oscar and Emmy are in for their check-ups. The end of the story concludes with some posters on cat care that would be useful for Abby, Charlie, or other children reading this story that may have cats of their own.
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a beautiful book. I love that Andrew’s family explains that the armor of God is like that of the arm you are putting on physically. You can still be courageous and brave as a God’s warrior. Having his old armor passed down to his own child is so sweet and he can teach his son the lessons his dad taught him about God. I love reading about the armor of God and teaching it to children early on is a wonderful idea.
G is for Gossamer: A Children’s SMART & SOPHISTICATED ABC’s Book by Miss Whitaker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I am so obsessed with the visuals in this book. The art is so beautiful I spent a good minute on each page to really take it in. I love that this book is geared towards the ABC at a higher level of learning. The end has a definition for each word learned and that makes it so much more fantastic. I learned what hirsute means! Absolutely fantastic book!
No One Could See the Flea by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story follows a boy and his dog, specifically when the problem of a flea is introduced into the mix. Everything becomes more complicated when one remedy doesn’t work and friends come to help. I appreciate how the author went about telling an enjoyable story while also teaching about not jumping to conclusions. The colors and illustrations are fun and not overdone, stimulating the imagination while also reflecting the story. The story was short and easy to read as well as informative, perfect for kids!
Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet: A book to explain how visiting the vet with your pets can be fun! by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is an important edition and a reminder that our furry family members should go to the vet not only when they’re sick but for regular checkups , vaccines, grooming and dentistry!
I loved that we got the pet’s perspective and that there are ways suggest to calm not only the little furry friends but also the family members 🥰🐾
Again , the illustrations are magnificent!
Everly library , rescue centre , SPCA and vet should have this series on hand …. My humble option ❣️📚🐾
Oscar and Emmy Visit Grandma by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
One can’t help but fall in love with Oscar and Emmy ❣️🐈⬛🐈⬛🐾 what a gift it is to do life with them and share their eventuates !
Each edition has a life lesson for pet owners young and old and the illustrations are bright , beautiful and captivating 🥰
This time round Oscar and Emmy have to stay with grandma as the family is going on holiday , they’re actually quite fortunate to have her as a sitter and that that don’t have to go to a kitty hotel or a kennel 🥰 but there’s still a few things to take into consideration….
The term pet sitter is so well explained and it gives a good understanding of what it actually entails both for the sitter and the pet . Yes it’s fun to have furry friends but it’s a big responsibility and one needs to know what to do especially if there’s a need for medical care .. but rest assured Grandma , Oscar and Emmy has a good time and everyone is safe and loved 🥰🐾
It really will set everyone’s minds at ease
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 – 4 Stars
“This touching story…
– Teaches young readers important truths about their identity in Christ.
– Encourages children to see themselves and others as God sees them.
– Includes an Activity Guide including Scripture suggestions so you can create your own sticky notes for your child and keep the conversation going.
– Provides tips on how parents, grandparents, or other adults can discuss how God finds kindness, forgiveness, and serving as true strength, bravery, and courage.
– Makes the perfect inspirational gift for Christmas, birthdays, baby showers, and even graduations.
– For children ages 4-10 (or any age!)”
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco is a cute, faith-based, and inspirational story aimed at children aged 4 to 10 years. The story is accompanied by sweet, colourful, and engaging illustrations which really help fire the imagination and bring the story to life.
Andrew loves to dress in his armor and play with his friends- setting off on many adventures… but what happens when his confidence is challenged? He is about to learn some valuable lessons-
While the story and illustrations were quite well done, I did notice that due to the illustrations being quite bright and detailed, and taking up the whole page in most instances, that the text/written story should have been a bit larger and darker/bolder so it can be more easily read -> because as it stands, the writing is quite faint compared to the images and at times ‘disappears’ into the illustrations/background- which could make it difficult to read for little ones, or at bedtime in dimmer light.
But, it is a cute little adventure story with some important messages and lessons.
Happy Reading…
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet: A book to explain how visiting the vet with your pets can be fun! by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet by Terri Sabol. This is such a cute series about kids and their animals. In this addition they explain how animals really need to be taken care of in the sense that you should take them to the Vet for check ups and vaccinations just like we go to the Dr and get check ups. In this story we meet a Vet who is very kind and gentle and explains everything he does to their family cat as he does it. Oscar and Emmy are the cats in this story and they listen as their owners are taught how to feed them and how to look for certain illnesses. Such a sweet, informative book with great pictures and graphs that explain it all. My 6 year old nephew has loved everyone of these books!
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Monaco’s writing is both engaging and educational, offering young readers valuable lessons about self-worth, bravery, and faith. The included Activity Guide is a thoughtful addition, providing parents and children with practical tools to discuss and reinforce the story’s messages. The book is a wonderful choice for fostering conversations about kindness, forgiveness, and spiritual resilience.
Ideal for children ages 4-10, Andrew’s Armor is an inspirational read that makes a meaningful gift for various occasions. It’s a tender reminder that true strength is found in faith and love, making it a must-read for families looking to instill these values in their children.
@bookworm1898
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3 – 3.5 stars
Andrew loves adventures as any little boy would. Sometimes he needs his armour and sometimes he doesn’t. It is a story of strength and understanding who they are. It also encourages contributing to others. The story has strong religious themes that encourages young ones to put their faith in God. The illustrations are bright and helps see what the story is about. There is also an activity guide for children to explore.
If you are a religious family, then this book is for your children.
Reviewed by @jennadb
G is for Gossamer: A Children’s SMART & SOPHISTICATED ABC’s Book by Miss Whitaker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely loved the elegance and grace of this alphabet book. If you are looking for something a little less “baby” as a gift then this is the book for you. The illustrations are phenomenal and ornate yet delicate and luxurious. The word choice is so refreshing and wonderful that you will appreciate the change of pace. I cannot gush enough about this book. Get it right now and add it your library or get it for a gift.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
View all my reviews
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the fun, quirky story of a gramma and her 4 grandsons and the adventures they have. This is a quick, fun read that will have your littles wanting to know “Where’s Gramma?!” I really enjoyed the rhyming aspect as well as the awesome illustrations that follow the story so well. Definitely add this to your bookshelves!
Reviewed by @meggs1717
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Andrew’s Armor is an amazing book every child should read! Jill Monaco encourages young readers to use their imagination in play while also giving them a strong message of strength and courage. Little boys everywhere can benefit for the loving message this book has to offer. Andrew’s parents are supportive and creative in teaching him. I cannot recommend this book to parents enough.
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Andrew was a baby when his parents started a toy chest for him. As he grew and got older the things in the chest were changed out. He got a sword and all kinds of things that he called his Armor and he used to have battles with his friends. His Dad always gave him encouraging words as he fought those battles. His Dad built up Andrew’s confidence.
I really enjoyed this book as well as the pictures in it. I think my grandchildren and my friends little ones will enjoy it as well.
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a lovely way to relate the story of God’s armor for kids to understand it. A sweet and fun way with bright illustrations in little bite-size nibblets to share with your child as your read together. I read this with my grandchildren and it was a large hit. It will be a welcome addition to our little library
.•°*°•. BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE .•°*°•.
Click here to view the Book Trailer for Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
Jill Monaco, PCC is the Founder and President of Jill Monaco Ministries, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit passionate about encouraging people to pursue the presence of God and find freedom in Christ. She is a credentialed master coach, author, speaker, podcaster, and course creator.
She is the author of Miranda’s Mirror and Andrew’s Armor. These children’s books teach kids to discover their identity in Christ and learn to see themselves as God sees them. She developed the Freedom Coach Model® and wrote the book with the same name to help her clients with the coaching tools she created. She also publishes My Word of the Year Journals.
Jill is also a professional voiceover talent and audiobook narrator. She has voiced fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books for Disney, My Little Pony, Clifford, and The Little People.
As a teacher and speaker, Jill is known for captivating audiences with her high-energy, humorous approach to life’s serious issues. Her faith-filled and transparent stories encourage listeners to become all that God has created them to be. You can learn more by visiting www.JillMonaco.com.
G is for Gossamer: A Children’s SMART & SOPHISTICATED ABC’s Book by Miss Whitaker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a beautifully illustrated unique ABC book. Some sophisticated words and illustrations to brighten the pages. Simply stunning and what a great way to broaden a child’s mind and make them want to learn the wonderful words used to describe the illustrations. My only issue is that I think the definition should be on the page with the letter/word/illustration. I love that the definitions are in the book but I think associating the meaning with the word and the picture would make it stick even more (in my opinion)
Word Play by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Word Play is a cute children’s picture book with bright colorful illustrations. The story tells us of Joe’s first day of school. He starts off spelling his name with his cereal. That really took me back to my childhood, with alphabet cereal and soup. I remember how much fun it was to try to spell things. But I digress… Joe wanders out of school and explores the shops in town, looking for someone to help him read. Now for the kid listeners, this probably sounds like a fun adventure. The mom is me was shocked he wandered away from school without being stopped, and visited several stores without being questioned. Thank goodness for Bea, likely a wonderful grandma. I read this to my 8 year old and he enjoyed it, pointing out to me he agreed that Joe shouldn’t have left school alone.
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Gramma is all over. Showing the boys new things and letting them learn and experience things they will enjoy. This book is pretty cool and shows that Gramma’s can do it all and will show you things you may never experience otherwise.
No One Could See the Flea by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Oh the ways to search for a flea. This poor dog. Very good read, kept my kid entertained. Great illustrations and will keep your child engaged for a little while.
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book. It had cute illustrations and Rhymes, and a really cool Gramma. You never know what she was getting up to next, but it was always an adventure. Would definitely recommend this one for your grandkids or in general
Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet: A book to explain how visiting the vet with your pets can be fun! by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book shows our kids that their pets need yearly checkups just like they do. It shows them how interesting it can be and rewarding. These are perfect short stories that can teach a good lesson.
Word Play by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It’s Joe’s first day of school and he’s so excited to learn to read. He spells his name in his morning cereal before heading out for what’s bound to be an exciting day. He gets to school and his teacher starts telling them all about where to put their things. They have a lesson on colors. They go out to recess. Joe’s wondering when he’ll get to learn to read! He goes on an adventure and meets a kind woman named Bea…not Bee…who teaches him a lesson.
Great story and one that kids will love, just as long as they don’t become Joe on their first day of school! The illustrations in this book are also very well done.