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< Back Margaret Grote I Like Mud A fun collection of poetry for young readers, and the young at heart. I Like Mud and other poems for the young and young-at-heart is a collection of fourteen poems by author Margaret Grote, Illustrated by Marcia Wheelan Coles. The poems cover a wide range of fun topics, such as ‘I Like the Beach’, ‘The Ice Cream Man’, ‘My Dog’, ‘My Friends’, and ‘I Like Mud’. Each poem is short and succinct (one to two pages), and easy to read. Perfect for younger readers. My favourite is ‘My Friends’, ‘In my room I have many friends, You’ll find them hiding everywhere…. I bet you know who my friends are, They all live here, they are my books.’ The poems have a beautiful lyrical quality and young readers will enjoy reading them out loud with parents or carers. They describe simple childhood pleasures, playing, having fun, and spending time with family, and will spark children’s imagination and creativity. The poems were written by Margaret Grote (1922—2005) and published by her son, David. This is a beautiful collection of poems, and a loving tribute to a talented poet. The collection offers a wonderful variety of poems. There is something for everyone, boys and girls, young and old. The poems are sweet, simple and delightful. Each one was a joy to read. The pastel, whimsical illustrations by Marcia Wheelan Coles are simply stunning. This is an excellent introduction to poetry for children, and I hope it will inspire a love of reading and a love of poetry. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun collection of poems, by a much loved and talented poet. Purchase here

< Back Stephanie Brick The Secret Doors of Cannondale A young girl finds a secret door and is whisked away to an alternate, magical realm. Twelve-year-old Adeline Perle has moved from her mother’s military base in Illinois to Connecticut. She hopes that the family will settle down and she will finally be able to make new, long-lasting friendships. The family move into Uncle Bennie and Aunt Constance’s home on the Cannondale estate, while they find their footing in the area. Uncle Bennie asks Adeline to avoid certain areas of the estate, while Aunt Constance is recuperating from an illness. As Adeline explores the expansive estate, she finds a secret door. Despite Uncle Bennie’s warning, Adeline opens the door and discovers a secret passageway, leading to an unusual octagonal room. She explores the room and finds a book with a secret cutout. Inside the book, she finds a hidden crystal. Adeline places the crystal inside her pocket and continues to explore the house. Outside, she meets a group of teenagers having a garden party and develops an instant connection. When she returns to the house, Adeline’s world is literally turned upside down as she falls through the sky and is transported to another realm. Unbeknownst to Adeline, she has landed in the realm of Nouvaal, a dangerous world on the brink of destruction from dark magic. As Adeline attempts to make sense of the new world she learns that the crystal in her pocket has special powers, that could destroy Nouvaal if united with other lost crystals. Adeline is pursued by Heli’aa, the ‘Protector of the Realm,’ who will stop at nothing to secure the crystal for her own evil gains. The Secret Doors of Cannondale is a thrilling fantasy adventure for middle grade readers, by Stephanie Brick. The book follows the journey of Adeline, a young girl who finally finds a sense of belonging in a new home, before being suddenly uprooted again and transported to another world. The book takes readers on an exhilarating journey through time, space, and an alternate universe, full of mystery and magic. This is a delightful and enchanting tale that will appeal to readers of both fantasy and science fiction. The book ends on a nail-biting cliff-hanger, so readers will have to wait for the next instalment to find out what happens next! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A must read for anyone looking to escape into a magical universe filled with wonder, excitement and danger. Purchase here

< Back Kathleen Welton Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Sea Star Following a turbulent sea storm, little sea stars wash up on the beach. Sea turtles Max and Myrtle are worried they might become stuck, and swim to shore to help. With a little bit of magic, they start the rescue immediately. They gather their bird friends who bring a carpet from the sky to scoop up the sea stars. The owls and otters help get the turtles back in the water, and the ducks and dolphins start a band to save those stranded on the land. Together, the animals help get the sea stars back out to sea, and they do not stop until each and every sea star is safe. Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Sea Star is a heart-warming and beautifully illustrated picture book by author Kathleen Welton, about a bale of sea stars who become stranded on the shore. With hard work, team-work, and just a little bit of magic, the coastal animals spring into action, and work together to rescue the sea stars. The book will help young children learn the importance of kindness, compassion, cooperation and environmental awareness. Beautifully written by Welton in lyrical rhyme, this book is a perfect read aloud story. The illustrations shine with soft pastel hues, and young children will enjoy the adorable sea and coastal creatures. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A delightful tale of rescue and friendship, and a must read for young nature enthusiasts. Purchase here

< Back Stephen Pollock Exits Exits is a collection of poetry by Stephen Pollock. The collection features a diverse range of poems, each exploring themes of mortality, nature, and the human experience. The preface sets the tone, reflecting on the inevitability of death and its impact on human perspective. Pollock’s poetry captures the transient beauty of life, the cycles of nature, and the promise of renewal, reflecting contemporary challenges of climate change, war, and global crises. Each poem is accompanied by artwork, creating a rich interaction of visual and literary art. The poems include Arachnidæa: Line Drawings, Seeds, Leaves, and Syringe, which explore the fragility of life and the destructive forces of nature and humanity. Arachnidæa: Line Drawings uses the imagery of a spider’s web to reflect on mortality, control, and the passage of time. Other poems, such as Zombie Fires and War Crimes, examine global and historical tragedies, from climate change to human cruelty and war. War Crimes for example recounts a childhood memory of burning a butterfly, drawing parallels to humanity’s capacity for violence and destruction. Each poem provides a unique lens through which we can examine the human experience. The book also features an extensive artwork index, showcasing a variety of images drawn from nature. From photographs of dewdrops on a web, to mixed media images of cicadas and tropical palms, the artwork adds depth to Pollock’s poetry. Overall, Exits by Stephen Pollock is a beautiful and moving collection, and a must-read for anyone who enjoys poetry and art alike. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A breath-taking collection of poetry and art that offers profound insights into the human experience. Purchase here

< Back Diane LaDouceur Maggie Alison is excited to go to school. She is looking forward to seeing the school therapy dog, a yellow Labrador retriever named Maggie. Maggie is a retired service dog, and now lives with Alison’s teacher, Miss Thomson. Alison’s friends are sad they won’t get to spend time with Maggie, but Alison persuades Miss Thomson to let them visit her until the bell rings. Miss Thomson tells the girls that Maggie was trained to help a blind person, to guide them from one place to another, and to keep them safe from obstacles and other dangers. Miss Thomson also explains that service dogs are trained to help people with autism, seizures, anxiety, hearing, and many other medical challenges. Soon, Alison will get to spend more time with Maggie, as her family plan to take care of her when Miss Thomson goes on vacation. Maggie is a delightful, illustrated picture book, by author Diane LaDouceur. The book is based on the authors real-life experience of parenting a child with learning challenges, and her work with therapy dogs. Beautifully written by LaDouceur, with charming illustrations by Helle Urban, this book highlights the important role that animals play in supporting children’s health and wellbeing. Teachers and parents can use this story as a gentle introduction to the role of therapy dogs, and as a conversation starter about emotional well-being. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A beautifully written and illustrated book, which shows the special bond between children and dogs, and how dogs can support people and improve health and well-being. Purchase here

< Back Michael Bickel 250,000 NOs From rejection to riches, a memoir by the President / CEO of TableMation Studios, Michael Bickel. 250,000 No’s is a memoir by Michael Bickel, which chronicles his journey from childhood through to adulthood. Bickel describes how he managed to overcome trauma and rejection to establish two successful, digital, companies. Bickel experienced significant loss as a child, when his father died when he was just ten years old. His mother was absent from much of his youth, as she took over the family business and later re-married. Bickel discusses his personal relationships, the highs and the lows, and how he had to cope with two surprise pregnancies. He discusses with openness and honesty the break-up of his first marriage, which left him heartbroken and nearly bankrupt. He later found companionship and happiness with his second wife, Jeanelle. He documents his education and career, dropping out of college and then reluctantly working for his stepfather in a furniture store for fourteen years. He spent twenty-three years as a sales rep for the Yellow Pages, becoming a top seller and receiving numerous awards. In his fifties, Bickel established TableMation Studios – an ambitious, animated dining experience, and later invested in Proto Hologram, a holographic broadcast and communications company. Bickel describes how he was deceived by his business associates, and nearly lost everything during the Covid19 pandemic. During his life, Bickel estimates he received 250,000 rejections. But, through sheer hard-graft, ‘irrational persistence,’ and the support of a loving family, he found success later in life. Today, TableMation Studios is in cities all over the world and has sold over two million tickets. 250,000 No’s is a poignant and inspirational memoir by an extraordinary businessman who found success later in life despite facing numerous rejections and setbacks. Bickel refused to give up and worked relentlessly to achieve his dreams. The book offers practical insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business leaders. Bickel shares his personal experiences and wisdom, offering readers a roadmap to achieve long term success. Overall, a compelling memoir of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance. A must read for anyone interested in TableMation studios, or those seeking motivation and inspiration in personal or professional pursuits. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A poignant and inspirational memoir by an extraordinary businessman who found success later in life. Purchase here

< Back Jodi Dee Energy Wars - The Awakening Myles is an average, almost fourteen year old, student at Whitmore Public School. It’s just an ordinary day at school when Myles notices something unusual. A huge, flaming ball of fire, bursts out of Tommy Milfoil’s mouth towards Sally Munson. Invisible to everyone except Myles, the fireballs fly across the school, like an energy war between the students. Myles notices how the intensity of the fireballs change, depending on the energy of the people. He can see peoples energy fields, and how one person can positively or negatively impact another person’s energy, just by being near them. Myles learns that everything on the planet has an energy field, and for humans, the positive things that make people happy, like friendship or love, can increase a person’s energy field. On the other hand, negative things, like the stress associated with an exam, can put a person’s energy field on high alert. Strangely, Myles is unable to see his Principal’s energy field. When Myles’ father gives him a number of boxes left to him by his late grandmother, he discovers she had a secret life and connections with a number of important, historical figures. As Myles sets out to uncover the truth about the peculiar energy wars, and his grandmother’s secret life, he soon discovers he has a special gift and an important, clandestine mission he must fulfil. Energy Wars - The Awakening, by author Jodi Dee, is a fun, fast-paced, sci-fi, adventure for middle grade readers. The book follows the journey of Myles, as he discovers he has a special gift and unique powers. Myles is a likeable character, with typical teen troubles, that many readers will relate to. The book centres not only on his powers, but also his friendships, as he tries to navigate his new world. With plenty of quantum physics for the most avid sci-fi readers, coupled with a bit of mystery and a lot of action, this story has all the right ingredients to make this a superb middle-grade novel. The book ends on a gripping cliff-hanger, and I hope there isn’t too long to wait for the next instalment! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A gripping and thought-provoking sci-fi novel for middle grade readers, full of action and adventure. Purchase here

< Back Adalgisa and David Nico Fish in the Desert: The Untold Story of the Death Valley Pupfish Adele’s adventure in the wetlands of Death Valley. Adele is visiting the Death Valley National Park with her parents. Unfortunately, Adele was injured playing soccer and her leg is in a cast. As she explores the salt crusted floor of an ancient lake, Adele cannot imagine anything could live in the Death Valley. But, when she notices pupfish swimming in the lake, she is keen to learn how they survive in the hot and salty conditions. Aquatic Ecologist, Marjorie, explains how the Salt Creek Pupfish are scientifically important creatures that have adapted over many years to the hostile environment. Of all the sea life creatures that once lived in the ancient lakes, the pupfish are the only ones to survive. Marjorie shows Adele other pupfish habitats and learns more about the endemic pupfish, and the many subspecies that live in separate islands of water. But there is still lots to learn about these resilient creatures, like how they manage to survive in the deep water caverns. Fish in the Desert: The Untold Story of the Death Valley Pupfish is a fascinating tale about the endemic pupfish that live in the Death Valley. The story is told through a young girl named Adele who visits the park with her parents. As the family explore the park, they are fascinated by the pupfish who survive in the wetlands, against all odds. They learn all about their history and habitat, and how they have evolved over many years into a variety of subspecies. With lots of interesting facts and figures, and further resources to explore, this book will educate readers about these fascinating creatures and the Death Valley National Park. The illustrations by Andy Atkins bring the stunning landscapes and creatures to life beautifully. The book will appeal to young readers interested in the natural world and conservation. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An insightful and fascinating book about the resilient pupfish, who survive against all odds in the inhospitable Death Valley National Park. Purchase here

< Back Once Upon a Dance Franie's Wish: A Wander in the Wonder Another fabulous adventure in the Once Upon a Dance series Frankie’s Wish: A Wander in the Wonder, tells the story of Frankie, who lives on the magical island of Anorac. There is a legend on the island, that a magic blue feather would grant a birthday wish to the lucky person who finds it. On the day of Frankie’s special birthday, Frankie sets out on a quest to find the magic feather. Frankie’s wish is to become a famous dancer, and hopes to find the feather to make the wish come true. Frankie catches a ferry and arrives at a mysterious forest. With a little help from a number of forest friends, an eagle, a T-Rex, and a gorilla, Frankie must solve the clues hidden throughout the forest to find the magic blue feather. The final task is to ‘dance your journey’ and Frankie decides to dance the day from the beginning, from entering the forest, to meeting the forest creatures. Frankie reflects on the forest journey and realises that what is most important in life is friendship, family, and adventure. Will Frankie find the magic blue feather? And what will he wish for? Frankie's Wish: A Wander in the Wonder is a children’s picture book in the Once Upon a Dance series. Once Upon a Dance, is a unique and creative concept with Ballerina Konora narrating the story through movement and dance. Frankie is a gender neutral and relatable character, who will appeal to young children who love adventure and fantasy stories. Frankie learns important life lessons throughout the journey, which will encourage self-belief and confidence in young children. The digital illustrations are bold, bright, and engaging. Konora provides prompts and ideas for readers to act out the story, and encourages readers to use their own imagination and experiment with new movements. With photographs to accompany each movement, the book encourages active participation in the story through movement and creativity. This book is a great resource for children, parents and carers, and teachers, and will encourage readers to experiment with movement and dance. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fabulous interactive picture book, which will inspire movement and creativity in young children. Purchase here

< Back Mariah Clark Skewes Never Pet a Penguin Nana said, ‘NEVER pet a penguin!’ Maddy knows she shouldn’t, but she really, really wants to pet a penguin. She goes out in search of a penguin to pet. She searches across her whole town, in the garden, in the fields, and in the woods. She even visits the animal shelter and the local zoo, but there are no penguins to be found. At schools she learns all about penguins and where they live on earth, but they are all far too far away. So, she tries everything she can to reach the penguins. She tries to build a boat, a hot air balloon, and even tries to make herself wings to fly to the penguins. But nothing works! Just as Maddy is about to give up all hope of ever petting a penguin, her Nana has an extra special surprise for her. Never Pet a Penguin is an illustrated picture book by Mariah Clark Skewes about a girl named Maddy - a little girl with a big dream – to pet a penguin. Maddy is a sweet and charming character, full of fun, imagination and adventure. Her journey begins at home, where she searches high and low for a penguin. Undeterred, she ventures across town, hoping that a penguin might be hiding somewhere unexpected. This is a fun and imaginative story that will captivate young readers who love wildlife and adventure. The illustrations by Phoebe Cho are simply delightful. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A super sweet picture book, about a curious, determined and adventurous little girl and her search for a penguin. mariahclarkskewes.com Purchase here

< Back Bill Matthews The Unseen Guardians: 44 Stories from Behind-The-Scenes Professions Book blurb... Jan Pinner Matthews, married to a detective, sought to deepen her understanding of law enforcement and victim advocacy. Her curiosity inspired her husband, Bill Matthews, and co-author, to collect stories from friends across the nation, sharing some of what their jobs entail as they dedicate themselves to ensuring public safety. The Unseen Guardians is a collection of tales ranging from district attorneys to judges, an Air Force One crew chief, U.S. marshals, police officers, ATF agents, detectives, and beyond. They offer a rare glimpse into the daily lives and challenges faced by those on the front lines. The book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, as well as a tribute to those who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting others. Within these pages lie stories that will both shock and inspire you, written by professionals from various fields, united by a common goal: helping victims find justice, healing, protection, and hope. Purchase here

< Back Gina S. Scheff Presidential Spirit: The True Story of an Airman Who Soared Above His Circumstances and the Woman Who Was the Wind Beneath His Wings Book blurb... Gina has no intention of marrying again following a disastrous divorce. She wants to focus on raising her son and building a career, not falling in love. But then she meets a spirited airman named David Scheff and everything changes. It doesn’t take long for him to convince her that marrying her soul mate might be a good idea after all. A member of the Air Force, David eventually becomes the flight chief for Air Force One, giving Gina the opportunity to shake hands with presidents William Jefferson Clinton and George W. Bush. It’s a great adventure! Still, once David retires from the military, they’re ready to enjoy a quieter life on a small farm in Ohio. Life has a way of throwing you off-course, though, and when David is diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer, Gina learns the true meaning of standing by her husband not only in health but in sickness too. As Gina struggles to not fall apart as they face one devastating let-down after another, David shows her how to have grace under pressure and that you don’t need actual wings or even a plane to fly above your circumstances. David always knew he had the spirit of an eagle. This story tells how Gina discovered just how right he was. Purchase here