< Back Elisa Stad Mama's Love Language: Sometimes Tastes Like Hainan Chicken Rice Jade lives in two worlds. Her mom is Chinese, and her dad is American. Jade notices that her mom is different to the other parents. She doesn’t give hugs like the other parents, and she asks Jade lots of questions about school. Sometimes, other people do not understand Jade’s mom because of her accent, and she is embarrassed by her. Jade wants to be like all the other kids in her class, and she doesn’t like what she sees when she looks in the mirror. Jade is upset when her mom tells her she is Chinese. Jade does not want to be Chinese, she wants to be American like all the other kids. Jade’s dad explains that she is made up of both her mom and her dad, and she is both Chinese and American. As Jade learns more about her mom’s family and her childhood, she soon understands why her mom is the way she is. While her mom may not give hugs like the other parents, she shows her love in different ways. Mama's Love Language: Sometimes Tastes Like Hainan Chicken Rice is a touching, thoughtful and beautifully illustrated children’s book that explores the challenges and joys of growing up with mixed heritage. The book follows Jade, a little girl who is half Chinese and half American, as she begins to notice how different she is from other children. As Jade learns more about her mom’s life and culture, she learns to accept and embrace her Chinese heritage. The book is particularly valuable for children who come from mixed cultural backgrounds, but is also an excellent resource for all children, helping them to understand and appreciate different cultures. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A touching, thoughtful and beautifully illustrated children’s book, celebrating diversity and multi-culturalism. 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

< Back Susan and Matthew Downing Bradykin's Snowy Adventure Fun and frolics in the snow, with pup Bradykin and his siblings. Bradykin, a Coton de Tulear pup, and his siblings pack up their winter gear and set out on a fun-filled, snowy adventure. They travel to a mountainside retreat where the pups enjoy playing arcade games and pool in the games room, skiing and snowboarding down the snowy slopes, and eating fondue by the warmth of the open fire. One pup takes part in a snowboarding race, twisting and turning at speed down the snowy slopes, while his siblings watch and cheer him on. The pups explore the snow covered trails on their snowmobiles, and gather by an outdoor fire pit to tell stories. As the pups return to their mountain retreat, they remember the precious times spent with their siblings in the winter wonderland. Bradykin's Snowy Adventure, by authors Susan and Matthew Downing is a fun, action-packed picture book for younger readers, about a little Coton de Tulear pup named Bradykin, and his siblings. In this book, Bradykin travels with his siblings to a mountainside retreat, where the pups have fun and frolics in the winter wonderland. This is a charming book, with an adorable group of canine characters, who enjoy adventures and spending time together. There is a core message of family, friendship and togetherness throughout the book. The vibrant illustrations by Chris and Maria Young bring the pups’ personalities and the snowy landscapes to life perfectly. Children who enjoy animal characters, thrilling adventures, and snow sports, will love this book. An excellent choice for a cozy, snowy day, by the fire. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun-filled, family adventure in the snow, with a bunch of charming and adorable pups. Purchase here

< Back Jessica Dailey My Tiny Pet Elephant A fun picture book about a little girl and a most unusual pet, by author Jessica Dailey If you could choose any type of tiny pet, what would you choose? A miniature pup? No! A miniscule kitten? No! A teeny rabbit? No! How about a tiny elephant? An elephant so small it can fit in your hand. Yes, yes, yes! For one little girl, her wish is to own a tiny elephant of her very own. An elephant so small it could fit right in the palm of her hand. An elephant so small she could take it in her pocket to school. If she had a tiny elephant, she would play hide and seek with it, she would build him his very own tiny village, and she would read to him at bedtime. The best thing about owning an elephant is the tickles, cuddles, and kisses. Everyone needs a tiny elephant, they make the best of friends, but be careful, even though miniscule in proportions, they still make an enormous mess! My Tiny Pet Elephant by author Jessica Dailey is a sweet, playful, and funny picture book, about a little girl with a vivid imagination. Young children are naturally curious and often ask the most random and unusual questions. This book will spark children’s imagination and encourage further creative conversations. If you could choose any type of tiny pet, what would you choose? With further fun facts and interactive activities at the end of the book, this is a great resource to help parents, carers, and teachers, keep children active and engaged. The illustrations by Gabby Correia are stunning, colorful, and funny. The characters are adorable and will delight younger readers. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet, playful, and funny picture book, that will spark children’s imagination. 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 Joe Ciccarelli When You Meet a Hangry Howard Meet a Hangry Howard, by author Joe Ciccarelli Have you ever felt angry and irritable as a result of hunger? Have you ever seen someone snap if they skip breakfast? Or, become bad tempered if they miss out on lunch? I’m sure you have, as it’s quite common for people to experience some irritability when they have not eaten in a while. That sudden, irrational rage when we are hungry is often referred to as "hangry" (a combination of "hunger" and "anger"). So, what do you do when you meet a Hangry Howard? How would you satisfy his hunger, and tame his temper? You could bake a delicious cake, but I wouldn’t recommend it. You could cook a three-course dinner, but I wouldn’t advise it. You could even provide a menu of scrumptious options, but that might not be the best solution. When it comes to Hangry Howards, only the fastest foods will do. Whether it’s beef stew, or cheese fondue; handmade strudel or homemade noodles; you better feed him, and feed him quick! When You Meet a Hangry Howard is a fun and entertaining picture book by Joe Ciccarelli, about the common phenomenon of feeling angry when you have not eaten. Written in verse, with lots of fabulous, tongue twisting rhymes, this is a fun book to read out aloud. Young children will laugh out loud at all the Hangry Howards, and may even recognise themselves too! There are some unusual foods listed that might not be familiar to younger readers, but there is a useful glossary at the end of the book to prompt further discussions. The cartoon like illustrations by Gary Ciccarelli are superb. Vibrant, eye catching and amusing, they capture the story and humour perfectly. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun, fast-food filled book, for foodies 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

Book Reviews: Age 8 to 12 Load more Danielle Simone The Adventures of Syd: Lost in Bone Cave Kristin Nilsen The Scott Fenwick Diaries: A Novel Linda Oatman High First There Was Bird Julie Ellis Williams Bella Joins the Service Karissa Nix I Can Go Anywhere Liza Martini Squirrels of Speedwell Farms Lori Giesey A Moment in Time Josh Weiss-Roessler Future Me and the VR Prison Vicki Scott Burns Charli's Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure Hans Ness Rolo and the Legend of Jack Bones Mary Myers Pocket Watch Portal Adventure Heidi Solomon-Orlick I Have a Voice: A Book of Listening LOAD MORE

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Ingefaer vod Renku Aere Warrior < Back Rene Vecka Ingefaer vod Renku Aere Warrior Ingefaer vod Renku: Ære Warrior is a standout young adult fantasy novel that skillfully blends the rigors of military academy life with a deeply personal journey of growth, justice, and resilience. Set in the Mid Dreki Realm before the return of magic, the story follows Ingefaer, a determined and resourceful young woman, as she strives to break through cultural norms and become an Ære Warrior—a rare feat for women in her world. The novel excels in its realistic depiction of military training. Combat scenes are grounded in tactical intelligence and physical realism, focusing on footwork, balance, and teamwork rather than exaggerated fantasy heroics. For example, Ingefaer's swordplay is described with attention to practical technique, and the narrative often pauses for after-action critiques, reinforcing the importance of learning and leadership. Ingefaer's journey from a grieving, vengeful orphan to a compassionate and clever leader is both believable and inspiring. The supporting cast—such as the wise archer Hjorn and the determined teammate Knut—are given depth, with their own strengths and vulnerabilities. The camaraderie and rivalries among cadets are nuanced, reflecting real group dynamics under pressure. The book tackles issues of gender discrimination head-on. Ingefaer's struggle to be accepted as a female officer candidate is met with institutional resistance and personal sabotage, culminating in a dramatic trial that exposes systemic bias. The narrative ultimately champions justice over vengeance, as Ingefaer learns to seek lawful redress rather than personal retribution for her parents' deaths. The story is structured around a series of escalating trials—physical, intellectual, and moral—that keep the reader invested. The academy's competitive environment, with its shifting alliances and high stakes, provides a compelling backdrop for Ingefaer's growth. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A story of courage, compassion, and cleverness, which is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Purchase here

< Back Ian Slatter The Jellybean Detective Club Book blurb... Can you solve all 10 cases? Max and Maisie Morse might seem like ordinary 11 year olds, but to their friends, family and the residents of Chadmouth they are The Jellybean Detective Club. Liars, cheats, con-artists and thieves beware - The Jellybean Detective Club is on the case. Featuring 10 short stories for you to solve, with the solutions at the end of the book, join Max and Maisie as they pit their wits against: * The Case of the Hideous Vase * The Case of the Missing Test Paper * The Case of the E-Bike Break-In * The Case of the Stolen Snowboard * The Case of the Artist’s Gift * The Case of the Very Cross Coach * The Case of the Slippery Snake * The Case of the Supermega Breakfast Challenge * The Case of the Chadmouth Panther * The Case of the Terrible Tagger. With a short-story format that will appeal to reluctant readers, The Jellybean Detective Club's puzzle element also encourages youngsters to think for themselves whilst enjoying the stories. Perfect for fans of middle grade mystery books. Purchase here

Wren and the Tarnished Tiger < Back E.M. Leander Wren and the Tarnished Tiger Two young people, lost in their world, find a magical connection. A young orphan, Wren, is the lighthouse keeper in a town called Split, in the country of Aclines. When war breaks out with neighbouring Ocron, Wren is isolated from the town in the lighthouse where she lives and works. Wren has a unique ability to communicate and connect with animals, and she is cast out by the townsfolk who consider her strange. When an injured Tiger arrives at the lighthouse, Wren shelters the tiger and treats his wounds. Split is defeated in the war by Ocron, and the tiger returns back to the wild. But word soon gets out that Wren can control animals, and she is approached by an Ocronian from the ‘School of the Silver Flame,’ who believes she is a Mage. Mage’s have magical powers that can be used to control the natural elements - wind, earth, fire, and water. Wren leaves her home in Split and travels to the school, where she is manacled until she learns how to control her magic. Aris, a handsome and arrogant young man, is a Shield, an animal shifter who can shift from human to animal form. Shields are trained from childhood to safeguard and protect a Mage. A Mage and a Shield are paired and bonded together for life. Aris is grieving the loss of his Mage and best friend, Stefan, and has not shifted into his animal form since his death. As Aris goes in search of another Mage, he meets Wren, and they discover they have a magical connection. But are Aris and Wren compatible to form a bonded pair? Will Wren ever learn to control her magic, and be free of her shackles? And will she ever see her tarnished tiger again? Wren and the Tarnished Tiger is the first book in the Game of Gods series by E.M. Leander. T his is a fantastic fantasy fiction novel for young adult readers, written in a dual narrative and alternating between Wren and Aris’s point of view. The novel follows Wren’s journey as she is uprooted from her home and thrust into a world of magic, and Aris’s journey as he goes in search of a new Mage, following the tragic death of his best friend. This is a thrilling, fast paced novel, with two charming characters, and a mesmerising world full of magic, drama, and intrigue. With epic battle scenes, animal magic, and a beautiful romance, this is a fantastic, fantasy fiction novel, not to be missed. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fantastic fantasy fiction novel for young adult readers, with epic battle scenes, animal magic, and a beautiful romance. Purchase here