< Back Vy Lien The Nervous Noodle: Social Anxiety, Fitting In, and Standing Out How will Nervous Noodle cope on his first day at school? It is Nervous Noodle’s first day at school, and he feels very anxious. He is worried about how he will make new friends. What if no one talks to him? What if he trips and falls? What if he cannot answer the teachers questions? What if? What if? What if? He doesn’t sleep the night before school and cannot eat his breakfast in the morning. When he arrives at school, he notices the other children, easily talking to one another and making new friends. But, when Noodle tries to say hello, no one talks to him. When he trips and falls over in class, he is embarrassed, but the kind teacher helps him into his chair. When the teacher asks him a question, he is so nervous, he gives the wrong answer. Then, at recess, he is scared to approach the children and spends his break alone. When he returns home, Noodle is hungry and exhausted and goes to bed early. The next day, Noodle wakes up feeling a little brighter. He had survived the first day, and he was strong enough to handle anything. At school, he has the courage to talk to the other children, he uses his skills to help another child, and he gets an answer correct. He plays soccer with the other children at recess and even scores the winning goal. Noodle reflects on his day, and concludes he had the best second day at school ever! The Nervous Noodle: Social Anxiety, Fitting In, and Standing Out by author Vy Lien is a fun illustrated picture book about a little boy (Noodle) who feels nervous about his first day at school. Everything that could possibly go wrong, did go wrong for Noodle on his first day. But, Noodle survived it, he picked himself up and he started again. He knew the worst was over, and he realised he was much stronger than he thought he was. The second day was a success, and Noodle soon settled into school. This is a fab story with an important message. The book will help children who might be nervous about starting school, who are scared about starting new activities, or who are feeling anxious in social situations. The book will help parents, carers and teachers talk to children about their feelings and help alleviate their anxieties. The artwork is wonderful, and young children will love the cute and colourful fruit, vegetable, and nut characters. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun picture book that will help children who struggle with anxiety. 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 Danielle Marietta and Marissa Kearney Truth Tales: The Air Fair-He Gabe’s adventure with the tooth fair-he. One day, during school, Gabe loses a tooth when he bites into an apple. He looks after the tooth carefully until he returns home, hoping he might receive a payment from the tooth fairy. He wonders, Do tooth fairies really exist? And how do fairies get their magic? Gabe has an idea. That evening, he asks his dad to help him catch a tooth fairy so he can ask her himself. He places the tooth under his pillow and uses an old glass saltshaker as a trap, to catch the fairy and block her magic. In the middle of the night, Gabe is woken by the bell he attached to the saltshaker. Much to his surprise, he finds a warm glowing light shining inside the trap and a tiny tooth fairy. But this is no ordinary tooth fairy. This isn’t even a she-fairy. This is an air fair-he, or tooth fair-he. A male tooth fairy, with a fresh haircut and cool winged-sneakers. Tony, the air fair-he, agrees to tell Gabe all his fairy secrets, on the condition that he releases him from the trap. Tony shrinks Gabe to miniature proportions and travels with him in his backpack to a toothy kingdom. After receiving his own pair of winged-sneakers, Gabe is shown around the Root Canal and learns all about the air fair-he’s, the jewel-hers, and the mouthguards. B ut just as he learns how human teeth are turned into precious gemstones, the mouthguards notice an intruder in the kingdom. Can Gabe escape before the mouthguards capture him? Truth Tales: The Air Fair-He is a fun and imaginative tale for newly independent readers by Danielle Marietta and Marissa Kearney . The book is a modern twist on the traditional tooth-fairy story, with a lesson or two on dental hygiene. It follows the journey of a young boy named Gabe on a quest to trap the elusive tooth fairy. But the tooth fairy isn’t quite as he imagined, and he goes on a magical adventure to the land of the air fair-he’s, the jewel-hers, and the mouthguards. The book beautifully captures the innocence and wonder of childhood, making it a charming read for children and the young at heart. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A traditional tooth-fairy story, with a contemporary twist. Purchase here

< Back Hazem Nassar If I Must Go, You Must Stay Salma is all alone, trapped underneath the rubble following an explosion. She cannot see or hear her mama, or papa, or big brother Ahmad. Suddenly she hears Ahmad’s voice. She cannot see her brother, but she can see a small yellow bird. Ahmad provides comfort and reassurance that someone will rescue her soon. But, it is so dark, and Salma is frightened. Ahmad explains that he is on his way ‘up’ and it is time for him to use his wings and go. Salma begs him not to leave her behind. She wants wings too, and wants to go ‘up’ with him. She does not know what she will do without her brother. Ahmad explains that she is not ready, but if he must go, she must stay to tell his story. Will Salma find her own wings? Will she be rescued from the rubble? If I Must Go, You Must Stay is an illustrated picture book by Hazem Nassar about a little girl who is trapped under the rubble after a bombing in her village. Alone and frightened, Salma hears her brothers voice, and sees a small yellow bird. Realising the bird is Ahmad’s spirit watching over her, Salma finds comfort and strength in a dire situation. This beautifully written and illustrated picture book explores the devastating impact of war from a child’s perspective, and handles grief sensitively and with grace. Salma’s journey from fear to courage, guided by her brothers spirit, is both heart-wrenching and uplifting. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A heart-wrenching and uplifting story about the devastating impact of war on young children. Purchase here

< Back Renee Hamilton Norey Loo Glory's Adoption Story Book blurb... Celebrate adoption through the eyes and heart of nine year old Norey Loo Glory, as she sets the record straight that "adoption is an awesome option". Purchase here

< Back Laurel Guillen A Bellwether Christmas: A Novel Inspired by True Events Author Laurel Guillen tells the story of the birth of the Christmas nativity, through the eyes of a little orphaned lamb. This is a sweet story about a little orphaned lamb named Bart, who lives in a small settlement in Greccio, Italy, in the thirteen century. Bart is a friendly, curious, and mischievous little lamb. He frequently escapes his pen so he can meet his farmyard friends and explore the world around him. While out grazing in the field, Bart meets Seconda, a young hare. Seconda tells Bart a story about a man who could speak to animals and saved her grandfather from a trap. Then, while out exploring the pasture, Bart meets Mr Lark, who also tells the story of a wise and mysterious man who can speak to the animals. One day, Bart and his friend Ginevra wriggle through a fence to find the best plants, and stumble across a lone wolf, Lupo. Lupo also describes a man who can talk to the animals and saved him from being hunted and killed by the towns people. Lupo explained that the man and his Brothers would soon be arriving in Greccio for the Christmas season. As Christmas approaches, Bart is excited to meet the mysterious man who can talk to animals. When a group of four strange men arrive in the town, Bart recognises one of the men from his friend’s description. Bart, and the other animals greet the travellers, and the man introduces himself as Brother Francesco, and his companions, Brothers Giles, Angelo, and Simon. Brother Francesco invites Bart, his shepherd Mundo, and an Ox and a Donkey, to a special Christmas Eve event – a nativity that has never been seen outside the Holy Land. Bart and his friends take part in the special nativity to help the townspeople imagine the night when Baby Jesus was born. The next day, Bart joins the Christmas day festivities at Greccio castle. He is given a special bell by Lord Giovanni and invited to be part of the Christmas nativity celebration every year. A Bellwether Christmas by author Laurel Guillen is a beautiful novel for newly independent readers, about love, belonging, honor and praise. The book tells the story of Brother Francesco (St Francis of Assisi) and the birth of the Christmas nativity. The story is told through the eyes of a sweet and mischievous little lamb, and will appeal to younger readers in this age category. The book would make a great family read on Christmas Eve, and a perfect Christmas gift. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful novel of love, belonging, honor and praise, told through the eyes of a sweet and mischievous little lamb. Purchase here

< Back Danielle Simone The Adventures of Syd: Lost in Bone Cave A young girl named Syd embarks on a caving expedition with her father, Dr. Gardener, and her loyal dog, Goose. What begins as a father-daughter bonding experience quickly turns into a thrilling adventure, full of challenges, discoveries, and lessons about nature and responsibility. The narrative is rich with vivid descriptions that bring the mysterious Bone Cave to life. Simone’s writing captures the wonder and danger of exploring the underground world, from the eerie glow of luminescent rocks to the claustrophobic crawl through the Devil’s Pinch. Readers learn about cave formations, bats, and the importance of environmental conservation. Syd is a relatable and endearing protagonist, and her relationship with her father is heart-warming. Their shared love for adventure and science is evident, and their interactions are filled with humor, warmth, and mutual respect. Goose, adds a delightful touch to the story, highlighting the bond between humans and their pets. The dog’s loyalty and intelligence play a crucial role in the plot, making her an integral part of the adventure. Simone’s inclusion of STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities at the end of the book encourage readers to explore the themes of the story further, it an excellent resource for educators and parents. Overall, Danielle Simone’s The Adventures of Syd: Lost in Bone Cave is an engaging and educational tale that combines adventure, science, and environmental awareness. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A delightful blend of adventure and education, and a perfect read for young explorers and budding scientists. Purchase here

< Back Nicole Encarnacion My ABC'S to Positivity Author Nicole Encarnacion inspires confidence, self-belief, and positivity in young children, through an alphabet picture book. My ABC'S to Positivity is a unique and educational alphabet-style picture book by Nicole Encarnacion. The book aims to inspire confidence, self-belief, and positivity in young children, through 26 positive affirmations, each beginning with a letter of the alphabet. The book features a young girl, in a variety of different scenes, as she reminds herself just how unique and wonderful she is. With empowering positive affirmations through the alphabet, including A for Awesome, K for Kindness and W for Worthy, the book will encourage young children to practice their own positive affirmations in front of the mirror every day: ‘Every morning before I start my day. I look in the mirror and I say...I am awesome, flaws and all.’ This easy-to-read and engaging picture book will encourage both children and adults to practice positive affirmations. It will help children to learn the alphabet, whilst at the same time supporting the development of new knowledge and new vocabulary. This book is a great resource for parents, carers, and teachers to help nurture confidence and self-belief in young children. With fifteen pages of additional resources, including fun activities for children, the book would make a great addition to any home or school library. Beautifully written in rhyme, with fun and bright illustrations by Mayank Sharma, this book will engage and captivate younger audiences. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An easy-to-read and engaging picture book that will encourage both children and adults to practice positive affirmations. Purchase here

< Back Victoria Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson The Crow's Ring Book blurb... It’s about to be one crazy summer when thirteen-year-old Brandon Woodberry and his best friends meet a salty old sea captain on his beloved tugboat, the Maryanne. Curiosity and excitement take over when the kids discover the captain—a once undercover detective—has ties to a decades cold robbery that took place in their neighborhood, and the kids are determined to join forces to solve the case. Plus, they want to do whatever it takes to keep the sea captain’s tug—the town’s prideful landmark—at the marina before it’s hauled-off for scrap metal. Brandon's pet crow, Ralph, really stirs things up when a valuable ruby ring disappears… is Ralph a troublemaker or a hero? And who would have guessed that this summer would change young Brandon's life? It’s an all-out search for the truth and the curious bond to the sea. Purchase here

< Back Vicki Scott Burns Charli's Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure Book blurb... On a school field trip to the aquarium, Charli meets a marine biologist who rescues sea turtles. Charli can't stop wondering what it would be like to be a marine biologist herself. Soon, she is lost in a turtle daydream. When she finds a weak sea turtle stranded on the beach, it's up to Charli and her friends to save him - and to figure out a way to help save all sea turtles! Purchase here

< Back Aurora Winter Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse: The Marvelous Multiverse App A thrilling, magical, mystery ride through the multiverse, by author Aurora Winter Siblings, Ana and Zachary, from Los Angeles, California, are visiting their Aunt Wendy and Uncle Shockley in Vancouver. Ana is an aspiring actress, who dreams of making it big in Hollywood. Zachary is in remission from cancer, and immunocompromised. The siblings are in quarantine following their travels and are alone in the house and bored. They explore their aunt and uncle’s house, and find their uncle’s experimental, hydrogen-fueled car, named the Parallel Universe Pod (P.U.P). While they are exploring the car, Ana activates the Marvelous Multiverse app, which takes them on a joyride across the solar system. The P.U.P transports them to a parallel world and they crash land on a planet called Lokey, accidentally killing the evil Emerald Censor. Ana and Zachary meet the magical and mysterious inhabitants of Lokey and become instant heroes. When they learn of a Wizard Snapdragon with magical healing powers, they set off to find her, in the hope that she will cure Zachary’s cancer. But their arrival in Lokey has not gone unnoticed, and the siblings are soon pursued by Queen Crimson, who is determined to avenge the death of the Emerald Censor. As the siblings navigate this new world, the cruel Queen Crimson kidnaps Zachary. Ana must rescue her brother, whilst at the same time must confront the evil forces that are determined to destroy her. Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse: The Marvelous Multiverse App is a magical, fantasy fiction, adventure novel, and the first book in a planned series, by author Aurora Winter. This is a fun, fantastic, fast-paced, fantasy adventure, well-executed by Winter. With a unique and imaginative plot, a mesmerising magical multiverse, and a host of wonderful and magical creatures, this book will appeal to young adult readers who enjoy adventure and fantasy fiction. Inspired by books, such as Wizard of Oz and Harry Potter, and movies such as Back to the Future, this book can sit proudly alongside those classics. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun, fantasy fiction novel, packed full of magic and adventure. A thrilling ride through the multiverse, not to be missed! Purchase here

< Back Hans Ness Rolo the Pet Earthling Will a pet earthling discover the truth about his species? Zira, a Blorxling from the planet Blorx, wants a pet earthling. She begs her mom for many years, until one day she receives her very own human pet. She names the little earthling Rolo, and he soon settles into his new home. Luckily, Rolo is potty trained, but he does like to sneak into Zira’s bed at nighttime. As Rolo grows taller, hairier, and smellier, he becomes unsettled and very bored. While out walking one day with Zira, they meet a group of animal rights activists in the park. The activists are protesting about the rights of earthlings, chanting ‘Earthlings have rights too.’ Rolo becomes curious and wonders, Where do earthlings come from? And how did they live before they were pets? As he hangs out with his earthling friends in the park, he is spotted by the Animal Control Force and captured for not wearing his harness. Scared and confused, Rolo manages to escape from the bots. He is chased into a wormhole and finds himself in the big city, far away from his family and beloved Zira. Can Rolo find his way home before the Animal Control Force catch him? And will he ever discover the truth about the origins of his species? Rolo the Pet Earthling is a chapter book for middle grade readers by author Hans Ness. The book follows the adventures of a young alien from the planet Blorx and her earthling pet, Rolo. Owner and pet are involved in a fast paced and frantic cat and mouse chase, as they try to find one another before the human-catchers do. This is a fun book, set in a captivating alien world where human/animal roles are reversed. Children will enjoy the story and laugh out loud as the pet earthlings are treated in the same way we treat our pet dogs. This is a brilliant concept, with a compelling alien world and a captivating cast of weird and wonderful characters. The book will delight young readers who enjoy fantasy, science fiction, and funny stories. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A creative, imaginative, and funny book for middle grade readers, about a young alien and her beloved human pet. Purchase here