Posts

The Mind-Reading Hat (Invisible Magic Wand Series Book 6) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Brandy Vaughn

The Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book SixThe Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book Six by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Mind-Reading Hat, Invisible Magic Wand book 6, is a cute children’s story about Caspian who gets a hat and a thinking stone for his birthday from Grandpa. The hat leads him on adventures and the thinking stone helps him think about ways to help others. Read previous books in the series to find out what other magic things he’s received as gifts! Unique and wonderful idea for a children’s story.

Review by @bilberrysweet
Brandy Vaughn
View all my reviews

Oliver, A Story About Adoption by Lois Wickstrom Review by Codi Parham

Sweet story about love and family. This story reminds readers of all ages about the importance of relationships and unconditional love. The book opens up the conversation about emotions, problem-solving and self-regulation.

Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass (Mermaid Science Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Emily H

The Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass (Mermaid Science, #3)The Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Maia and Fig are playing by the water when Maia’s imaginary friend shows up. Maia’s friend is a mermaid named Trezzie. Trezzie finds something in the water and through creative work together finds a way to magnify the item in order to see what it is.

This was a fun story, I liked that it teaches you how to use simple things to solve a problem. Has directions at the end of the book which is great for for reading and activity plan for young readers.

View all my reviews

The Mind-Reading Hat (Invisible Magic Wand Series Book 6) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Deb Robinson

The Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book SixThe Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book Six by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved reading this book to my grandson. He always loves how vibrant the illustrations are. His birthday is coming up so this book grabbed his attention right away. This book is about a birthday surprise. Surprises are fun at any age. He checks under his bed and finds 2 boxes. What will be in them this year? He opens them both. He finds a hat and stone. He puts the hat on and can suddenly hear what others are thinking. He puts the stone in his pocket. Read the book to find out how the magic hat and stone help him.

View all my reviews

Oliver, A Story of Adoption by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Deb Robinson

Oliver: A Story about AdoptionOliver: A Story about Adoption by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a cute book about the topic of adoption. I think it is an important subject that children should all understand and not just adopted children. I read this story to my grandson and he loved the alligator characters that he could count. The book explores the feelings a child may have on the subject and reinforces that it is alright to talk openly about it.

View all my reviews

The Mind-Reading Hat (Invisible Magic Wand Series Book 6) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

I thought that this book was really cute. It’s Book six,  of the “Invisible Magic Wand” series. Caspian gets a special box from his Grandpa every year on his UnBirthday. Every year the presents are nothing what he expects them to be. I love that his grandpa is involved in his unbirthday celebration. I think there is a little bit of everything in this story for everyone. I would definitely encourage adults, teens, and elementary age kids to read this story.

The Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book SixThe Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book Six by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thought that this book was really cute. It’s Book six, of the “Invisible Magic Wand” series. Caspian gets a special box from his Grandpa every year on his UnBirthday. Every year the presents are nothing what he expects them to be. I love that his grandpa is involved in his unbirthday celebration. I think there is a little bit of everything in this story for everyone. I would definitely encourage adults, teens, and elementary age kids to read this story.

View all my reviews

The Mind Reading Hat by Lois Wickstrom and art by Nicolas Milano Reviewed by Tanya Wall, Sept 2022

The Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book SixThe Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book Six by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great children’s book! Caspian receives to “unbirthday” gifts… a thinking stone from him mom and a Magic Hat from his granddad. He hears messages from others through his hat, and his stone helps him solve a problem – he rescues a turtle! What a good gift for an unbirthday!
I love the illustrations in this book – they are beautiful!

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ashley Westerman

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My kids love dinosaurs. They’ve asked me to read this to them multiple times since we got it. I loved that these books taught about teamwork and my young kids were able to pick up on it. Everyone would love this book, its good for younger kids, but as an adult, I really enjoyed it also.

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Lorrene Huisman

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a wonderfully done children’s book. The pages were very imaginative, and colorful that keep children interested. I loved both stories, the power of friendship and being caring was among the story lines. The story was cute and sweet And intriguing and heart felt all the way through. I love the creativity behind these two stories, each one is a high recommendation, and would surely be enjoyed! Wonderful books!

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Kristine Solano-Witucky

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my goodness these children books are adorable!!! Short and lots of pictures. My kids enjoyed them especially my 2 year old. She is obsessed with dinosaurs. I would definitely recommend this if you have kids.

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Aranza

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dinosaur Friends 2 Books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs
By Lois Wickstrom

5 Stars out of 5 Stars

I picked up this book to read to my 2 year old niece at night since I was babysitting for a couple of days and she really loved it. The adorable friendship between Conifer and Spike brings warmth to anyone’s heart. The pictures are extremely cute and dinosaurs are always a hit with my nieces. If you are looking for a short book to read to your kids or to teach them how to read, I think this book would be great for you. My favorite was Saving Conifer’s Eggs. I definitely think this book was a win.

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review byCindy Rushin

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book had two really good stories for any child just starting to read. Both stories dealt with how friends working together can solve a problem. The characters were funny and nice, plus who doesn’t love dinosaurs. I highly recommend this book for anyone who has small children that love stories about dinosaurs.

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Conifer and Spike are dinosaurs and they are best friends, in this book we hear two tales of their friendship and how even though sometimes they disagree, they work together in the end.

In the first book, the nearby volcano is erupting, all Conifer wants to do is run away, but Spike insists on giving the volcano a present and decides on a necklace, so together they move a ring of stones around the base, but will this keep the volcano happy?

In book 2, Spike and Conifer return, but this time there is a forest fire, they both agree that they have to leave, but Conifer only has two hands and three eggs! Will they all be able to escape the fire?

This is a book for young and old alike in this tale charming tale talking about science, dinosaurs and of course friendship.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Trish Ann

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed these books! I am an elementary reading intervention teacher and found that these would be engaging for the kids that I work with. The story was engaging and I feel like my students would like them. I look forward to reading other ones by this author. I also would like to use this in the classroom.

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Michaela Massie

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sweet and wholesome children’s books with captivating imagery and a cute story.

The first book, “A Present for the Volcano” has the two dinosaurs working together to give the volcano a present, because they both respect one another to listen and help each other even when they may not agree with each other.

The second book, “Saving Conifer’s Eggs” has the two dinosaurs working together to save Conifer’s 3 eggs from the fire. With the help of Conifer’s friend Spike, they are able to safely avoid the fire and save her eggs!

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Karen Pearman

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another book that I picked up for a teacher friend’s classroom and this is a perfect addition because it is two stories in one book. I loved the illustrations and that both books shared the same characters. I loved how they were able to teach one another to solve a problem. I also loved that the friends were able to comfort one another when things were happening, and they wanted to run away. This is a splendid example of not being afraid to confront a challenge head on. This is a terrific book for early elementary readers although there are a couple of words that may be a bit difficult for them. But if you use that as a teaching tool then they will be perfectly fine. Highly recommended for kids and classrooms alike.

View all my reviews

Oliver, A Story of Adoption by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

Oliver, A Story About AdoptionOliver, A Story About Adoption by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Oliver I think would be a great book to use as a teaching tool for younger children with anger issues or that have been adopted. It’s entertaining and has well done illustrations but it shows children that it’s okay to be upset or mad but through Oliver’s actions when he’s feeling that way shows that you can work through those feelings and emotions and come out better on the other side of them. I also like how the author portrayed adoption and let children know that even children living with their birth parents still often dream that they were adopted too. They imagine they would live much more exciting lives than the current maddeningly, mundane situation that they are currently experiencing. A child’s imagination is a wild and wonderful thing that plots adventures and creates magic in the normal everyday. I enjoyed this book very much and I would definitely recommend it.

View all my reviews

The Mermaid and the Ice Cube Necklace (Mermaid Science) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Deb Robinson

The Mermaid and the Ice Cube Necklace (Mermaid Science)The Mermaid and the Ice Cube Necklace by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book due to the fact that you got a science lesson but didn’t realise it. The illustrations were bright and colourful and littles were able to pick out the mermaid, ice cubes, lemonade etc. Give you the opportunity to show little ones with a real ice cube and create play time. The additional information on the state of water was a very interesting addition for older children and parents.

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Keri Leach

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This adorable 2 in 1 book set is so cute and perfect for the dinosaur lover, of any young age. The plots in both books are simply perfect and well written. The illustrations are even better, with bright colors and great set up! Both teach a valuable lesson while entertaining the reader and wanting to know what happens next! Great book!

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Anantha Rusum

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I got these two books because my 10 year old is a dino nerd. He reads all kinds of dinosaur books . These books have two simple stories, both revolving around an Ankylosaurus and a T-Rex. In the first story, the Ankylo, Spike wants to give a present to a Volcano which is dormant and would’nt erupt. He builds a necklace out of rocks around the Volcano, and when the volcano indeed erupts , it is the necklace which stops the lava from overflowing to the ground.

In the second story, the two dinosaurs have to escape the wild fire. When the T-Rex , Conifer is finding it hard to take three eggs in her two hands, Spike accidentally knocks down a tree by impatiently swinging his tail. The two dinosaurs escape the forest into the river on the tree.

What is not to like about these books, nothing. This book is meant for kids, and me and my son had a blast reading these books. Looking forward to more on dinosaur series from this author.

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jerricka Brown

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a cute book for children. Stories and pictures what more could a child ask for. I love that it has many different skills that younger children can learn. It teaches them it is okay to be yourself and true to your feelings. I will be reading this to my child. I am a fan of this author for future children’s books.

View all my reviews

The Mind-Reading Hat (Invisible Magic Wand Series Book 6) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

The Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book SixThe Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book Six by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read the Mind Reading Hat to my 6 year old. He really enjoyed it, but was thrown off by UNbirthday. After we discussed it, he loved the idea and asked if he could have an UNbirthday too. Needless to say, I have a week to plan a party now lol.
The story is fun and I love that it was non traditional. It included grandpa and neighbor as the important people in the child’s life. The gifts were creative and the art work was great. The book is very eye catching and colorful. It was a fun story and I would read others by the author.

View all my reviews

Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Oliver, A Story of Adoption by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

Oliver, A Story About AdoptionOliver, A Story About Adoption by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read Oliver to my 6 year old. Before we started, I asked if he knew what adoption is or what it means to be adopted. He said no, not really. We have “adopted” a cat, and he has a friend who is adopted, but it’s not something they talk about… I think the book did a good job of explaining WHY a kid might be put up for adoption, and a gentle way of explaining it for kids. It also addresses the wonder and curiosity that is normal for a kid to have regarding their birth parents. It did a good job of explaining adoption in a kind, loving and gentle way for young readers. We do wish the pictures were colored, rather than just drawings. My son liked seeing the imagined parents in lots of different scenes and professions. I think this is a good book for elementary school aged kids to learn about adoption in a judgement free way.

View all my reviews

Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Heather Stanley

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a good children’s story! Cute, short and sweet about two friends, Conifer and Spike navigating adventurous situations together. The two books in one is such a great idea. You love the characters and want more; in this book you get it!! The illustrations were also great! Realistic as well as beautiful and fun.

Review by @heather26

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Paula R Sayers

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

These two books are cute stories about how friends may disagree on how to handle situations but can still work together. The stories are short but impactful and the illustrations are great.

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Carlie Del Gallo

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I cannot say enough GREAT things about this author! She is super talented in not only writing wonderful adult stories, but these children’s books are nothing short of a work of art. This is the latest set of books that I have read by this author, and I loved that this is 2 books in 1 bundle! The illustrations and the story line make this a fun book for all ages of the family to read and enjoy with one another. I cannot wait to order my friends the hard copies to have them read these books to their children as I know that they will LOVE these books just as I have!

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Elizabeth Rose

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a super cute, two book download about two dinosaur friends working together even when they have different ideas. The illustrations are great, too.

In the first book, Conifer (a female T-Rex) notices that a volcano is erupting and wants them to run to safety but Spike (a male ankylosaurus) wants to give the volcano a present. The friends work together to figure out what to do.

In the second book, Conifer is sitting on her next of three eggs when Spike runs to warn her that there is a fire. This time Spike is ready to run but Conifer can’t leave her eggs or carry them all to safety. Again, the friends work together on a solution.

View all my reviews

Dinosaur Friends: 2 Books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifers Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dinosaur friends is actually 2 books in 1, A Present for the Volcano, and Saving Conifers Eggs. They were both adorably cute, and adventurous. This duo Conifer and Spike show wonderful problem solving skills that are great for young readers to learn. In A Present for the Volcano Conifer wants to run away and hide from the volcano, but Spike says the volcano is just sad and needs a gift. This shows how we all have a bad days and may be feeling just like that volcano but with a little understanding and thoughtfulness we will always feel better in the end which is what I took away from this book. In Conifers situation she was trusting in her friend Spike and was able to overcome her fears. In Saving Conifers Eggs Spike was the one who had to overcome his fears and help Conifer get her eggs to safety, away from the fire, even though he cannot swim. By staying calm the duo are able to solve their problems step-by-step. Having 3 eggs but only two hands could be solved by carrying the whole nest. When the threat of the eggs breaking came up Spike was able to take down a tree and clear them a path in the end using the tree as a raft to carry them down the river. I really enjoyed sharing these books with my kids. We homeschool so these books broached many topics in one making that much easier for lesson planning. We were able to talk about the history of dinosaurs, how they lay eggs, and how they became extinct. Volcanos. Teamwork. I can absolutely recommend these books!

View all my reviews

Oliver by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Barbie England

Oliver: A Story about AdoptionOliver: A Story about Adoption by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Oliver has been adopted. After he get in trouble one day, he starts thinking about the reasons his birth parents could not be the ones who are taking care of him. He also contemplates what his life could be like with out his adoptive parents. I think this book would be a good resource for kids who may need help to start a conversation about adoption. It brings up reasons for adoptions in a way that a child would be able to understand. The illustrations are not in color though. Visually, it might appeal to a child’s eyes more if it was more colorful, but the content of the words is quality.

View all my reviews

The Mind-Reading Hat (Invisible Magic Wand Book Six) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Barbie England

The Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book SixThe Mind-Reading Hat: Invisible Magic Wand Book Six by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Caspian is the main character in this Children’s book. His grandfather gives him a present on his “Un-birthday.” He also receives a stone from his mother. These two items work to help and Caspian learns that they both have a function to help him solve problems. While he is wearing the hat, he can hear the thoughts of other people and animals. Caspian’s neighbor makes him a pecan loaf which he really enjoys. While visiting the neighbor, Caspian hears, with the help of the hat, that someone needs his help. Using the hat and thinking stone will help solve the problem and help Caspian find his final present. I think the text feature of the print that is the actual thoughts that he is hearing will help children make sense of the story. These characters are adorable.

View all my reviews