Search Results

Readers Choice Book Awards, book reviews and awards voted by readers in three categories, with cash prizes for gold award winners: Best Childrens Book 3-6; Best Childrens Book 7-10; Best Childrens Book Illustrations; Best Childrens Book Cover Design. Book review and award dates Our reviews and awards are now open for submissions all year round. Book reviews Standard Review: books will be reviewed and returned within around 6 to 8 weeks (entry to awards included). Express Review: books will be reviewed and returned within around 3 to 4 weeks (entry to awards included). Awards / star ratings Awards only (no review): star-ratings and awards announced within around 3 to 4 weeks .

< Back Governor Nathan Deal Veto, the Governor's Cat Veto, an ordinary cat, with an extraordinary story. Veto is a cat, but not just any cat! He is the Governor’s cat. Veto was born on a farm and enjoyed playing with all the farmyard animals. One day, Veto and his big brother, Bill, were sent to live at the Governor and First Lady’s mansion, to help protect the mansion’s garden from the chipmunks and birds that were eating the fruits and berries. As Veto and Bill settled into their new home, they explored the grounds and liked to chase away the chipmunks, squirrels, and birds. They make friends with the troopers and a man who worked at the mansion, named Dan. But one day, it is time for the Governor and First Lady to move on, and Veto and Bill move to a new home in the country. The brothers are scared and sad to leave their friends, especially Dan. Veto and Bill have a good life in the country, and meet lots of new friends. But as time passes, Veto soon has to navigate life in the country without his big brother and best friend. He makes new friends, and the Governor and the First Lady become his very special companions. Veto, the Governor's Cat by author, Governor Nathan Deal, is a sweet, charming and heartfelt tale of the Governors cat, Veto. Written from Veto’s perspective, the book follows his journey from his birth on a farm, through to his time living at the Governor’s mansion, through to his later years in the countryside. As Veto moves to different homes, he learns important life lessons, including how to be brave in new situations, how to make new friends, and even how to deal with death. The story captures Veto’s emotions, the confusion of moving home and the sadness of his loss, while also offering moments of warmth and joy as he makes new friends and learns new things. His experiences are similar to human experiences and young children will relate to his journey. The watercolour style illustrations by Cheryl Riner Hodge are beautiful and capture Veto’s life and emotions perfectly. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A warm, tender and beautifully illustrated book that gently guides children through big life events. Purchase here

< Back Scott Smallwood Monkey and Bug's Night at The Corn Stand Jam A little dog realises he is not alone, and receives much needed support from his friends, by author Scott Smallwood Monkey the dog, and Bug the cat, are best friends from a small town in Ohio. Monkey was adopted into a loving family home, but sometimes felt sad and lonely. He missed his friends from the kennels, and his older sister didn’t want to play with him. Bug knew Monkey was unhappy, and he suggested they go for a walk together to the park to meet his friends and family. At the park, Monkey met Bugs friends and tried out lots of new activities, like yoga, skateboarding, and painting, which made Monkey feel happy inside and less sad. When Monkey meets a woman in a wheelchair, he is happy when he learns that she is proud of her abilities, and that she feels loved and supported by many people. Then he meets more of Bug’s friends, who play music on the Corn-Jam Stand, to help spread happiness for people when they are feeling a little sad. Monkey learns from his new friends that it is okay not to feel okay, which made him feel a little less alone. Monkey has a little boogie with all his new friends, and knows he has plenty of people to talk to, the next time he feels sad. Monkey and Bug's Night at The Corn Stand Jam is a wonderful picture book by author Scott Smallwood about inclusion, and mental health and wellbeing. Despite having a loving and supportive family, Monkey feels sad and alone sometimes. Through trying new activities, meeting new and different people, and talking to others, Monkey learns that everyone feels sad and lonely from time to time, and it is okay not to be okay. He learns the importance of talking to others, sharing problems, as well as the importance of letting go and having fun. This book will help to open up conversations with young readers and their parents or carers, and will encourage them to talk about their thoughts and feelings. The book deals with mental health issues in a simple, engaging and effective way, that young readers will relate to. Inspired by the real Christian’s Corn Stand Jam, proceeds of this book go to charity. This is an engaging and insightful book, with an important message that will benefit readers of all ages, and support a much deserved charity. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A wonderful picture book that deals with mental health issues in a simple, effective and engaging way. Purchase here

< Back Ona Gritz August Or Forever Sisters reunited, by author Ona Gritz Ten-year-old Molly lives with her mom and dad in upstate New York. She has an older half-sister, Alison, who is an art student and lives in London with her mom. Molly has only met Alison once, but they communicate regularly via letter, email and on video chats. When Molly overhears her mom and dad talking about Alison visiting their home, she is overjoyed. She cannot wait to spend time with the sister she adores and dearly misses. But Molly is disappointed to hear that Alison will only be visiting for a month in August, and hatches a plan to try and get her to stay permanently. With her best friend, Diane, Molly clears the garage to create an art studio for Alison, and she tries to persuade her dad to give her a job as an art teacher at their school. Molly creates a special Sister Book for Alison, full of precious photographs and childhood memories of the pair growing up in different continents. But, when Alison arrives in New York, Holly soon realises that sibling relationships are not as easy as she imagined. Molly becomes jealous of her older sister, and starts to resent her taking over her room. Molly accidently breaks Alison’s cherished glass pendant, and the relationship between the siblings becomes strained. When Molly discovers the Sister Book is missing, she is convinced Alison has destroyed it, and plans to spend the rest of the summer at camp, to avoid spending any more time with her wicked sister. Did Alison destroy the precious Sister Book ? Can Molly and Alison repair their broken relationship? And will Alison make a permanent home in New York, or return back to London? August or Forever, is a charming and beautifully written book for young readers, by author Ona Gritz. The story is about two siblings separated by divorce, who are reunited after many years living apart, in different countries. Convincingly told from the perspective of a ten-year-old girl, the book captures Molly’s fears, anxieties and insecurities as she meets her sister for the second time. Despite their differences, and time apart, the siblings share a deep bond and love for one another. With likeable and endearing characters, and a captivating plot that many readers will relate to, this book will appeal to young readers and teens. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An endearing book about the unique and powerful bond between sisters. Purchase here

< Back Jessica Wendi Abel The Little Blue Rocket Ship Author Jessica Wendi Abel provides comfort and reassurance for those impacted by postpartum depression. The Little Blue Rocket Ship: A Story About Postpartum Depression is a children’s picture book about a young boy whose mom suffers postpartum depression following the birth of his baby brother. The boy wants to play with his mom, just like he used to, but suddenly she no longer wants to play. The boy launches a blue rocket ship from his window with a note to bring his old mom back, and waits every day for the ship to return. After a long time, and following lots of rest and support, his mom finally returns the blue rocket ship. The boy knows things will never be the same, but looks forward to building another rocket ship with his mom. This is a heart-warming book about postpartum depression, lovingly and sensitively told from the perspective of a child. He doesn’t understand why his mum doesn’t want to play anymore, or why she stays in her room. He experiences a range of emotions, from anger through to sadness. The book provides a great resource to start conversations about postpartum depression with younger children. It will help children to understand that postpartum depression affects many women, but with lots of rest and support, they will get better with time. It will provide comfort and reassurance for those experiencing postpartum depression, and those impacted by the illness. The book contains much needed additional resources for those who might need further information or support. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A heart-warming book about postpartum depression, lovingly and sensitively told from the perspective of a child. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Tricia Copeland Azreya Aztec Priestess A young Aztec girl's journey of courage, self-discovery and emancipation. Azreya is born with light eyes and a mark on her hand. Her parents fear she is cursed, and they seek advice from a shaman, Nukpana, just two days after her birth. Nukpana confirms Azreya is Tepeyollotl, the Aztec god and Lord of Darkness, with hidden powers and the ability to transform into a beast. Nukpana suggests he trains Azreya to subdue her inner beast, help her learn to control it, and harness her gifts. Just before her fourth birthday, Azreya is sent to live with Nukpana. He trains her daily through games, physical activity, and meditation. She connects with her inner beast, a spotted leopard she names Tecuani. She also discovers her special gift is the ability to hear other peoples thoughts and see the future. For many years Azreya is hidden away, but, as Nukpana attempts to reintroduce her into society, she is ridiculed because she is different to other children. As Azreya harnesses her gifts, Nukpana asks her to help him perform his shaman duties incognito. Azreya is able to help many people by looking into their future and diverting them from danger. Soon, word gets out that Nukpana is an exceptional shaman, and he is asked to help the King. But when Azreya learns that Nukpana has lied to the King, and also realises he has exploited her for many years, she decides to escape. Alone, afraid, and scared her inner beast might surface, Azreya goes in search of her family. But, when Nukpana reveals Azreya’s true identity, she is soon pursued by the King and his army. Azreya, Aztec Priestess, by author Tricia Copeland is an engrossing chapter book for middle grade readers based on Aztec mysticism and mythology. The book is told from Azreya’s perspective, a young girl born with special gifts and extraordinary powers. The book follows her journey from birth to her teenage years, as she is torn from her family and forced to live with a shaman who exploits her for his own personal gain. It is a journey of courage, self-discovery, and emancipation, as Azreya fights for her life and her people. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and the illustrations by Matt Maes are divine. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fascinating and engaging book about Aztec mythology for middle grade readers. Purchase here

< Back Deb Miller Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness is a memoir by author, mother and business leader, Deb Miller. Deb grew up in a small town in Southern Indiana and attended Purdue University in 1975. Deb knew her path – go to college, get an education, and find a husband during her four year stay. As with many young women in that era, Deb’s happily-ever-after was to become a wife and mom. In her first semester she met her prince charming, Scott Miller, the first love of her life. After college, ‘ScottnDeb’ married and started a family, and later built their dream home in Indianapolis. At a time when gender norms were changing, Deb excelled in the business world, whereas Scott preferred a more domestic life. In the mid-1980’s, Deb hosted a Russian tennis coach named Sergei in her home, and soon developed an interest in Russian enterprise. She began to help Sergei and other Russian entrepreneurs to make business deals in America. When her marriage to Scott ended, she began a relationship with Sergei. Now a successful businesswoman, Deb had to navigate a new career, a turbulent new relationship, and new motherhood. Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness by Deb Miller is a modern, feminist memoir, which will inspire and uplift women of all ages to follow their own path. Deb grew up believing that the path to happiness was to find a ‘prince’ and she uses the evolution of the Disney princesses as a metaphor for her own journey: from the passive, helpless, Disney princesses of yesteryear; to the strong, independent, warriors that broke free from traditional roles. Like the modern Disney princesses, Deb discovered that the road to happiness was not paved by men, and carved out her own path. Deb Miller’s writing is crisp and conversational, blending personal anecdotes with insightful commentary on gender roles. It is a powerful and empowering memoir for women of all ages – fans of Disney princesses and readers of feminist literature. It is also a timely reminder that equality for women is still a work in progress, and more needs to be done to challenge gender stereotypes and discrimination. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A modern, feminist memoir, which will inspire and uplift women of all ages to follow their own path. Purchase here

Gripped Part 5: Taylor's Story < Back Stacy A. Padula Gripped Part 5: Taylor's Story A real and honest portrayal of the dangers of drug use and the pressures faced by young adults, by author Stacy A. Padula Taylor, a promising young football player, has had a turbulent few years. After an unfortunate incident at school that resulted in him losing his college place, and a debilitating knee injury that led to a painkiller addiction, he becomes embroiled with an organised criminal gang with links to the Mafia. But as Taylor attempts to become sober, leave the gang, and turn his life around, he risks it all for one last drug run. When his criminal associates learn of his intention to leave the gang, they set out to silence him, before he can incriminate anyone else. Unbeknownst to Taylor, another member of the gang is an undercover police officer, and he intervenes to save his life. But the gang cannot risk exposure, and attempt to hunt Taylor down via his friends and family. As Taylor is driven away to safety, his friends and families’ lives are put in grave danger. Gripped Part 5: Taylors Story, is the fifth book in the Gripped series, and a continuation of the previous novel. I hadn’t read any of the previous novels, and whilst there were references to previous events, the book could still be enjoyed as a stand-alone story. This novel tells the story of Taylor, his family, relationships, and run-ins with Bilotti gang. The book tackles issues of addiction, drug dealing, alcohol use and teen sex, providing a real and honest portrayal of the dangers of drug use and the pressures faced by young adults. What I really liked about the book is the representation of regular, high-functioning, and successful kids, and their involvement with a hidden, dangerous, underworld. If it can happen to Taylor, it can happen to anyone. The title of the book is fitting, as I was literally gripped from the first chapter. This book is an enthralling and essential for any young adult, or parent of a young adult. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An enthralling and essential read for any young adult, or parent. I was gripped from the first chapter. A SILVER WINNER and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Raejean Kanter Who Held the Door Open?: Mentoring Through Life's Challenges Author, Raejean Kanter, discusses the positive impact of mentoring. Raejean Kanter has mentored over fifty people in her lifetime. She shares her own personal experience of going through a troubling time. She explains how she hit rock bottom, and the only thing that kept her going, was to focus on the positive things that happened to her that day. As a mentor, she questioned how she could mentor others when her own life was falling apart. She recalls that she became involved in mentoring as a result of people that mentored her, and ‘held the door open’, believing in her, encouraging her. One of those mentors was her father, and another, the owner of a weight loss business who gave her a job following breast cancer. Kanter presents the true stories of three women she mentored. Each story is written by the mentee in her own words. The first story is from Stacey Kent. Stacey met Raejean whilst at university, at a time when she was having lots of fun, but her grades were slipping. Raejean helped Stacy define her aims and establish some life goals. Stacey remains friends with RaeJean to this day. The second story is from Rhonda Ronsman who describes Raejean as a mentor and number one friend. RaeJean supported Rhonda through one of her most difficult times, including following a period of heavy drinking. In the third story, Vân Thanh Nguyễn, a student from Vietnam discusses her relationship with Raejean and other mentors during her studies in the United States. Raejean even visited her home in Vietnam when she struggled to adapt to life back home. In the final story, Theresa Nemetz, describes how Raejean became her first professional mentor, and she uses her experience of working with many mentors to encourage readers to take action and challenge themselves. Raejean shares four beautiful stories of four incredible women. In each story, each woman shares their personal life journey, and how mentors supported them through challenges and helped them to achieve their goals. They describe their friendship with Raejean and other mentors, and how they made a positive difference to their lives. Each story is unique, powerful, and inspiring. The book demonstrates that we all need a friend and mentor, and we are all capable of opening the door to others. As Theresa Nemetz says, ‘I wish everyone could have a Raejean in their life’. I do too! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspirational woman shares four beautiful stories of women she has mentored. Each story is unique, powerful and inspiring. Purchase here

< Back Mariam Latifi A to Z of Mini Muslims A unique and educational book about Islam and being a Muslim, from author Mariam Latifi This is a unique and educational A to Z picture book for children, exploring Islam and being a Muslim. The book is ideal for young Muslims who want to learn a little more about their religion, or for anyone interested in learning about this beautiful religion of peace. Latifi presents a range of interesting facts in an alphabet style picture book, from A which represents the Almighty, All-wise Allah SWT, right through to Z which represents Zakah, which means giving to charity to the poor and needy. This is a great resource for those with limited knowledge of the religion and want to learn more, or for those who want to enhance their knowledge in certain areas. The book also includes a useful glossary of terms and an A to Z of frequently asked questions. This easy-to-read book will help both children and adults to learn about the religion in a really fun and engaging way. It will help them to learn the alphabet, whilst at the same time supporting the development of new knowledge and new vocabulary. The book would be a valuable resource in any home, public or school library to promote religious awareness and diversity. The illustrations by Saba Yasmeen complement the book perfectly. The vibrant and diverse images show the beauty of the religion, and unity of Muslims across the world. We particularly liked the subtle themes and references to Australia. Latifi set out to promote diversity, inclusivity, religious awareness and tolerance, and the book does exactly that. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A fantastic book which promotes diversity, inclusivity, religious awareness, and tolerance in a fun and engaging way. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Marieke Lexmond The Magical Tarot Deck A spellbinding second instalment of the Madigan Chronicles, from author Marieke Lexmond In the second instalment of the Madigan Chronicles, Tara and her family are relieved when the Dagger of Consciousness, an artefact stolen by her evil twin sister Lucy, is recovered, and hidden safely away in a magical tarot card deck. The tarot deck, created by Tara’s husband Seamus, comprises twenty-two cards, and each card embodies a member of Madigan family. When someone draws a card from the deck, the card comes to life and the person painted on the card disappears from real life until they fulfil the question of the person who drew card. But, while Tara’s daughter Ceri is stuck in Fairyland, Lucy’s grandson, Cal, finds and steals the tarot cards and hands them over to Lucy. Lucy, set out on revenge, sees an opportunity to destroy the family and retrieve the dagger. The Madigan’s must stop Lucy before she uses their own tarot magic against them. The Magical Tarot Deck by Marieke Lexmond is an enchanting fantasy fiction novel, full of sorcery, mystery, and magic. Lexmond has written a truly unique and imaginative story, where the reader can escape to a wonderful, magical world of fairies and witches. This is a complex and fast paced story, but very easy to read. With a great plot and well-developed characters, each with their own distinctive personality traits, fantasy fiction fans will love this. You don’t need to read the first book in the series (although it is recommended) as the author provides a brief and useful summary of the previous events. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A unique and imaginative story, where the reader can escape to a wonderful, magical world of fairies and witches. A FINALIST Purchase here

< Back Barry Hoffner Belonging to the World Belonging to the World by Barry Hoffner is a deeply moving memoir that explores themes of grief, healing, and the transformative power of travel. Following the sudden loss of his wife Jackie in Botswana in 2017, Hoffner embarked on a remarkable journey to visit all 193 UN-recognized countries. What began as an attempt to escape his pain evolved into a profound quest for connection, understanding, and closure. The book is structured as a personal narrative, divided into seven parts, each capturing a different phase of Hoffner's journey. Hoffner's travels are both physical and emotional, as he grapples with his grief and seeks solace in the beauty and humanity of the world. His journey takes him to remote and challenging destinations, including Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, and Sudan, where he encounters resilience, kindness, and connection in the face of adversity. Hoffner's vivid descriptions of landscapes, wildlife, and people bring readers along on his journey, from the Kalahari Desert to the bustling streets of Bangkok. His encounters with individuals from diverse cultures, such as Syrian refugees in Lebanon and Bushmen in Botswana, highlight the universal threads of humanity—kindness, resilience, and the desire for connection. The memoir is interwoven with reflections on Hoffner's life with Jackie, their shared love for travel, and the family they built together. Hoffner's writing is raw, introspective, and poignant, capturing the depth of his sorrow and the gradual process of healing. The narrative is filled with moments of wonder and connection. His reflections on love, loss, and resilience are relatable and inspiring, encouraging readers to embrace life's uncertainties and find meaning in unexpected places. Hoffner's journey is about finding a sense of belonging that transcends borders and cultures. His story is a testament to the healing power of connection and the importance of embracing the unknown. The memoir invites readers to reflect on their own journeys and consider how they can find belonging and purpose in their lives. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This beautifully written memoir is a celebration of life, love, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Purchase here