< Back Lori Rotter Breezy Bakes Her Best Breezy Bakes Her Best is a delightful children’s story that celebrates creativity, perseverance, and the discovery of hidden talents. The book follows Breezy, an eager little bear who is excited to help her parents prepare for the day at the Buttercup Bakery. From the very first pages, young readers are drawn into Breezy’s world of floury fun and kitchen mishaps, making the story instantly relatable for any child who has ever tried to help out and found themselves in a bit of a mess. The narrative is structured around Breezy’s earnest attempts to assist with baking, which quickly spiral into chaos—flour clouds, sticky eggs, and spilled salt abound. Rather than scolding, Breezy’s parents gently guide her, allowing her to try new things and learn from her mistakes. This supportive environment is a key strength of the story, modeling patience and encouragement for both children and adults. The turning point comes when Breezy discovers that while she may not be a natural baker, she has a real flair for decorating cakes. The story cleverly connects cake decorating to drawing and painting, making it accessible and inspiring for children who may have artistic inclinations. Breezy’s creative designs transform the bakery’s treats, and her parents’ pride in her unique contribution reinforces the message that everyone has their own special strengths. The illustrations, by Vaughan Duck, are vibrant and playful, perfectly capturing the energy and emotion of Breezy’s adventures. The expressive characters and whimsical details add depth to the story, making each page a visual treat. The book also includes an interactive element at the end, inviting readers to decorate their own cupcake, which encourages engagement and creativity beyond the story itself. The language is rhythmic and lively, making it ideal for read-aloud sessions. The story’s gentle humor and positive resolution make it both entertaining and reassuring for young readers. Breezy Bakes Her Best is a wonderful addition to any home or classroom library, especially for families who love baking, art, or stories about self-discovery. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming and uplifting picture book that encourages children to embrace their individuality, try new things, and find joy in their own unique talents. Purchase here

< Back Sasha Graham Whitney Wins Everything: A Tiny Ninja Book Competitive Whitney learns an important life lesson from her Tiny Ninja, from author Sasha Graham Whitney really does win everything. From football and roller staking, to running and jumping. She is the best at everything, and she knows it! Whitney’s Tiny Ninja tries to remind her that winning is not always the most important thing, but Whitney doesn’t always listen. Whatever it is, Whitney is determined to win. Until one day, Whitney is not invited to a party because her friends are worried that she will win all the prizes, and then her soccer coach changes the rules so her team cannot win the match. Whitney is confused but soon comes to realise that there are more important things than winning and maybe her Tiny Ninja was right after all. This is a charming children’s picture book, with a positive message about kindness and compassion. It reinforces the message that being kind and helping others to succeed feels good, and is just as rewarding as winning yourself. Some young children are extremely competitive by nature and hate to lose, and this book will remind them to focus their energies on having fun and building good friendships. An important life lesson for both children and adults. The illustrations by Angelina Valieva are colourful, whimsical, and extraordinarily detailed. Children will love to find the Tiny Ninjas hidden in the pictures. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A charming children’s picture book, with a positive message about kindness and compassion. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Donna Wyland Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts A collection of twelve well-known psalms, written in rhyme for younger readers. Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts is an illustrated picture book for younger readers with a beautiful collection of twelve psalms, all written in rhyme, by author Donna Wyland. The book contains a selection of well-known psalms (Psalms 1, 4, 8, 15, 19, 20, 23, 24, 27, 29, 32, and 33), each presented in rhyming verse which beautifully captures the essence of the original text, while being accessible and enjoyable for younger audiences. After each psalm, there is a prayer that younger readers can reflect on and apply to their own life. Expertly crafted by Wyland, the rhymes translate complex topics into simple, joyful, and lyrical rhymes. The rhymes will help younger children understand and remember each psalm. Courtney Smith’s vibrant illustrations bring the psalms to life beautifully, and allow young readers to connect with each message. Wyland’s creative use of rhyme, and Smith’s vivid illustrations, make this book accessible and engaging for young readers. This is a great introduction to the Book of Psalms, and a wonderful resource for any teacher, caregiver, or young student. The book will help engage children in spiritual conversations, and will encourage readers to study the original psalms, which are also included for reference at the end of the book. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This joyful collection of psalms would make a great addition to any home, school, or church library. Purchase here

< Back Anna Finch Mellie the Mermaid: Is NOT Scared of ANYTHING Is there anything that will scare Mellie the Mermaid? Mellie the Mermaid is not scared of anything. Not little fish that bite and snap. Or giant clams that clap and trap. Mellie’s mum and dad warn her of the dangers in the sea, the creatures that might sting and bite, or strike and burn. They ask her to be careful when she is on her own exploring the ocean. Mellie is not deterred and ventures out into the deep, deep blue ocean to explore an old shipwreck. She meets a snappy, clappy clam, a bright blue octopus, a whale, a seal, an eel, and a turtle. No, Mellie is still not scared. But as she dives into the shipwreck, she meets a big, toothy shark. Mellie flees as fast as she can and does not stop swish, swish, swishing until she gets all the way home. Mellie realises maybe there are some things she is scared of after all! Mellie the Mermaid is a beautifully illustrated picture book by author Anna Finch about a confident, courageous and adventurous little mermaid who fears nothing. This is a charming and amusing picture book for younger children, featuring magnificent mermaids in glorious underwater scenes. Mellie is a cute and adorable mermaid character, who will delight younger readers. The book is funny and entertaining, but it also teaches children the importance of personal safety. The illustrations by Wathmi de Zoysa are magnificent. I particularly liked the characterisation of the mermaids and the sea creatures, and the underwater colour palette with hues of blue and purple. This is a great book for pre-schoolers and was a joy to read. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming and amusing picture book for younger children, featuring magnificent mermaids in glorious underwater scenes. Purchase here

< Back Clara Donis-Girma Clara and Mr. Milo's Adventures Episode 1 Clara Wanting a Pet Clara dreams of owning her own pet, by author Clara Donis-Girma Little Clara loves animals and would very much like a pet of her own. In Episode 1 Clara thinks about all the different ways she could own her own pet, and asks her mom if she could look after a pet that doesn’t have a home. Clara’s mom explains that owning a pet is a big responsibility, as they need feeding, cleaning, walking, and entertaining every day. Clara shows her mom how responsible she is by cleaning her room and helping out with the housework, and promises to take very good care of a pet. Her mom agrees that she is responsible and suggests they go to their local animal shelter to look at all the animals available for pet adoption. Clare is ecstatic and looks forward to her visit to the animal shelter, when finally, she might be able to take home her very own pet. In Episode 2, Clara goes to the pet shelter and chooses a little orange kitten. In Episode 3 she picks up pet supplies from the store and names the kitten Milo. In Episode 4, she takes the kitten home and in Episode 5, Milo settles into his new home. In Episode 6, Milo has his first visit to the vet, and in Episode 7, Clara celebrates her birthday with Milo and her friends. Clara and Mr. Milo's Adventures, by author Clara Donis-Girma, is a sweet picture book for younger children. The book introduces the reader to Clara, a little girl who dreams of owning her own pet. This book will help children and families learn the importance of responsible pet ownership and is ideal for anyone considering pet ownership and adoption. The illustrations by Lana Lee are simple, colourful, and delightful. Young children will love the charming main character, Clara, and the super cute Milo, and I’m sure they will look forward to more adventures from the pair in the future. Star rating: 5 stars Summary: A sweet picture book with a charming main character and delightful illustrations. 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 James Christopher Starry-Eyed Stanley: The Little Star Who Dared to Dream Stanley the star was born in a beautiful cloud of dust and gas. Stanley is a little star, but has big dreams to be the brightest star in the sky. A star that everyone looks up to. Stanley travels across the night sky, and meets a comet, a big gas planet, a moon, and the sun. As Stanley travels further through space, he meets a friendly alien, some tiny atoms, a meteoroid, a real life astronaut, and even a snowman and a cow! Each of his new friends tell him a joke, give him words of advice and encourage him to follow his dreams. Stanley’s journey through space teaches him important life lessons, which helps his own light to shine brighter. Starry-Eyed Stanley: The Little Star Who Dared to Dream is an illustrated picture book for children by author James Christopher. The book follows a curious little star who traverses the cosmos to follow his dream. During the journey, he encounters many galactic objects along the way. The book encourages young children to follow their dreams, but it also provides a great introduction to science and astronomy. Young children will laugh out loud at the space themed jokes, and will be mesmerised by the images of space from NASA and the author. Overall, a fun and insightful picture book for budding space explorers everywhere. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun and insightful picture book about a curious little star who traverses the cosmos to follow his dream. Purchase here

< Back Freya Novak At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride Freya Novak’s at the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride is a delightful and whimsical tale that takes readers on a charming journey through the bustling Ragtag Hotel. The story is centered around Dallas Dingo, the hotel’s cheerful and resourceful elevator operator, who navigates a sweltering day with a smile as he helps a colorful cast of animal guests reach the mysterious fourteenth floor. The story begins with Colin Capybara, who sets the tone with his humorous complaints about the heat. As the elevator fills up, readers are introduced to a diverse group of characters, including Oona Ostrich, Queenie Quokka, Tiny Tarsier, Amie Armadillo, and Oma Okapi. Each animal brings their own quirks and personality to the story, creating a lively and entertaining dynamic. The dialogue is playful and engaging, with each character greeting Dallas in their native language, adding a multicultural touch to the tale. Anastasiya Halionka’s illustrations are vibrant and full of humor. The expressive depictions of the animals and the bustling elevator bring the story to life. A perfect read for children and families, offering a blend of humor, vibrant illustrations, and a heartwarming message. The book’s playful tone and diverse cast of characters make it an engaging and inclusive story that will leave readers smiling. Freya Novak’s storytelling, combined with Anastasiya Halionka’s captivating illustrations, creates a memorable and enjoyable reading experience. Whether you’re looking for a fun bedtime story or a light-hearted tale to brighten your day, this book is a wonderful choice. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful and funny picture book for young readers, with a charming cast of characters, and super illustrations. Purchase here

< Back Betty Cetas Otto and the Lost Children Otto and the Lost Children is a charming children’s story set in the magical woods of Finland, where adventure, mischief, and kindness intertwine. Written by Betty Cetas and beautifully illustrated by Ugur Kose, the book transports readers to a lakeside cottage, where three children embark on a fishing trip that quickly turns into an unexpected journey. Otto is a clever and playful fish who delights in tricking fishermen. When he notices three young siblings heading out onto the lake without checking their boat’s gas tank, Otto decides to have some fun. He leads them from one fishing spot to another, always just out of reach, until they are far from their grandmother’s cottage and, eventually, lost. But, when the weather suddenly turns and the children realize they are lost with an empty gas tank, the tone shifts from playful to tense. Otto, having enjoyed his prank, feels remorse when he sees the children’s fear. Otto has a big decision to make, should he help the children return home, or leave them to fend for themselves? The book’s underlying message is one of forgiveness and doing the right thing, even after making a mistake. Otto’s decision models growth and compassion and will help young children understand the consequences of heir actions. The dedication to the author’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren adds a personal touch, making the story feel like a treasured family tale. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful adventure story that encourages curiosity, kindness, and the courage to make amends. Purchase here

< Back James Whitmer Leo & Lou: When We Grow Up Book blurb... Most children at some point think about what they will be when they grow up. Will they be a teacher, an athlete, a writer, an actor, a policeman, a dancer, a fireman, a priest, etc.? This is an imaginary story about the daily lives of Leo and Lou, brother and sister field mice, and their family. In playing together Leo and Lou suggest occupations and professions they imagine for themselves: a nurse, a cowboy, a pilot, a ballerina, an author, etc. As mama and papa learn of their interests, the mama reminds them of the saying: "Be what you want to be." Purchase here

< Back Michael and Nicole Collazo Cozy Critters on the Ark A contemporary twist on the Noah’s Ark story, for young readers. Rufi is a little mouse who believes that hard work makes a happy home. One day, the pipes burst in his house, and Rufi is forced to build a new home. As he searches for a perfect spot to build a new home in the forest, Rufi meets Noah. Noah explains that a storm is on the way, and he is building a big boat to keep all of earth's creatures safe during the storm. Noah invites Rufi to join him and help build the boat. Rufi wastes no time and gets straight to work on the boat. He works tirelessly to get the boat finished and the Ark sets sail, with a pair of all living creatures on earth. On board, Rufi works day and night to take care of all the creatures and becomes good friends with the humans and other critters. But one day, a pipe bursts on the boat and Rufi is nearly swept away. The critters put aside their differences and join together to help Rufi to safety. Rufi fixes the pipe and soon begins to realise that it is not hard work that makes a happy home, it is friendship and love. Cozy Critters on the Ark is an illustrated picture book for young children by Michael and Nicole Collazo, based on the story of Noah’s Ark. A lone, little mouse named Rufi unexpectedly finds his way on board the Ark. He works tirelessly to help all the humans and creatures on board, and makes lots of new friends. As Rufi finds a sense of purpose and belonging on the boat, all the humans and creatures learn how to coexist and live together. They put aside their differences and work together to save life on earth. The book is a great resource for parents and educators to help young children learn about the biblical story and core Christian values. The vibrant, cartoon-like illustrations bring the biblical story to life and the sweet mouse character will appeal to young readers. A captivating and entertaining read for young-ones and adults alike, and a poignant and timely reminder of the importance of friendship, unity, and collaboration. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An endearing little mouse collaborates with humans and other creatures, to build an Ark and save life on earth. Purchase here

< Back Brandon Moore Bridget Kimble Learns Self Control Bridget Kimble is looking forward to her first day at EnMotion elementary school and cannot wait to meet lots of new friends. She travels to school by bus and meets her teacher, Ms Widget. Ms Widget explains the school rules and asks each student to introduce themselves. But, when it is Bridget’s turn to introduce herself, a boy interrupts her. Bridget is upset but Ms Widget steps in and allows the boy to introduce himself first. Bridget stays quiet and when the boy has finished talking, she calmly introduces herself. Later, Ms Widget explains why she stepped in and praises Bridget for demonstrating self-control. Rather than reacting to the boy, Bridget processed the situation and made a decision to control her emotions. Bridget Kimble Learns Self Control is an illustrated picture book by Brandon Moore about a little girl’s first day at elementary school and the big feelings that come with it. When an interaction in the classroom doesn’t go as planned, her teacher gently guides her through a lesson in self-control and kindness. Moore skilfully captures the emotional highs and lows of a first day at school, offering readers a realistic and relatable experience. The story will help children learn that it is okay to feel sad or upset when someone doesn’t follow the rules, and how to pause, breathe and respond calmly. The anime-style illustrations by Mick Edrick M. Marcellana are vibrant and expressive, perfectly capturing Bridget’s experience and emotions. The book not only helps young readers learn important life skills, it also introduces them to this striking and expressive art-form. With additional creative content at the end of the book, this is a great resource for budding comic book or anime artists. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A sweet and empowering first-day-at-school story that will help young children learn self-control and important life skills. Purchase here