This is a very informational and helpful book for a family that is looking to add a furbaby. In this story, Lora and CJ have decided they’d like to each have a dog. Their parents have wisely advised the children that they need to research everything possible about pet care to demonstrate the knowledge necessary to be a great pet parent. CJ and Lora learn all about proper vet care, exercise, food, and more and present their findings to their parents who agree to allow them to have a new pet.
Any family with small children looking to add a new furbaby should be required to read this book! It’s a great tool for youngsters to create a goal list from and to demonstrate their learned knowledge before the family commits to such a huge undertaking of adding to their family.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2024-03-16 20:33:422024-03-26 09:26:20Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Julie Johnson
“Porter & Midge: Paws and Responsibilities” by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada is a delightful children’s book that takes young readers on heartwarming adventures with the lovable characters, Porter and Midge. Packed with charming illustrations and a sweet storyline, this book is sure to capture the imaginations of children everywhere. The illustrations in “Porter & Midge” are vibrant and expressive, perfectly capturing the emotions and personalities of the lovable duo. The artwork brings the story to life, creating an immersive experience for young readers. The colors are eye-catching, and the attention to detail adds an extra layer of charm to the book. The characters of Porter and Midge are endearing and relatable, teaching young readers valuable lessons about responsibility, friendship, and teamwork. Through their adventures, children will learn about the importance of taking care of their pets and the joy that comes from a strong bond between animals and humans. One of the strengths of this book is its ability to entertain while subtly imparting important life lessons. The storytelling is both engaging and educational, making it an excellent choice for parents and educators seeking literature that enjoyably teaches values. “Porter & Midge: Paws and Responsibilities” is a perfect read-aloud book, as the simple and well-paced narrative keeps young readers engrossed from beginning to end. The language and vocabulary are suitable for early readers, making it accessible for a range of ages. Chen and Nevada’s collaboration results in a joyful reading experience, creating a memorable world that children will want to revisit again and again. Highly recommended for young readers and parents alike.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Carrie Crosshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCarrie Cross2024-03-16 19:50:142024-03-26 09:26:11Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Carrie Cross
Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities is another wonderfully collated story in the Porter and Midge series and one not to be missed just like the others. Best of all is that it is told in a catching way. Lora and CJ learn what is required when looking for and after a new pet in this next instalment of Porter and Midge. Everything a pet could want, or need is explored. This educational picture books guides you through every aspect of what type of pet is right for you and what is needed to care for the pet. Porter and Midge Paws and Responsibilities is a well thought out story and it is told in a fun and rhyming way that draws the reader in. Children will delight in the colourful illustrations as well in the story itself.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2024-03-16 19:16:382024-03-26 09:26:06Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Jenni Bishop
Detective Dylan, his little sister, Emily, and their dog, Theodore, are back on the case! The three work as a team to solve the case of the missing plates. This is the 2nd detective Dylan book in the series, but honestly, I think it was a bigger hit than the first with the niece and nephew. They love these books. I love the fact that two kids who normally are not readers will sit down and read these books! Between the story and the illustrations, there is enough to keep the kids engaged and learning along the way. I would absolutely recommend this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sarah Kinghttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSarah King2024-03-16 13:51:302024-03-26 09:21:22Detective Dylan and the Hunt for Home Plate (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book) by MJ Murray – Review by Sarah King
Gisella Nevada’s book, “Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities,” is a heartwarming informative story that teaches children about the important aspects of pet ownership. The characters, Lora and CJ, serve as excellent role models as they demonstrate the dedication and responsibility required to care for a dog in order to receive a pet of their own.
The book covers a wide range of topics related to puppy care, including grooming, feeding, training, and socialization. Through engaging rhymes and vibrant illustrations, children are able to learn about the various responsibilities that come with owning a pet in a fun and entertaining way.
What stands out about this book is the emphasis on the emotional and social needs of a pet. Lora and CJ go above and beyond to ensure that their dog, Porter, is happy and well-adjusted, showing young readers that pet ownership is not just about providing basic needs, but also about building a strong bond and relationship with their furry friend.
Overall, “Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities” is a valuable resource for parents and educators looking to teach children about the importance of responsible pet ownership. It is a delightful read that promotes empathy, kindness, and respect for animals, making it a must-have addition to any child’s bookshelf.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Crainhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Crain2024-03-16 13:10:162024-03-26 09:21:16Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Jennifer Crain
This is a great book that teaches responsibility and all that goes with it when it comes to wanting a new dog brought into the family. Though the reading ages is 4-9 years, this is a great book even for older kids and adults to understand all the responsibility that goes with being a new dog owner. From vet visits, play time, grooming and even having a safe space in crate training, this is a really great book understand so many elements in being a dog owner.
CJ and Lora are excited as they feel they want to welcome a new dog in their family, but CJ and Lora’s parents know there is a lot of responsibility that goes with being a pet owner. Learning from other dog owners and reading up on all that you have to do to be a responsible dog owner. …CJ and Lora do lots of research to show they can do this.
Fun, fantastic book….great for all ages and I love the rhyming and the colorful illustrations really bring this story to life. Very highly recommended.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorralei Hoernerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorralei Hoerner2024-03-16 08:29:242024-03-26 09:20:44Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Lorralei Hoerner
5 Stars The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom
The Glow in Loretta’s Garden ( Loretta’s Insects) is a fun children’s book that children ages 4-8 can enjoy. My son loved this book so much we’ve read it several times already. The illustrations are colorful and bring the story to life. Loretta is in her garden is digging in the dirt when she notices and something glowing. Loretta puts the glowing larvae in a box and continues watch it for several days. Fireflies are my favorite and my son loves to try and catch them. We truly enjoyed this book and highly recommend reading it to find what happens next. We look forward to reading more from this Author
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2024-03-16 04:55:372024-03-26 09:20:15The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada
Join Lora and CJ on an exciting journey as they discover the importance of thorough research and preparation before welcoming a new dog into their home. Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities takes children on an educational adventure that covers various aspects of puppy care from the essential tasks of grooming and feeding to the critical elements of training and socialization. Through catchy rhymes, children will gain a deep understanding that responsible pet ownership goes beyond the basics of providing food and shelter. To raise a well-rounded, happy dog requires love, play, and engagement. As readers follow along, they’ll witness Lora and CJ’s dedication to becoming responsible pet owners, highlighted by their commitment to regular vet visits and the careful selection of the right breed or rescue dog that matches their family’s lifestyle. This captivating story is a valuable resource for parents and educators seeking to instill important values such as responsibility, empathy, and a genuine love for animals into the hearts of young readers.
Jennie Chen has been active in purpose bred dogs since 2001 earning over 75 titles in conformation, competitive obedience, rally, herding, lure coursing, weight pull, drafting, water rescue, packing, and animal assisted therapy. Her first AKC Champion was a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Ch Dixieland Blazing Maximus, CGC, HIT, SS, SWET, WETT, HIC, WETX, WTXX, WPD, DD, WWDS, RN, CD, THDA, VGS, 2017 GSMDCA Ambassador of the Breed, “Mouse.” Mouse was the first Greater Swiss Mountain Dog to earn any Water Rescue titles, and he was spokesdog for the Keep Austin Dog Friendly trend for many years appearing in magazines, news clips, and serving the community as an animal assisted therapy dog. Keep Austin Dog Friendly was nominated for a Webby Award in 2016.
In addition to Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, she also owns a pride of Lowchen or The Little Lion Dogs. In 2019, she piloted her Lowchen, GCHS Musicbox Got Your Six at Roman Reign “Target” to #1 All-Systems, #1 OH for 2019 and 2020. Target went on to win the Breed at the AKC National Championship in 2019, Westminster in 2020, and Best in Specialty Show in 2021.
Jennie has served on various board and committee positions in the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America, the Lowchen Club of America, as well as regional Newfoundland and Bernese Mountain Dog Clubs. She is a GSMDCA draft judge and weight pull judge.
Giselle Nevada
Originally from the Philippines, Giselle came to the US to attend Wellesley College where she studied Economics. After graduation, she worked in managing risk/compliance teams, specializing in machine learning and more recently, risk policy.
Giselle has owned several mastiffs over the past 20 years, some from reputable breeders and others she rescued as adults. Her experience with rescuing and fostering mastiffs led her to become interested in socialization as a way of preventing future issues. She enjoys working with her dogs and has trained them in various canine sports such as carting, conformation, agility, rally, trick dog, nose work, and more. Her puppy, Porter, is an example of the success of early socialization, having earned multiple performance dog titles and even starred in a movie directed by Marian Yeager called “Match Me If You Can.”
Giselle is an active member of various dog clubs such as the Scentwork ATX Club, Capitol Dog Training Club of Austin, and the Mastiff Club of America. She has lived in Austin for over two decades, and her passion for dogs and socialization continues to inspire her work.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/426418070_1205176870458109_1554641628098792846_n.jpg12001189itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2024-03-16 00:00:202024-03-29 08:37:15Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198380575-the-glow-in-loretta-s-garden” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1695737781l/198380575._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198380575-the-glow-in-loretta-s-garden”>The Glow in Loretta’s Garden</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/331633.Lois_Wickstrom”>Lois Wickstrom</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6347146771″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> One day Loretta is in her garden. She thinks she finds armadillo eggs. They are not! So she gathers them in her ant farm to watch them glow. A few weeks go by and nothing is happening the ant farm. Then one day she sees the glowing, so she takes the little ant farm out to the garden to release the bugs. She is able to determine the different types of fireflies, and makes a little light to play with the firefly’s. <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/6813301-tori”>View all my reviews</a>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Torimittonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTorimitton2024-03-15 19:21:482024-03-26 09:22:32The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tori Mitton
As usual, when I come to write a review for a book by this author I feel like a complete broken record. Each book we read by this author is fun and entertaining and has a great premise to it. They teach kids so many things but in a way that isn’t obvious or off putting. My kids always completely engage with these stories and this one was no different. We have read it multiple times and enjoyed it every single time that we have. The illustrations are really detailed and creative, they also appeal to my son in particular. This author has gained fans for life in our family and we are already looking forward to the next book.
The Missing Red Envelope by Yobe Qiu is based in New York City and is about the Lunar New Year. The story is about two sisters, Lorie- 13 and Weina- 9, and their lost lucky envelope. They had been trying to save up to buy their grandmother a present. The older sister didn’t show her anger though, and instead tried thinking of resolutions to try and find the lost lucky envelope. This is such a cute story that not only goes into detail to educate children on the Lunar New Year and their traditions, but is also a lesson that teaches if you just stop, breathe, and think you can resolve issues, but that you should also talk with your parents about them as well for help.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Debshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDebs2024-03-15 11:16:172024-03-26 09:16:28The Missing Red Envelopes by Yobe Qiu – Review by Deborah Joseph
This is another cute installment in Caspian’s “Unbirthday” series. Every year on Caspian’s unbirthday, his grandpa gets him a special present in a special box, but this year the box isn’t in its usual place and Caspian can’t find it anywhere! However, Caspian does find a special compass that helps him answer some questions he has by pointing him in the right direction. Eventually through some detective work and help from the compass, Caspian unravels the mystery surrounding his special box and enjoys some time with his grandpa. As always, I love the way Wickstrom works age-appropriate lessons into her stories and the illustrations are bright and wonderful. Reviewed by @meggs1717
Lois Wickstrom, a beloved children’s author, delivers another charming and educational story in “The Glow in Loretta’s Garden.” Loretta’s back, exploring her garden and uncovering the fascinating world of fireflies. With a simple, engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations, this book captures the wonder of nature and the life cycle of these glowing insects.
Children (and adults!) will be captivated by the easy-to-follow story, learning about fireflies while enjoying the original and fun tale. The beautiful illustrations bring Loretta’s garden to life, adding a touch of magic to the learning experience.
Ideal for ages 4-8, “The Glow in Loretta’s Garden” sparks curiosity and encourages young readers to explore the wonders of their own backyards. If your family enjoys the Loretta’s Insects series, this latest installment is sure to be a favorite!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Nicole Thompsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNicole Thompson2024-03-15 07:19:092024-03-26 09:20:06The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Nicole Thompson
Dylan, Emily and their adorable dog Theodore are off on another adventure, with another mystery to solve. When Emily and Dylan join the neighborhood baseball team, and head to their first practice in the park, they are brought into a mystery. Upon arriving, they learn that the plates for the bases are missing! While the trio explores the park in search of the missing plates, they come across many obstacles to navigate. Sometimes the obstacles are as simple as talking to playground pirates, and sometimes they are more intricate. With Detective Dylan on the case, along with his sister Emily and trusty puppy Theodore, no mystery is too great! This is a great book for elementary kids, and while it is a part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone book without any issues.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Candice Esteshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCandice Estes2024-03-15 06:26:312024-03-26 09:19:29Detective Dylan and the Hunt for Home Plate (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book) by MJ Murray – Review by Candice Estes
This is a cute little story. I really think that a lot of kids would enjoy this story. Dylan, his sister Emily, and their dog Theodore make a good team as they work together to solve the mystery. The story is full of inspiration as it tells the story of not only working together to solve a mystery but also not giving up when you run into a problem or roadblock. I highly recommend this series for your kids that like to read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Cindy Rushinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCindy Rushin2024-03-14 18:11:112024-03-26 09:12:33Detective Dylan and the Hunt for Home Plate (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book) by MJ Murray – Review by Cindy Rushin
Lorie and Weina are excited about the Luna New Year festival. They have received lucky red envelopes that have surprises in them, but when the envelopes go missing they are unsure how to find them. Will they be lucky enough to find them?
I thought this was filled with the importance of Lorie and Weina’s culture. The book is filled with illustrations that help the reader understand what is going on in Lorie and Weina’s world. I really enjoyed this one, I think it is a wonderful story that young children would find entertaining.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emily Heislerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmily Heisler2024-03-14 17:47:212024-03-26 09:12:27The Missing Red Envelopes by Yobe Qiu – Review by Emily H
Loretta and her stories always make bugs seem less disgusting. They show a whole new side to them. You see their usefulness within nature and their purpose in the world. You and your child read an entertaining story, and learn along the way. There is always some useful information after the story as well. You can learn more about what you read. My 7yo son and I always love Lois Wickstrom books.
Detective Dylan and the Hunt for Home Plate (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book) by MJ Murray. This is a great Children’s book for kids around 5-10. It has chapters and is best for kids learning to read. Its the story of Dylan who is heading to his baseball practice but when he gets there all the bases have been stolen. Dylan has to put on his Detective hat and get his Detective kit and along with his sister and friends they begin to search for the missing bases. The mystery is full of excitement and fun and kids will enjoy this book. This would make a great gift for families or for teachers and their classroom. I love this author so I was not surprised that this book was so good!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tausha Treadwayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTausha Treadway2024-03-14 10:37:092024-03-26 09:14:40Detective Dylan and the Hunt for Home Plate (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book) by MJ Murray – Review by Tausha Treadway
An introduction to fireflies. Everyone loves catching fireflies when they are young, I like how Loretta is interested in the life of the fireflies and tries to watch them in her ant farm, until she has to set them free so they can fly and glow. Reading the information on fireflies at the end, I can see how Loretta was to be experiencing all the stages of a fireflies life but the wording didn’t translate well, and I was left kind of confused. My favorite part of the book is the information about the life of a firefly at the end, I was interested to know they are considered beetles, and that they glow in all stages of their life.
Beautiful watercolor illustrations that bring the pages to life. Lois Wickstrom is a treasure in the way she takes a very common thing, such as a kid interested in bugs and turns it into an informative story for all ages to enjoy. In the story Loretta finds “armadillo bugs” which is the name she gives one of the four stages of a fireflies’ life cycle. While at first Loretta took the bugs and put them in her ant farm to observe them, she later releases them back into her garden. She wants to find more of them but when she discovers the eggs, she respects nature and covers them back up until they hatch on their own. The life of fireflies at the end honestly was informative for the whole family and left us all with one question, There’s glowing turtles?
Always such colorful illustrations in this fun series. One of my favorite things about Lois Wickstrom’s works is how she gives common items such interesting names that you wouldn’t think of but make perfect sense. The Hidden Present’s new word is for a compass, it is an Inquisitive Indicator and honestly, I will be using it from now on as a compass does point to the wonders of your mind. Like Caspian you may not always know the questions but following isn’t always such a bad thing, you never know what you’ll find at the end.
Detective Dylan and the Hunt For Home Plate is the second book in A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by M.J. Murray. This is a children’s chapter book story with a bit of a mystery, crime and investigation elements, lessons/Learning, family, friendships, and more. This engaging tale inspires problem solving- including math’s activities, expanding vocabulary, promoting fluency & comprehension, and more. As with the first book, this has an easy to read and understand plot which captures the imagination by engaging the reader with a fun story that contains some ‘learning’ opportunities along the way. There are also some fun (black and white) illustrations sprinkled throughout that help fuel the imagination- but would have been even more impactful and engaging if they had been in colour. Detective Dylan, his sister Emily, and trusty dog Theodore take on another ‘case’ when the bases from the baseball field go missing. What happened to them? Will Dylan and co get to the bottom of the mystery to find what happened to the bases? This is well worth the read to find out and makes for a fun read. This is aimed at children 5 – 9 who are perhaps just starting to read ‘chapter books’ on their own, or with help- so the story contains a few ‘harder’ words to challenge them as they read (Reading Tier 2). Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-03-13 11:39:262024-03-26 09:07:15Detective Dylan and the Hunt for Home Plate (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series, Book #2) by MJ Murray – Review by Angela Hayes
This was such a great book! I definitely recommend to any kid audiences. I love fun little books. Most especially ones about fireflies! Fireflies are probably my most favorite bug species. This really was enjoyable. My son has really enjoyed books like these because they’re fun and he always learns about new kinds of bugs!
The Glow in Loretta’s Garden is the fifth book in the Loretta’s Insects series by Lois Wickstrom. This is another fun children’s illustrated storybook, full of interesting facts about insects- this time we learn about the lifecycle of fireflies. The added educational elements added an extra element of interest to the engaging adventure. As we discovered previously, Loretta loves insects, and this time she discovers some glowing larvae while digging in her flower bed. She puts them in an empty ant farm and watches them do interesting things. What happens when they finally hatch? You really should discover all the interesting details for yourself – because what happens makes for a fun read. This is not just a cute story, it also encourages children to learn while they read. I read this story with my grandson, but we wish the illustrations were better, as they are very simplistic and aren’t as bright, bold, or eye catching like a lot of Ms. Wickstrom’s other books- so they didn’t grab or hold his attention like the others have done. As with the other books in the series, the ‘new’ cover is great, but unfortunately the illustrations inside the book aren’t up to the same standard. With better illustrations, this would have been an even better story, in our opinion. Loretta’s Insects series contains (so far): -Ladybugs For Loretta (Book #1) -Bee’s In Loretta’s Bonnet (Book #2) -Loretta’s Caterpillar (Book #3) -What Loretta’s Katydid Did (Book #4) -The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Book #5) Happy reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-03-13 09:56:352024-03-26 09:10:18The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects Book #5) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Hayes
The Hidden Present is the eighth book in the Invisible Magic Wand series by Lois Wickstrom. As with the rest of the series the story draws you in right from the get-go, grabbing your attention with the bright and interesting illustrations which accompany the cute storyline. Caspian’s unbirthday has come around again- but this time Caspian can’t find it and will need to search for it. Lucky he has the Inquisitive Indicator to help his investigation. And so, let the adventure begin…. This is another cute children’s story and a fun addition to series. It has bright and colourful illustrations, fun, educational elements/lessons, and a touch of whimsical fantasy. As with the other books in this series, it is a slightly quirky tale that proved to be quite engaging- feeding both the imagination, as well providing a few lessons along the way. Suitable for children aged 4 to 8. The series consists of: -The Empty Box (Book #1) -Things Are Shaking (Book #2) -Caspian’s Unbirthday (Book #3) -The Sneaky Kitten (Book #4) -The Know-It-All Kitten (Book #5) -The Mind-Reading Hat (Book #6) -Baking A Bicycle (Book #7) -The Hidden Present (Book #8) As you can see, there are plenty of adventures to take with Caspian and Grandpa. Happy reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-03-13 09:44:192024-03-26 09:10:06The Hidden Present (Invisible Magic Wand Series Book #8) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Hayes
The Missing Red Envelopes by Yobe Qiu (illustrations by Kris Fulk) – is a cute children’s chapter book, a bit of a light-hearted mystery that pulls us into a fun tale full of cultural diversity celebrating the lunar new year, traditions, Chinese and Asian customs/culture/celebrations, adventure, imagination- and inspires curiosity while also promoting critical thinking. This book is mainly aimed at readers 7 – 12 years old. We Join sisters Lori and Weina as they unravel the mystery about the missing red envelopes- resulting in a fun and engaging little read. While I loved the story and thought the illustrations were cute, I think this would have been an even richer reading experience, and had a much bigger impact, if the illustrations had been a bit bigger and in colour- instead of the small black and white images sprinkled throughout. All the rich colours and vibrancy of the Chinese New Year celebrations, with the parades, Chinese Dragons, fireworks etc, would have been even better and more engaging in full colour, like her other books are. A cute story. Happy Reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-03-12 22:54:182024-03-26 09:09:28The Missing Red Envelopes by Yobe Qiu – Review by Angela Hayes
Lorie and Weina are sisters and they are looking for the red envelopes that were in a bag that they were carrying around. The envelopes are a custom during the Lunar New Year and they contain money and chocolate.
What I enjoyed most about this story is learning more about Asian culture. Young readers can have an appreciation of it as well and may want to experience a Lunar New Year celebration.
The illustrations were also very well done throughout this short chapter book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2024-03-12 21:03:192024-03-26 09:09:18The Missing Red Envelopes by Yobe Qiu – Review by Julie Johnson
“The Glow in Loretta’s Garden” by Lois Wickstrom is a charming and beautifully illustrated children’s book that teaches the importance of gratitude and compassion.
The illustrations in the book are vibrant and engaging, capturing the beauty of nature and the wonder of Loretta’s enchanted garden. The message of the story is delivered in a gentle and uplifting way, making it a perfect read for young children.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Crainhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Crain2024-03-12 17:19:532024-03-26 09:03:43The Glow in Loretta’s Garden (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jennifer Crain
This is yet another fun and entertaining story by one of our favourite children’s authors. The book was just as engaging and as the others we have read and this book took no effort at all to get in to. The illustrations were imaginative and added to the whole story. They are always what draws my kids attention to the book initially. The storyline was great and I enjoyed this book as much as my kids did. It is always nice to find a story we all like and can read multiple times and this book is one of them. I always enjoy books by this author and we are counting down until the next one.
Loretta is taking us in the garden to see what we can find. To Loretta’s surprise, she finds armadillo bugs. What comes upon these armadillo bugs is quite a learning experience….going from little critters to something that glows….what fun!
This is a fun story for ages 4-8 with colorful illustrations. I love how this story comes full circle and I learn something new as well!
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