Orris and Timble: Star Stories (Orris & Timble #3) by Kate DiCamillo & illustrated by Carmen Mok

Orris and Timble: Star Stories (Orris & Timble #3) 

ISBN: 9781536227581
Hardcover $16.99
Candlewick Press

My thoughts:  A simply delightful easy reader mini-chapter book for young readers. This is the third in the Orris and Timble series and has two friends who are content with their lives as they are living them, Timble the white barn owl, and Orris the mouse that lives in the barn. However, Timble the owl is encouraging Orris the mouse to go beyond his trusted area of living and fly with the owl to see the world. Mouse is content and actually afraid of going out in the world and of flying.

A good choice for young readers.

About the book: Tender and authentic—a worthy conclusion to a wondrous series." —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

In a soaring conclusion to a moving trilogy, national treasure Kate DiCamillo shows how friendship, trust, and stories—lived and shared—transform us.

Orris and Timble are friends. Orris is a rat, Timble is an owl, and they meet each night in an old barn to share stories. One night, Timble asks a fateful question: “Why don’t you ever leave the barn, Orris?” Strong and brave, the owl offers to carry the rat on his back. Orris will be able to see it all for himself—the rivers and fish, roads and farms, mountains and coyotes. But why would Orris leave the barn when all he needs is there: his books, the moon and stars above, and Timble’s nightly tales of high-flying adventure? What would you do if you had the chance to fly? In the final installment of an exquisitely illustrated and deeply felt early-reader trilogy, two-time Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo reveals how trust and friendship can lift us into our best lives.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

That’s What Heroes Do by Adam Kinzinger - A Tommy Nelson Publications children's book [Review & Giveaway]

That’s What Heroes Do by Adam Kinzinger

ISBN: 9781400252725
Hardcover $19.99 SRV

My thoughts:  I love when books (and parents) tell the stories of real live heroes rather than fiction super heroes that zip and zap through the air and shoot bolts of lightning from their fists performing superhuman feats. Real people are much greater and inspiring. They are much greater for children to aspire to emulate themselves.

In Mr. Adam Kinzinger's first children's book, he looks at heroes in different walks of life. The boy living this story has a father that is a pilot - super stuff in a boy's eyes. The father gives his son a tour of the United States via his own plane to learn about the many heroes that live all around us.

Focusing on acts of kindness as well as heroic acts, this story guides the reader's thoughts toward the whole of society as it engages in deeds done to help others. It ends with the thought that "Heroes put others first!" Indeed, an apt definition of a hero.

Brightly illustrated in strong colors and cheerful people from every day walks of life.

About the book: Who is a hero? From first responders and soldiers to teachers and friends, discover what makes a real-life hero in this story from Adam Kinzinger, veteran and former congressman. Take to the skies with a boy and his pilot dad as they visit sites across the United States in search of heroes. As they look down on community helpers working hard to lift up others, and even witness those who gave everything at Arlington Cemetery, children will discover that America is built on the service and sacrifices of heroes.

In this imaginative, heartfelt adventure, boys and girls 4 to 8 will

• discover that heroes are all around us,
• learn about notable sites across the United States where heroes work and serve,
• learn that a hero protects and lifts up others,
• understand that anyone can choose kindness and generosity, and
• be inspired to honor the sacrifices made for them.

Inspired by the author's experiences as an Air Force pilot, this story of adventure, curiosity, and patriotism will give children a deeper understanding of the many people who put others first every day to make America a nation of safety and opportunity. Perfect for classroom and homeschool studies about Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veteran's Day, this hopeful book will encourage children to be tomorrow's heroes—and to start today.

GIVEAWAY

Begins July 8

Ends August 9 at 11:39 p.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

That’s What Heroes Do

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize book is provided and sent directly to the winner by publisher or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.