< Back Jacqueline Priestly Life with a Parrot Brynn loved the idea of living with a parrot. A best friend that could perch on her arm. But the reality of living with a parrot was very different. The constant babbling. The endless chatter. The repetition of every single word. The yap, yap, yap! Brynn’s head hurt and her ears ached. All she wanted to do was play with her new friend and have a little bit of peace and quiet. She even bought her parrot a karaoke machine, but the screeching was too loud. Living with a parrot was way too tough! But one day, Brynn had an idea. She didn’t want to lose her friend and decided to give her praise every day. By sharing positive affirmations, her parrot repeated them with a soft sweet glow. When the parrot’s words were spoken with meaning and kindness, all the other noise and chaos faded away. Brynn soon learned to accept her parrot, the loud shrieks, and silly squawks, and appreciated the time chatting, giggling, and sharing stories together. Life with a Parrot is a sweet and charming illustrated picture book, by author Jacqueline Priestly. Written in playful rhyme, and featuring a cute and slightly mischievous parrot, the book will appeal to young children who love animals and enjoy funny stories. Children will laugh out loud at the chaos the parrot brings to Brynn’s home but will soon learn to love the adorable bird. With a subtle message about the importance of respecting differences, accepting others the way they are, and the power of positive words. The illustrations are bright and expressive, perfectly capturing both the noisy energy of the parrot and the emotions of the little girl. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heartwarming and clever story that teaches young children how positive words can transform difficult situations. Purchase here

< Back Anna Kutishcheva Jake and Nick's Spooky Fall A spooky tale, with a couple of adorable canine characters from author and illustrator Anna Kutishcheva An adorable picture book about two canine friends and their fun-filled adventures. Jake wants to play. He is happy, confident, and energetic. He wants to jump and frolic in the leaves with his friend Nick. But Nick isn’t in the mood to play today. He is tired and a little scared. He sees monsters everywhere! In the closet, under the bed, and behind the shower curtain. Nick has nowhere to hide! Jake is not afraid of monsters. He reassures his friend there are no monsters, it’s just his imagination. But the dogs need to be on guard. Someone or something is stealing their kibble! Is it just Nick’s imagination? Or do monsters really exist? The story and the fear of the unknown will resonate with young children. Those sudden movements, unusual objects or unexpected sounds can often create such anxiety in little people. The book will provide comfort to young children that it is perfectly okay to be a little scared sometimes, but that not everything is as it seems. Things that might at first appear scary are usually nothing to worry about at all. Young children will love the adorable canine characters and their fun-filled adventures. They will laugh at Nick’s attempts to run away and hide as they discover the real identity of the ‘monsters.’ Kutishcheva’s illustrations are delightful. The whimsical, watercolour style illustrations bring the story and the characters to life, and will engage readers of all ages. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A super cute book, about two canine friends and their fear of monsters. A FINALIST and highly recommended. Purchase here

< Back Kateryna Dronova Let's Look, Not Touch A curious little boy is spending time with his mom on the beach, when he sees a little starfish washed up on the shore. He wants to catch the starfish, but his mom reminds him to look, not touch. The next day, the little boy is hiking in the forest when he finds a snake hidden in the grass. He wants to catch the snake, but his mom reminds him again to look, not touch. As the boy goes on more wildlife adventures with his mom, he learns the importance of protecting and caring for wildlife, by looking only and avoiding touching creatures in their natural habitats. But when it is the boy’s birthday, he finally discovers something extra special he can play with all day long. Let’s Look, Not Touch is an illustrated picture book by author Kateryna Dronova, about a curious and adventurous boy who loves spending time in nature. He wants to play with every creature he meets, but his mom gently reminds him of the importance of not touching and looking only. The message is delivered in a warm and reassuring way and encourages children to make thoughtful choices. The colorful illustrations bring each creature to life and add a touch of humor to the story. Written in rhyme, and with plenty of repetition, this book will help young children learn the importance of caring for and protecting nature. Overall, a delightful and charming read that is both fun and educational, making it an excellent choice for young readers who love animals and adventure. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming picture book about a curious little boy who loves exploring the natural world. Purchase here

< Back Amber M. Berkowitz Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes to School The Happy Little Piglet Goes to School is a delightful children's book that follows the cheerful adventures of Gigglet, a lovable piglet who radiates joy and positivity. Written by A.M. Berkowitz and beautifully illustrated by Nifty Illustration, this book is a perfect blend of engaging storytelling and vibrant visuals that will captivate young readers. The story begins with Gigglet waking up in her cozy hay bed, ready to embrace the day with her infectious giggles and enthusiasm. From the moment she stretches and rolls in the hay to her journey to school, Gigglet’s cheerful personality shines through. The narrative is filled with playful rhymes and repetitive phrases, such as “giggle giggle giggle” and “gaggle gaggle gaggle,” which make the story fun and easy for children to follow. At school, Gigglet’s adventures continue as she explores various activities, including creative writing, painting, dancing, and enjoying snacks. Each activity is described with lively, rhythmic language that mirrors the joy and energy of childhood. The colorful and whimsical artwork by Nifty Illustration perfectly complements the cheerful tone of the story. The characters are adorable, and the scenes are filled with charming details that will capture the imagination of young children. The book also carries a heartwarming message about the joy of learning, creativity, and spending time with loved ones. Gigglet’s interactions with her classmates, her love for art and dance, and her bond with her mother all highlight the importance of embracing life’s simple pleasures and cherishing the moments that bring happiness. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming and uplifting book that is sure to bring smiles and giggles to children and adults alike. Purchase here

< Back Kimberly A Perry Finley the Fairy Finley the Fairy escapes the forest to explore the human world . When all of the other fairies are tucked up in bed, Finley the Fairy sneaks out of her tree house, travels through the dark forest, and ventures into town. She finds a welcoming home, and with a little help from a garden gnome, she flutters inside. As the humans sleep peacefully in their beds, Finley explores their home. She has a quick snack from the pantry, she paints a picture with glitter, she plays with the human’s toys, and she even completes a few household chores. But as soon as the sun rises, Finley must head back to the forest before the humans and the other fairies wake from their slumber. Can she make it back in time without being noticed? And where will her next adventure take her? Finley the Fairy is an illustrated picture book for young children by author Kimberly A Perry and illustrated by Lau Frank. The book follows Finley, a little fairy who sneaks out of her bed at night to explore the forbidden human world. Finley is smart, mischievous, and adventurous, and young children will laugh out loud at her outrageous antics, as the humans sleep peacefully in their beds. This is a fun and delightful picture book which will help spark young children’s curiosity and imagination, as they wonder whether fairies really exist and what they might get up to in the middle of the night. Beautifully written in lyrical rhyme, with an adorable character and dreamy illustrations, this book is a bedtime treat for younger children and their caregivers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun and delightful picture book about a mischievous and adventurous little fairy, which will help spark young children’s curiosity and imagination. Purchase here

< Back Chef Seff Dinosaur Cookbook: Tyrannosaurus Tacos Book blurb... Step into a world where dinosaurs and delicious Mexican cuisine collide in Tyrannosaurus Tacos, the first book in the Dinosaur Cookbook series! Follow along as our charming dinosaur chefs prepare and devour their tacos ― then follow the recipe to make your own! With vibrant illustrations and simple, step-by-step instructions, you can read about tacos together, cook tacos together, and eat tacos together! Tyrannosaurus Tacos makes mealtimes an adventure for the whole family. Whether you have a picky eater or a budding chef, this book will inspire a love for cooking and healthy eating. Get ready to roar with delight as you create mouthwatering meals with your favorite dinosaurs Purchase here

< Back Neera Badhwar Kali the Elephant Learns from Socrates the Philosopher Kali the Elephant by Neera K. Badhwar is a delightful and heartwarming children’s picture book that tackles the universal theme of self-acceptance and turning perceived flaws into strengths. The book follows the journey of Kali, a young elephant who is teased by her classmates about her appearance. Through her creative attempts to change her looks, Kali learns an invaluable lesson about embracing her unique traits. Kali tries to shrink her ears and trunk using water and sunlight, only to discover that these methods don’t work. Feeling disheartened, she stumbles upon a comic book about Socrates, the ancient Greek philosopher, who was also teased about his appearance. Inspired by Socrates’ witty response to his friends, Kali learns to see her features as strengths rather than flaws. She uses her big ears, long trunk, and large eyes to help her classmates, teaching them the importance of appreciating their own unique qualities. The book is illustrated by Ady Branzei, and the colorful artwork beautifully captures the emotions and humor of the story. Badhwar’s background in philosophy shines through as she introduces children to Socrates’ wisdom in an accessible and entertaining way. The story is not only enjoyable but educational too, subtly teaching children about genetics and the importance of self-confidence. Young readers will laugh, learn, and be inspired by Kali’s journey to self-acceptance. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful picture book that encourages empathy and resilience, and celebrates individuality. A valuable addition to any child’s bookshelf. Purchase here

< Back Joe Burud AJ and the Bouncing Ball AJ has fun with his favourite ball, by author and illustrator Joe Burud AJ finds his favourite ball hidden underneath his bed. He throws the ball and chases it around the house, into the kitchen where it clashes into the pots and pans, into the bathroom where it makes a bubbly mess, and into the living room where it knocks over a lamp. But the ball isn’t quite finished yet, and accidently hits AJ’s dad straight on the head! Finally, AJ manages to catch the ball and is whisked off to bed before it causes anymore damage. When AJ’s dad assesses the damage, the mischievous ball is going to be in so much trouble! This is a fun, short and sweet picture book for younger children, written in rhyme. Children will laugh at the mischievous bouncing ball and the havoc it creates as it bounces around the house. They will laugh at AJ’s unsuccessful attempts to catch the ball and I am sure they will (secretly) enjoy the ball hitting the poor dad’s head! I like the way Burud represents the simplicity and joy of play and childhood – sleeping with a treasured toy and having so much fun you don’t notice the mess left behind. In an age when so many little people are attached to technological devices, it was a pleasure to read about a little boy having so much fun with a simple ball. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A fun, short and sweet picture book for younger children, and a pleasure to read about a little boy having so much fun with a simple ball. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Kate Seng Mazie's Full Heart: An Adoption Story Mazie's Full Heart highlights the natural curiosity of an adopted child. Mazie's desire for clarity allows her to realize just how much she loves the only family that she knows and that includes Noodle, her favorite pet! 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 Angela Odusanya Amelia's Easter Surprise It’s Easter and Amelia is searching for the Easter Bunny. She looks everywhere, but he is nowhere to be found. She searches the kitchen and finds a little purple egg hidden inside a cupboard. Inside the egg is a pink feather. Amelia continues her search for the bunny in the garden, and finds a blue egg. Inside the egg is another pink feather. Then she finds another egg, and another, and another, and another. Inside each colorful egg is something different. A rock, buttons, yarn, and some gems. Amelia still cannot find the elusive Easter Bunny, and wonders why he has left her these strange gifts. As she examines the objects in each egg, and lays them out to create loose part art, she discovers that the Easter Bunny was there all along! Amelia's Easter Surprise is a sweet and charming illustrated picture book for young children, by author Angela Odusanya. Part of ‘Amelia’s Loose Part Art’ series, this book follows Amelia as she searches for the Easter Bunny and finds new objects to create an extra special, Easter-themed loose part art. The book not only encourages imagination and creativity, but it also helps to develop language and counting skills. Young children will have lots of fun recognising the different colors and counting the eggs as Amelia searches for the Easter Bunny. They will particularly enjoy searching for the hidden bunny on each page, and may even be inspired to create their own Easter Bunny with loose part art. With lots of rhyme and repetition, this is a great read-aloud book for children and their parents or caregivers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A joyful, Easter-themed rhyming picture book, to inspire budding artists and creative minds. Purchase here

< Back Brett Gunning and Stacy Padula On the Right Path: Book One Book blurb... "The On the Right Path book series is a slam dunk! The stories are rich with important lessons that kids will enjoy reading. It belongs in every home." - Mike D'Antoni, NBA Coach. "The On the Right Path books belong in every school, library, and home, as they teach invaluable life lessons to children in an entertaining and relatable way." - Kevin McHale, NBA Hall of Famer. "The On the Right Path book series is one that should be read in every household. The life lessons shared through entertaining stories of basketball and faith are invaluable to young minds." - Joel Osteen, Pastor of Lakewood Church. Join Jayden, Jordan, their little sister Jasmine, and their friend Shai as the group experiences their first basketball camp and learns lessons about life along the way. Parents will love this uplifting book, which encourages children to love others and teaches the importance of making people feel welcome and loved. NBA Coach Brett Gunning and award-winning author Stacy Padula have teamed up to create the On The Right Path (OTRP) book series. OTRP is also a non-profit organization created by Brett Gunning to guide youth basketball players on the right path to achieving their maximum potential through education, mentorship, and skill development. The core principles of OTRP are guidance, inspiration, and creativity. The book series focuses on six life-skill pillars: Loving Others, Being Unselfish, Staying Healthy & Strong, Showing Respect, Showing Forgiveness, and Having Fun. Purchase here