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Code Dog by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tanya Wall, March 2024

Code DogCode Dog by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Louis Wickstrom writes a great short chapter book again! Code Dog is a is tailored for young readers, featuring short, engaging chapters perfect for keeping young minds captivated. The story follows three adventurous children and their Morse code-tapping dog as they embark on a thrilling quest to uncover a centuries-old time capsule. This book offers a family-friendly tale that entertains and educates. It would be a good book for classroom library for grades 3 and up.

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Planting Seeds: Growing Mindful Children Though Yoga by Janice Pratt and Lenora Degen – Review by Tanya Wall, March 2024

Planting Seeds: Growing Mindful Children Through YogaPlanting Seeds: Growing Mindful Children Through Yoga by Janice Pratt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Planting Seeds” by Janett Pratt is a great way to help any adult delving into yoga and mindfulness with children. With meticulously structured lesson plans and captivating activities, this book serves as avguide for instilling healthy habits and positive attitudes. Pratt expertly intertwines the metaphor of planting seeds throughout, emphasizing self-care, gratitude, and kindness. The exercises, tailored for children aged 5 to 13, are accessible and thoughtfully crafted, even for novices. Having been part of a study about the impacts of practicing yoga as a middle grade girl, I have seen the profound effects of mindfulness on self-esteem, academic performance, and self-acceptance with this age group. This book provides an invaluable resource for nurturing mindfulness and fostering holistic well-being in young minds.

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The Missing Red Envelopes by Yobe Qiu – Review by Tanya Wall, March 2024

The Missing Red EnvelopesThe Missing Red Envelopes by Yobe Qiu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In “The Missing Red Envelopes” by Yobe Qiu, with illustrations by Kris Fulk, young readers aged 7 to 12 are treated to a delightful journey through Lunar New Year festivities alongside the endearing duo, Lori and Weina. This engaging children’s chapter book not only entertains with its light-hearted mystery but also serves as a valuable introduction to cultural diversity and traditions. Perfect for beginner readers like my 6 year old niece, it offers a manageable yet enriching reading experience that sparks curiosity and fosters a deeper appreciation for different customs. Through the sisters’ adventure, readers embark on a delightful exploration of Chinese and Asian culture, making it a captivating addition to any young reader’s library.

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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 – Review by Tanya Wall, March 2024

Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid's Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities” by Gisella Nevada is an essential read for families considering adding a furry friend to their household. Through the engaging story of Lora and CJ’s journey to pet ownership, children learn the importance of responsibility and dedication in caring for a dog. The book covers a wide range of topics, from grooming to training, in a fun and informative manner. What sets this book apart is its focus on the emotional needs of pets, emphasizing the importance of building a strong bond with their animal companions. A must-read for any family looking to welcome a new furbaby into their home!

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Family Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden – Review by Tanya Wall, March 2024

Family Ties Family LiesFamily Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Family Ties Family Lies” is a captivating blend of mystery and familial bonds that grips the heart from the outset. Rose’s return to Lake Amelia unfolds into a tapestry of secrets, love, and forgiveness, masterfully woven by the author. The small-town setting comes alive with vivid descriptions, enveloping readers in its charm. While the mystery propels the narrative forward, it’s the poignant exploration of family dynamics that truly resonates. Characters, richly drawn and relatable, linger in the mind long after the last page. A poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the power of forgiveness, this novel is a must-read that leaves an indelible mark.

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Treasure Hunt (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tanya Wall, February 2024

Treasure HuntTreasure Hunt by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lois Wickstrom’s Treasure Hunt is another winner! Carrie’s journey with the dowsing rods is captivating, and Wickstrom’s storytelling draws you right in. The illustrations are beautiful, adding to the magic of the tale. Wickstrom has a talent for turning everyday moments into extraordinary adventures. It’s a heartwarming story about family and finding true treasures. Kids will adore the enchanting elements sprinkled throughout the book, while parents will appreciate its meaningful message. Treasure Hunt is a delightful addition to Wickstrom’s Grandma’s Closet series, sure to be enjoyed by readers of all ages.

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Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Tanya Wall, February 2024

Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray)Hay Goes Home by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Traveling with his friend Cray, Hay is headed to a birthday party.They saw so many things on their travels. But most importantly they problem solved and faced their fears together. Another lesson learned is how to ask for help when something is hard.The illustrations are beautiful and this is a great read aloud for any young kiddo.

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Vacation Flirtation…or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Series) by Stacey Komosinski – Review by Tanya Wall, February 2024

Vacation Flirtation...or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Book 1)Vacation Flirtation…or More? by Stacey Komosinski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Escape to paradise with ‘Beachside Bliss’, a delightful romp that leaves you with a heart full of sunshine. Giuliana and Landon’s chemistry sizzles amidst the backdrop of Turks and Caicos, painting a vivid picture of love in the sand. The author crafts a captivating storyline that flows effortlessly, keeping you hooked till the very end. Giuliana’s journey, intertwined with friendship and newfound romance, is a joy to behold. As the waves crash and the sun sets, you’ll find yourself lost in this charming tale. ‘Beachside Bliss’ is the perfect getaway read, promising warmth, laughter, and a longing for more. Bring on the sequel!

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Magic Wanda (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tanya Wall, February 2024

Magic Wanda (Grandma's Closet Book 3)Magic Wanda by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Enchanting and captivating, this book is a delightful journey into the world of magic and the special bond between grandmothers and granddaughters. From the very first page, I was drawn into Carrie’s magical adventures. The author skillfully weaves a tale that is both heartwarming and exciting, perfect for any little girl with a love for magic. Carrie’s grandma is a charming character, embodying the warmth and understanding of all grandmothers. The unique relationship between Carrie and her grandma adds an extra layer of sweetness to the story, one that many readers will relate to. As Carrie discovers the magic of the Wandas, readers are taken on a whimsical journey filled with wonder and excitement. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a magical escape into a world where anything is possible.

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Cray Saves the Day (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Tanya Wall, February 2024

Cray Saves the Day (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Cray Saves the Day by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cray teaches us how to take care of our environment in this story. Humans enjoy their day at the beach, but don’t pay attention to their trash and how it is impacting the creatures that find the beach and the ocean home. This story is written in rhyme and has great illustrations. It teaches us the value of working together to keep our environment clean and safe for all.

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Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by – Review by Tanya Wall, February 2023

Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cray, the seal once again helps us to learn a lesson through a fun story with beautiful illustrations! As Cray loses his ball, a cascade of mishaps ensues, teaching us about honesty, guilt, apology, and forgiveness. Rhymes and illustrations increase the excitement of the story as the it unfolds, emphasizing themes of friendship and acceptance. This charming addition to “The Adventures of Cray on the Bay” series captivates with its simplicity and warmth, making it perfect for young audiences seeking both entertainment and valuable life lessons.

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The Other Side of Together by Emily Cox and Nicole Allen – Review by Tanya Wall, February 2024

The Other Side of TogetherThe Other Side of Together by Emily Cox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is an absolute gem! Mei Li and Marcus are like the dream team of characters, especially Marcus – total heartthrob material. The story takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, from heartbreak to those sweet teenage love vibes. The characters and plot mesh together so seamlessly, and there are some serious curveballs thrown in – I did not see them coming at all! The ending will leave you feeling wrecked, but in a good way.

I want to add that this isn’t a typical love story. It dives into some heavy stuff, – real life stuff. And there is no cursing or steamy scenes, which keeps it light.

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Sasha Smart by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Tanya Wall

Sasha Smart: Short Stories for GirlsSasha Smart: Short Stories for Girls by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed reading this book about Sasha and her experiences as a young lady. The author did a great job of developing short stories that put Sasha in a place to be empowered, kind, show her confidence and to be brave. I loved that the end of the book included vocabulary and word wall work – this is good for teachers and for those girls who love words! The character of Sasha is very relatable to any young girl, as are the scenarios she finds herself in. One story that I found very important was the story about relaxing – finding time to enjoy life… this is especially important in today’s world where we rush, rush, rush to get everything in place, to win, to be the top. Sasha has some great lessons to share!

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Portrait of Deception (A Southwest Suspense Novel) by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Tanya Wall, January 2024

Portrait of Deception (A Southwest Suspense Novel)Portrait of Deception by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having recently finished “Portrait of Deception,” the second installment in the Southwest Suspense series, I found the tale of Margo McAllister engaging. In Italy to pursue her photographic aspirations, Margo faces unexpected challenges after rejecting a dubious offer from a corrupt politician. The narrative, though initially stretching the bounds of believability, gradually grew on me. Margo’s journey, marred by a blackout drug and unanticipated consequences, drew me in. Despite some contrived twists, the overall suspenseful atmosphere and Margo’s predicaments managed to capture my interest. While not without flaws, the book ultimately succeeded in holding my attention and curiosity.

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A New Day for Cray (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Tanya Wall, January 2024

A New Day For Cray (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)A New Day For Cray by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great story to read with your child… teaches about being kind, how sometimes hard lessons have good endings. The illustrations are great and I like how the author used a pinching crab as the main character. Sometimes we all are pinching crabs and need a little lesson to remind us that we don’t have to pinch our friends.

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The Round Box (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tanya Wall, January 2024

The Round BoxThe Round Box by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lois Wickstrom proves her storytelling abilities once more with “The Round Box.” This captivating tale embarks readers on a vivid adventure that truly springs to life with every page turned. A standout feature is the clever use of fonts, enhancing the storytelling experience. Beyond being a delightful read-aloud, it serves as a vocabulary builder, skillfully weaving words into a tapestry of imagination. “The Round Box” is a testament to the boundless possibilities of one’s mind. Grandmother’s Fascinator hat becomes the whimsical guide, steering readers towards the joyous realms of fun within our own world. A great addition to a book collection!

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The Human Mating Site, Box Set 1 (The Human Mating Site Series) by B.L. Wilde – Review by Tanya Wall, January 2024

The Human Mating Site Box Set 1 : A Steamy, Dating Humour Novella's 1-4The Human Mating Site Box Set 1 : A Steamy, Dating Humour Novella’s 1-4 by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Human Mating Site Box Set 1 is a captivating journey through Bella’s post-divorce struggles and triumphs. B.L. Wilde skillfully crafts a series of novellas that are funny, spicy, and emotionally resonant. The four-book set, starting with Mr. Wimp, follows Bella’s re-entry into the dating scene after a painful divorce. The characters, especially Mr. Smooth (Liam) and Mr. Kinky (Jensen), add depth and charm. This compilation is a convenient way to enjoy the entertaining and relatable tales in one place. For fans of romance, this box set is a delightful exploration of love, self-discovery, and the unpredictable world of post-divorce dating.

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Mission Improbable: Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery) by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Tanya Wall, January 2024

Mission Improbable:Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery)Mission Improbable:Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Mission Improbable” by Nancy Nau Sullivan turned out to be a surprise gem, considering I didn’t realize it was the third book in the Blanche Murninghan Mystery series. Thankfully, you can dive into this one without feeling like you missed a beat. The mystery plot is packed with travel, amateur sleuthing, family drama, and a good dose of emotions.

The Vietnam setting is like an extra character in the story, adding a cool layer to the whole thing. Sullivan’s descriptions of post-Vietnam War Vietnam are so vivid; you can practically smell the rice paddies and feel the energy of Saigon. Blanche is a stubborn but relatable character, and her sidekicks, Jean and Stick, add depth and complexity to the narrative.

Sullivan really knows her history, and it shows. I’m thinking about going back to read the first two books in the series. If you’re into mysteries with a side of history and a splash of travel, this one’s worth a read.

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Alien Redemption by Gloria Oliver – Review by Tanya Wall, January 2024

Alien RedemptionAlien Redemption by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

To start with – I don’t love science fiction and wasn’t too sure about reading this book. But, I’m glad I spend some time with it. It was pleasantly surprising. “Alien Redemption” by Gloria Oliver is a science fiction novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through space and introduces them to the resilient and endearing character, Claudia. The author’s skillful storytelling weaves together a fast-paced story filled with drama, twists, and turns that will keep scifi lovers hooked until the last page.

Claudia, the main character, faces adversity after being wrongly implicated by her deceitful employers. As she strives to rebuild her life, readers empathize with her struggles and root for her redemption. She is what kept me reading.

The author does a great job of building a picture of a mysterious planet and its unique sentient alien beings. Her attention to detail brings the vivid colors and intricacies of the aliens to life. The contrast between Claudia’s genuine efforts to help the aliens and the captain’s contemptible actions adds depth to the narrative, eliciting a range of emotions from readers.

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Nessie and the Living Stone (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Tanya Wall, December 2023

Nessie and the Living Stone (Nessie's Grotto)Nessie and the Living Stone by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dive into the whimsical world of “Nessie and the Living Stone” by Lois Wickstrom, a chapter book that’s not just for the kiddos—it’s a fantastic read for everyone. Whether you’re reading it aloud to little ones or enjoying it on your own, this underwater adventure has it all: magic stones, the Loch Ness monster, and life lessons cleverly woven into the tale.

While there might not be a ton of illustrations, the ones you do find are absolutely fabulous. The cover itself is a work of art, and the beautiful illustrations scattered throughout add an extra layer of charm to the story.

Lois Wickstrom brings a fresh twist to her storytelling in this book, maintaining her trademark messages while adding a sprinkle of magic and wonder. It’s a different flavor from her other works, but one that’s equally delightful.

With monsters, magic stones, and valuable lessons, “Nessie and the Living Stone” offers a relaxed and enjoyable read for kids of any age. Take a trip down memory lane as you follow the children on their unexpected journey, and let the charm of Loch Ness seep into your reading experience. It’s a delightful, fun-filled adventure that’s sure to leave you with a smile.

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Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Tanya Wall, December 2023

Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice, #1)Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story, the first book in the Inner Voice series by Winnie D. Pagora, is a rollercoaster of emotions that dives deep into overcoming trauma and finding your way back. The story is heavy and gritty, tackling sensitive topics like sexual abuse, mental health, and domestic violence. There are trigger warnings because it’s no light read. Truth is – I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy it.

Tina’s journey is shockingly heart-wrenching, but you get to see her grow and overcome, adding a layer of depth to the story. Despite the heaviness, there are touching moments, true friendships, and resilience that balance it out. Pagora nails the realism without falling into stereotypes, and the relationships in the book feel authentic and nuanced.

Sure, it’s a bit wordy, and the heavy stuff slows it down, but that doesn’t take away from the overall impact. “Unclutter” pleasantly surprised me. It’s not your typical contemporary, but it’s a genuine, slow-paced exploration of recovery and relationships. It might lag a bit in the middle, but if you’re patient and up for a deeper dive, it’s definitely worth a read.

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Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales Anthology by SE Smith, Jill Wallace, Eliza Sinclair, Kyndra Hatch, Candace Colt, Natalie Palma, Winnie Winkle, Electra Gajdos, Stephanie Harrell, Pauline Baird Jones, Cassandra Chandler – Review by Tanya Wall, December 2023

Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday TalesFestive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales by Natalie Palma
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Festive Fates” earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars for its engaging mix of 11 short stories by a diverse group of authors. The anthology delivers a delightful holiday escape, seamlessly blending genres and capturing the spirit of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. The stories, ranging from dragons on Thanksgiving quests to Christmas battles with Santa’s army, offer a unique and enjoyable read.The two I liked best were: “Sunshine’s War” by Jill Wallace and “Retired, but not Forgotten” by Natalie Palma stealing the spotlight. Wallace’s heartfelt narrative about two individuals caught in the crossfire of war, unexpectedly meeting in a veggie patch, is a true gem that tugs at the heartstrings. On the other hand, Palma’s “Retired, but not Forgotten” adds a fun twist to the anthology, blending luck, work troubles, and a missing Christmas spirit into a lighthearted yet mysterious adventure. I didn’t much like the alien and paranormal stories -but this is a good winter weekend read.

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Encounters With Old Coyote by Laura Koerber – Review by Tanya Wall, December 2023

Encounters with Old CoyoteEncounters with Old Coyote by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Encounters With Old Coyote” by Laura Koerber is a delightful rollercoaster of 13 short stories that blend real-life moments with a dash of magic. Picture the ghost of a cool professor named Andrea chilling with a spirit named Coyote in the Nevada desert. They share tales ranging from stunning landscapes to childhood escapades and even telepathic cows. Andrea’s love for nature and animals is evident, and Coyote, not big on spirituality, adds a humorous touch. The book might be small, but it’s packed with quirky and heartwarming moments that linger in your thoughts. Koerber serves up a unique mix of the unusual and the touching that’s simply unforgettable.

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Porter and Midge: Paws and Playtime: A Kid’s Guide to a Happy Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Tanya Wall, December 2023

Porter and Midge: Paws and Playtime: A Kid's Guide to a Happy Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws and Playtime: A Kid’s Guide to a Happy Dog by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great book to buy your children if you are introducing a pet/dog into your family. This is a cute rhyming book that gives young children some ideas how to train and interact with their pup. And actually, the dog teaches the kids instead of the kids teaching the dogs. I enjoyed the poem format and how each dog teaches a different way to meet puppies needs. This includes a pups sensory needs, what kind of treats to use for training, and all about dog classes. The story is all inclusive of many different breeds and ends with the message about how all dogs are different.

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Children of the Wild (Children of the Wild Series) by Krysta Tawlks – Review by Tanya Wall, December 2023

Children of the WildChildren of the Wild by Krysta Tawlks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a first novel for the author. It was very well written and kept my interest. The author nailed it with a mix of history and fantasy that pulls the read right in. I enjoyed the characters – they all were important to the story line. I liked the idea of a young man finding himself – waking up feeling different and then embracing what is happening. Overall, this is a fantastic read for young adult/middle grades readers.

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Carrie’s Flight (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tanya Wall, December 2023

Carrie's Flight (Grandma's Closet)Carrie’s Flight by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Starling migration, missing a Grandma, finding wings to fly. This is a beautifully written story. Something that is special about this book is the use of different fonts to show motion and definition in the book – it makes the reader feel the story in a different way than just the same font throughout. Another great Wickstrom book!

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Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon – Review by Tanya Wall, December 2023

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her HowlLuna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Luna is a cute puppy looking for her howl. This is a story about being different and not fitting in. It shows us that it just takes one person to believe in us to help us find out howls and our true friends. The illustrations are beautiful and the story is written in a way that any child/adult can connect with.

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I Am A Bold Asian Boy (Asian Family Series) by Yobe Qiu – Review by Tanya Wall, November 2023

I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys (Asian Family Series)I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys by Yobe Qiu
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a beautifully written and illustrated children’s book. This book shows young boys of Asian decent how they can be strong, courageous and proud of their cultural identity. Affirming where one comes from and the power that we hold within ourselves is important. If I was a teacher, I would have copies of books such as this on my shelf for my students to read.

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This Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tanya Wall, November 2023

This Egg Won't HatchThis Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a beautifully illustrated book about a mama waiting for her last egg to hatch. Lois Wickstrom does such a nice job of telling a story that teaches while still being entertaining and engaging for young children. It is a tale of how to not be afraid and how to overcome your fear told through the eyes of birds. A great one to read with a class or just one child as it will draw out discussion about birds and the world around them.

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Secrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Tanya Wall, November 2023

Secrets at the CafeSecrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A rainy Saturday read for me – it was fun. I enjoyed the characters in this story -Karina taking care of her Gigi’s cafe, searching for her lost journal, keeping her cousin in check… it is a mystery waiting to be solved. I loved the small town feel of this novel and the many people that we meet along the way.

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