< Back Kathleen J Shields The First Unicorn How the first unicorn got his horn. A young colt named Aden was different to all the other horses. He liked to do good deeds, give to others, and bring good cheer. One day, after helping a nest of baby birds who were being hunted by a wild cat, Aden was approached by an angel. The angel told Aden that God had been watching him and was impressed by his kind actions. God gifted Aden a golden horn, on the condition that he shares his gift with others. But when Aden went to tell his herd of his extraordinary gift, they were not pleased. They thought the horn could be used as a weapon against them, and they chased him away. Aden traveled for miles and finally settled in a new home deep in the woods, where he shared his gift with all the woodland creatures. With his new horn, he helped a trapped turtle escape from a cavern, and an injured hedgehog who was unable to gather food. Aden was happy in his new home, giving and helping others. But one day, Aden learns that his mother has been severely injured by a wolf. He returns home to his herd and prays to God to perform a miracle. God answers his prayers, and his mother recovers from her injuries. The herd, keen to learn from Aden’s miracle, soon become a herd of unicorns, sharing Gods word. The First Unicorn by Kathleen J. Shields is a thought-provoking Christian graphic novel for middle grade readers. Partly inspired by the movie ‘The Last Unicorn,’ Shields tells the story of the first unicorn and how the horn was a gift from God for demonstrating love, kindness, and goodness. Beautifully written in rhyme, with charming illustrations and an endearing protagonist, this book is a great way to engage younger children in conversations about faith. Overall, an enchanting story that explores the origins of the mythical creature that has captured the human imagination for centuries. The book will appeal to Christian readers, and anyone with an interest in these beautiful, mythical creatures. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An enchanting story, beautifully written in rhyme, with charming illustrations and an endorsing protagonist. Purchase here

< Back D.L. Bush Forgotten Secrets of the Tuscarora Eye: A Hannah Hallie Hawkins History Mystery Book blurb... It’s challenging enough to be a knobby-kneed eleven-year-old with braces, but for one who has inherited a family curse, things are especially complicated. Hannah never imagined what she and her best friends, Chan and Aimee, would discover when they stepped into her late great-aunt Buggy’s Victorian house in the Middle of Nowhere, North Carolina. The mansion, which had been in the Hawkins family for generations, held many long-forgotten secrets. One of those secrets, the curse of the Tuscarora Eye, would impact Hannah directly. With less than a week to find the wampum pendant, believed to offer protection for those born with the Tuscarora Eye, tensions are running high. The house itself, with its shadowy corners and spooky noises, only adds to the girls’ growing anxiety. Is the dark-haired boy, who is leaving mysterious messages in the woods, hoping to help or hinder the girls’ efforts? Will the girls be able to work together to solve Hannah’s most important mystery, or will Hannah’s insecurities tear them apart? Forgotten Secrets of the Tuscarora Eye is perfect for middle-grade mystery fans who enjoy old houses, adventuring, and family history. Purchase here

< Back Sandra Sorenson-Kindt Teddy: A Boy Who Swam with Angels Author Sandra Sorenson-Kindt tells her father’s childhood story. It is July 1938 in Arizona and nine-year-old Teddy is looking forward to the fourth of July celebrations, his favourite holiday. Teddy is one of six children, and although the siblings do not always get along, they are always there for one another. Teddy is sometimes called Mr. Serious and Weirdo by his brothers’ friends because he likes to read and talk to animals. On the morning of the fourth of July, the family head out to Tonto National Forest, for a picnic with their aunt, uncle, and cousins. As the parents prepare lunch, the children play dodgeball, frisbee and volleyball. When the children are called inside to get out of the hot Arizona sun, Teddy escapes the campsite for his own adventure. He wonders down the riverbank in search of wildlife, away from his annoying siblings and cousins. Teddy soon gets lost and starts to burn under the hot sun. But things get much worse for Teddy when he gets stuck in the mud, and then falls into a fast-flowing river. Teddy is swept far away from camp, but he floats on his back and treads water to keep afloat. When a storm arrives, the river swells, and Teddy is swept further downstream. Teddy is exhausted and gives up hope of seeing his family again. Will Teddy survive the rapid river torrent? And will he ever see his family again? Teddy: A Boy Who Swam with Angels is a chapter book for middle grade readers by author Sandra Sorenson-Kindt. This is a sweet and charming story about a young boy in search of wildlife and adventure, who falls into a river and is swept far away from his family. When the boy gives up hope, he is rescued by an angel who pulls him out of the river and directs him to safety. When the boy questions why he was saved because he is just an ordinary kid, his mother explains that he is special to her and God. Set in the late 1930’s, prior to the outbreak of war in Europe, this is a wonderfully nostalgic book of a precious time gone by. The author was inspired by the story of her father, who was swept away by a river on the fourth of July when he was a young boy. Her father believed he was saved by an angel that day. This is a beautifully written book, with exquisite, pencil drawn illustrations by Sandra Jessop. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A wonderfully nostalgic children’s book, with important life lessons for all ages. Purchase here

< Back Sara V Robinson Walter Bilingual Edition English/Spanish Author Sara V Robinson, tells Walter’s story Walter is a black Labrador mix dog, who didn’t have the best start in life. In his first home, his owners didn’t allow him inside the house. He was locked outside in the backyard, unloved, alone, and cold. His whole life was restricted to a patio, doghouse, and a fence. But Walter was a curious dog, and he wanted to explore beyond the confines of the fence. One day, Walter jumped so high he could see the lights and the bustling city in the distance. As he jumped high into the sky, Walter grabbed onto the fence with his front legs, and fell into the street below. Walter explored his surroundings, and was dazzled, by all the new sights, sounds and smells of the city. After a night exploring the city alone, Walter was tired, hungry, and scared. He found a parked car for shelter, and fell asleep. Walter was woken in the morning by strange sounds, and was quickly captured by dog wardens and taken to the city dog pound. He was taken to a new home, but this time locked inside a kennel, and surrounded by many other frightened and abandoned dogs, also in desperate need of a loving home. Walter soon settled into the pound, but longed to be adopted by a loving family. One day, a couple named Sofia and Christian visited the pound and spent time with Walter outside his kennel. Walter felt an instant connection with the couple and hoped they might adopt him. Will Sofia and Christian choose Walter and take him home? And will Walter ever find his forever home? Walter, by author Sara V Robinson, is a sweet and charming story for younger readers, inspired by a true story. The book tells the story of Walter, a young dog who was rescued from a dog pound in Atlanta, Georgia. Told from the unique perspective of Walter, this book will engage and entertain readers of all ages. With valuable messages about the importance of showing care and compassion for all living creatures, this book will help educate readers about responsible dog ownership. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and charming story with valuable messages about the importance of showing care and compassion for all living creatures Purchase here

< Back Stephanie Brick The Secret Doors of Cannondale A young girl finds a secret door and is whisked away to an alternate, magical realm. Twelve-year-old Adeline Perle has moved from her mother’s military base in Illinois to Connecticut. She hopes that the family will settle down and she will finally be able to make new, long-lasting friendships. The family move into Uncle Bennie and Aunt Constance’s home on the Cannondale estate, while they find their footing in the area. Uncle Bennie asks Adeline to avoid certain areas of the estate, while Aunt Constance is recuperating from an illness. As Adeline explores the expansive estate, she finds a secret door. Despite Uncle Bennie’s warning, Adeline opens the door and discovers a secret passageway, leading to an unusual octagonal room. She explores the room and finds a book with a secret cutout. Inside the book, she finds a hidden crystal. Adeline places the crystal inside her pocket and continues to explore the house. Outside, she meets a group of teenagers having a garden party and develops an instant connection. When she returns to the house, Adeline’s world is literally turned upside down as she falls through the sky and is transported to another realm. Unbeknownst to Adeline, she has landed in the realm of Nouvaal, a dangerous world on the brink of destruction from dark magic. As Adeline attempts to make sense of the new world she learns that the crystal in her pocket has special powers, that could destroy Nouvaal if united with other lost crystals. Adeline is pursued by Heli’aa, the ‘Protector of the Realm,’ who will stop at nothing to secure the crystal for her own evil gains. The Secret Doors of Cannondale is a thrilling fantasy adventure for middle grade readers, by Stephanie Brick. The book follows the journey of Adeline, a young girl who finally finds a sense of belonging in a new home, before being suddenly uprooted again and transported to another world. The book takes readers on an exhilarating journey through time, space, and an alternate universe, full of mystery and magic. This is a delightful and enchanting tale that will appeal to readers of both fantasy and science fiction. The book ends on a nail-biting cliff-hanger, so readers will have to wait for the next instalment to find out what happens next! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A must read for anyone looking to escape into a magical universe filled with wonder, excitement and danger. Purchase here

< Back Amanda M Cetas Thrown to the Wind A harrowing journey of strength, survival, and self-discovery. Based on true events, this historical fiction novel follows one boy's journey from France and across the ocean to North America in the seventeenth century. In France, 1660, during a period of rising tensions between the Catholics and Protestants (Huguenots), nine-year old Etienne Gayneau, a Huguenot, is separated from his cousin and only friend Nicolas. But, when a ship arrives in La Rochelle transporting King Louis XIV's elite musketeers, Etienne agrees to meet Nicolas at the harbor to witness the event. Etienne dreams of becoming a musketeer himself one day, and senses he is about to witness something momentous. But he doesn’t realise that the arrival of the ship will turn his life upside down. Etienne must choose whether to flee France with his family, to avoid his father’s arrest for being a heretic, or to run away and hide out in a safe haven with his cousin, a Catholic. If Etienne leaves France, he will never see Nicolas again or fulfil his dream of becoming a musketeer, but if he stays with his cousin, he will never see his family again. Etienne decides to flee, and leaves with his family, leaving everything but their faith behind. The family face a perilous journey, first to Amsterdam, Holland, and then across the Atlantic Ocean to New Amsterdam. The journey is fraught with many dangers, as they encounter criminals and pirates, and face many other challenges, including illness and injury. Etienne is quite literally thrown to the wind, but eventually gains confidence as a cabin boy. Thrown to the Wind is a well-researched, historical fiction novel for middle grade readers, by author Amanda M Cetas. The story follows a family who flee religious persecution in seventeenth century France, and seek refuge and freedom in the unchartered territories of North America. Told through the eyes of an innocent nine-year old boy, this is a harrowing journey of strength, survival, and self-discovery. Beautifully written, with meticulous attention to detail, the author brings this fascinating period of human history to life. The authors ability to balance historical accuracy with a compelling narrative, makes this novel an entertaining and enlightening read. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, and particularly those interested in seventeenth century migration from Europe to America Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful coming of age story about a young boy who flees religious persecution, leaving everything behind but his faith. Purchase here

< Back A.M. Berkowitz The Magical Farm Mysteries: Bubble Gum Rocks Book blurb... A place where ordinary days turn into extraordinary adventures! When three curious sisters - Avianna, Avery, and Ainsley - spend the summer at their Grandma and Grandpa's farm, they stumble upon a magical and sparkly surprise, bubble gum rocks! What mysterious powers do these magical stones hold? Join the sisters as they discover the wonders of the magical farm in their delightful first mystery of The Magical Farm Mysteries series! Perfect for ages 6-10. Purchase here

< Back Stacey A. Raymond The Adventures of Bailey & Bernard: Bailey's Lost Ball Book blurb... Join Bailey, the lovable shaggy sheepdog, and Bernard, her quick-witted seagull best friend, in The Adventures of Bailey & Bernard: Bailey's Lost Ball! When Bailey's favorite red ball gets swept away by the ocean’s waves, it's up to Bernard to save the day—armed with his guitar and a heart full of song. Together, they face the splashing surf with courage, creativity, and a little help from a musical melody. This heartwarming tale is packed with fun, friendship, and the power of teamwork. Perfect for young readers, Bailey's Lost Ball reminds us that no challenge is too big when you’ve got the right friend by your side. So, what would you do if your favorite ball disappeared into the sea? Dive in with Bailey and Bernard for a journey of laughter, tunes, and endless adventure! Purchase here

< Back MM Myers Blessings Through Time Blessings Through Time is a heartfelt work of fiction that weaves together faith, family, and spiritual heritage through the unique lens of a historic doll. Authored by Mary Myers, the book offers a gentle yet profound exploration of Christian values. The story is structured around the experiences of Faith, a young girl who inherits a doll said to have been crafted by Mary, the mother of Jesus, and later enhanced by Jesus and Joseph. This doll, passed down through generations, becomes a tangible symbol of faith, hope, and love. The narrative alternates between Faith’s present-day experiences and the doll’s own recollections, which span from biblical times to the modern era. This dual perspective allows readers to witness both the historical and personal significance of the doll, making the story accessible and engaging for readers of all ages. One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to blend spiritual lessons with relatable family moments. Through the doll’s stories, readers are transported to the childhood of Jesus, witnessing his kindness, curiosity, and the loving relationships within the Holy Family. The doll recounts moments such as Jesus playing in the hills, learning carpentry from Joseph, and teaching others with compassion and wisdom. The book highlights the importance of intergenerational faith. The act of passing down the doll mirrors the transmission of spiritual values and family stories, emphasizing that faith is both a personal journey and a communal inheritance. Myers’ writing is simple, sincere, and evocative, making the book suitable for children, families, and anyone interested in faith-based stories. The tone is nurturing and uplifting, with a focus on hope, resilience, and belief. Through the journey of a humble doll, Myers invites readers to reflect on their own spiritual heritage and the ways in which love and faith are passed down through generations. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A touching and imaginative tale that celebrates family, love and faith. Purchase here

< Back Charles Byrd The Reaper's Guide on How NOT to Take a Soul! A young girl dreams of becoming a Grim Reaper. Eleven-year-old Lyra Corvin is a living girl in the Underworld. She has no memory of her childhood or recollection of how she came to the Underworld. Lyra works as an assistant to a Grim Reaper named Silas. She hopes one day to become a Grim Reaper herself, but Silas does not think she has the necessary people skills to do the job. But, when a strange case presents itself to the Grim Reaper, he asks for Lyra’s help. Lyra is sent to the Living Realm, to help guide a young boy to the Afterlife, but the circumstances on the death scroll keep changing. Lyra meets the boy named Casper at a bus stop, and discovers she is not invisible to him, as expected. Casper is scared of Lyra and runs away. As she tries to catch him, Lyra trips and falls, and her precious necklace is broken in the tussle. Casper falls in the road and is hit by a bus. His soul leaves his body and becomes a ghost, but his body does not die. Lyra must take Casper to the Underworld to seek Silas’s advice. During the journey, Lyra and Casper are chased by Soul Eaters who want to capture their souls. But when Silas suddenly disappears, Lyra seeks help from various creatures of the Underworld. She wants to help return Casper’s soul to his body, find her necklace, and understand why she has no memories of her childhood. As Lyra and Casper try to evade capture from Soul Eaters and Spectres, they go on a journey to the Greek Afterlife, where Lyra finally learns the truth about her family history. The Reaper's Guide on How NOT to Take a Soul! by Charles Byrd is a funny and slightly scary book for young readers about ghosts and ghouls, spectres and soul eaters, and all kinds of terrifying creatures that inhabit the Underworld. The book follows a seemingly ordinary girl who somehow came to live in the Underworld, and her work as an assistant Grim Reaper. At just eleven, she is not quite ready to step into the Grim Reaper’s shoes, and she must learn the key tricks of the trade. Byrd crafts a rich, detailed world, filled with intriguing characters and dark secrets. Overall, this is a unique and captivating book that explores the darkly enchanting world of life, death and the supernatural. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An imaginative, funny and slightly scary book for young readers about the job of a Grim Reaper, and the ghosts and ghouls that inhabit the Underworld. Purchase here

< Back Karissa Nix I Can Go Anywhere Book blurb... Let's go on an adventure! Kambria has a magic trick; she can go anywhere, and she doesn't need a car, a train, or a plane. All she needs is her imagination! Today Kambria is traveling to different national parks around the United States and learning about the things that make each one of them special. First, she goes to see the trails of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee. Then she visits Acadia National Park, on an island near Maine. She goes to Florida, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Washington State, and so many more. Kambria's imaginary exploration takes her from coast to coast across the country as she shares interesting facts for everyone to enjoy. This children's story introduces many of the largest and most well-known national parks in the United States with descriptions and fun facts about each one. Purchase here

< Back Liza Martini Squirrels of Speedwell Farms Book blurb... When squirrels begin disappearing from their scurry homes in the suburbs of Speedwell Farms, one young squirrel sets out to uncover the truth behind the mystery. Along the way, he faces betrayal, danger, and heartbreaking secrets that challenge everything he believes about family and loyalty. Filled with suspense, adventure, and plenty of humor, this unforgettable woodland tale celebrates courage and resilience in the face of change. Young readers will be captivated by the richly imagined world, memorable characters, and fast-paced storytelling that keeps pages turning. Perfect for fans of heartwarming animal adventures and coming-of-age journeys filled with hope and determination. Purchase here