< Back Aspry J Jones AJ Learns Self-Love Book blurb... AJ has a problem. Mickey is not being a good friend, and AJ doesn’t know what to do. Should he keep letting Mickey mistreat him, or is there a better way to handle it? Purchase here

< Back Melanie Joy Mezzancello Love Snaggs - A Little Dog’s Courageous Journey An epic story of one little pups’ adventure on earth and in the afterlife, by author Melanie Joy Mezzancello A little Yorkie pup doesn’t have the best start in life. Born in a puppy mill, he spends his early days locked in a small cage with other frightened pups, before being sold to a pet store in Winter Park, Florida. But his future turns brighter when he is adopted by a young couple and taken to a new comfortable, and loving home. The couple name the pup Snaggs, and he is soon joined by his brother, Linus, a Silver Phantom Cockapoo, and sister, Sasha, a tiny caramel-white Maltese Poodle mix. Snaggs lives a full and happy life with his mommy, daddy, brother and sister, but as he grows older, he suffers from a number of health conditions and becomes very sick. Snaggs’ brief time on earth comes to an end, but his journey is not yet over. When he wakes, he has passed over the Rainbow Bridge into Summerland, a heavenly place where animals go when their time on earth is over. But Snaggs misses home and worries about the family he left behind, so he sets off on an epic journey up the Spire Mountain to find a ram named Shaman, who he believes will help him find his way back to earth. Will Snaggs find his way home? And will he ever see his beloved family again? Love Snaggs - A Little Dog’s Courageous Journey is a sweet and imaginative canine adventure story for younger independent readers, with a unique and unexpected twist. This is not a typical abandoned/neglected/lost pup story, it is an epic story of one little pups’ adventure on earth and in the afterlife. The little pup shows strength, courage, and determination to follow his dream and reunite with his family. He meets lots of wonderful and fascinating characters throughout this journey, and faces many dangers along the way. Snaggs is an adorable character, and this book will appeal to dog lovers of all ages, and readers interested in fantasy and adventure stories. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and imaginative canine adventure story with an adorable main character with a unique and unexpected twist. Purchase here

< Back Jennifer R Sommer Her Eyes Were on the Stars: Nancy Grace Roman, "Mother of Hubble" Space Telescope Nancy Grace Roman’s journey to becoming ‘Mother of Hubble’. As a young girl, Nancy Grace was fascinated by the stars in the night sky and started her own astronomy club to search for constellations. As she moved from place to place for her dad’s job, the stars became her nearest and dearest friends. By junior high, Nancy knew she wanted to become an astronomer, but astronomy was not a typical career for a young woman in the 1930’s and 1940’s. Most colleges at the time did not accept girls, but Nancy found one that did and was accepted onto a science course. She also worked as an assistant at an observatory and earned a degree in astronomy in 1946, and later a PhD. As a scientific researcher, Nancy began to study the stars in the Milky Way and made some new discoveries. In 1959, she was asked to set up the space astronomy program at a new space agency, NASA. Nancy’s significant scientific achievements, her position as Chief of Astronomy for NASA, and her role in the space telescope project, led to her nickname the ‘Mother of the Hubble’. This is a remarkable book for middle grade readers, about a remarkable scientist, Nancy Grace Roman. During a time when few women went to college, and fewer studied astronomy, Nancy went on to become one of the leading scientists of her generation. I had heard of Nancy, but I knew little about her life. This book has inspired me to go and study more about this incredible woman and her achievements. Well-researched by Jennifer R Sommer, and based on many conversations with Nancy herself, this is an insightful and accessible book for readers of all ages. The book will appeal to readers interested in science, and particularly astronomy. The starry illustrations by Gayle Cobb are simply stunning. This is a fascinating read and highly recommended. The book will inspire children and adults alike to look up. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A remarkable book about a remarkable scientist, Nancy Grace Roman. Purchase here

< Back Hans Ness Rolo on the Planet of the Cats Rolo on the Planet of the Cats is the sequel to Rolo the Pet Earthling, by author Hans Ness. Rolo is a thirteen year old juvenile male hooman from planet Earth, who was adopted as a pet earthling on the planet Blorx. Rolo has lived his whole life on Blorx, but escapes and travels to Earth with his pet Quiggles in search of the ancient home of his ancient ancestors. But, when Rolo arrives on Earth he cannot find a single earthling in sight. Much to his disappointment and mild terror, he discovers that catlings have overthrown the hoomans and taken their place at the top of the pyramid of power. He is summoned before the court, charged as an illegal alien, and remanded at a detention centre - the Litterpool Pound for Stray Hoomans. He escapes and stows away on a Flying Circus skyship, where he meets Ailey, an eleven-year-old juvenile hooman and a circus performer on the ship. Ailey agrees to help Rolo find his family in the mythical city of Zorx, in return for helping her flee the circus. Rolo and Ailey are fugitives are on the run, but bounty hunters are hot on their trail. Rolo on the Planet of the Cats is a fun and entertaining addition to this unique and captivating sci-fi adventure series, by author Hans Ness. Featuring strange creatures, alien worlds, and not-so-cute-cats, this book will appeal to readers who enjoy imaginative, alien-themed stories. I loved the first book in the series, and I loved this one even more! With a unique plot, memorable characters, and plenty of humour, this is a thoroughly enjoyable, laugh-out-loud story that will appeal to readers of all ages. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun, quirky, and action packed sci-fi sequel, about a young earthling who escapes from the planet Blorx to discover Earth has been overtaken by catlings. Purchase here

< Back Lori Giesey The Ascent Book blurb... “But what if I can’t?” Maddie, Charlie, and Sophi are excited about their first ever Cousin Camp. With Mima’s knack for adventure, Papa’s mischievous antics, and no parents allowed, they’re sure to have a grand time! When unexpected struggles arise during scavenger hunts, deep cave explorations, and a daunting hike, they must learn to work together to overcome their fears and take the next right step, or miss out on the adventure and the biggest discovery—that they can do hard things. After three decades of facilitating adventures for youth and adults in both personal and professional settings, Mima (aka Lori Giesey) is capturing the most memorable moments from real-life events in Cousin Camp Chronicles, a series of purposeful adventures curated to help young children cultivate their imagination, sense of wonder, and belief in themselves. Join a growing group of cousins who learn they are stronger than they think, especially when they work together. Avid adventurer Mima (aka Lori Giesey) finds joy in helping others discover their strengths and power. Purchase here

< Back Betty Cetas Moe and the Tree Climbers Moe and the Tree Climbers, part of Troll Tales and Other Stories from Grandma’s Cottage by Betty Cetas, is a sweet and gentle children’s story set in the enchanting woods of Finland. The story follows Moe, a clumsy and timid moose, whose journey from fear to bravery forms the heart of this delightful tale. Moe is a charming protagonist. He is awkward, easily frightened, and often finds himself in sticky situations. Young readers will relate to his vulnerability and laugh out loud at the funny situations he finds himself in. When Moe gets his antlers stuck in a tree, he is discovered by two children, Isabelle and Elijah. Their gentle approach and willingness to free Moe from the tree highlight themes of empathy and trust. When the children find themselves in trouble, Moe overcomes his own fears to help them, demonstrating courage and the importance of helping others. Through Moe’s journey, children learn about overcoming fears, the value of friendship, and the rewards of kindness. The story also subtly encourages problem-solving and teamwork, as the children and Moe work together to overcome a problem. The whimsical illustrations by Ugur Kose bring the characters and woodland setting to life beautifully. The language is simple yet evocative, making it suitable for early readers or for reading aloud at bedtime. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heart-warming and beautifully illustrated story, with a charming protagonist. Purchase here

< Back L.T. Caton Find Me In Time: Meeting Columbus A group of friends find a time-travelling treehouse, by author L.T. Caton Five friends, Ashley, Emma, Keith, Aaron, and Harry are playing hide and seek in the woods, when they find a mysterious ladder against a tree. They climb the ladder and discover a small tree house. The friends enter the tree house, and realize it’s much larger than it appears on the outside. As they explore the tree house, it suddenly shakes violently, and the five friends are transported to a strange place. They find a family on the run, hiding out in the treehouse. But no sooner have they realised they have transported back in time; they are suddenly thrown forward to the present. Shocked and amazed at their new discovery, they learn more about the powers of the treehouse. The friends start the ‘Tree House Club’ and plan their next time travel adventure. They ask the treehouse to transport them back to Guanahani in 1492, just before Christopher Columbus’s ships arrived in the Caribbean Island and started a colony. They find themselves on the beach in the middle of the Taino tribe, where they are welcomed and treated like important visitors. The powers of the treehouse make them look like tribespeople, and they can speak and understand their language. As the friends become more acquainted with the tribe, they are excited to see the arrival of Columbus’s ships on the horizon. Columbus and his crew arrive on the island, and the friends get caught up in an altercation between the natives and explorers. They are suddenly transported back to safety, but decide to travel back to 1494, two years after the event. When they return to Guanahani, they discover the devastating impact of Columbus’s arrival. Find Me in Time: Meeting Columbus by author L.T. Caton is a super time-travelling adventure for middle grade readers. A group of friends are transported back to 1942 when Christopher Columbus first discovered Guanahani, but the friends soon discover he is not quite the hero they expected him to be. This book is fun and entertaining, but it is also insightful and educational as it tries to present a more accurate picture of a significant event in human history. It will challenge readers perspectives, and help them to understand the importance of ‘truth’ in history. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A super time-travelling adventure, that will challenge readers perspectives. Purchase here

< Back Barbara Mishkin TIPs Magical Journey A heartwarming and educational train journey through different customs and cultures. Thaddeus Isaac Pendleton (Little Tip) is eight and a half years old. He loves to ride the train and explore the city on his own, when he is not at school. He loves to travel and meet new people, especially those from different countries and cultures. One Day, Little Tip meets an American man named Sam, who is on his way to work in the city. Sam is kind and talks to Little Tip. When he leaves the train, he wishes him a wonderful day. He meets a couple from Greece named Demetrius and Athena, who tell him about their restaurant and Greek cuisine. He meets another couple, Mei and Chang from China, who moved to the United States to study and were seeking citizenship. He meets ‘The Boys’, brothers crossing the city to go on a fishing trip, and his friend Billy who helps provide food to homeless people. During the rest of the journey, he meets a variety of people, including Gabriel and Maria from Portugal, Mr Moy from Columbia, Daniel and Esther from Israel, a Docent named Elsie, African Americans Michael and Raven, Italians Luca and Mia, ice hockey fans Lizzie and Johnny, a blind sculptor and activist named Mr Stephen, shop-owner Nancy, father and son Juan and Pedro, and Sofia and Miguel from Spain. In each interaction, Little Tip makes a new friend and learns about their life, food, culture, customs, and language. When each passenger leaves the train, they leave Little Tip with their thought of the day. Little Tip shares his learnings, spreading kindness amongst other passengers. TIP's Magical Journey by author Barbara Mishkin is an inspirational and thought-provoking book that takes readers on a captivating journey through different cultures. Written from the perspective of Little Tip, a little boy full of curiosity and adventure. Little Tip loves to travel and meet new people, and he has a natural gift for communicating with others. Through a single train journey, readers are transported to various corners of the world, learning about different cultures and customs. This book is a wonderful blend of storytelling and cultural exploration, which will spark curiosity and promote cultural awareness in young readers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heartwarming and educational book, which promotes diversity, kindness, and friendship. Purchase here

< Back Christine Corrigan Mendez Leo Gets His Nighttime ZZZs Leo loves sport. He is always busy, doing this, doing that, doing everything! But, because Leo is busy doing lots of different activities, he gets tired sometimes. Leo often wakes up during the night and cannot get back to sleep. He thinks about all the things he needs to do and the places he needs to be. He tries new techniques to get back to sleep, but nothing seems to work. One day, Leo falls asleep during class, and another day he falls asleep while playing in a soccer match! Leo’s good friends are members of the Kids Can Club and Leo decides to join. The Kids Can Club take on all kinds of projects to help kids, animals and grown-ups too. Leo shares his story with the Kids Can Club, and they make it their next mission to help Leo get back to sleep. Leo learns a new technique called the ‘Scrunch up-Five Unscrunch’, which he uses to get back his nighttime ZZZ’s. Leo Gets His Nighttime ZZZs is an illustrated picture book for newly independent readers, by author Christine Corrigan Mendez. This is an engaging and insightful book for young readers about a young boy who struggles to sleep. He tries everything to get back to sleep, but cannot do it on his own. With a little help from his friends at the Kids Can Club, Leo learns new techniques for a restful night’s sleep. The book will help young readers understand why they might struggle to sleep, and provides practical tips to help them get a good night’s sleep. The story emphasises the importance of friendship and teamwork, and will encourage young readers to share their problems or concerns with others. With full guidance on the ‘Scrunch up-Five Unscrunch’ technique, this is a fabulous resource for children and their parents or caregivers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An engaging and insightful book, with practical strategies to help young children have a restful night’s sleep. Purchase here

< Back Stephanie Scott Tools to Cool Finding Ways to Cope Nini the bird helps readers find different ways to keep cool. Tools to Cool Finding Ways to Cope, by author Stephanie Scott, is an illustrated seek and find book for young readers, with tools to help them cope in stressful situations. On each page, a different situation, scenario, or emotion is presented, (ie, feeling stressed or worried at school, making new friends, or feeling angry or mad) and then provides a number of coping mechanisms, such as finding a quiet space to calm down and relax, deep breathing, or dancing. On each page, the reader is asked a number of questions, to help them find a solution that might work for them, and a ‘Can you find?’ bubble, which encourages readers to look for the item in the illustration. This also encourages positive action, by encouraging the reader to explore further in real life. There are over 20 coping tools and strategies hidden in the book. Tools to Cool Finding Ways to Cope is a unique and interactive seek and find book, where readers are encouraged to find coping tools and strategies that are hidden in the illustrations. This is a cleverly crafted book for young readers, which addresses the topic of coping with stress, with a fun and engaging activity. The book follows an endearing character, Nini the bird, as she navigates her way through different scenarios. The book is designed to be used independently by children, and will encourage readers to take control and develop their own coping mechanisms. It will also make an excellent resource for parents, carers, and teachers to discuss stress and coping mechanisms with young children. It will encourage open conversations about emotions, and teaches valuable life skills in an accessible and enjoyable way. Overall, a charming and educational illustrated book that not only entertains children, but also empowers them to handle stress in a positive and proactive manner. Star rating: 5 stars Summary: A unique and interactive seek and find book for young readers, which addresses the topic of coping with stress, with a fun and engaging activity. Purchase here

< Back Kathleen Welton Be WHOO You Are Be Whoo You Are is a heartwarming children's book, by Kathleen Welton. The book follows the journey of Ollie the Owl, a sweet little owl who isn’t quite sure of his purpose and how he fits in with his woodland environment. As he observes the industrious bees, playful otters, and hardworking beavers, Ollie wonders "Who will I be?" The book introduces a variety of animal characters, each contributing to the vibrant and dynamic environment. When Ollie’s friend Betty the Bunny loses her way, he steps up to help her find her way back home. The illustrations by Nuno Alexandre Vieira are captivating, bringing the forest and its inhabitants to life with vivid colors and charming details. Through Ollie's journey, children will learn the importance of being true to themselves, listening to their hearts, and embracing their unique qualities. The story will help young readers develop self-confidence and compassion. Overall, Be Whoo You Are is a delightful and inspiring picture book for young readers that combines a sweet story with valuable life lessons. It is a celebration of individuality, kindness, and the joy of discovering one's true self. Written in rhyme, the book will engage young readers and adults alike. Perfect for bedtime reading or classroom discussions. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A sweet and heart-warming picture book, about a little owl and his journey to find his purpose. Purchase here

< Back Lori Giesey A Moment in Time Book blurb... Life is full of moments. The moment she made the decision to go right instead of left. The moment she heard the voice and swerved to miss the oncoming car. The moment the doctor told her she would never be a happy, active wife, mother, and leader in her community again. Lori’s story is full of moments in which she had to make choices—some of which she had no idea would make the difference between life and death, thriving and surviving, joy or lifelong depression. In this second edition of A Moment in Time, Lori updates her raw, inspiring account of turning a devastating accident into a series of miracles with the power of her choice with recent stories of expanding opportunities for healing her body, soul, and family. Her journey, combined with the powerful prompts for reflection, will show you how to: Slow down and listen to the inner voice that is guiding you Swerve around and through the obstacles on the road ahead Navigate those old pothole-like insecurities and wounds Heal your body, mind, and soul with powerful tools Get in the drivers’ seat of your life and build momentum toward your dreams. If you are facing a crisis of any kind—health, mid-life, or relationship—this book will remind you of the power YOU have to overcome it and live a great adventure. Are you ready to turn that “accident” into an opportunity? Lori Giesey helps women and children choose and live their own highest adventure. Purchase here