Kobee Manatee Climate Change and The Great Blue Hole Hazard by Robert Scott Thayer - Published by Thompson Mill Press

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Maybe the author will sign winner's copy.

My thoughts:  Did you know that there is a whole series of books about Kobee Manatee? The current four distinct works about Kobee are delightful to read, teach much needed lessons, and are gently lovable. This newest - Climate Change and the Great Blue Hole Hazard - educates and entertains young children about our wonderful oceans and what's happening to them. 

As Kobee and his pals (all dressed in frankly unsuitable clothes) cavort from about the Caribbean, they see dying coral, plastic trash, and sea critter friends entrapped in plastic. 

The story is a beautifully illustrated, gentle, and entertaining read for children to read themselves or have read aloud to them. Kobee is a treasure. 

There are side bars of information that state the dire circumstances that ocean pollution and climate change cause. One fact that I found alarming is that about half the plastics ever manufactured have been manufactured since 2000. That is alarming to me considering that in that period of time there has been a concerted effort to slow and/or eliminate the use of plastics.

I highly recommend this children's book and think the entire series should be in school and public libraries.

Click Here to Purchase Kobee Manatee at https://www.amazon.com/Kobee-Manatee-Climate-Change-Hazard/dp/0997123990

About the book: The Kobee Manatee series is an award-winning, recently winning a Mom’s Choice Award, and beloved series about a loveable manatee (the cows of the sea!) and is the fourth book in the series by author Robert Scott Thayer. 

This book has already received praise from Kirkus Reviews. Kobee Manatee: Climate Change and The Great Blue Hole Hazard is the newest installment in the award-winning Kobee Manatee® Children’s Educational Picture Book Series. The story follows Kobee and his seafaring friends on a Caribbean adventure to help his cousin Quinn with her underwater café called Quinn's Seagrass Café. Their adventure is filled with interesting facts about climate change, and the danger plastic pollution is having in our oceans and on our coral reefs. Manatees eat seagrass and their food supply is dwindling due to warming seas. Each book in the series comes with an educational component for teachers and parents to use. Find it....https://www.kobeemanatee.com/ 

"Manatee is a lovable and magnetic host, leading readers into the waters that cover 70% of the earth while opening young minds to the connections between human actions and marine ecosystems. Creating opportunities, which inspire love for our marine animals can cultivate an environmentally responsible conscience that can last a lifetime." — Dr. Tracy Fanara, Host of Inspector Planet and expert contributor for this book in the series. 

GIVEAWAY

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Ends October 19 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

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

Grumpy Frumpy Croissant by Mona K. & illustrated by Korey Scott

My thoughts:  This is a bit of a far fetched tale of bready items at the breakfast table that is illustrated with quirky, cartoony characters. The grumpy episode begins when Croissant comes to the table unhappy, and from then on nothing suits.

Typical early morning scene in many homes? Perhaps. But like I said, a bit far fetched. I don't see the symbolism where angry grumpy frumpy croissant loses his butter dwindling down in size. I don't see the symbolism of everyone taking a slurp of milk to help them calm down.

I do like the take a deep breath and count to 10 technique to facilitate calmness and patience. 

All in all, an ok book but not a favorite of mine. 

About the book: Grumpy Frumpy Croissant isn't happy, and he's taking it out on the breakfast plate! Toast, Scone, and Milk think he's being mean, but Croissant thinks they're being mean. A sip of Milk and ten deep breaths help everyone calm down and talk to each other.

Beneath the charming, hand-drawn illustrations in Grumpy Frumpy Croissant is a lesson about misunderstandings that any child can grasp. Croissant learns about about letting anger pass by stopping and breathing, and how he hurts other's feelings when he yells. It's a simple story for parents to introduce ideas of managing feelings to children. Grumpy Frumpy Croissant also features:

• Croissant recipe that parents can make with their children.
• Full-page coloring activities featuring the characters in the books 

Buy it: Amazon or Barnes & Noble

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

Gritty and Graceful: 15 Inspiring Women of the Bible by Caryn Rivadeneira

Buy it on Amazon
ISBN: 9781506452067

My thoughts:  Illustrated with bold colors and characters that exude strength of purpose, the assorted women and girls from the pages of the Bible, Old and New Testaments, come to life. The theme that permeates each story is what the woman or girl did for God and what God did for the Woman.

It is not an "if you do this, I will do this" situation. It simply states that the action of the woman/girl was meaningful and purposeful and looked upon favorably by God. It also simply states that God moves in the lives of women and does great or wonderful things.

Short, tersely written text fleshes out the basics of each story as is appropriate for young listeners or young readers.

This is a nice book to teach our young girls that they are of much value to God and can be used of God.

About the book: God gave girls grit and grace. From the very beginning, God looked to girls and women to teach, to lead, to love, to change the world.

We know because we can read their stories in the Bible. From Eve to Mary and everyone in between, the Bible is full of gritty and graceful women who faced tough circumstances with courage, toughness, intelligence, and faith.

This companion to Caryn Rivadeneira's critically acclaimed Grit and Grace: Heroic Women of the Bible combines exciting storytelling with the vivid illustrations of Sonya Abby Soekarno to bring the stories of these biblical women to life. Gritty and Graceful: 15 Inspiring Women of the Bible will inspire the gritty and graceful girls in your life to imagine their place in God's story, how they can make a difference in the world, and do great things for God.

Author Caryn Rivadeneira said that "Boiling down these women’s complex and difficult stories was hard! Each woman deserves her own book. But it was fun looking at these women, 'listening' to them and honing in on the most important (or one of the most important) things they had to say."

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from PRBytheBook on behalf of Beaming Books and the author to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Saving Each Other by Stacy Mitchell (Saving Series #1) [Blog Tour & Giveaway]

Purchase a copy - click here

What happens when an unconventional grief counselor gives two people each a private cell phone and only the first initial of the other person affected by an accident? How does this help them heal? And what else might happen?

About the book: 
Two hearts, two souls. Devastated by loss, united through destiny.

The rules: Communicate only through text messages and never reveal our real names or other personal details.

My name is Ean Montgomery. After the drunk driving accident that killed my wife, son, and unborn daughter, I was forced to see a grief counselor. In an unconventional move, she gave me a private cell phone and the first initial of the name of a woman who had been widowed by the same accident. I had no intention of ever texting her but with all hope and the will to live gone, I found myself quickly slipping down the rabbit hole. Desperate, lonely, and unbelievably sad, I reached out to her and she became my everything.

My name is Dani Adams. I was married to my college sweetheart, the love of my life. Together we were raising our four-year-old daughter and running a successful business. Then the accident happened and life as I knew it ended in the blink of an eye. I didn’t want to answer his text but I was barely hanging on by a thread and he was in tremendous pain, so I replied. And once again, my world was forever changed.

Over the course of a year, through texting alone, we bond. Friendship blossoms into something deeper. We were never supposed to meet, but fate had other plans, and in this world of loss and despair, something amazing began to grow… But can the passion we’ve found sustain itself with the deep, soul-twisting pain that never seems to fade?

Trigger Caution: This book is romantic fiction and is a story of hope, friendship, and the power of love. It also deals with the aftermath of great tragedy and grief and the deep emotional turmoil that can be encountered.

About the Author:
Stacy Mitchell was born and raised in Los Angeles, and lived in the South Bay for 20 years before moving to the Conejo Valley. She lives with her husband of 29 years and is the mom of two grown sons. When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading, hiking in the Santa Monica mountains or enjoying a glass of cabernet.

NOTE: I have not read this book and don't know the contents or reader audience appropriatness. However, the premise sounds intriguing and the life changing emotional involvement quotient compelling.

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Ends June 21 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

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DISCLOSURE: I was provided a copy by PR by the Book Publicity Group on behalf of the author to facilitate this blog tour. As of posting date, I have ot read the book.

Crafts and Recipes to Entertain Kids at Home This summer - The Lemonade Stand Cookbook from Burnt Cheese Press [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts: This excellently designed and wonderfully appropriate book for children is a must-have. I would have loved to have it when my children were young. So at the onset let me say that I encourage moms, aunties, and grandmas to get one for their young folks.

Does it just address the budding entrepreneur who wishes to set up business on the front lawn? Absolutely not, though it has wonderful tips and instructions along that line.

This book is replete with a variety of yummy items requiring a sparse amount of ingredients that boys and girls can produce in the kitchen. Then not to be left out, the artsy can find several fun crafts to occupy and bring them a bit of creative joy.

The pictures are so beautifully done and the layout great. I love the happy children shown throughout the book. It simply speaks joy and happiness and exudes the possibility of happy times spent becoming a lemonade stand owner or simply making mom and dad a glass of cranberry lemonade or strawberry lemonade.

SAMPLE RECIPES and CRAFTS:

• LOL (Lemon-Orange-Limeade)
• Watermelon Agua Fresca
• Polka Dot Blondies
• Chocolate-Dipped Marshmallow Pops
• Sunflower Crunch Balls
• Hayley's Flower Pencils
• Friendship Bracelets
• Fingerknit Scarves

About the book: Lemonade stands . . . kids have been running them for decades, whether to raise money for a new bike, for a charitable cause, or simply to conquer boredom. Inspired by dozens of kid experts from all over the country, author Kathy Strahs pours her expertise as a food writer, entrepreneur and mother of two school-aged children into the ultimate guide to setting up your own lemonade stand. Step-by-step illustrations and full-color photographs of each recipe and craft make each page easy and fun to dive into. Find delicious drinks, such as Classic Lemonade and Cold-Brew Iced Tea, sweet treats such as Polka Dot Blondies and Chocolate-Dipped Marshmallow Pops, grab-and-go snacks such as Owen's Cheddar Chompers and Sunflower Crunch Balls, and creative crafts such as Hayley's Flower Pencils and Friendship Bracelets. Tips for setting up a successful stand, packaging ideas, cooking technique tutorials, and real-life "stand stories" from kids themselves are sure to inspire kids everywhere to "give life a squeeze."

Crafts and Recipes to Entertain Kids at Home This summer (find it on Amazon - click here The Lemonade Stand Cookbook )from Burnt Cheese Press.

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DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions expressed are solely my own and freely given.

The Secret of Bald Rock (Book #1 Kare Kids Adventures series) by Charles Salter [Meet the author & Giveaway]

ISBN: 978-1478770848

ABOUT THE BOOK:  Years ago, Kelcie's father disappeared at sea. Now that she's ten, Kelcie wants some answers. With the help of her father's lifelong best friend, Mr. Bartleby, Kelcie crosses the island in search of clues to what may have happened the night her father disappeared which seem strangely linked with the legend of The Bald Rock Monster. From learning how lobstering works to understanding Mr. Bartleby's past, Kelcie pieces together the mystery and thinks she knows where she can find the ultimate answers: the forbidden area of the island, Bald Rock.

Interview with Charles A. Salter author of The Secret of Bald Rock Island (Kare Kids Adventures #1)

1. What inspired you to create this series? 

A: For the past few years I have become increasingly concerned about the trend in our society to infantilize young people and make them dependent on the ‘nanny state’ rather than independent and mature adults who can help lead our society into the future.I hope my series will help young people realize they do possess heroic qualities and can make a difference by standing for what they believe and seeking to help others.

2. What is your writing process like? Did you plot the entire story of The Secret of Bald Rock Island before you began writing or did you come up with it as you wrote? 

A: I know some people like to outline their entire novel before starting to write, but I like to begin by dreaming up imaginative new characters and putting them into an exciting new situation or crisis. They soon begin to take on a life of their own and seem almost real to me, and they’ ll tell me how they want to resolve the problem. Early on they will tell me what the ending is, but it is always an exciting adventure for us to discover together how they will get there. 

3. Who inspired the character of Kelcie? 

A: Kelcie is a composite of my two daughters. Out of the entire series so far, volume #1 is the only one set in the past—about one generation ago. At that time, my now-adult daughters were children and we often went to Maine (the location for this novel). We saw and experienced the kinds of places described in the book! 

4. What independent traits does Kelcie demonstrate that you would like young children to emulate?

A: Kelcie may be only ten years old, but she knows how to think for herself and decide how she can best help others. She is a true “ Kare Kid” who not only has a caring attitude towards family, friends, animals, and the environment, but she translates that concern into real action to accomplish her goals. In the surprise ending of the book—when she finally confronts the mysterious island creature face to face—her beliefs and principles about life and nature lead her to suggest an amazing solution to the adults on the scene.

5. What do you hope both your young readers and the parents of those readers take away from the books?

A: Family and friends in this series clearly cherish and care for each other. I would hope these stories would encourage both parents and young readers to do the same. I would hope that young readers would learn the importance of going beyond having a good attitude about others and translating that into real action to help when needed. And I hope parents will learn the wisdom of sometimes stepping back and letting kids work through their own solutions to life’ s problems and issues...yet also be available when those kids ask for help.

6. Independence is a huge theme in Kare Kids Adventures. To what extent did you or did you not experience independence as a child?

A: My parents were absolute models for fostering independence in me and my siblings...often to a degree which would be considered illegal these days! I had my first paying job when I was about age 5—babysitting the infant of neighbors who lived in the same apartment building where we did. My mother was in a nearby apartment in case a real problem developed, but I sat with this wonderful kid and read books and took care of him otherwise. Later that year I took sole care of my baby brother (about age three) when both my parents worked. I dressed and fed and entertained him when I was only 6 and my mother was at work for three hours each morning. A few years later, on non-school days I and my brother or friends would be on our own all day, playing in the woods or riding bikes or playing sports. No cell phones in those days, and we were on our own until meal times. By age 19, I went to England for my college junior-year-abroad and toured all of western Europe with just my friends. During that year I experienced the amazing adventure in Norway which lies at the heart of book #4—THE TRAVEL TWINS AND THE LOST SECRET OF THE VIKINGS.

7. How did your experience as a parent and grandparent influence The Secret of Bald Rock Island?

A: I have always tried to encourage my own children and grandchildren to become independent and make their own decisions about which sports, activities, and careers to choose. I taught them to stand up for what they believe. And this is exactly what Kelcie’ s mother and dear family friend, Mr. Bartleby, do for her in this book. As Kelcie comes to grips with the loss of her father years earlier, both adults encourage and help her to work through that process in a mature way.

8. Did you pull from your background in psychology when writing this series? If so, in what way?

A: As everyone knows, much of psychology focuses on mental illness and other pathological conditions. But part of the field focuses instead on fostering close and healthy relationships, particularly among parents and children. One area of thought and research in psychology which has always interested me is that about not simply telling kids what to do, but rather encouraging them to think through problems and issues so they can come up with their own insights and solutions. And that is exactly how the adults in this book handle Kelcie’s quest to solve the mysteries of Bald Rock Island. 

9. How do you think technology and the age of the helicopter parent have influenced independence in children today? 

A: Everything seems different these days compared to when my generation was growing up.Technology certainly has its advantages, but it can also isolate children from healthy and beneficial social relationships. If you’ve ever seen a bunch of kids sitting together, but with each one lost and alone in his/her own electronic device and virtual world, you can sense the downside of technology. Doing things by oneself is not the same as independence. True independence does not imply social isolation but rather the ability to think for oneself and play a leadership role in a social situation. Parents who want the best for their children will not become over-protective and smother their development by always being present and doing everything for them. Children need to mature by becoming self-reliant and capable of doing things on their own, but they can’ t accomplish that if a helicopter parent is always hovering around and making all the decisions.

10. The Secret of Bald Rock Island is the first of the Kare Kids Adventures Series. When will the next installment come out?

A: In book #2, CHARLOTTE AND THE MYSTERIOUS VANISHING PLACE, Kelcie is now grown up and her 9-year-old daughter is the star. Charlotte discovers a serious environmental danger in the woods and does everything she can to alert authorities and rescue two trapped puppies. This book is due out on July 1 of this year. In book #3, HOW THREE BROTHERS SAVED THE NAVY, Charlotte’s three cousins uncover a terrorist plot to destroy their navy father’ s ship. They show great courage and ingenuity in ferreting out the details and then thwarting the plot. That book is due out in early August. Charlotte’s twin brother and sister should be coming along some time in early fall in book #4, in THE TRAVEL TWINS AND THE LOST SECRET OF THE VIKINGS.This book’s plot unfolds on a scary (but real) train winding its way high in the beautiful mountains of Norway. Felons with mysterious motives have stolen the famed Leif Erikson Sunstone from their uncle’s Viking museum in Oslo, and the twins decide to get it back. In all of these books, the Kare Kids can’t rely on magic or super powers to solve their problems. They are realistic kids who live in the real world... BUT they know how to act independently and to translate caring from a mere attitude into genuine action to solve the problems they encounter.

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Ends June 24 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publicist. I was not compensated for this blog post.

Two new children's books from The China Institute in America: Bowls of Happiness & What Was It Like, Mr. Emperor? [Review & Giveaway]

The China Institute in America has created four books to aid children as an  introduction in today's diverse communities to the Chinese culture. The “We All Live in the Forbidden City” four-book series is part of the institute's children’s programming aiming to bridge the Asian culture gap through educational resources and regional workshops.

The first two titles, In the Forbidden City and This Is The Greatest Place! was reviewed on Chat With Vera (click titles for my reviews) launched last fall. School Library Journal praised In the Forbidden City for taking a “potentially complicated and confusing subject accessible and fascinating without oversimplifying it.” Kirkus Reviews called it “an impressive introduction to the Forbidden City.”

Two more installments continue the tradition of “We All Live in the Forbidden City” books: Bowls of Happiness (ages 4+) and What Was It Like, Mr. Emperor? (ages 8+) celebrate the Forbidden City, and the study of architecture, imperial life, and Chinese cultural history in an attempt to make it accessible, appealing, and relevant to children, parents, and teachers.

Bowls of Happiness (ages 4-8)

ISBN13: 9780989377645

Created by internationally renowned artists Brian Tse and Alice Mak, this China Institute book teaches children about Chinese artwork and culture and their universal spirit of generosity, love, and respect for nature. The loveable illustrations are coupled with photographs of porcelain art found in the Palace Museum’s collection. Kids learn about how bowls are made and be able to draw their own Bowl of Happiness after reading the story.

Piggy's mom loves her so much that she has decided to make a special porcelain bowl just for her. As mom makes the bowl, Piggy enters the world being painted on its outside. There she meets and learns about the animals used on these Chinese artworks and the messages of happiness and good-fortune that they convey.

My thoughts: This is not your typical children's book though it is slated for ages 4-8. It is a sweet story of a mom and her little one, Piggy. Mom is making a Bowl of Happiness for Piggy and it is replete with symbolism particular to China's culture. On the pages before the actual picture book section, there is information for the parents on the establishment of The China Institute and of cultural symbolism in China. This is followed by the beautifully illustrated of Mom and Piggy and happiness.

The next section shows various bowls and details the symbolism of the shape, color, and designs. This is interesting and educational. I venture to say we won't pick up a bowl in the future without contemplating what it represents.

I think that the cutoff age of 8 is a bit young as older students and adults will benefit from the educational aspects of this small book.

The story is sweet and cute and will make everyone look at the designs on bowls a bit differently in the future.

What Was It Like, Mr. Emperor? (ages 8+)

ISBN13: 9780989377669

Engaging stories take kids through the average life of an emperor and learn about the real people who lived in the palace, including the prince who fought off a rebel invasion, the palace maids who lived in the Inner Court, the emperor who ruled twice, and the emperor who loved crickets.

Author Chiu Kwong-chiu is an artist, designer, and professor who explores Chinese traditional visual arts and adopts groundbreaking methods to interpret and promote Chinese art and culture.

My thoughts: Illustrated with strong colors and bold black lines, the history of China's emperors is show in brief descriptions of each emperor from about 4,000 BC until the demise of the line of emperors. Some were liked and some were not. Some were successful and some were not. They were considered to be endowed with power bestowed by Heaven and revered. They were the highest. I feel that from this treatise of emperors leadership in China there is very little take away information from which the reader will profit. There is satirical humor. Bubble captions. Mentions of eunuchs and concubines. And then of concubines racing to see who could provide an heir first.

As with other royals, the emperors had food tasters because they feared being poisoned. They were well taken care of by the court physicians. Some lived and ruled long and some very short periods. I learned that the original five emperors ruled over five areas (like chiefs) and then there was a unifying to become China.

There was some interesting information about palace life and the love of beauty. The concubines or women must have specific types of beauty, wear certain attire and jewelry, etc. Life in the palace for the emperor and all those who serve him was certainly different from life today - even "royal" life.

GIVEAWAY: A copy of each of these books will be sent to one winner here at Chat With Vera. Begins 12/13 & ENDS 12/28 @ 12:01 A.M. ET

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each book to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review. Giveaway is provided by publicist, PRbytheBook.

The Not Very Merry Pout-Pout Fish (A Christmas Story for Pouty Preschoolers) by Deborah Diesen & illustrated by Dan Hanna [Review & Giveaway]

Ages 2-6 ~ Grades Pre K–1

ISBN 9780374355494

32 pages | $16.99 Hardcover

About the book: The Not Very Merry Pout-Pout Fish holiday sequel to The New York Times bestselling Pout-Pout Fish series reminds young readers what being merry is all about.

The grumpiest fish in children’s literature is back with another case of “the dreary wearies.” This time, Mr. Fish, star of The New York Times bestselling Pout-Pout Fish series, is down in the dumps over holiday shopping. With a message for readers of all ages, The Not Very Merry Pout-Pout Fish (Farrar, Straus, & Giroux Books | Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, Ages 2-6) finds Mr. Fish so consumed with finding that perfect gift for each of his friends that he forgets the true meaning of the holidays.

When Mr. Fish—with his signature Pout-Pout Fish frown—comes up empty-handed, Miss Shimmer intervenes with a plan to make homemade gifts. He soon learns that it’s not about busting the budget or gifting the season’s hottest item, but giving from the heart. Together they experience the joy that comes from giving and sharing—the merriest gifts of all.

My thoughts: This is a cute book that deals with issues of  pouting and values that children need to learn not only at Christmas, but throughout the year. While the focus of this book is about Christmas gift giving, Mr. Fish really needs to learn his lesson about value in gift giving to his friends.

A gift should be big,

And a gift should be bright.

And a gift should be perfect-

Guaranteed to bring delight.

And a gift should have meaning

Plus a bit of bling-zing,

So I’ll shop till I drop

For each just-right thing!”

Really cute illustrations and a good lesson for the young and pouty and, as always, I love the rhyming books for the kids.

While I usually prefer and promote books that focus on the real meaning of Christmas which is faith-based, this is a cute book, good lesson, terrific illustrations and will be a great addition to the school library where it will soon repose.

BONUS 12-CITY BOOK TOUR: You're invited to meet the Pout-Pout Fish author and illustrator during the 12-city book tour, Nov. 14-21.

Author Deborah Diesen
November 14, 3pm - Square Books, Oxford, MS
November 16, 3:30pm - Country Bookshop, Southern Pines, NC
November 18, 4pm - Vero Beach Book Center, Vero Beach, FL
November 19, 7pm - Little Shop of Stories, Decatur, GA
November 20, 4pm - Octavia Books, New Orleans, LA
Illustrator Dan Hanna
November 15, 11am - WORD Books, Jersey City, NJ
November 16, 4pm - Carmichael’s Bookstore, Louisville, KY
November 17, 4:30pm - Towne Book Center & Cafe, Collegeville, PA
November 18, 4:30pm - Cover to Cover, Columbus, OH
November 19, 4:30pm - Lake Forest Books, Lake Forest, IL
November 21, 12pm - Anderson’s Book Shop, Naperville, IL
November 21, 2pm - Anderson’s Book Shop, La Grange, IL
Learn more at www.poutpoutfish.com.

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Begins November 14 ENDS November 21 @ 12:01 a.m. ET
Open to USA addresses only.

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Purchase a copy - click here

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publicists on behalf of MacMilllan Kids books, author, and illustrator to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated for the review. Giveaway copy is also provided by the publicist directly to the winner.

Casey & Friends in "Big Tractors" by Holly Dufek & illustrated by Paul Nunn [Plus a great toy tractor giveaway]

About the book: Follow Casey the farmer, Tillus the worm, Big Red the tractor, and a whole cast of cartoon equipment characters who teach important life lessons gleaned from the farm, like thinking ahead and working as a team. There are educational sidebars, picture glossaries and fun farming facts for added learning possibilities.

Octane Press, Hardcover $14.99
Ages 4-8 | 32 pages 

Big Tractors with Casey & Friends (Apr. 2015) shows how the biggest, most powerful tractors handle the demanding jobs of pulling and powering on the farm. Find out how Big Red and Sammy – the biggest tractors on the farm – use their powerful muscles to work in the field with the rest of the team. Learn about the science of farming and discover how advanced technology makes Big Red and Sammy special.

“Know a kid or two who thinks corn comes from the grocery’s freezer section? Put ‘em on track with A Year on the Farm with Casey & Friends....Plenty of detail combined with lots of color photos and illustrations makes this an engaging read for kids ages 4-8. A fun (and educational) read for kids and their grandparents!” —Leslie McManus, Farm Collector Magazine

My thoughts: Kids love tractors and motorized vehicles; and the more different they are from what they encounter daily, the more they are interested. Tractors are not your ordinary vehicle - unless you live on a farm. And then, even if a kid lives on a farm, he might not encounter BIG tractors. I mean those huge tractors used in modern farming and on huge farms.

Casey is a farm girl and she takes the reader along on a tour of Big Tractors and they learn just what these tractors do on the farm. Big Tractors is wonderfully illustrated with photographs and cartoon characters, courtesy of Paul Nunn. The "picture book" aspect alone is great! However, this is a fun learning adventure. Kids will learn about the farm and where the good food they eat actually comes from.

It is interesting to learn about lift and leverage in the work of the tractor and the use of weights. And the pictorial time line of tractor development is eye opening. Aren't we thankful that we don't just depend on a couple of horses or mules to farm the land today? And discovering the work of the "attachments" for tractors is fabulous. The interest age for this books is 4-8 years, but I can see that Dad will find a lot to interest him as well as the little ones in the family.

This entire series of books promises to provide fun and educational reading for the children in your life as you teach them where that corn-on-the-cob came from and the wheat for their bread and the tractors used to grow them.

GIVEAWAY

Begins May 16 & ENDS May 30 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 

A copy of Big Tractors and one toy tractor
Open to USA addresses only.
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OCTANE PRESS produces high-quality narrative and illustrated books for discerning enthusiast audiences. Some of the company’s best-known titles include Red Tractors 1958–2013: The Authoritative Guide to IH and Case IH Tractors and Beast: The Top Secret Ilmor-Penske Engine that Shocked the Racing World at the Indy 500. Octane Press has won several book awards, including IBPA Benjamin Franklin awards (Red Tractors 1958–2013, Forward, Adventurous Motorcyclist’s Guide to Alaska) and Independent Publisher Awards (In the Red, Red Tractors 1958–2013).
TOY SPECS: CASE IH Magnum 370 CVT Tractor Toy | Built to 1:64 scale | Single front & rear duals, detailed interior, free rolling wheels | MSRP $8.50. Recommended for ages 3+
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary book and toy to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are my own. I was not compensated for this review. Prize will be provided and shipped to winner by publicists.