Early learning books with STEM vibe: Candlewick books for little ones [Review & Giveaway]

Maisy Loves Birds: A Maisy's Planet Book by Lucy Cousins

ISBN: 9781536236620
$9.99 US | Board Book

My thoughts:  Maisy books are so cute. Bold line drawings in bright colors on sturdy board all prove to be winners when combined with Lucy Cousins' ideas that entertain and, yes, educate our wee little ones.

The Maisy Planet books introduce our little ones to the world around them beyond typical counting, ABC, and identity story lines. In Maisy Loves Birds: A Maisy Planet Book a slow and careful introduction to birds of the world are introduced. All designed to educate and make children aware of the variety and scope of those flitting, flying, singing creatures and how they fit into this world of ours. Set to engender an appreciation  birds and their variety and purpose. A delightful little book.

About the book: Curiosity takes wing as the littlest nature lovers explore birds of all feathers in this bright and cheerful board book in the Maisy’s Planet series.

Investigate the world of birds with Maisy! Introduce the youngest listeners to their avian friends, from familiar garden species to swooping birds of prey, from soaring seabirds to birds that don’t fly at all. Toddlers can learn about nesting, feeding, and migrating through colorful illustrations and a simple text pitched for the youngest explorers and budding bird-watchers. In the Maisy’s Planet series, each sturdy board book celebrates a different feature of the natural world, with bold colors, clear language, and a fun spread to open out at the end. Kids love to love our planet with Maisy! (Check out the giveaway opportunity below!)

Maisy Loves Butterflies: A Maisy's Planet Book by Lucy Cousins & 

Available May 2025
Boardbook $9.99

Who doesn’t love a butterfly? Set a little one’s heart aflutter with this exploration of the beautiful creatures, led by everyone’s favorite mouse.

Join Maisy as she learns all about gorgeous butterflies! This fifth book in the Maisy’s Planet series introduces children to both butterflies and moths, as it investigates everything from caterpillars to cocoons to the insects in flight. Find out about patterns, color, and camouflage, and open out the final scene to marvel at Maisy’s butterfly- and moth-friendly garden! Secret word: nature (Watch for Chat With Vera's review soon!)

One-osaurus, Two-osaurus by Kim Norman & illustrated by Pierre Collet-Derby 

ISBN: 9781536201796
$17.99 US | Hardcover

My thoughts:  This is a delightful, rollicking counting book that has colorful, rip-roaring dinosaurs playing a game. Usually my preference is to introduce dinosaurs when the child is older, perhaps five-plus; but this cute book simply has imaginative "osaurs" playing. So no harm in that.

It is imaginatively cute with a bit of rhyme as the count goes from one to ten. 

About the book: Part counting game, part dinosaur celebration, this energetic romp is a numbers concept book for the ages.

"One-osaurus, two-osaurus, three-osaurus, four!"

Look there, in a child’s bedroom, where some prehistoric pals are gathered in a counting game. Nine dinosaurs are playing a sing-song rendition of hide-and-seek—but something isn’t adding up. Where is number ten? Stomp, stomp, stomp! CHOMP, CHOMP, CHOMP! Ready or not, here he comes, and he sounds . . . big! With big, bold numerals, an array of dinosaurs in comical poses, and a humorous twist at the end, this tribute to a child’s imagination makes learning numbers a gigantic 

GIVEAWAY

1 Copy: Maisy Loves Birds

Begins March 4

Ends April 2 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies to review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize book is provided and mailed or shipped directly to the winner by Candlewick Publishing or its publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

"I Don't Care" and "The Universe In You: A Microscopic Journey" [Review & Giveaway]

 

THE UNIVERSE IN YOU. A Microscopic Journey by Jason Chin

Published by Neal Porter Books

Hardcover | $18.99

ISBN: 9780823450701

Age: 8-12

My thoughts: What begins and ends as a charming children's story book has sandwiched in the middle a full-blown science exploration into the makeup of living matter on earth.

It begins by comparing the tiniest bird in the United States to the next smallest creature. It is measuring in centimeters, then millimeters, and goes on to explain matter down to the break down of atoms and on to quarks, etc. that are the building blocks of the universe.

From illustrations of children and hummingbirds to diagrams of atoms, molecules, DNA, etc. the explanation goes, or gallops, across the pages, It is intended for the age 8 to 12 child. It is "heady" material for the average child but should open the mind of children interested in deeper science than that of birds, plants, rocks, and water.

School and public libraries should definitely have copies of this book. I even encourage teachers of science classes to get a copy. Parents with children who are seekers and inquisitive should definitely have a copy. But it isn't necessarily a bedtime read.

About the book: Themes: Measurement, Science & Nature, Shapes

Jason Chin, winner of the Caldecott Medal for Watercress, dives into the microscopic building blocks of life in this companion to the award-winning Your Place in the Universe.

In Your Place in the Universe, Jason Chin zoomed outward, from our planet, solar system, and galaxy to the outer reaches  of the observable universe. Now, Chin reverses course, zooming in past our skin to our cells, molecules, and atoms, all the way down to particles so small we can’t yet even measure them. 

Like its companion, The Universe in You is a mind-boggling adventure that makes complex science accessible and enjoyable to readers of any age.

Impeccably researched, wholly engrossing, and with extensive backmatter for additional learning, The Universe in You is another knockout from the award-winning creator of Redwoods, Grand Canyon, and other distinguished works of nonfiction for young readers. 

I Don’t Care by Julie Fogliano, illustrated by Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal 

ISBN: 89780823443451
Hardcover | $18.99
Ages 3 - 6

Neal Porter Books/Holiday House had the honor of publishing I Don’t Care, a lyrical story of friendship by New York Times bestselling author Julie Fogliano, illustrated by Caldecott Honorees Molly Idle and Juana Martinez-Neal.
 

My thoughts:  Charming, delightful, winsome. Beautifully written to engage the attention and heart of the young listener. The text with it's light rhyme frolics across the pages showing two beautifully drawn young girls who seem at odds with one another yet don't really care what the other thinks.

As the story progresses they are drawn to each other and become very caring of each other. I absolutely love the illustrations. The captivating expressions of these two girls as they traverse the emotional journey that carries them from standoffishness to joyful togetherness.

I highly recommend.

About the book: I Don’t Care is truly a special picture book. With bouncy, rhythmic text, Julie celebrates the similarities and differences between two unlikely best friends. Like the two stars of this story, co-illustrators—and real-life besties—Juana and Molly know that differences just make a good friendship stronger. As artwork passed back and forth between their mailboxes, childhood versions of each artist came to life and came together on the page into one unified creation.
 
Named one of the fall’s most anticipated releases by both BookPage and Kirkus Reviews, critics agree this delightful picture book is one friends of any age won’t want to miss. Julie, Juana, and Molly would love to speak with you about how a manuscript from the point of view of one child grew to be a story of true collaboration between author and illustrators—the likes of which are not often seen.

GIVEAWAY

Begins January 9

Ends February 3 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Celebrating families in a variety of children's picture books from Candlewick Press [Review & Giveaway]

A sweet focus on family is told in a variety of stories in these delightful children's picture books for youngsters age 2 to 8 years. Babies, mommies, grannies bring joy and smiles to one's heart.

I Am A Baby by Bob Shea (Ages 2 to 5)

My thoughts:  I'm not sure just whom this cute book is intended as the "appropriate" audience, but it is very cute. Obviously, a wee little baby is the source of all the issues covered as being affected because "I am a baby." And obviously such a wee one can't understand the nuances of the text. But little ones do enjoy parents who giggle when reading a story to them. And parents will giggle when they read this little book.

A fun gift addition to tuck into a baby shower gift. Or just a fun book to have to read that tells the tale as it is true in households where there is a baby on board.

About the book: From the creator of the mega-popular Dinosaur vs. series comes a hilariously deadpan look at new parenthood—from a baby’s point of view.

I am not sleepy.

I am not sleepy because I am a baby.

Mommy is sleepy.

Mommy is sleepy because I am a baby.

With humor and sympathy, Bob Shea looks at the chaos of life with a baby as amiably narrated by the new arrival. Repeating the mantra (and blithe explanation) “because I am a baby,” the tiny narrator leads us through scenes of exhaustion, grumpiness, squishy diapers, spilled milk, cowering kittens, and chubby overfed pups (oopsie!). Playing against the simple, matter-of-fact text are freewheeling illustrations of mess and mayhem, in which the grown-ups’ exaggerated body language is sure to send older children into fits of giggles. With its endearing, unabashedly self-pleased star, I Am a Baby will find a place at showers, in nurseries, on parents’ shelves, and in the hands of appreciative big siblings, as it celebrates the changes a little one brings, at once challenging and full of love.

Mum, Me and the Mulberry Tree by Tanya Rosie (Ages 3 to 7)

My thoughts:  A sweet story of a child and her  mother on their annual outing to pick mulberries. Told in a sort of rhyme that doesn't really fit a pattern that I could discover, but that does have a pleasant cadence.

The bond between mother and child is obviously strong and sweet and will perhaps help those whose family aren't as connected to seek to emulate the experience for themselves. Hopefully that is so.

At the end of the story, they bake a pie using their freshly picked mulberries. You can almost taste the pie as they enjoy it together. 

About the book: A tender story follows a mother-and-daughter pair enjoying a ritual to remember: a bus ride to the countryside, baskets full of berries, and a fragrant pie.

As the sun starts to rise, a young girl and her mother set out on the bus, riding knee to knee to visit their mulberry tree in the English countryside. With buckets and tubs in hand for collecting berries, the two spend a day picnicking, waiting out a summer shower under their tree, and climbing as high as they can to pick the best mulberries, the ones that are tucked away from the world. When the sun starts to set, they head home to bake a delicious pie, all the while knowing they’ll be back next year to do it all again. Author Tanya Rosie makes her picture book debut with a heartfelt story honoring family traditions and time spent together with someone you love.

Mommy’s Hometown by Hope Lim (Ages 3 to 7)

My thoughts:  A sweet story of a Korean child and his mother who live in America. The mother shares her experiences of growing up in a small village in Korea and the sweet life she enjoyed. They soon leave the United States and travel to Korea for a visit to the village in which mother grew up.

When they arrive, the dirt road and small houses have disappeared and been replaced by a bustling city with tall buildings crowded together. The babbling, rushing river is confined within cement walkways and not pebbled shores.

One thing has remained unchanged..... Grandma. She greets them with love.

While visiting the "village," they go on an excursion through the area, wade and play in the river, and experience the beautiful red sunset.

The story is beautiful and yet sad as it tells the global story of change in our environment, loss of the small and natural world, and loss of the quiet and gentle way of life.

About the book: When a young boy and his mother travel overseas to her childhood home in Korea, the town is not as he imagined. Will he be able to see it the way Mommy does?

This gentle, contemplative picture book about family origins invites us to ponder the meaning of home. A young boy loves listening to his mother describe the place where she grew up, a world of tall mountains and friends splashing together in the river. Mommy’s stories have let the boy visit her homeland in his thoughts and dreams, and now he’s old enough to travel with her to see it for himself. But when mother and son arrive, the town is not as he imagined. Skyscrapers block the mountains, and crowds hurry past. The boy feels like an outsider—until they visit the river where his mother used to play, and he sees that the spirit and happiness of those days remain. Sensitively pitched to a child’s-eye view, this vivid story honors the immigrant experience and the timeless bond between parent and child, past and present.

Well Done, Mommy Penguin by Chris Haughton (Ages 3 to 7)

My thoughts:  Children have a fascination with penguins. They love penguin movies, books about penguins, and stuffed penguins. They will surely love this story of mommy penguin's determination and skill at getting dinner for her baby.

Daddy stays with baby penguin while mommy dives into the big sea seeking fish. The trip to return with her catch is fraught with obstacles and danger.  She is skilled and determined.

Illustrated with stark simplicity using strong blues, white, and orange the visual appeal is an acquired taste. Not a style I particularly like, but I don't dislike it. It is just a bit different.

About the book: With his vibrant, stylish art and spot-on visual storytelling, Chris Haughton turns to Antarctica for an irresistible ode to family bonds and awesome moms.

The sky may be dark over icy waters, but Mommy Penguin is off to catch some fish for dinner. As Daddy and Little Penguin watch in suspense, Mommy swims, jumps, and climbs up a slippery slope, barely avoiding a plunge back into the sea. Well done! There's just one more hurdle to overcome, past some grumpy, just-awakened seals, before she returns to her anxiously waiting family. With a nod to the fascinating nature of penguin parenting, this boldly illustrated adventure from the creator of Little Owl Lost and Oh No, George! will have little ones happily on the edge of their seats as they root for Mommy Penguin.

GIVEAWAY

4 Books for 1 Winner

Begins October 5

Ends October 28 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA/CANADA

NO P.O.Boxes

Canadians must provide phone number

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Barn At Night [Review & Giveaway 3 winners-USA]

ISBN: 978-1948898058 
Ages 4-7 | $17.99 Hardcover

My thoughts:  The story opens on a beautiful wintry night and the farm is covered in snow. Father and child leave the warmth of their house and traipse out to the barn. The night is still. Quiet. And the animals gently welcome them into the barn.

It isn't night, it is pre-dawn and they have awakened to do the farm chores. Step by step the illustrations take the reader gently and beautifully through the house, across the ground, into the barn. The animals are awake and awaiting their arrival.

Time for feed and water. And then it is also a time for a wonderful surprise of new life begun during the dark hours of the night.

Beautifully written and softly illustrated, the book is a gentle introduction for the young child to life (and chores) on the farm.

About the book: A beautiful and sweet celebration of a barn at night will help children fall asleep and also learn more about life on a farm. This after-dark journey out to the barn, even on the coldest winter evening, can be a warm and welcoming scene. The young narrator gently details what actually goes on in a barn at night. Who is awake, who is asleep, and who is just making their first appearance in the barn? Smells, sounds and sights are quietly revealed to young readers.

Michelle Houts' lyrical poetry paired with Jen's glowing watercolors create a warm and wonderful bedtime story - best shared together. Downloadable coloring pages can be found at: Barn at Night Activity

About the author: Michelle Houts is the author of more than a dozen books for young readers. Her debut novel, The Beef Princess of Practical County, has been featured by the American Farm Bureau Foundation and won a Best Book of the Year from Nebraska Farm Bureau. Houts writes from a restored one-room schoolhouse in Ohio. 

About the illustrator: Jen Betton grew up playing on friends' farms in Pennsylvania. Illustrating Barn at Night gave her a delightful excuse to lurk around old barns and feed goats. Her other books include Hedgehog Needs a Hug (winner of Pennsylvania’s Keystone to Reading Award), which she both wrote and illustrated, and Twilight Chant, written by Holly Thompson. She now lives with her family near Dallas, Texas. You can see more of her work at www.jenbetton.com

About Feeding Minds Press is a project of the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture. The mission of the Foundation is to build awareness and understanding of agriculture through education. The goal of Feeding Minds Press is to publish accurate and engaging books about agriculture that connect readers to where their food comes from and who grows it.  

GIVEAWAY

3 Winners in USA

Begins September 6

Ends September 30 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

WILL YOU BE MY FRIEND? by Sam McBratney & illustrated by Anita Jeram [Review & Giveaway]

The first new Guess How Much I Love You picture-book story for 24 years!

My thoughts:  The enchantment of story and picture from the joint work of Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram leap from the pages of this newest in the Nutbrown Hare stories.

Little Nutbrownbrown Hare is growning and venturing forth in search of a friend. He goes hither and yonder in his sweet search questioning "Will you be my friend?". Such a sweet and gentle story for your little ones to have read to them and for treasuring the joy of friendship as Little Nutbrown Hare does.

Parents and grandparents will love to present this sweet picturebook to their little ones. Those who grew up loving Big Nutbrown Hare and Guess How Much I Love You story will want a copy for their own keepsake. Such is the joy these stories bring the heart and mind.

Lovely!

About the book: One day Big Nutbrown Hare is busy, but Little Nutbrown Hare wants to play so he goes off exploring on his own. He discovers another hare in a puddle - then realizes it's his reflection. He spots his shadow and wants to race it - only to find it's just as fast as him. Then up on Cloudy Mountain he finally finds someone to play with: a little snow white hare called Tipps. And she's real! This lovely new story is a wonderful companion to the classic picture-book Guess How Much I Love You ; a charming tale about friendship with a delightful and original twist.

GIVEAWAY
Begins November 3
Ends November 27 @ 12:01 a.m. ET
Open to USA & Canada addresses . No P.O.Boxes
Canadian winners must provide phone number. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winners' copy is provided and shipped directly to the winner by publisher or publicist.

The Camping Trip & Khalil and Mr. Hagerty and the Backyard Treasures [Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

The Camping Trip by Jennifer K. Mann

ISBN: 9781536207361
Ages 3-7 ~ Hardcover
Candlewick Press

My thoughts: This is a precious book about two young girls on a camping trip. One is hostess (with her mother) and the other has never camped out before.

The reactions to everything encountered are adorable and so appropriate to city kids going camping for the first time. There is much to be learned in this enjoyable book and much realization of the adaptable nature of kids and the fun to be had in experiencing activities outside our normal scope.

I recommend this gem of a book.

About the book: Ernestine is beyond excited to go camping. She follows the packing list carefully (new sleeping bag! new flashlight! special trail mix made with Dad!) so she knows she is ready when the weekend arrives. But she quickly realizes that nothing could have prepared her for how hard it is to set up a tent, never mind fall asleep in it, or that swimming in a lake means that there will be fish — eep! Will Ernestine be able to enjoy the wilderness, or will it prove to be a bit too far out of her comfort zone? In an energetic illustrated story about a first sleepover under the stars, acclaimed author-illustrator Jennifer K. Mann reminds us that opening your mind to new experiences, no matter how challenging, can lead to great memories (and a newfound taste for s’mores).

Khalil and Mr. Hagerty and the Backyard Treasures by Tricia Springstubb and illustrated by Elaheh Taherian

ISBN: 9781536203066
Ages 5-8 ~ Hardcover
Candlewick Press

My thoughts: This is a sweet generational story of a young child and an older person. They live in the same building and share a backyard. Mr. Hagerty gardens. Khalil plays and digs for treasure. Mr. Hagerty is disappointed his garden produces such insignificant vegetables and Khalil is disappointed that he finds no treasure.

They develop a friendship and soon find a way to ease each other's disappointment. Also, while not verbally indicated as such, young Kahlil eases Mr. Hagerty through his forgetfulness of vocabulary. Perhaps, early dementia. Sweet.

A subtle yet sweet message of caring.  

About the book: Khalil lives in the upstairs apartment with his family, which is big and busy and noisy. Downstairs lives Mr. Hagerty, who is quiet. Khalil and Mr. Hagerty don’t appear to have a lot in common, but hot summer days have a way of bringing people together. As Khalil looks for buried treasure in the yard, Mr. Hagerty tends to his garden. Both help each other navigate language — whether it be learning new words or remembering those seemingly forgotten. Before long, an unlikely friendship is born, full of treasure, thoughtfulness, and chocolate cake. Through well-cultivated details and vibrant cut-paper collage, author Tricia Springstubb and illustrator Elaheh Taherian nurture a heart-tugging tribute to the love of good neighbors and to the strength of intergenerational and intercultural bonds.

GIVEAWAY ~ 2 WINNERS

Begins June 13

Ends July 10 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA addresses

(No P.O. Boxes & NO business addresses)

Canadian winners must provide phone number

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies from the publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copies are provided and shipped directly to the winner by publisher or publicist.

Celebrating our wonderful world with lovely picture books from Candlewick [Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

We're spotlighting three lovely children's picture books that will help them to learn about this beautiful world we inhabit, celebrate Spring and warmer days filled with bird song, flowers, and sunshine, and discover beauty that abounds.

During the Covid-19 world-wide time of uncertainties and that which can lay the groundwork for despair and fear, we can be thankful that the joyful season of Spring envelopes us. These three books will be beautiful aids for parents to use to help impart moments of joy in the hearts and minds of their little ones.

The Stars Just Up the Street by Sue Soltis and illustrated by Christine Davenier (Hardcover ISBN: 9780763698348, Ages 4-8)

Earth Day – 4/22

My thoughts:  It all began with a little girl who loved to look at the stars and count them. Then she learned that there were thousands. But she couldn't see them because of lights in houses and on streets. So began her quest to have a time when she and others could enjoy the wonders of the thousands of stars visible in the dark, new-moon phase sky.

A lovely thought and perhaps this will entice people in towns and cities to dim or turn off the lights for a period so people can actually see the magnificent night sky.

Our world and the heavens above are awesome and children need an opportunity to see and explore. Lights out time might be a good start for seeing the expanse of stars above us.

About the book: Mabel loves stars. She counts five from her window and thirty-seven from her backyard. But her grandfather tells her that, as a child, he could see thousands. Could it be true? Mabel climbs a hill looking for more stars — only to discover that the glow from the nearby town makes them hard to see. What would it take for her neighbors to turn off their lights, just for one night, so that everyone could see the starlit sky? Sue Soltis’s tale of a young activist and Christine Davenier’s luminous illustrations will leave readers curious about the dark-sky movement — and the wonder that is waiting for them just up the street.

The Nest That Wren Built by Randi Sonenshine and illustrated by Anne Hunter (Hardcover ISBN: 9781536201536, Ages 4-8)

Go Birding Day – 4/28

My thoughts:  The author takes the familiar "This is the house that Jack built" rhyme and adapts it beautifully to the Carolina Wren's nest building. I'm a "Carolina girl" so reading a picture book about a "Carolina bird" so beautifully written and illustrated is dear to my heart.

The wren is a little brown bird and this beautiful book is painted with the natural hues of soft browns and greens. While a fun and gracious book to read, it is definitely educational and doesn't even claim to be such. I knew birds used twigs, sticks, leaves, moss, and bits of string and fluff - even hair - as building materials. What I learned, though, was that they even use spider egg orbs to provide extermination services to protect their little birdies.

I definitely recommend this book and believe that the season of nest building, birds chirping, and birds flitting here and there, it is the absolute perfect time to read to your little ones and show them the beauty of a bird nesting.

About the book: In the rhyming style of “The House That Jack Built,” this poem about the care and specificity that Carolina wrens put into building a nest is at once tender and true to life. Papa and Mama Wren gather treasures of the forest, from soft moss for a lining to snakeskin for warding off predators. Randi Sonenshine’s lilting stanzas, woven with accurate and unexpected details about Carolina wrens, and Anne Hunter’s gentle, inviting illustrations reveal the mysterious lives of these birds and impart an appreciation for the wonder of the life cycles around us. Back matter includes a glossary and additional interesting facts about wrens.

Seeds By Carme Lemniscates (Hardcover ISBN: 9781536208443, Ages 2-5)

Earth Day - 4/22

My thoughts:  This is a beautifully illustrated, though not elaborate in style, book. The text gently takes the reader, or young listener, through the amazing life cycle of a seed that replicates the journey of any and all seeds around the world. The amazing explosion of one seed into hundreds but only after it has been planted in its place.

The author doesn't just speak of the plant world but gracefully transitions into a sweet application of the seed being planted to how people, too, are like seeds in that they plant and propagate in many ways. The way they behave and associate with others with anger, smiles, gentle behavior, harsh behavior, sharing is mirrored in society.

As a plant seed only reproduces what it is, so we reproduce or plant our own manners and behavior. A strong, simple, beautiful story with a lot of punch.

About the book: Some seeds are whisked away by the wind, while others are carried by creatures to their destinations. Once seeds find their spot, they go through breathtaking transformations, multiplying in number and size and thriving in even the most unseemly places. We humans plant seeds, too, and with care we can cultivate and nurture something wonderful, whether by sowing a seed in the earth or by choosing our own seeds of kindness to spread around. With gorgeous, welcoming illustrations, the creator of Trees and Birds presents another ode to the beauty around and within us.

GIVEAWAY
2 Winners: 3 Books Set Each 

Begins April 15

Ends May 10 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA
No P.O.Boxes

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies from Candlewick Press to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided by and shipped directly to the winner by Candlewick.

Sleep, My Bunny by Rosemary Wells [Review & Giveaway - book & limited edition signed print]

Candlewick Press
Ages 2-5; 24 pages; $14.99
Purchase on Amazon

My thoughts:  Lovely! A gentle, sweetly flowing text that while not directly connected to the pictured story of ending the day and settling into bed it does set the stage with calm thoughts and tender words.

The illustrations are bold and yet simple and are colorful and yet muted with the setting of the sun and approaching darkness. Some might see impressionist art in the style. Me, I see lovely children's illustrations.

And who doesn't love the bunnies that always populate a story book by Rosemary Wells? This particular little book takes me reminiscing back to when my youngest child was a little one. We happened upon a "bin" of highly discounted (and somewhat marred) bunnies, and she selected a little blue bunny. That little blue bunny saw her through many "scary" nights, sicknesses, heartaches, and even later it had a place in her grown up life. So..... little bunnies matter and this lovely bedtime bunny book is a joy.

The tiny sketches under the text can be found in the full illustrations on the adjacent pages providing opportunity for search-for-the-object and seek 'n find activities. There is a lot of detail in Ms. Wells illustrations capturing the essence of home life and preparations to end the day and get ready for quietly settling into bed.

A good choice for homes with young children and a must have for all libraries.

May the noises of evening be gentle and airy. 

About the book: Sleep, My Bunny (pub date 11/13/18; Ages 2-5; 24 pages; $14.99) is a soothing lullaby of a story, meant for the very young and their caregivers. With an expressionistic style reminiscent of Vincent van Gogh, the small book shows parents guiding their little bunny through the universal steps of bedtime: supper, clean up, bath time, and reading. Wells’ simple, poetic narrative pairs with her gorgeous artwork to create a bedtime read aloud – a perfect script for a reassuring voice – sure to lull a small child to slumber.

~❣~ GIVEAWAY ~❣~

Book and limited edition print,
 signed by Rosemary Wells
Begins January 9

Ends February 2 at 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses

NO P.O. Boxes, please.

About the author: Rosemary Wells has written over 120 books for children, including the beloved Max & Ruby series and she illustrated the bestselling My Very First Mother Goose and Here Comes Mother Goose, both edited by Iona Opie.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book and a signed print to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own alone and are freely given. Prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by Candlewick Press.

Who Sang the First Song? by Ellie Holcomb and illustrated by Kayla Harren

ISBN: 9781535940627  $14.99
Find it here on sale $8.99
Hardcover ~ B&H Kids

My thoughts:  Do you ever ask yourself off-the-wall questions like "Was there sound when God created the universe?" or "How big is God?"? Well, the author, Ellie Holcomb seems to be one who contemplates such questions and she brings that thought concept to the very young child - a picture-book-age child.

In Who Sang the First Song? the author drifts through parts of the creation asking if someone or something sang.

"...was the first song when the thumder went BOOM?"

"Did the sun sing a song as it colored the sky?"

But at the end the reader learns that all guesses are incorrect because.... "It was God, our Maker who sang the first song!   ... every heart and every thing was born with a song it was made to sing."

Beautifully illustrated by Kayla Harren with art that will delight the young and adults who enjoy the book. The detail is absolutely fabulous. Designed for the preschool age child, the concept of such theoretical thinking goes beyond that age group.

But just imagine if you will..... God singing at the creation of His Universe.

About the book: In this engaging board book with whimsical art, singer/songwriter Ellie Holcomb asks a childlike question and answers with a lovely lyrical tale that shows young readers that God our Maker sang the first song, and He created us all with a song to sing.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy hardcover copy from B&H Blogger program to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given. Book is also available in "board book" and "eBook" formats.

We're Going on a Bear Hunt: Snow Globe Edition by Michael Rosen, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury [Review & Giveaway US/CANADA]

ISBN: 9781536200294

Hardcover $16.99 US

On sale: Oct. 10, 2017

The beloved children's book, We're Going on a Bear Hunt has been published in various forms, big and little, since it's origin in 1989. That means a lot of children have enjoyed its catchy plot/story and have repeated the lines "We're not scared" or "What a beautiful day!" over and over.

Candlewick Press has brought forth a new little version with lovely and engaging pop-up pages for each section. This brings the excitement to the forefront and captures the loving attention of a new generation of children.

Also, this new version has a "snow globe" on the cover harking to the section where it is snowing on the day they go on a bear hunt. Just another delightful touch that the folks at Candlewick bring to children's books again and again.

About this edition: Bear lovers, rejoice! Shake up a snowstorm in this gorgeous gift edition of the award-winning classic by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury. 

We’re going on a bear hunt. We’re going to catch a big one. Will you come, too? For over a quarter of a century, readers have been swishy-swashying and splash-sploshing through this award-winning favorite. This new hardback gift edition includes a 3-D snow scene on the cover to add fun and festive flurries to your favorite family adventure story.

(From Wikipedia) We're Going on a Bear Hunt is a 1989 children's picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. It has won numerous awards and was the subject of a Guinness World Record 

Story Plot: Five children and their dog go out to hunt a bear. They travel through grass, a river, mud, a forest and a snowstorm before coming face to face with a bear in its cave. This meeting causes panic and the family run home, across all the obstacles, followed by the bear. Finally, the children lock the bear out of the house and all hide under the duvet saying "We're not going on a bear hunt again." 

We're going on a bear hunt.
We're going to catch a big one.
What a beautiful day!
We're not scared.

(and the refrain with river, forest, long grass....)
We can't go over it.
We can't go under it.
Oh no!
We've got to go through it!

This little book is great for little ones and would make a welcome gift by them and their parents. 

Click here to preorder

GIVEAWAY - 2 WINNERS

Open to USA & CANADA

Begins October 1

ENDS October 23 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

No P.O. Boxes accepted

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Candlewick Press to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and freely given.

Sona and the Wedding Game Written by Kashmira Sheth Illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN13: 9781561457359
Peachtree Publishers - Ages 4008
Hardcover $16.95

About the book: Sona's big sister is getting married and she's been given an important job to do. She has to steal the groom's shoes. She's never attended a wedding before, so she's unfamiliar with this Indian tradition as well as many of the other magical experiences that will occur before and during the special event. But with the assistance of her annoying cousin Vishal, Sona finds a way to steal the shoes and get a very special reward.

My thoughts: Chat With Vera reviews Christian and secular children's books - biographies, non-fiction, fiction, picture books, etc. In reviewing Sona and the Wedding Game, I realized it was multi-cultural and expected it to show the beauty and diversity of cultures and especially weddings. I was not, however, expecting an introduction to the Hindu religion and their god, Lord Ganesh. This is fine with me as it can be an excellent teaching tool for the parent that wishes to use it as such.

The story is sweet, as weddings usually are sweet, and the story is so beautifully illustrated to show the wealth and beauty of this culture.

Weddings are always thrilling for children with all the beauty and pageantry that they entail. The opportunity to glimpse into another culture's wedding traditions is certainly a must-do for a child. In Sona and the Wedding Game, young children get just that opportunity!

The tradition of stealing the grooms shoes is something in the Indian culture and a child is to do it.  This is a game and meant to be fun. As Sona goes about solving how she can do this, the beauty of the wedding permeates. As the illustrations show the beautiful colors and luxury of the wedding celebration.

Children will be entertained, educated, and will enjoy this book as they expand their knowledge of different cultures.

GIVEAWAY

Begins May 6 & ENDS May 26 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 

Open to USA addresses only.
(If you have already won this book in a different giveaway or contest, you may not receive a copy if chosen in this giveaway. The publisher can and will verify.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Kashmira Sheth is the author of the picture books Monsoon Afternoon and My Dadima Wears a Sari, as well as the award-winning young adult novels Blue Jasmine and Koyal Dark, Mango Sweet. She lives in Wisconsin.

Yoshiko Jaeggi's work has appeared in Cricket Magazine. She is the illustrator of Monsoon Afternoon and My Dadima Wears a Sari. She lives in Maryland.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Peachtree Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are solely mine and I was not compensated for the review.