< Back Melitta Santos Fini: The beauty of a broken shell A little turtle finds her inner beauty, by author Melitta Santos One day, Fini the turtle is out walking when she trips over and breaks her shell. Fini thinks she is ugly, and no one will want to play with her because of her broken shell. Her friend, Jack the Jaguar, comforts Fini and offers to help her find someone to fix her shell. They meet Boris the Tapir who tries to fix Fini’s shell with an aquatic plant, but it is too big for the little turtle. Next, they meet Tim the Armadillo, who suggests a coconut shell, but it is too little for Fini’s shell. They meet Bea the Bee, but she can’t help and takes the to see Ana the spider. Ana has a solution, but it will take five long days to fix Fini’s shell. Fini and her new friends stay with Ana while she starts to work, and they have lots of fun, games, food and laughter. Ana makes Fini a magic nanduti, a brightly coloured, pretty lace cover for her shell. Fini is delighted with the nanduti, and Ana explains that it doesn’t fully cover her scars and reflects the inner beauty of the wearer. Fini not only has a beautiful nanduti, but also has four new friends. Fini: The Beauty of a Broken Shell by author Melitta Santos is a sweet and charming, illustrated picture book about a little pond turtle who goes in search of a new shell, when her shell is cracked after a fall. As Fini embarks on her journey, she meets lots of new friends, and soon discovers the importance of friendships, and that real beauty comes from within. The book teaches younger children about the wildlife and cultural heritage of Paraguay. With further information about each character and their values, and information about the nanduti, this book is a wonderful resource for parents, carers and teachers. The book will encourage young children to find their inner beauty and will help to develop confidence and self-esteem in young children. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and charming picture book with important life lessons that will help to develop confidence and self-esteem in young children. Purchase here

< Back Tina Neely Bacon's Very Important Christmas Job! Bacon Bits (Bacon for short) wants to help his family get ready for Christmas. Everyone has a job to make Santa’s work easier, and Bacon would like his own job too. He attempts to help his forever daddy build special toys for children, but he ends up making a big mess. He tries to help his forever mom spread the joy of Christmas by singing Christmas carols, but poor Bacon does not have the best singing voice. He even tries to help mawmaw by sealing Christmas card envelopes with his nose, but he makes all the cards go soggy. But just when Bacon has given up all hope of helping Santa, Santa recognizes Bacon’s unique talent and finds the perfect job for a Vietnamese pot-bellied pig. Tina Neely’s Bacon’s Very Important Christmas Job! is a delightful and heartwarming children’s book that captures the magic of Christmas through the eyes of Bacon Bit, a lovable Vietnamese pot-bellied pig. The story follows Bacon’s journey as he tries to help Santa in numerous ways, but nothing seems to go according to plan. Every time things go wrong, his family tells him he is loved. A wonderful way to remind young readers that everyone is loved and has something special to contribute. This is a funny and charming story for young readers, with valuable lessons about love, acceptance, belonging, and finding one’s special role in the world. The book’s vibrant and quirky illustrations complement the story perfectly. The inclusion of over five hundred hidden hearts adds an interactive element, making it a fun and engaging read for children. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A festive, heartwarming tale that will leave readers smiling and inspired. Pig-tastic! Purchase here

< Back Joe Caruso In the Image of God - A Story of Identity and Value A fun, accessible and engaging book for younger children about Christian values, by Author Joe Caruso In the Image of God: A Story of Identity and Value by Joe Caruso is a beautiful children’s picture book filled with positive affirmations that will encourage young children to believe in themselves, just the way God does. The book will help children to understand they are unique, good, have spirit, speak the truth, are just, wise, creative, and have power and purpose. The book encourages children to show love for those who may doubt them, mock them, or hurt them, ‘With love you’ll deflate, all life’s hurt, hate and crime. With love change the world, one heart at a time.’ Beautifully written in rhyme, with charming illustrations by Alina Shabelnyk, this book is a fun, accessible and engaging way for younger children to learn about Christian values. It is a great resource for parents, carers and teachers and will help nurture kindness, compassion, confidence, and self-belief in young children. This is a wonderful, read together book and I imagine it will become a bedtime favourite, as young children will love to read aloud to ‘For you were made in the image of God. In the image of God, you were made,’ which is repeated throughout the book. The illustrations by Alina Shabelnyk are wonderful, and complement the positive messages in the book perfectly. We particularly enjoyed the diversity of the characters, and the wide range of activities presented, which will appeal to a wide and diverse audience. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: Beautifully written in rhyme, with charming illustrations, this book will help nurture kindness, compassion, confidence, and self-belief in young children. Purchase here

< Back Nicola A Lewis Tilda finds her rainbow Tilda the Tortoise loves the colour green, but she is curious to see what other colours exist outside of her garden. She sets out to explore but a little robin tells her, her journey is impossible without wings. Tilda is not deterred and sets out on her adventure. She meets a butterfly with golden yellow wings laced with red. Tilda has never seen such beautiful colours before. The butterfly has tired wings and decides to accompany Tilda on her journey. They travel to the pond and meet a fairy, with white and pink petals. The fairy has never been far from the pond, and joins the pair on their journey. They meet an old frog wearing a navy blue cap, and an orange and red snake who thinks he is too scary. They join Tilda and the others and journey into the unknown. The new friends don’t know where they are going, and the pace is slow, but they enjoy each other’s company. When they stumble upon a rainbow, they are in wonder at the beautiful colours. They soon realise they are all different, special and beautiful in their own unique way. Tilda finds her Rainbow by Nicola A Lewis is a beautiful and inspiring children’s picture book, about a tortoise and her friends as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. Each friend teaches Tilda something new, not just about different colours, but about different perspectives that make the world vibrant and interesting. The friends accept and celebrate each other’s differences, and together they find a sense of peace and belonging in their new friendship group. This is a wonderful message for young readers about friendship, kindness, inclusion and diversity. The illustrations by Alice Pieroni are simply delightful, full of charm, colour and character. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A beautiful, inspiring and colourful picture book, of friendship, self-discovery and self-acceptance. Purchase here

< Back Nancy Jean Exploring is NOT for Me!: A Humorous, Perspective-Taking Outdoor Adventure for Kids George is not looking forward to the outdoor adventure at the ‘Ruffin It Camphound’, planned by his mom. He thinks it will be dull and boring. Gemma, on the other hand, is super excited and looking forward to playing with her paw friends in the park. When they arrive at the campsite, Gemma puts on her special spy glasses to look for treasure, while George is reluctant to leave his tent. ‘Exploring is NOT for me!’ George cries. Poor George cannot get comfortable in his bed and is not having the best time at camp. The next day, while Gemma is out searching for treasure, George notices she has left her special spy glasses behind. He heads out to find her, and reluctantly becomes involved in the search. He doesn’t like the cold water, or climbing the rocks, but he is determined to help Gemma win the grand prize. With a little guidance from Gemma, George conquers his fears and soon discovers that outdoor adventures are not so dull and boring after all. Exploring is NOT for Me!: A Humorous, Perspective-Taking Outdoor Adventure for Kids is a fun and interactive picture book for young readers by author Nancy Jean. The book follows the adventures of George, a pup who does not enjoy the outdoors. George is a cute and funny little pup, with a unique personality. He knows what he likes, and will not be forced into anything he doesn’t like! Many young children do not enjoy certain activities, and the book provides reassurance that it is okay not to join in. It will give young ones the confidence to say no, and to sit out when they don’t feel comfortable in an activity, but it will also help them to develop the courage to try out new activities. With lots of fun facts and interactive activities, this is the perfect book to get children interested in the outdoors. I particularly enjoyed the whimsical illustrations by Lucy Shin, who captured George’s unique personality perfectly. A joy to read for both children and adults, and I hope there will be more adventures of George and Gemma to come very soon. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun and humorous interactive picture book, about a cute little pup who attempts to conquer his fears of the outdoors. Purchase here

< Back Leandra and Kevin Decoud The What If Book The What If Book is an illustrated picture book by Leandra and Kevin Decoud. The book presents a series of fun "what if" scenarios. "What if everyone had superpowers?" “What if money grew on trees?” "What if the ocean were made of ice cream?" “What if we could breathe underwater?” The book poses follow-up questions, encouraging readers to explore different possibilities and think outside the box, encouraging imagination and creative thinking. At the end of the book, readers are encouraged to imagine something wild and wonderful and consider their own "What if..." scenarios. Overall, this is a sweet and playful book, which gives young children the permission to dream wildly and see the world as full of possibilities. The tone is fun and light, the illustrations are bright and engaging, and the prompts are silly, serious, and surreal – and will inspire real conversations. Young children love asking, “what if,” and they will love exploring new possibilities and adventures through the prompts in this book. Recommended for families and educators who want to encourage creativity, silliness, and open ended thinking. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun and laugh-out-loud picture book designed to spark imagination and encourage creative thinking. Purchase here

< Back Sheeba Varghese Mommy, Am I Indian Today? Two young brothers are getting ready for a wedding. They are dressing in traditional Indian outfits, called kurta pyjama’s and wear a type of scarf called a stole. The brothers always wear matching outfits for special occasions, and sometimes they match their mothers outfit, called a sari. One boy asks her mother, “Mommy, am I Indian today?” His mother takes out an old photograph album and tells him the story of how her parents came to America from the state of Kerala in India, many years ago. She describes how they emigrated to America in search of a better life and opportunities for their children. She explains that the boys are not just Indians when they wear their traditional Indian clothes, but they are Indians every day. The brothers feel proud when they leave the house in their special kurta pyjama’s. Mommy, Am I Indian Today? is an illustrated picture book by author Sheeba Varghese about two brothers who are attending a wedding and wear traditional Indian outfits, called kurta pyjama’s. The brothers are curious about the outfits, and it prompts a discussion with their mother about their heritage. The book introduces young readers to Indian culture and Indian wedding traditions, and addresses themes of identity, multi-culturalism and belonging. The book is an excellent resource for sparking conversations about cultural identity and family traditions. The water-color style illustrations by Tori Tilahun bring the vibrant Indian culture to life, and show the beauty and elegance of traditional wedding attire. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An entertaining and educational read for young readers, and a wonderful celebration of Indian culture and heritage. Purchase here

< Back Kafilat Shobajo All The Things I Can Be A young girl named Kofo has big dreams. It is ‘Career Day’ at school and a young girl named Kofo is thinking about all the wonderful and amazing careers she could have when she grows up. Her parents have taught her the importance of education and she knows that she will have to work hard in any career. Her parents have also taught her the importance of self-belief, and everyday Kofo repeats positive affirmations to remind herself just how smart and strong she is, and that she can achieve anything she sets her mind to. She could be a teacher, a lawyer, a nurse or doctor, an architect, a farmer, or a plumber, and many, many more things. With hard work and determination, she could even be the first woman President of her country one day. All The Things I Can Be is an illustrated picture book by Kafilat Shobajo about a young girl who explores all the potential career options available to her. There are no limitations to her ambitions. She is strong and positive, and knows with hard work and determination, she will achieve her dreams. This is an engaging, positive and powerful picture book for young readers. It will inspire readers to think about a variety of different career options, the importance of those careers, and the benefits they bring. It will encourage young readers to think beyond typical gender-based careers and consider all opportunities. I particularly enjoyed the illustrations, the diversity of the characters and the images of Kofo in different roles. The book has a positive message for both girls and boys, and will inspire young readers to follow their dreams. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful picture book about a young girl and the endless career options available to her. Purchase here

< Back C. James Sweeney Sadie Sasquatch Goes to School How will a little sasquatch fit in at school? It is Sadie Sasquatch’s first day at kindergarten. She is excited to make new friends, but everyone stares at her. Her backpack is homemade and different to all the other backpacks. Sadie wonders why everyone is staring at her and decides to make her classmates laugh by passing gas. Some children laugh, but others do not, and Sadie’s teacher is not amused. Sadie is embarrassed but determined not to let it ruin her first day at school. Sadie enjoys art class but is told off again for picking her nose with a paint brush. At snack time, Sadie makes a big mess, but shares her favourite food with a boy who doesn’t have a snack. When Sadie arrives at home, she tells her dad all about her first day and has a few things to teach him too! Sadie Sasquatch Goes to School by author C. James Sweeney is an illustrated picture book about a little sasquatch’s (bigfoot) first day in kindergarten. This is a funny and engaging picture book, that will delight young readers. Sadie has never been to school, and quickly learns what is appropriate and not appropriate. Sadie is a sweet, adorable, and slightly mischievous character. Young children will laugh out loud when Sadie passes gas in the classroom and picks her nose with a paintbrush. Sadie is ridiculed by her fellow classmates for being different, but she is resilient and shows kindness to her classmates by sharing her favourite food with another child. The book has an important message about equality, diversity and inclusion, and will help to develop kindness and compassion amongst younger readers. The illustrations are bright, engaging and captivating for younger audiences. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun and laugh out loud picture book about a little sasquatch and her eventful first day at kindergarten. Purchase here

< Back Melissa Rousu Grandpa Loved Wild Things Grandpa Bill loves wild things, and loves to take his grandchildren outside to enjoy nature. He takes them into the snowy forest to find a snowy owl, and teaches them about owl habitats. Grandpa Bill also takes care of injured wild animals in his home. He looks after an injured eagle, and a racoon who has been abandoned by his mother. Grandpa Bill teaches his grandchildren about each animal, and how to take care of them. Another day, Grandpa Bill takes his grandchildren to a lake to look at the ducks. As the grandchildren get older, they spend less time with Grandpa Bill, until one day he joins the wild things he loved so much. His grandchildren remember what he taught them, and they teach their own children all about the wild things their grandpa loved. Grandpa Loved Wild Things by Melissa Rousu is a charming, illustrated picture book that explores the special relationship between grandparents and grandchildren, and the importance of passing down knowledge and stories through generations. Grandpa Bill patiently teaches his grandchildren about nature, and in time those children pass on the same learnings to their own children. The book has a gentle environmental message, encouraging young readers to explore the world around them, and to take care of nature. A perfect book to inspire children to get involved in outdoor activities and nature. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary: A charming, illustrated picture book with a gentle environmental message. Purchase here

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. Winners and finalists of the Winter 2021 Readers' Choice Book Awards announced! We are pleased to announce the winners of the 2021 Winter Readers’ Choice Book Awards. Best Children’s Book 3-6 **GOLD** Deanna Chesley, It Just Blooms **SILVER** Ceese Kelley, Dear Mama's Loving Arms **BRONZE** Michael Wong, I Wish You Happiness Ava **FINALISTS** Jana Buchmann, Who Wants to Play with Little Mouse? Andy Choi, Shine on! B.C.R Fegan, Don’t Drink the Pink Nicky Gilbody, Atch…Oops! Anthony Haydock, POG Jodie Isitt, Autism with Lola Playing with Bourbon Badger Markkizaac Mago, My Super Grandma! Sarah Morrell, Molly’s Magic Brolly Alicia Ortego, Kindness is my Superpower Jillian Rodriguez, I'll Meet You at the Rainbow Susan Smith, The Incredostupendoflexo Fishcake Harry and his Fantastic [not at all] Fishy Friends Clare Thompson, Noah's Shark Wayne Trotman, The Last Honey Bee Randi Williams, Ruthie Raccoon Stays Home Wendy Winter, Where's My Joey? A Heartwarming Bedtime Story for Children of All Ages Lori Yarborough, My Snuggle Monsters Won't Go to Sleep Sandy Zanella, Happy Yogis: A fun kids yoga book with positive affirmations Best Children’s Book 7-10+ **GOLD** Michelle Cordara, The Tipple Twins and the Gift **SILVER** Ektaa Bali, The Unicorn Princess **BRONZE** Michelle Deyarmin, Sandy the Service Dog: Lost in a Hurricane **FINALISTS** RA Anderson, Once Upon the Rhine: Cody the Cockatrice Series Book One Wendy Beasley, Charlotte and the Fairies Blaque Diamond, 1380 Prospect Avenue: Not Another Bronx Tale Kristin Fulton, The Haunting Daniel Henshaw, Glenkilly Alan Hesse, The Adventure of polo the Bear: a story of climate change Cheryl Lee-White, The Book of Silly Rhymes Dr Sukriti Mantri, The curious bunch and an unlocked time tunnel Maddison Tory, Your Secret Superpower: Ignite your Spark George Yuhasz, Imagine That: The Magic of the Mysterious Lights

BLACK ANGEL: THE KEY TO LIFE AND DEATH < Back Norma Jean BLACK ANGEL: THE KEY TO LIFE AND DEATH Book blurb... What if your story began at the end? Seventeen-year-old Brian dies at a party—then wakes in a radiant celestial realm. Chosen to become a spiritual warrior, he’s thrust into a battle between heaven and hell. Grotesque monsters rise from the underworld, a magical key is stolen, and his family is in danger. With a Latina firestarter, a fearless fighter, and a haunted WWII soldier by his side, Brian must journey through darkness to save what matters most. This thrilling YA fantasy fuses afterlife adventure, urban grit, and spiritual warfare—perfect for fans of Children of Blood and Bone and They Both Die at the End. Purchase here