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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Cindy Rushin

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: 4 of 5 stars

This is a cute little story. I think this is a great story to share with your child when they are about to become an older brother. It helps to make them see that the upcoming sibling is a good thing as they will be someone the new brother will look up to. The story also reminds them that they are not being replaced but rather that they will now have someone to share their life with. I recommend this story to any parent who is about to welcome another child into the family, read this story with your other child and share with them how they are going to be such a great big brother.

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Deb Robinson

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

Wow, this was such a heartwarming book for little ones finding themselves with a sibling. Sibling love is such a special bond and this author shows us that in spades. I was lucky to have an amazing sister who looked after me and loved me like this little boy. I will be looking for more books from this author to read to my grandson. The illustrations are bright and eye-catching. I loved this story.

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

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

5 Stars
Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis

His Little Brother, I love You is a sweet and heartwarming children’s book that children ages 1-5 will enjoy. This is a sweet story about welcoming a new baby and the role of being the big brother and his responsibilities as big brother. Big brothers help guide the little ones while teaching certain skills along the way. Big brothers are protectors and will always keep the little one safe. We loved this book and the colorful illustrations brought the story to life. I highly recommend reading this book especially if you have a new baby or are about to welcome a new baby. We look forward to reading more from this Author.

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

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: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills (Donut & Peanut Collection) by Debbie Sullivan

Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills is a cute children’s book that children ages 4-8 can enjoy. My six year old son loved reading this book and he did a fantastic job doing it by himself. This is a cute story about Donut the Dog and Peanut the Squirrel and their journey to friendship. What I as a parent loved about this story was the message it teaches children. It teaches them Social Skills, how to embrace being different, compassion, not to judge, being responsible when making decisions, self awareness and so much more. Follow along with Donut the Dog as he learns to be patient while trying to make new friends with Peanut the Squirrel. Can he convince peanut to be his friend and can they overcome differences? I highly recommend reading this book and it look forward to reading more from this Author.

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Jamie Truex

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a very cute book with a great message for kids. Gadrella is a witch, bored with the same old clothes, same old traditions. So she decides to change it up! But are her friends willing to accept her change? Perfect Halloween book for young children.

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

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: 5 of 5 stars

Colorful, beautiful illustrations gave me Clifford feels while reading this one. Wonderful life lessons in easy-to-understand ways. Just because Donut knew what he was doing, to little Peanut he came off as very scary. Sometimes being still, calm, and quiet when talking is best. Great easy to read book for growing readers.

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Ayla Phipps

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Absolutely love Tricia Gardella’s books and this one is no different. Stunningly beautiful illustrations bring Gadrella to life as she helps her fellow witches embrace their uniqueness. Not the easiest of books to read for young readers. While the names are beautiful and unique I struggled with her two best friends names a bit. Perfect Halloween book for all ages.

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Ayla Phipps

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

As someone with little brothers I found nothing but facts in these beautifully illustrated pages. Absolutely love the fun words on every page to bring some silly into story time. Easy to read for all ages and those recently promoted.

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Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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

Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf is Book Three in the Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series. It is a children’s chapter book full of mystery, adventure, crime, family, friendship, and fun. The story centers around a young boy by the name of Dylan who does not go anywhere without his junior detective kit, that he keeps on an old tool belt around his waist. Along with him on the adventures is his younger sister Emily, who helps him solve each new mystery and his trusty sidekick, his dog Theodore. Dylan, Emily, and Theodore are trying to solve the mystery of the missing Camp Leaf trophy that has been replaced by a moss-covered rock. Determined to solve the mystery, the trio follow the trail of clues to discover there is a long list of potential suspects. This is a great little chapter book for children ages 5 to 9 years of age that are just maybe learning how to read chapter books for the first time. It has a few illustrations mixed in to help bring the story to life. A great book that will teach children about problem solving, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Gadrella by Tricia Gardella

Gadrella is a cute children’s book that children of any age can enjoy. My six year old son loves Halloween he loved this book. The lesson we learn from reading this book is it’s ok to want change and it’s ok to be different. We have to stay true to ourselves and what we want and believe. The colorful illustrations brought the story to life. We loved reading it so much we’ve read it several times already. My son and I highly recommend reading this book and we look forward to reading more from this Author.

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Angela Plate, October 2024

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 the cutest little book. It celebrates the love between older and younger siblings. Aged for younger children, it was easy to follow and very relatable. Great pictures follow the story line. All in all, this book is a great little keepsake.

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Amelia Stansell

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 was so cute! I loved it. My kids really enjoyed it. A big brother is telling his little brother all the things that they can do and the things that he will teach him as he grows. The story is adorable.

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Shannen Kern

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 was my first book I had picked up by this author, and it was such a sweet and heartwarming read! My kiddos are a little older than the target audience, but we still enjoyed reading it together. This delightfully heartfelt exploration of sibling bonds is crafted with care for families welcoming a new addition. It’s a cute picture book that perfectly captures the mix of excitement and adjustment that comes with becoming a big brother! The narrative is simple yet effective, allowing younger readers to relate to the feeling of pride and joy that accompany their new responsibilities. The big brother’s gentle guidance paints a lovely picture of nurturing and companionship. The gorgeous illustrations beautifully capture the warmth and affection shared between the brothers. This is a tender and engaging story that will resonate with families navigating the transition of welcoming a new baby!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Tausha Treadway

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

Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray. I love this cute series and even though this is the 3rd book in the series it can be read as a standalone. My 6 year old nephew loves these stories. Its the continuing story of Dylan, his little sister Emily and his dog. Dylan has a detective kit and he never leaves home without it. When they go camping and the Camp Leaf Trophy goes missing, Dylan,his dog Theodore, other friends and his sister are on the case. This book is perfect of the young child learning to read and it has amazing resources for teachers that can be printed out as well. This would make a great family time book to read and would be the perfect gift for older elementary kids that are learning to read chapter books. We loved it.

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Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Karole Petty

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

What wonderful story! Enjoyed the story, characters and the fact that there is downloadable material for classroom learning. It was quick read and any beginning reader can read. Loved that anyone one book in the series can be read in any order without missing a beat! I will be recommending to anyone with kids, especially ones just starting on their reading journey!

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Sherri Hoyle

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: 4 of 5 stars

This is such a cute book! It’s a sweet book to read to siblings for sure! I loved it! My daughter and niece and nephew thought it was super cute as well! Highly recommend!

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Karole Petty

Cam Creates a HeroCam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Amazing book ! Loved the story from this author. The lessons learned from this book, dream big, perseverance and creativity, just to name a few. I read this book to the grands and they can not wait for me to get more from this author. The illustrations we absolutely perfect, the characters were well developed and the theme was spot on. Will be recommending to others with Littles.

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Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Nichole Chrisman

Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children's Book About Bullying (Courage Tales)Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book does a great job in showing kids that there is a reason behind every bully. Beefy’s reason is jealousy due to his parents not being there. You find out that even though his parents give him everything he wants, he really just wants them to show up. This also gave ideas on how to help deal with a bully situation, which include asking for help and pointing out the good. While this does have a simplistic solution as to why Beefy is a bully and how the problem is solved it does relay a good message to kids.

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Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese – Review by Maisie Dickinson

Mommy, Am I Indian Today?Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I wanted to read this book because I can relate to feeling confused about your identity, especially as a child. Sheeba Varghese explains this really well at the end of the story, and delves into a little bit of backstory, history, and culture, but I wish we got to learn a little bit more and possibly have some stronger character introductions. I recommend this book because it could help children of colour better understand their identity, and other children learn about a different culture. The illustrations by Tori Tilahun are beautiful. “We are not just Indians today when we were these fancy clothes. We are Indians every day.”

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Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Julie Johnson

Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children's Book About Bullying (Courage Tales)Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such a heartwarming story!! Things are not always as they seem and sometimes people project things differently because of how they are treated by others. In this story, Beefy has good things happening but he’s mad. Really and truthfully, he’s probably more hurt. He takes these feelings out on others instead of directing them towards the offenders. When the foster sibling crew get ahold of Beefy, they learn a lot from him, and they from him. Love, courage, and friendship can never be over rated!

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Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children's Book About Bullying (Courage Tales)Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beefy goes from bully to buddy was a good, well illustrated childrens story that covered important lessons for children to learn early in life. I thought Beefy was a little bit of an odd choice for a child’s name, but in a way made sense at the same time with the over aggressive, good at sports, jock type. I also enjoyed seeing the foster kiddos from the previous books have a roll in this one as well. It was a good addition to the series.

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It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

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: 3 of 5 stars

I like the concept of It’s Cool to be Kind, but I think it missed its mark. The book didn’t flow for me, and got a little off topic in my opinion. It starts with the children discussing a school assignment, what are you best at. But then the kids throw around stories regarding kids being the first to do awesome things. The story continues and we see examples of each character being kind and helpful to others. I think it would have made more sense if their assignment was not “what are you best at?”, but instead “what are some ways you can be kind to others or make a difference in the world?” Regardless, I would read more of the author’s stories to my kids because I think there is potential.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gadrella is a fun children’s book, and perfect to read during the Halloween season. Gardella is a young witch who has big feelings around the traditions of the witch community. It’s always the same and she longs for change. She doesn’t want to ride a broom, wear black, and make potions. She takes it on herself to challenge the norm, and make changes to make herself happy. She shows everyone she is brave enough, and gives her friends the courage to be different as well.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children's Book About Bullying (Courage Tales)Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek

Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy is part of the Courage Tales Series. My son and I truly enjoyed reading this book. Beefy is the schools biggest Bully. He likes stirring up trouble. He even tries to Bully Giorgio the hero bot. One thing I’ve drilled in my six year old head is be kind,be safe,be responsible. Being kind Goes a long ways. I’ve also taught him that sometimes people or kids act out because they crave attention and love they may not be getting at home. The colorful illustrations help bring the story to life. There’s a great lesson to be learned reading this book. We highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. My son and I look forward to reading more from this Author.

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Gadrella by Tricia Gadrella

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an adorable book. I read it to my 5-year-old who absolutely loved it. It is about an unconventional witch who wants to make changes. Definitely teaches lessons on embracing oneself and being true to oneself. This is the second book by Tricia Gadrella I have read to my daughter. She’s definitely talented. We are looking forward to more books to read. A cute Halloween themed book.

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a super cute book about change, transformation, and making a difference. Gadrella is a witch who is bored with things always being the same. The same clothes, the same hat, the same transportation, and just boring routines. She takes actions and trades her broom for a bike. She makes a costume and goes to the witches Halloween Gathering NOT dressed as a witch! She even makes a potion using non traditional ingredients!! Will this all backfire? Or can she make real changes in the coven? Such a wonderful book. Teaching kids that change can be good. To fight for the things you want. To work for the change. And the illustrations are adorable as well! Great for bedtime stories, first libraries, and young readers. This author has many wonderful books that you should check out! I can’t wait to read more with my kiddos.

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@jaimie0459

Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children's Book About Bullying (Courage Tales)Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The books in this Courage Tales Series are so cute and great for kids learning to deal with their emotions. Sometimes kids are mean because something in their life is going wrong, so they take it out on other people. That happens her in Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy. Beefy gets the winning goal for the soccer team, but he’s mad. His parents didn’t show up for the game when they promised they’d be around more. Beefy tries to beat up Gavin, but his foster siblings and their robot who helps kids steps in. Read more about the robot in a previous book (Cam Creates a Hero). They take Beefy home to find his parents not home, but their phones are there and some things are out of place. Beefy and the Super Buddies team look around until they spot his parents trapped! The team must help Beefy to save his parents. I won’t say anything more and give it away, but the book is super cute. I think that kids can relate to these books and they will help them learn the correct ways to deal with certain emotions and problems. The illustrations are great as well! I can’t wait to read more with my kids from this author. Great for first libraries, younger kids, and bedtime stories.

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@jaimie0459

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

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: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed reading this book to a 4 year old and 2 year old. Donut is a dog who is missing her best friend who moved away and keeps trying to befriend peanut the squirrel but peanut is t being very receptive. Finally peanut and donut become friends. The kids enjoyed the book and are not getting the actual book so they don’t have to wait for me when I have my kindle on. Bright, colorful photos

Review by @xchellex

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Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Megan Kimley

Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children's Book About Bullying (Courage Tales)Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I liked the concept of this story. You have someone who is a bully because he doesn’t feel loved at home and is taking it out on kids at school. Those kids in turn try really hard to help Beefy realize that he’s a bully and they end up helping him save his parents and all is right with the world. I really liked the creative, fun, colorful illustrations. I feel that a lot of emphasis was put on the kids being bullied helping the bully rather than the bully trying to understand that he shouldn’t do that. I would have liked to see more emphasis on some self-realization from Beefy rather than his “friends” having to do all of the heavy lifting for him.

Reviewed by @meggs1717
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Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy (Courage Tales Series Book #3) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Angela Hayes

Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children's Book About Bullying (Courage Tales)Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4 – 4.5 Stars

Beefy Goes From Bully to Buddy is the third 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.
Beefy has been causing strife with his bullying antics. The Super Buddies team have had enough of Beefy’s bullying and make a plan to take him home and talk to his parents about his behaviour. But what happens when they arrive at Beefy’s home and get trapped in a video game? Well, they are all going to have to work together if they have any chance of escaping. So, get set for a great little adventure…
This is not only a cute tale but teaches valuable life lessons along the way, such as: how to deal with bullies/bullying, teamwork, friendship, staying connected + invested, empathy/compassion, technology/science, building self-confidence, self-awareness, emotional regulation/emotional intelligence, promotes a positive mindset, reminds us to focus on what’s important, and that change can be good.
This was such a lovely, heartwarming story that left me with all the ‘feel-good’ vibes of a meaningful story.
Looking forward to reading more of this series…

Thank you, Dagmara Sitek!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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