< Back Diann Floyd Boehm Charlie and the Tire Swing - How it Began A charming story about the special bond between grandparent and child, by author Diann Floyd Boehm Charlie looks at the big oak tree outside his grandparent’s kitchen window, and asks his Grandpa Jack, how did the oak tree grow so big? Grandpa Jacks tells Charlie a story from his own childhood, when he found a little acorn and with the help of his own grandfather, planted it in the garden. Young Jack waited patiently for the acorn to grow and visited his grandparents every weekend to check the trees progress. Over many weeks and months, there was still no sign of a tree, and Jack feared the little acorn had been washed away in the rainstorms, or frozen in the winter snow. Until one spring day, a little sapling sprouted from the ground. Jack took very good care of the little tree, watering it, talking to it, and protecting it from the frost in winter. Over several years, the little sapling grew into a magnificent tree, and became home to many creatures, including cardinals, owls and hawks. The tree was enjoyed by the whole family for many years, as the house and beloved tree were passed through the generations. Grandpa Jack asks Charlie to take good care of the tree and he ties an old rope and tire to the branches, so Charlie can play and enjoy the splendid specimen. Charlie and the Tire Swing: How it Began by author Diann Floyd Boehm is a sweet and wonderful picture book about a young boy and his exploration with nature with his grandfather. It shows the beauty of the relationship between child and grandparent, as Grandpa Jack lovingly tells the young boy a story from his own childhood over a mug of hot chocolate. In an age of gaming, technology, high energy entertainment and social media, this is a reminder of the simpler things in life, and the importance of nurturing relationships through conversations and storytelling. I hope this book will encourage both young children and adults to explore nature in their own backyard, and beyond. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet, wonderful and warm intergenerational story and exploration of nature. Purchase here

< Back David Kopacz A Bowl Full of Ideas for Inventive Minds A Bowl Full of Ideas for Inventive Minds is a collection of eighteen short stories / vignettes written by visionary healer, artist and founder of a global network of Sound Peace Chambers, Southern Ute elder Joseph Rael (Tiwa name, Tsluu-teh-koh-ay ‘Beautiful Painted Arrow’). The collection is curated by David R. Kopacz, MD and is designed to ‘stimulate inventiveness, creativity, and an appreciation for sacredness in everyday life’. Each story is centred on the four elements of life (earth, water, air, and fire), and the concept of the ‘bowl of life’. Mother Earth is a great big bowl, and all families live in little bowls. From early pioneers to the present day, people have settled in bowl-shaped landscapes to grow crops, graze cattle, and raise children. ‘ The Creator made Earth, Water, Air, and Fire and put them in a bowl and the bowl was shaped like a wheel. The Medicine Wheel holds together Earth, Water, Air, and Fire so that we and all things may live. We are made of these four things: earth, water, air, and fire—energies awakening us to vibrations of life.’ A Bowl Full of Ideas for Inventive Minds is a profound and deeply moving collection of traditional stories and teachings by Joseph Rael (Beautiful Painted Arrow) and David R. Kopacz, with artwork by Rael. The book presents a series of tales that explore the concept of the ‘bowl of life’, a metaphor of balance, connectedness and respect for Mother Earth. This is a stunning collection of stories and art, offering an introduction to the spiritual teachings of Rael, and an insight into the values and beliefs and the Southern Ute people. The abstract illustrations are vibrant and expressive, fully capturing the narrative and Rael’s spiritual teachings. The collection is perfect for readers of all ages who are interested in Native American art and storytelling, and a must read for anyone on a journey of self-discovery or spiritual growth. Star rating: 5 stars Summary : A profound and beautiful bowlful of Native American spirituality, wisdom, and art. Purchase here

Will Fox Canidae save his beloved factory and city from the villainous Doctor Monkeyshine and his criminal gang? < Back Ryan Poirier The Herd Foxy Fruits merges with Bodaceous Herbaceous and develops a new product - a genetically modified juice, crossed between a fruit and a vegetable. But just before the big launch of the new juice sensation, a disgruntled employee Professor Doctor Monkeyshine and his criminal gang (The Pack), alter the genetic code of the juice, and threaten to destroy the company and the city. The CEO of the company, Fox Canidae, must act fast to beat The Pack and to save his family, his company, and the whole of Maple City. The Herd: Volume 1 Omnibus is a unique and creative graphic novel, full of wit and humour. Poirier has created an extraordinary fantasy world like no other. The characters, the plot, the book design, and every minutia of detail has been well thought through and excellently presented. The work and effort gone into the production of this book is remarkable. The digital illustrations are magnificent. The author has a real talent for digital, cartoon illustrations. The book captures every expression, every moment, and every scene beautifully. This book is on the lengthier side for a graphic novel, but I was completely enthralled and found it hard to put down. I can’t wait to read part 2! Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An imaginative story, with magnificent digital artwork’. A FINALIST and highly recommended. Purchase here

< Back Lori Giesey Staycation Book blurb... “Is that what you're feeling?” Papa has to stay close to home this year, so Mima adapts Cousin Camp into a staycation adventure Charlie, Maddie, and Sophie will never forget. When big feelings arise during pool parties, crafting, and climbing, they must learn to lean in and listen or let the discomfort ruin their opportunities for laughter and growth. 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 physically, mentally, and emotionally 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 Heidi Solomon-Orlick I Have a Voice: A Book of Listening Book blurb... Join Victoria and her lovable sidekick, Viktor the voice monster, on an enchanting journey to discover their inner voice in "I Have a Voice". Together, they navigate adventures and challenges, learning the power of courage, kindness, and self-belief. With vibrant illustrations and 5 interactive worksheets, this heartwarming tale teaches young readers to trust and embrace their unique inner voice. Perfect for bedtime or classroom reading, this magical story will inspire imagination and empowerment in children and parents alike. Purchase here

< Back Jo-Ann Scranton Kathi Q Builds a Time Machine? Can Kathi Q fulfil her dream and build the worlds first time travelling machine? Kathi loves to build machines. She can practically build anything and everything from everyday household items. One day, Kathi has an idea. She decides to make the world’s first time-machine. Inside her garage, she connects old buttons, gears, switches, toggles, batteries, and zippers together. Eureka, her time machine is born! But when Kathi switches on her time machine, something very strange happens. Everything and everyone are upside down. She hasn’t built a time machine; she has built an upside-down machine! But Kathi doesn’t worry, she decides being upside down is much more fun anyway. As Kathi uses a pair of suction cups to stick to the floor, she quickly adapts to the upside-down world. But, as everything starts to fall to the ceiling, she soon discovers life upside down is not as fun as it seems. How long will Kathi be stuck upside-down? And can Kathi’s machine make the world the right side up again? Kathi Q. Builds a Time Machine is an illustrated picture book by author Jo-Ann Scranton about a very creative, inventive, and talented young woman who loves to build magnificent machines. But when things don’t go quite to plan, Kathi doesn’t worry and makes the most of the situation. This is a fun book for readers, who will enjoy reading about Kathi’s adventures and the silly situations in which she finds herself. It will encourage young readers to be creative, and might even encourage them to start their own science or technology project! This is a unique and imaginative picture book, with an interesting and memorable protagonist. I would love to read more about Kathi and follow her amazing STEM inspired adventures. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun, unique and imaginative picture book about a creative and inventive young woman who loves to build magnificent machines. Purchase here

A lost little girl finds her inner magic, by author Sally Kingman < Back Sally Kingman Everything Is Everything: Finding Your Magic Sally and her faithful little pup were out for walk one day, enjoying the sunshine, the flowers, the woodland creatures, and the aromas of the meadow. Deep in thought, and in admiration of the beautiful surroundings, Sally’s inner voice interrupts her serenity. Her inner voice was telling her to stop. To stop the daydreaming and the meaningless meandering through the meadow. Her inner voice reminded her of the much more important and productive things she could be doing with her time instead. Normally, Sally would listen to the inner voice and head back home, but today was different. Today, Sally chose to ignore the inner voice, and continued to enjoy her time, simply appreciating the beauty of nature. As Sally chooses to do what makes her feel happy, she feels a sense of peace and discovers a whole new magical world, full of adventure. This is a sweet story about a cute little girl, who, disturbed by negative, controlling thoughts, decides to follow her heart and finds true happiness and self-love. It will encourage readers to think positively and to pursue interests that make them happy, rather than what makes others happy. A note for the author: we did spot some typos and grammatical errors, and therefore recommend a thorough editorial review. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A sweet story about a cute little girl, who finds true happiness and self-love. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Steven Thedford The First Fruits Festival of Kwanzaa (A Zulu Celebration) Shaka Thomas from Charlotte, North Carolina, is preparing to honor his ancestors by singing the ngoma at the Kwanzaa first fruits harvest festival in South Africa. The festival (also known as the Calabash Festival or Umkhosi Woselwa) is a celebration among Zulus. Shaka’s grandmother was the first daughter of the Zulu king, who moved to America after marrying a man from the United States. She promised to return to South Africa every year with her family to attend festival. But Shaka is still recovering from his last bout of sickle cell anaemia and is unsure whether he will be strong enough to sing. The book highlights the significance of family, community, and cultural heritage, and offers readers a fascinating insight into the vibrant traditions of the Zulu people and the African American holiday of Kwanzaa. Through Shaka’s journey, readers learn about different cultural practices, such as the Reed Dance, the royal tasting ceremony, and the energetic Indlamu dance, and of the importance of honoring ancestors, preserving traditions, and overcoming personal challenges. The glossary at the end provides helpful definitions of key terms, enhancing the reader’s understanding of Zulu culture and language. The First Fruits Festival of Kwanzaa by Steven C. Thedford is an engaging and educational story that celebrates African heritage and the universal values of family, courage, and cultural pride. It serves as a valuable resource for readers seeking to learn more about the traditions of Kwanzaa and the Zulu people, while inspiring them to embrace their own cultural traditions. The illustrations by Khosi Pholosa beautifully complement the story, bringing the story to life with vivid depictions of family gatherings, traditional attire, and ceremonial events. The book also touches on themes of resilience, as Shaka overcomes his fears and physical limitations to perform at the festival, supported by his family and cousin Lincoln. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An engaging and educational story celebrating Zulu culture and African heritage. Purchase here

Paula Welch presents The Interlopers, intrepid alien explorers in a desperate search for a new home. < Back Paula Welch The Interlopers Seven-year-old Charlie Featherstone lived on a farm in New South Wales, Australia. He loved nothing more than to look up at the sky at night, and dreamed of becoming an astronomer or an astronaut one day. On one starry night, Charlie witnesses a dazzling meteor shower that would change his life forever. Fast forward twenty-five years, Dr Charlie Featherstone is now working at the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex when he discovers some strange activity radiating from the moon and a not too far away planet. Meanwhile, hidden beside one of Jupiter’s moons, is the Zephyrus, a spaceship that has travelled from a far distant galaxy to flee war on their home planet of Lamatra. Captain of the Zephyrus, Lathaniel, has been searching for a habitable planet, and hopes the beautiful blue planet Earth will provide much needed shelter and safety. Lathaniel reaches out to Charlie and his team at the CDSCC in the hope they can persuade the authorities to let the Lamatrians settle in Australia. After long negotiations, the aliens are given permission to stay, and they soon adapt to life on Earth. But not everyone is happy with the new arrivals, and when innocent aliens are brutally attacked by humans, the Lamatrians have an important decision to make. Should they stay on Earth or leave and seek out another planet? The Interlopers is an outstanding science fiction novel for pre-teen readers. The book has a perfect balance of insight and factual information, and creativity and imagination, to make this both an entertaining and believable story. It might even persuade the most passionate sceptics to question the existence of extra-terrestrial life! The book is packed full of interesting facts about science and technology, the planetary systems, and space travel. The narration by Emma provides further context and information, for those readers that might be less familiar with these subjects. The book is beautifully written by Paula Welch. The characters are likable and well developed, particularly the two main characters, Charlie, and Lathaniel. The story follows their individual journeys, over time and across space, and readers will connect with their experiences of love and loss, their dreams and insecurities, and their successes and failures. We hope to hear more about Charlie and Lathaniel, and their human-alien relationships, in the future. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An outstanding and believable science fiction story, beautifully written by Welch‘. A GOLD WINNER and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Pannell & Sigfusson The Crow's Tales: The Big Dream (Second Edition) Book blurb... With summer just around the corner, the last thing on Brandon’s mind is his final essay for sixth-grade English class. In fact, all he wants right now — aside from a refreshing, escapist nap — is to hang out on the rooftop with his friends and his pet crow, Ralph. Or even better, to build a remote-controlled car for the big upcoming race! Not only will the winner be the talk of the town, but the winning car will be featured in an exciting new video game. Can Brandon and his pit crew of friends and family raise the funds to buy the parts and construct a victorious speedster before time runs out? Through bake sales and car washes, run-ins with local police, lots and lots of elbow grease, and even more grease grease, Brandon chases the wildest dream he’s ever had. In this fun and quietly compelling middle-grade novel, Brandon experiences a true awakening when he learns the values of persistence, honesty, and community. 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 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