< Back Daniel Collins The Little Candle Book blurb... This children's picture book follows a short candlestick's journey to self-acceptance. The story begins in a candle shop, where the short candle is bought by a man as a holiday gift for his youngest daughter Tonya. Tonya treasures it as her own holiday candle, carrying it with her as a valued possession during the Christmas Holiday. The short candle eventually realizes that his size doesn't matter when it comes to making someone happy. He soon learned that he was a century candle, and that he was made to burn for a hundred years or more. So joyful was he to learn this that he would have jumped for joy had he been gifted with any legs. Through the example of a candle, The Little Candle shows readers why comparing oneself to others isn't worthwhile. Everyone has their own special gifts and talents and it is recognized by others, although it may not be apparent at the moment. Purchase here

< Back Elizabeth M Grieco Paws in Paris: The Adventures of Tenny and Bella An exciting cat adventure through the streets of Paris, by Elizabeth M Grieco Journalist Sarah has been offered a new job in Paris. Sarah accepts the position on the condition she can take her two beloved cats with her, Tenny and Bella. After a long flight from Atlanta to Paris, Sarah and her two cats arrive in Paris, but no sooner have they found their new apartment, Sarah receives an urgent call and has to travel to Berlin for an important job. Tenny and Bella are left alone and scared in a new apartment in a strange city, under the watchful eye of their new neighbour Mme Gautier. But Mme Gautier accidently leaves a window open, and the two cats go outside to explore the garden. With new sights and sounds all around them, the frightened cats escape the garden and find themselves lost in the streets of Paris. They meet a tomcat, Mephisto, and ask for his help to find their way home. Mephisto takes the cats to meet his friends Cleo, Maurice, and Seraphine, who advise the only way back is to seek assistance from Pierre le Matou, the notorious leader of the brutal Graveyard Gang. The cats are scared but agree to find Le Matou and fight their way into his secret hideout. But before their journey can begin, Tenny is catnapped by a struggling artist as a gift for his wife, and Bella is hit by a motorbike and seriously injured. How will Tenny escape from the artist who thinks she is a stray? Will Bella recover from her injuries and ever see Tenny again? And will the pair ever find Le Matou and their way back home to Sarah? Paws in Paris: The Adventures of Tenny and Bella is a sweet and charming book for young independent readers by Elizabeth M Grieco. With two adorable cats, an intriguing plot, and a wonderful Parisian setting, this book will appeal to those who like animal stories and travel adventures. The book opens with Sarah and her husband Mark as they notice a painting from a famous artist featuring their beloved cat Tenny. How on earth did their beloved cat find her way into a famous painting? This is a great opening for a story, and will leave readers thinking of all possible scenarios. What follows, is an unexpected and exciting cat adventure through the streets of Paris. Readers will be engaged and entertained, as they root for Tenny and Bella, and at the same time learn about the magnificent city of Paris. The first chapter would make a fantastic prompt for parents, carers, or teachers, to encourage children to tell their own version of the story and engage them in imaginative thinking and creative writing. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and charming story, with two adorable cats, an intriguing plot, and a wonderful Parisian setting. Purchase here

< Back Mary Myers Pocket Watch Portal Adventure Book blurb... Introducing Pocket Watch Portal Adventures - a thrilling, heart-warming tale that will captivate your imagination and inspire your heart. The Story of siblings Justice, Teddy, Ellie, baby Artie, and their fearless Uncle Jeff, an ancient pocket watch becomes their ticket to the extraordinary. From prehistoric jungles teeming with dinosaurs to futuristic cities of flying cars and holographic zoos, every twist in time is brimming with wonder and danger. But when a shocking mishap strands them in the year 2525, they find themselves in a world without trees, familiar food, or faith. As they fight to survive, they discover that courage, love, and belief are the greatest tools they have. Meanwhile, their heroic father, Christopher, embarks on a daring mission across time itself to bring his family home - proving that love knows no bounds. Purchase here

< Back Aaron Derr Baseball Buddies Building a Team Can new team captain Luis motivate a team of baseball players? Eleven-year-old Luis has recently moved from Texas to Ohio and misses his old friends. He joins the McIntyre Manatees, a community baseball team of boys and girls from the local neighborhood. It is the first day of practice, and he meets his coach, Joe, and his new teammates. Joe explains that now the players are a little older, it is time for them to take more of a leadership role in the team. He asks each player to describe their reason for playing baseball, and Luis explains he plays baseball to have fun. Joe selects Luis as the new team captain, because although baseball is about working hard and trying to win, it’s mainly about having fun. But Luis is not happy. He has never been a captain before and does not think he would make a good leader. The Manatees have three weeks to get ready for their first game and Coach Joe helps Luis prepare the team. Luis thinks the team are working too hard, and not enjoying the practice. They start to incorporate more fun into the practice, but soon the players are having too much fun! Luis calls a players-only meeting to try and improve their game, but some of the team are not happy with the new arrangement and only one player turns up to the meeting. Can Luis bring the team together? And how can he motivate the team to work hard, whilst still having fun? Baseball Buddies: Building a Team is a baseball-themed chapter book for middle grade readers by Aaron Derr. The book follows Luis’s journey as he joins a new baseball team in a new town and is immediately given the responsibility of team captain. Luis is a reluctant captain, but with help from his coach, he develops confidence and leadership qualities. The book shows that anything is possible with a little guidance and a positive mindset. It demonstrates the importance of friendship, teamwork, commitment, and fun, both on and off the field. This is a fun and entertaining book that will help young readers develop confidence and self-esteem. It might also inspire young readers to take up leadership roles, in sport or elsewhere. Perfect for budding baseball players, and anyone interested in sport and other team adventures. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun, entertaining and inspiring baseball themed chapter book, with a positive message about the importance of friendship, teamwork, commitment, and fun. Purchase here

< Back Claudine C Wargel Hattie and Dirks Great Garden Surprise The second instalment in The Adventures of Hattie Mae Bramble series Twelve-year-old Hattie Mae lives on a farm in Central Illinois. She dreams of becoming a veterinarian and enjoys helping out with the farm animals, but is less keen on tending to the plants, especially in the hot Illinois summer. Halloween is approaching and Hattie is looking at the pumpkins in Mr Pinchly’s garden shop, with her little brother, Dirk. They notice how expensive the pumpkins are and think they could produce their own pumpkins on their farm, for a fraction of the cost. When they bump into Dirk’s friend who cannot afford to buy a pumpkin, the siblings have an idea to make sure every kid has a pumpkin for the next Halloween. Hattie and Dirk are carving pumpkins with the 4-H club in their garden. The session ends with a messy pumpkin fight, and squidgy pumpkin guts splattered all over the ground. In the spring, Hattie and Dirk plant their pumpkin seeds, and look after the seedlings carefully. But during the summer, their piglets escape and trample all over the pumpkin patch. Most of the pumpkin plants are destroyed, but in the fall Hattie and Dirk harvest a small number of pumpkins and sell them from their farm. But little do they know, following their pumpkin fight the previous year, there is a surprise hidden away in their back garden. Hattie and Dirk’s Great Garden Surprise is a delightful book for middle grade readers by Claudine C. Wargel, and the second book in The Adventures of Hattie Mae Bramble series. Set in the 1970s, on a Central Illinois farm, this is a charming story of a twelve-year-old girl, and her adventures with her little brother. The book beautifully captures the essence of rural life, during a time before cell phones, the internet, computer gaming and social media. It is a reminder of a simpler life when children could play in their natural environment without external distractions. But it is not all play, as Hattie and Dirk have to help out on the farm and complete their daily chores. Hattie and Dirk learn important lessons about responsibility and perseverance, and the rewards of hard work. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful story, delicately crafted to evoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler times. Purchase here

< Back E.M. Schorb FIVE AND TEN, A Fairy Tale, a Few Poems, and a Fable Five and Ten, A Fairy Tale, a Few Poems, and a Fable is a collection of previously published stories and poems by author E.M. Schorb. The stories and poems are accompanied by a small number of sweet, hand drawn, illustrations by the authors’ daughters. The first story is a traditional fairy-tale called The Golden Squirrel about the Czar of Russia who asked his magician to perform a magic poem to turn his son, Prince Leo, into a golden squirrel. By turning his son into a squirrel, he hoped to bring him home from China in secret, and to protect him from being stolen by his enemies. Prince Leo, in the guise of a little squirrel, faces a perilous journey back to Russia, where he comes face to face with his fathers’ enemies, and a great white bear. The collection includes six sweet and funny, cleverly crafted poems, The Ghost Shop, The Riddle of the Clock, Monsieur Elan, Instant Angels, The Squid, Sock Puppets Song, The Horrid Truth, and The Rubber Church. My particular favourite from this collection is, It Must Have Been the Angels, which beautifully describes the wonder of nature and humankind. This is a beautiful collection of traditional poems and stories, reminiscent of a time gone by. Reading this book, I was taken back to my own childhood, sitting on my grandmother’s knee, whilst she read poetry. I hope young readers will get to experience the same joy and wonder whilst sharing this book with their loved ones. The book will appeal to readers who enjoy poetry and those who enjoy classic fables and fairy tales. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A wonderful, sentimental collection of poems, fables and fairy tales that will be treasured by readers forever. Purchase here

< Back Rachel Goguen Sticks Paws & Pucks - The Championship Game Brothers, Owen and Liam, are coaches for the Boston Hockey Team. It is the most important game of the season as Boston face their opponents, the Wilds, in the championship game. Owen and Liam meet their fellow coaches and the players to prepare for the big game. The team head to the rink, and greet the fans who are hoping for a glimpse of their favorite player. Boston start well and lead the game at the end of the first quarter. The coaches gather the players in the locker room and provide motivation and encouragement for the second period. But during the second period, one of the Boston players, Billy, is injured when the puck hits his leg. Billy is forced to retire from the game, but the other players are not discouraged. The coaches and the players become even more determined to win the trophy for the team. Sticks Paws & Pucks - The Championship Game is a book for newly independent readers by author Rachel Goguen. The story follows the Boston Hockey Team coaches and players as they prepare for, and play in, the biggest game of the season – the championship game. But, when the game doesn’t quite go according to plan, the Boston players and coaches show teamwork, perseverance and determination to finish the game. Goguen masterfully captures the camaraderie of the team and the fast paced excitement of hockey, while weaving in themes of friendship and resilience. Young hockey players and other athletes will enjoy this fun and inspiring story. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun and action-packed story about a hockey team, determined to win the championship. A perfect pick for hockey fans. Purchase here

< Back Kristin Nilsen Worldwide Crush: A Novel Rory Calhoun is a teen popstar with perfect teeth and messy hair who’s inspiring first crushes all over the globe. Millie Jackson is just one of the millions of fans who love him—but that doesn't mean her heart doesn't break for him every single day in this laugh-out-loud coming-of-age story. How many of Rory’s fans collect “data” about him in a special notebook hidden in their underwear drawer? Or have faked a fascination with whale migration for a chance to visit his hometown? Millie may not be Rory’s only fan at Susan B. Anthony Middle School, but she's convinced she's the biggest—and the best. Rory’s new song “Worldwide Crush” is climbing the charts, and his lyrics are clear: he’s looking for love—and he’s looking in the audience. Meaning Millie’s secret fantasies of running in the surf and eating waffles with him may not be crazy after all . . . she could be that girl! But first she has to get to his concert—his completely sold-out concert in a city nowhere near her home for which she does not have tickets or a ride. She just has to figure out how. Purchase here

< Back Nick Vakalopoulos There's Something About ROBINS The beautiful robin is captured in this children’s picture book, by author and wildlife photographer, Nick Vakalopoulos. There's Something About ROBINS follows a robin in its natural habitat, as it hops in the grass, searches for food, listens for predators, and prods the ground to find a worm or a bug. The robin soars through the sky before landing on the ground to feed its young. There's Something About ROBINS features glorious technicolour photographs of Robins in their natural environment, taken and edited by Vakalopoulos. This book is a great introduction to robins for young readers, but older readers will enjoy the photography too. We might be fortunate to spot a robin in nature, but we rarely get an opportunity to see a robin up close, and in this level of detail. The robin is a stunning bird, and the photographs wouldn’t look out of place on a festive greetings card. The book might inspire children and adults to grab their binoculars and explore birds in their natural habitats. While aimed at a younger audience, this book is a great reference for readers of all ages. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A glorious book about the beautiful robin, and a perfect resource for wildlife enthusiasts. Purchase here

< Back Lucy Kovaliv Stars of the North A race across Alaska, and a hunt for priceless treasure Ten-year-old Patricia “Puck” O’Malley lives with her brother, dad, Bill and grandparents in Moose Ridge, Yukon, Canada. Her mom, Cindy, died of leukaemia when she was just seven years old. Puck’s dad, Bill, owns and trains twenty-four working sled dogs, and prior to his wife’s death, he was a dog-sled racer. Bill had to abandon his last race, the Iditarod, when Cindy became seriously ill. The Iditarod is a dog sled race across Alaska, from Anchorage to Nome. Bill promised Cindy that one day he would finish the Iditarod and signs up for the next race. As Bill prepares for the race, Puck is curious to know what is in an old, abandoned house in their neighbourhood. She persuades her friend, Mary, to explore the spooky house and they take the sled dogs along for the ride. As they search the house, the girls find a painting of a mysterious man, with the name Romanov scribed on the plaque. They find a number of other paintings, locked doors and cabinets, weapons, hidden keys and secret trap doors, which further sparks their curiosity. As the girls investigate further, they discover that the paintings and artefacts could be worth millions of dollars. Bill sets off for his race in Alaska. He has a slow start and faces a number of obstacles along the way, including a severe snowstorm, a treacherous icy lake, and a devious competitor determined to interfere with the race. Meanwhile, the girls go back to the house to find Mary’s lost scarf, but they are apprehended by an intruder. No-one knows their whereabouts and the girls are in serious danger. Pucks grandparents report the girls missing and have no choice but to call her dad in Alaska. How will the girls escape? Will the thief find the priceless treasures? And will Bill have to abandon the race again to find his daughter? Stars of the North is a thrilling, action-packed, mystery novel for middle grade readers by author Lucy Kovaliv. The author has seamlessly woven two parallel stories into one, which makes this an exciting and captivating read. The characters are well developed and likeable, and I was routing for father and daughter throughout. I particularly enjoyed the setting of this novel in the snowiest parts of the Yukon and Alaska and learning more about the majestic husky dogs. This is a fabulous read for middle grade readers and young adult readers alike. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thrilling, action-packed, mystery novel for middle-grade readers set in Yukon and Alaska. Purchase here

< Back Wittingly Yours You Are Enough, Just as You Are (Yes! It's True) You Are Enough by Wittingly Yours is a heartfelt and empowering book that gently reminds young readers of their self-worth and individuality. Through poetic verses and soothing imagery, the author crafts a message of self-acceptance, resilience, and the importance of embracing one's unique journey. The tone is compassionate and uplifting, making it a comforting read for anyone struggling with self-doubt or societal pressures. The book emphasizes that self-worth is not defined by external validation, material possessions, or social media likes. Instead, it encourages readers to treasure their inner qualities, scars, and experiences, as these are what make them truly unique. The recurring affirmation, "You are enough," acts as a mantra, urging readers to embrace their authentic selves and reject the urge to conform to societal molds. The poetic structure flows beautifully. The verses are simple yet profound, making them accessible to a wide audience. The imagery of nature, such as blooming flowers and growing trees, is used effectively to symbolize personal growth and the importance of patience in one's journey. The book also touches on themes of resilience, reminding readers that mistakes and setbacks are natural parts of life and essential for growth. You Are Enough by Wittingly Yours is a beautifully written picture book for younger readers. With its simplicity and heartfelt message, this book would make a valuable addition to anyone's collection of inspirational literature. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A beautifully written and heart-warming book that gently reminds young readers of their self-worth and individuality. Purchase here

< Back Julie Ellis Williams Bella Joins the Service Bella Joins the Service by Julie Ellis Williams is a children’s picture book that captures the bond between a man and his dog, while highlighting the important role of service animals. The story follows Bella, a young Labrador, and her owner, Kirk, as they navigate a life-changing event. Kirk, an adventurous young man, enjoys an active lifestyle in the Colorado mountains with Bella by his side. However, their lives take a dramatic turn when Kirk is involved in a mountain bike accident, leaving him unable to use his arms and legs as he once did. Bella, sensing Kirk’s struggles, joins “the service” and trains as a service dog to help Kirk adapt to his new way of life. The story is told from Bella’s perspective, and readers are drawn into her world as she learns to assist Kirk with everyday tasks, such as turning lights on and off, picking up dropped items, and even helping him navigate with his wheelchair. The book highlights Bella’s determination and the challenges she faces during her training, emphasizing the importance of patience, perseverance, and love. The book addresses complex topics, such as disability and adaptation, in a way that young children will relate to. The story emphasizes the importance of resilience and finding new ways to enjoy life, even in the face of adversity. The water-color style illustrations by Penny Weber are warm and endearing, capturing the essence of the story beautifully. Based on a true story, this book is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the authors son Kirk, and his beloved dog, Bella. The book also provides valuable information about service dogs, including how families can train their own dogs and how shelter dogs can become service animals. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heart-warming and inspiring tale of the bond between a man and his dog, and the valuable work of service animals. Purchase here