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< 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 Mr Z The Mayfly and the Methuselah Tree The old Methuselah tree learns important lessons from his younger friend, from author Mr Z. The wise Methuselah tree stands high and proud in the White Mountains of Inyo County, California. Older than the ancient pyramids of Egypt, the Methuselah Tree is rather bored and very, very grumpy! He sees the same thing, day in, day out. Nothing ever changes, until one day a tiny, young, mayfly lands on the Methuselah’s leaf and changes his life forever. At first the Methuselah tree is annoyed by the mayfly’s intrusion and her youthful exuberance, but he soon realises that there is a great deal to learn from the younger generation. The young mayfly gives the older Methuselah tree hope and a new perspective on life. This is a sweet story of love and friendship, and of hope and gratitude. It is a reminder to us all to focus on the present, to show appreciation for the beauty of nature and all the good things in life, to seek love and friendships, and to learn from others’ experiences. This is a great intergenerational book for children to read with their parents and grandparents. It will help develop understanding and empathy in readers, both young and old. A joy to read, with captivating illustrations by Robert Askew. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A sweet story of love and friendship, and of hope and gratitude. It was a joy to read. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Julie Stephens Mountain Mutts - Joy's Tale A wonderful tale of friendship, by author Julie Stephens This is a story about two dogs, named Winter and Spring. The two best friends were inseparable, wherever Winter went, Spring would follow. Winter and Spring loved to play and explore together, until the day Winter sadly passed away, leaving Spring sad, alone and confused. Then one day, a new puppy named Joy arrived in the household. Joy wants lots of attention, but Spring is not interested in the energetic newcomer. She misses her dear friend, Winter. Joy plays and sleeps alone, and waits patiently until Spring is ready to be her friend. Eventually Spring takes notice, and the pair become good friends. Spring teaches the young pup how to climb down the steps, how to cross the river, and how to fetch a stick. Now, Spring and Joy are inseparable, but Winter will never be forgotten. Mountain Mutts - Joy's Tale by author Julie Stephens is a wonderful picture book for young children, about the friendship and love that exists between dogs. Spring is despondent when her play mate and best friend Winter passes away. She is no longer interested in having fun or making new friends, but all that changes when she meets a lively little pup, named Joy. Joy helps Spring overcome her grief and shows her that there is still lots to live for. This is a poignant story about love and loss, beautifully told through the eyes of adorable dogs. The story deals with complex issues, such as depression and grief, in a way that younger children will understand and can relate to. The book will appeal to readers who love dogs, and may help those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. The book features beautiful photographs of three wonderful dogs, Winter, Spring and Joy. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A poignant picture book for younger readers about love and loss, beautifully told through the eyes of adorable dogs. Purchase here

< Back Joshua Hershey Linden Falls Can a young woman free her people from darkness? Orphan, Mabel, was brought up by her grandmother, Gigi, in Linden, a nation cursed and shrouded by dark and evil forces. Mabel’s parents died of the plague when she was a young girl, but Gigi never discussed their life or death. Mabel always thought she was different from other children and had vivid dreams she was a witch. Rumors had even spread at school that Mabel was a possessed dreamer, who uses magic to enter shadows and speak with the dead. When Gigi dies, Mabel is left penniless and alone. She visits Gigi’s cabin to retrieve her belongings and feels a strange presence. When she spots a book that she had seen in her dream, she must open it. The book emits light and fire, and Mabel is spellbound. The magic book creates a cyclone and Mabel flees the cabin by stepping through a door of fire. Mabel is chased by a serpent, Lavian, and a hoard of Dark Angels. She is saved by the Light Angels and taken to Citadel; a fortress suspended above the Earth. Mabel learns from the Light Angels that the book has special powers, and she was chosen by the one who wrote the book to break the darkness over Linden. She also learns there are two worlds, the world where she lives and the unseen realm that permeates the heavens and Earth. Mable has two choices, to return to her old life in Linden and give up the book, or to harness the book’s powers and continue the path of her calling. Which path will Mabel take? Can she end the darkness that presides over Linden? And will she find out the truth about her parents, and her special powers? Linden Falls is an imaginative and thrilling dark fantasy fiction novel by author Joshua Hershey. This is a well written and tightly crafted story, with a gripping plot, and rich, memorable characters. Mabel is a strong female protagonist, who overcomes adversity to free her people. There are strong Christian messages throughout the book, which make this a unique and powerful read. Hershey has created a spellbinding world that will appeal to those who enjoy action-adventure, fantasy fiction, and Christian fiction. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thoroughly enjoyable and spellbinding read. Purchase here

< Back Mara Purl When Birds Sing Miranda Jones, a respected wildlife artist, has been commissioned by the state of Oregon to paint the state bird, the Western Meadowlark. The prestigious assignment takes her on a journey to Oregon’s lush landscapes, where she immerses herself in the bird’s habitat, capturing its essence through observation, photography, hiking and plein air painting. Miranda’s adventure is not just about art; it’s a deep exploration of her connection to nature and her own aspirations. Her fascination with birds and their communication becomes a central theme, as she learns from a bird expert about the intricate social systems and vocalizations of avian species. When Miranda finds herself in a dramatic rescue situation on the Columbia River, her attentiveness to bird calls leads her to save a fellow traveller from drowning. The narrative is enriched by vivid descriptions of Oregon’s landscapes, the river’s power, and the delicate beauty of the meadowlark. Purl’s writing is lyrical and evocative, seamlessly weaving together themes of art, nature, and human relationships. The novella stands alone as a complete story but also fits into the larger tapestry of the Milford-Haven saga. When Birds Sing by author Mara Purl is a beautifully crafted novella that celebrates the harmony between humans and nature, the power of art, and the courage to embrace life’s challenges. Purl’s ability to blend fiction with environmental and emotional themes makes this a compelling read for fans of small-town fiction, nature enthusiasts, and those who appreciate stories of personal growth. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A captivating novella set within the Milford-Haven saga, blending themes of nature, art, and human connection. Purchase here

< Back Bridgetta Tomarchio Monsters Don't Say Meep: Even the tiniest roar can make the biggest difference Book blurb... At Monster Scare Prep School, every monster is practicing their scariest roar. But when Meep tries, all that comes out is a squeaky little “meep.” The others laugh—until real trouble strikes, and Meep may be the only one who can save the day. Will he find his roar—or discover that being himself is more than enough? Funny, playful, and full of heart, Monsters Don’t Say Meep is a laugh-out-loud monster adventure about courage, individuality, and the magic of being yourself—reminding us that sometimes the smallest voice makes the biggest impact. Perfect for bedtime, classrooms, and storytime, this book will have kids (and adults) cheering for their own true voices. Purchase here

The Wonder Wig < Back Dr. Shon Lewis The Wonder Wig Meet Brooke Bell: an extraordinary young girl with an extraordinary wonder wig. A young girl named Brooke Bell lives with her mom and dad in Arkansas. Brooke has short, afro hair and wishes she has long flowing locks like her favourite Barbie dolls. One day, Brooke takes one of her moms’ wigs and wears it to school. But when she drops one of her books, the wig falls off her head and the other students laugh at her. Her grandmother comforts her and reminds her of her natural beauty. Her mom on the other hand is cross she took the wig. Brooke is unhappy that her parents are always working and never spend anytime with her. She enjoys spending time at her grandparents’ house, and following the incident with the wig she asks to live with them over the summer. After lots of arguments, her mom finally agrees. During the summer break, Brooke helps out at her Aunt Pam’s hair salon, enjoying the interactions with customers, and admiring all the hair products and wigs for sale. Over the years, Brooke continues to work at her aunt’s salon at weekends, and her relationship with her mom improves. When she is aged sixteen, Aunt Pam gives Brooke a wig. But this is no ordinary wig. The wig has special powers that enable Brooke to hear other people’s conversations. She hears other girls talking about their alopecia and decides to help them. She keeps the special powers a secret, disguises her appearance, and uses her earnings from the salon to buy wigs for girls with alopecia. As Brooke helps more girls, there is a news report of a nameless person, they call ‘Dashing Dazzle’ donating wigs to a hair clinic for girls with alopecia. A cash reward of $20,000 is offered to identify the mysterious wig benefactor. Will Brooke reveal her identity and claim the cash prize? And will she reveal the powers of the extraordinary wonder wig? The Wonder Wig by Dr. Shon Lewis is a fun and imaginative short story for young adult readers, about an extraordinary young girl with an extraordinary wonder wig. Brooke’s life is changed forever when she is given a special wig as a gift. But rather than using the special powers for personal gain, she decides to use the powers to help others more in need. This is a great concept, and a positive story for women and girls that celebrates the beauty and diversity of afro hair. The book promotes hair-positivity and good hair health, and encourages readers to accept their natural beauty whilst respecting individual choice on haircare products and wigs. At the same time, the book raises awareness of alopecia and may help to reduce stigma associated with this condition. I particularly enjoyed the ‘Dashing Dazzle’ character and believe the author could explore this character much further. I would love to hear more from her and her wonder wig! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun, positive and empowering story for women and girls, which celebrates natural beauty and respects individual hair-care choices. Purchase here

< Back Kat Farrow Bobbin and the Magic Thief Can a young faerie rescue her friend from an evil thief? Miss Bobbin, a head-strong young Spindle Faerie, is an outsider in the realm of the Eastern Faeries. But she needs all the help she can get from her fae-folk when her best friend, Heddy, is stolen. One day, whilst out exploring the woods, Bobbin and Heddy approach the millers cottage. The friends know they are forbidden to get close to humans, but Heddy is attracted to something in the cottage. Entranced by the millers’ daughter singing, Heddy enters the cottage and dances on the spinning wheel. Bobbin tries to coax her out of the cottage, but Heddy is snatched suddenly by a flying sack. Bobbin chases the sack and finds the thief; a strange, little man. She chases the thief but soon loses sight of him. Unable to find her friend, Bobbin seeks the help of the fair Queen Maeb. She pleads with the Queen to help her, but the Queen makes it clear that Bobbin must rescue Heddy herself, because she is the one responsible for her disappearance. As Bobbin sets out on her mission to locate the thief and rescue her friend, she joins allies with a host of woodland creatures. But unbeknownst to Bobbin, the thief has another, more sinister motive for stealing Heddy. When Bobbin learns of the thief’s plot, she is forced to break the faerie law in order to save her best friend. Will Bobbin save her friend? Or will the thief achieve his goal and destroy the Spindle Faeries? Bobbin and the Magic Thief: A Spindle Faerie Tale is the first book in the fantasy fiction series, by author Kat Farrow. The story is a retelling of the classic Rumpelstiltskin fairytale, with a magical infusion of faeries. In this imaginative adaptation, the author transports the reader to an enchanting faerie realm, full of charming characters, wonder, and adventure . The plot, while retaining some of the original Rumpelstiltskin story, takes on many twists and turns. Bobbin is a delightful character, and her journey to rescue her friend is also a personal journey of self-discovery. This is a wonderful novel for young readers, combining elements of magic, mystery, and suspense. It will appeal to readers who enjoy traditional fairy tales as well as contemporary fantasy fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A traditional fairy tale reimagined and infused with enchanting faerie magic. Purchase here

< Back Ashley Wall The Day I Had a Dinosaur Luke and his friends have the best-osaurus day ever. Luke is playing in the garden with his dog, Bobo, when the ground starts to shake. He spins around and finds a real-life Tyrannosaurus Rex (T-Rex) in his garden. Luke and the T-Rex become instant buddies. But when the ground starts to rumble, Luke discovers his friend, Noah, riding a Brachiosaurus. Luke and Noah take their new dinosaur pals to the park, but the dinosaurs are way too big to enjoy the playground. So, they make their own playground instead, climbing up and sliding down their new dinosaur friends. They hear a roar, and their friends Emma and Mikey join in the fun riding their own dinosaurs, a Triceratops and a Pterodactyl. The friends decide to play hide and seek in the park, and soon realise it is not so easy to hide a dinosaur! They play fetch with the dinosaurs, using dinosaur sized tree stumps instead of sticks, they play basketball and baseball, and they even take part in a little dino-yoga – adapting each activity to make sure even the biggest dinosaurs can take part. The Day I Had a Dinosaur is an illustrated picture by author Ashley Wall about a young boy and his friends, who meet a bunch of dinosaurs and have the best-osaurus day ever, playing in the park. This is a delightful and fun picture book, featuring some of the most popular and famous dinosaurs in the dinosaur family. The illustrations are bright and playful, and the characters are charming. I liked the diversity of the characters and the adaptation of the activities, so all dinosaurs could take part. Perfect for young children who love dinosaurs and enjoy imaginative storytelling. Young people love dinosaurs, and they will laugh out loud at this dinosaur filled playground adventure. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A laugh-out-loud, fun-filled playground adventure, with a dino-sized twist. Purchase here

< Back Rick Soshensky The Music Therapy Studio: Empowering the Soul's Truth A masterpiece of non-fiction, by author Rick Soshensky Rick Soshensky, a music therapist for thirty years, writes a ground-breaking non-fiction book about the power of music, and its ability to integrate, heal and transform peoples’ lives. Rick discusses his love of music, his life as a musician, and his work as a music therapist. Based on extensive research, and many years of clinical practice, Rick describes his approach to music therapy as the Music Therapy Studio, and organises his approach into three sections: The Foundation, which sets out the theoretical groundwork for his work; The Framework, which identifies the different components of music and the relationship between conventional musicianship and music therapy, and; The Philosophy, which examines the underlying principles and assumptions including esoteric and metaphysical concepts. Rick presents a number of real-life stories, of people he has supported through music therapy, including Daniel, a young blind man with a number of other diagnoses including Autism, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Tourette’s Syndrome. Daniel had an innate musical talent and Rick describes the impact of musical therapy on him and his family. According to Daniel’s adopted mother, “Music has helped Daniel to find himself through the adversity and handicapping of his autism, OCD, Tourette’s and total darkness in blindness. Music truly has given him the gift of life.” This is an emotional and powerful book that demonstrates the therapeutic effects of music, through real life stories. Beautifully written by Rick Soshensky with such respect, care and compassion for his clients, this book will appeal to anyone interested in music therapy, and the benefits of music more generally. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspiring and thought-provoking book for anyone interested in the therapeutic effects of music. Purchase here

< Back Lisa Towles The Ridders A young private detective is thrown into the murky depths of the LA underworld, by author Lisa Towles Private Investigator, Brock ‘BJ’ Janoff is investigating the disappearance of eighteen-year-old Anastasia Bergman, a student, model and celebrity, and heir to the Bergman multibillion dollar estate. Hired by her parents, and with no solid leads, the case is a mystery to BJ and his brother and business partner, Jonas. As BJ starts to investigate the case, he is faced with a dilemma. He is approached by a stranger and offered one million dollars to take an envelope to the reception desk of a luxury hotel within 72 hours. He is warned that if he opens the envelope, or if he fails to deliver it on time, he will be killed. He knows his brother would disapprove, but BJ decides to take the money anyway. But rather than take the envelope to the hotel, as agreed, he decides to hold on to it for a while. He is determined to find out why he was chosen for the dangerous task, and what could be in the envelope that is worth one-million dollars. BJ sets up surveillance on the hotel, and enlists his old college friend, Jay, to help find out what is in the mystery envelope. Jay X-rays the envelope and discovers a folded piece of paper and unknown particles in a Ziplock bag. When Jay is later found dead in his garage, BJ decides not to return the envelope, and instead returns the one-million dollars to the hotel. BJ knows his life is in grave danger and goes into hiding, with help from Jonas and his neighbor Lacy. As BJ sets out to uncover the truth about the envelope, he recruits a former associate Miki Fine to help him replicate the envelope and its contents. As his investigation continues, BJ meets a homeless man and he is unexpectedly thrown into the LA underworld, where he discovers an extraordinary connection between the envelope, the Russian Mafia, a secret society, the missing teen, and his estranged father. The Ridders by author Lisa Towles is a captivating novel about a young private detective who is thrown into the murky depths of the underworld and must use his investigative skills to try and solve his own case. This is a fast-paced, tense and gripping murder mystery / political thriller / science fiction novel, that was hard to put down. The book poses an interesting question, and I was gripped from the first chapter. With excellent, well-developed characters, and a complex but believable plot, this book will appeal to readers of thrillers, political fiction and murder mystery stories. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An excellent, fast paced and action-packed novel, part murder mystery, part political thriller, part science fiction. Highly recommended. Purchase here

< Back Christy Burbidge Paulie The Piping Plover's Sea Turtle Rescue: A Martha's Vineyard Tale Paulie the Piping Plover lived on the island of Martha’s Vineyard. It was his first migration south to the Gulf of Mexico, and he was going to miss his friends, Liam the lobster, Sarah the sea turtle and Belle the blue fish. But just as Paulie is about to leave, he discovers that Sarah has been cold-stunned and taken to the Sea Turtle Rescue Center on Cape Cod. Worried about their friend, Paulie, Liam and Belle build a raft and ride in the wake of a ferry all the way to Cape Cod. When they arrive at the Rescue Center, they find Sarah is safe and well looked after. The three friends decide to help spread the word about cold-stunned sea turtles and come up with a plan. They face an arduous journey back home, but they are determined to help other sea turtles stranded on the beaches of Cape Cod. Paulie The Piping Plover's Sea Turtle Rescue: A Martha's Vineyard Tale is a charming, illustrated picture book by author Christy Burbidge. When three friends learn that Sarah the sea turtle is missing, they will stop at nothing to find her. With strength and determination, the friends work together to find Sarah. Inspired by the work of the Rescue Center, the friends hatch an innovative plan to help other sea turtles. This is an inspiring and engaging picture book for young readers, with an adorable cast of characters and charming illustrations Mary Jo Helchowski. Perfect for young children who love birds, sea turtles and other sea creatures, as well as for budding explorers and conservationists. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An inspiring and engaging tale, with an adorable cast of characters, charming illustrations, and an important message about friendship and ocean conservation. Purchase here