With All My Heart by Stephanie Stansbie and Richard Smythe from Silver Dolphin Books [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN 13: 9781684129102
Find it here

My thoughts:  This is an absolutely precious book. The tone of the sweet rhymes is gentle and loving. The illustrations are beautifully done painting a lovely picture of love (though bears are the characters, it is likewise true of people) of a parent for their little one.

As the pages turn, shaped die cuts reveal words that are meaningful to that page and the next, and sometimes the next. A charming way to capture the idea. A heart cut-out highlights "love."

This sweet book shows love in a special way and is a perfect addition to a little one's shelf of favorite books.

I highly recommend this book from the folks at Silver Dolphin Books. They do such a good job of publishing children's books and this is an excellent example of their quality work.

About the book: Share the love between a parent and child in With All My Heart. This beautifully illustrated picture book showcases the lifelong love a parent has for their child. Each page features sweet text paired with shaped die cuts for a unique reading experience. With All My Heart is the perfect book to cuddle up with and to express the endless love between a parent and child.

💙💙GIVEAWAY💙💙

Begins January 4

Ends January 31 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Links for illustrator: 

https://www.instagram.com/richard.smythe/   https://twitter.com/rich_smythe   https://www.richard-smythe.co.uk/

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

5-Minute Stories from beloved author, Margaret Wise Brown (Silver Dolphin Books) [Review & Giveaway USA/CANADA]

Margaret Wise Brown 5-Minute Stories (Silver Dolphin Books) 

Hardcover $12.99
ISBN: 9781684128495
Ages 3-5

My thoughts:  Mommies and kiddies love big bedtime storybooks. This compilation of a few stories by beloved author, Margaret Wise Brown - of Goodnight Moon fame, will be sure to please both parents and children alike.

I previously reviewed a couple of the stories included in this compilation when published in separate book form, and you can read my reviews here: Count To 10 With A Mouse, Sleep Tight Little Bears.

Titles included are: Count To 10 With a Mouse, A Song For All Seasons, Sleep Little Angel, Away In My Airplane, Wish Upon A Dream, Sleep Tight Little Bears, All The Families: Everyone Has A Family, and The Tickly Spider.

This large, hardcover book is softly padded to provide ease of handling by the young child. The illustrations are captivating and style varies from story to story. I am especially fond of the illustrations in Count To 10 With A Mouse and Sleep Tight Little Bears. The plethora of insects in the bright and colorful The Tickly Spider are great and the little boy's expressions are just so much fun and joyful. Pure boy!

In A Song For All Seasons the child is taken delightfully through each of the seasons as they begin and transition from one to the next. Beautiful words and pictures.

I think my least favorite illustrations was All the Families but the story/poem is quite nice.

I love this big book of 5-Minute Stories for the little ones in your life and recommend it.

About the book: features eight beautifully illustrated tales from Goodnight Moon author Margaret Wise Brown that are crafted for reading aloud to your little one in five-minute chunks so that you can read them at bedtime...or anytime.

This beautifully illustrated, magical story collection from best-selling author Margaret Wise Brown—creator of the children's classics Goodnight Moon and The Runaway Bunny—will enchant children and parents alike. With eight stories that can each be read in about five minutes, it's a perfect collection to read to your little one before bed or any time!

GIVEAWAY

Begins September 4

Ends October 2 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA & CANADA addresses only.

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

Wild Bios: William Sheepspeare board book biography from Silver Dolphin Books [Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

ISBN: 978-1684126194
Ages 0-2; Board Book $7.99

My thoughts:  This is my 2nd review of a "Wild Bios" kids board books. This one is sort of a "spoof" about William Shakespeare and it is riddled with pun after pun for a hilarious read. Granted, the little kiddies won't grasp the puns, but Mom and Dad will and that makes for an enjoyable story time for the little ones. After all, when everyone is having fun it is a grand time altogether.

As the title indicates "Sheepspeare (i.e. Shakespeare) is a woolly sheep or actually a ram. And he is one of Lord Chamberlamb's (i.e. Lord Chamberland's) Men who act and build the theater. The rams play the part of the ewes (i.e. men play the roles of the women) in the plays. And so the puns go on and on and on throughout the book.

The illustrations are lots of fun with  details and colors that grab one's attention adding to the fun story. But don't forget, this is about a real person and especially that it is about a really famous person - William Shakespeare. While young children rarely comprehend the history of historical entities and the role they play in shaping our world, it is always good to lay the ground work or plant seeds of information that sprout into fruition and further knowledge and study later in their developing years. Perhaps families can put on their own versions of the Real Shakespeare's works and tweak them a bit as has been done in "Wild Bios: William Sheepspeare."

About the book: As the latest title in a new series of biographies featuring well-known historical figures with a surprising twist that makes them accessible and engaging for even the youngest readers. Plus, funny puns throughout make them fun for parents to read aloud!

William Sheepspeare’s plays were shear genius! Meet one of history’s greatest figures in this adorable board book with an animal twist! Dive into the life of the eloquent Baa-rd of Avon and the plays that shaped our language today. William Sheepspeare’s human themes have resonated with every generation. With hilarious puns and colorful illustrations, this book brings his legacy to life for babies and parents alike!

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 25

Ends May 23 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA addresses only.

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

Beloved author Margaret Wise Brown titles released in a new classics line by Silver dolphin Books [Review & Giveaway]

The 109th anniversary of Brown’s birthday is on May 23, 2019 and to celebrate we're reviewing three new Margaret Wise Brown titles from Silver Dolphin Books, the first in a new line of MWB books: The Diggers, Sleep Tight Sleepy Bears, and Count to 10 with a Mouse.

Story about "found" books: In 1990, author Amy Gary discovered a trunk of unpublished manuscripts and songs in the attic of Margaret Wise Brown’s sister’s barn. These manuscripts provided the source material for many of the titles in a new line of classics by the beloved author. Silver Dolphin Books—publisher of high-quality, activity-based books for children ages 2 to 12— will launch fifteen new Margaret Wise Brown titles in Spring and Summer 2019, with two more publishing in the fall.

Count to 10 With a Mouse

ISBN: 9781684127412
Hardcover $12.99
Ages 3-5; 32 pages

My thoughts: This is a sweet counting picture book and a bit different from regular run-of-the-mill presentations. There is plenty of repetition and yet new ideas and imagery are involved in the telling of Mouse counting to 10. The illustrations are particularly charming and sweet in soft shades of various colors.

Essentially, mouse sees (or has eaten) a hole in a book and he ventures through the hole and thus the pages as he counts. This goes on until he is at the end and then..... well what do you think? He turns around runs back again. I just love this charming book.

About the book: Illustrated by Kirsten Richards, this little mouse story is a beautiful children's picture book with gentle illustrations, and a perfect way to get your children reading (and counting) with a lovable, engaging storyline. Ideal for beginning readers, this book is sure to become a family treasure.

Baby Caleb can't read!
Baby Caleb can't count!
Baby Caleb likes his books!!!

The Diggers 

ISBN: 9781684127429
Hardcover $12.99
Ages 3-5; 32 pages

My thoughts: Having raised five children of my own, two of which were boys that loved to dig, I can thoroughly appreciate this diverse book about all sorts of diggers. Wee little creatures and mid-size critters dig, boys and men that dig, shovels and machines that are used for digging.  Lots of diggers. It is an opportunity for the child to learn how extensive digging really is in our world.

The illustrations are excellent and sure to garner lots of interest and present "talking points" for the parent of the inquisitive child. Love this book!

About the book: Dig, dig, dig! Join the animals and machines as they dig an incredible journey of discovery underground in an imaginative story and amazing adventure brought to life by French illustrator Antoine Corbineau, using a patchwork of texture and color in his vibrant illustrations to depict the fun and energetic world of the diggers.

Sleep Tight, Sleepy Bears 

ISBN: 9781684127603
Hardcover $12.99
Ages 3-5; 32 pages

My thoughts:  Who doesn't love a sweet picture book about bears - any size, any action, any color? This simple story is papa bear and baby bear both are sleepy and are going through their nightly routine of bedtime.  Papa bear slows the day and action down with soothing words and actions.

A sweet story and a very good bedtime, go to sleep story.

About the book: Follow the story of the sleepy bears in  in this magical tale beautifully illustrated by Julie Clay. It's a perfect bedtime story for your little one, and will enchant children and parents alike.

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 23

Ends May 20 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA addresses only.

(Canadian addresses: No P.O. Boxes & will need phone number of winner.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway
More about the Author: Margaret Wise Brown wrote hundreds of books and stories during her life, but she is best known for Goodnight Moon and Runaway Bunny. Even though she died 45 years ago, her books still sell very well. Margaret loved animals. Most of her books have animals as characters in the story. She tried to write the way children wanted to hear a story, which often isn't the same way an adult would tell a story. She also taught illustrators to draw the way saw things. Margaret died after surgery for a appendix while in France. She had many friends who still miss her. They say she was a creative genius who made a room come to life with her excitement. Margaret saw herself as something else: a writer of songs and nonsense.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each book to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own, alone, and are freely given. Winner's prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by publicist or publisher.

Rabbit & Bear: Rabbit's Bad Habits by Julian Gough & Jim Field

My thoughts: Sized just right for young readers to have a "real book" that they can read, this volume is the first of a series about Rabbit and Bear and the series holds promise for popular "chapter books" (though it isn't divided into chapters).

The illustrations are spot-on attention grabbing for these young readers and even young reader-listeners.

Its Winter and Bear awakes from hibernation and is hungry but her food is missing. So bear makes a snowman.

At this point Rabbit enters the story since the snowman rolls down the hill in an "avalanche" and covers Rabbits hole in the ground. Arguments or discussions ensue but this rather tense relationship ultimately blossoms into a sweet friendship.

In the meantime, their discussion involves "poo." Rather..... eating poo. Really?

Now I realize I'm a bit of old school and a Southern lady with quirks of my own, but to entertain the subject of poo in a children's book and especially the eating of poo is really quite out of sync in my opinion. I know there is a bounty of books that focus on the subject of poo and if one wishes to acquire these, that is one's choice.

Now about the subject of this particular rabbit eating his own poo. As it turns out, there is firm truth or scientific fact behind this practice of rabbits. I know we're not going to change the rabbits from doing what they are designed to do, I just feel the presentation of this information a bit heavy and out of place in this form of children's book.

Now we have to address the third character in the book - the Wolf. He wants to eat Rabbit and so the chase ensues. This is where the friendship between Rabbit and Bear really takes root. Bear comes to the rescue of Rabbit and saves him from being dinner for Wolf.

A happy ending and a really cute book. I'd rate it 5-star for design, illustrations, and overall story. But a 3-star for the inclusion (heavily) of eating poo. Hence a 4-star overall rating. I look forward to future releases in the Rabbit and Bear series; and if the end pages map of the territory is any indication, the series will be a lot of interest and fun.

About the book: Avalanches, snowmen, a hungry wolf…and more!

When Bear wakes up early from her hibernation, she decides to build a snowman. Her grumpy neighbor, Rabbit, decides to build an even better one. Rabbit & Bear: Rabbit’s Bad Habits is full of laugh-out-loud moments and chronicles the forming of an unlikely friendship. With illustrations throughout, this chapter book is perfect for middle grade readers and is sure to become a fun favorite on any kid’s bookshelf.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review of my own opinions which are freely given.

Wild Bios: Frida Catlo from Silver Dolphin books [Review & Giveaway - US/CANADA]

ISBN: 9781684125586
Buy it on Amazon 

My thoughts:  The concept of kiddie board books to introduce real people who are famous is a great way to begin reading biographic stories to children. The author makes it enticingly entertaining by creating characters that are animals. The biography (???) is about Frida CATlo - emphasis on CAT. So while the person is real, the animalistic twist is a quirky way to tell the story.

Now about this cute book.....

A typical board book that has charming, cute animals populating its pages. They are "peopled-cats" or cats that take on people traits. Not such a new concept in kiddie books, but perhaps it is new in kiddie books about REAL PEOPLE.

So as our real person - hmm.... kitten Frida goes about her daily activities, she has an accident and began to pursue art as a result. Lots of play-on-words in the story telling. "Time on her paws," "First paintings were paw-traits."

What the child can learn is that Frida became an artist and married an artist. Also, she lived in Mexico.

While I find the book delightful and I believe young children will enjoy the story and will, perhaps, learn about an artist, I think that the parents will get the most out of this book. I found myself chuckling as I read because of the multitude of words in "meow" version. Lots of fun for the adult reader in this one. Maybe Mom and Dad will want to read this one multiple times to the kiddies.

About the book: Wild Bios: Frida Catlo is the first title in a new series of biographies featuring well-known historical figures with a surprising twist that makes them accessible and engaging for even the youngest readers. Plus, funny puns throughout make them fun for parents to read aloud!

Frida Catlo was one purr-fect painter! Meet one of history’s greatest figures in this adorable board book with an animal twist! Famous Meowxican painter Frida Catlo was a pioneer for female artists. She always painted from the heart, even in the face of health problems and personal struggles. With hilarious puns and colorful illustrations, this book brings Frida’s legacy to life for babies and parents alike!

GIVEAWAY

Begins March 8

Ends April 1 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publicist on behalf of Silver Dolphin Publishing and the author to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

The Big Book Adventure by Emily Ford & illustrated by Tim Warnes

My thoughts: This is absolutely charming. It recounts many of the well known childhood stories as an adventure that two friends take. They rhymes are terrific the adventures grand! The illustrations are happy, detailed enough to carry you back to the story being referenced by the friends' adventure.

This is perfect for those families who love books and is a tribute to the parents who through the years  faithfully and happily return week after week to the local library with their children and who read to their children.

I highly recommend.

I received a complimentary copy for review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given.

About the book: Journey back through childhood classics like Peter Pan, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, and more in this adorable picture book about the joys of reading!

Smithsonian Exploration Station: World Atlas, Human Body, and the Solar System (Silver Dolphin Books) [Review & Giveaway]

Read on and be sure you enter-to-win the 3-set giveaway. These are choice items to seek out for Christmas or special time gifts!

Kids can enjoy being educated if you present the material to them in an enticing manner. The tools and toys geared toward presenting the text with hands-on equipment grab and hold their attention. 

Presenting.......

The Smithsonian Exploration Station: Space (ISBN: 978-1626867222, $21.99)!

My thoughts:  From the moment I picked up the Exploration Station Solar System box I was enchanted. Not in a sweet or cutesy way but by the amount of material this set presents to the child. While slated for the age 6 to 8 year old, I see where this information and set can also fascinate up through the 12 year age bracket.

As I began to look through the box and seeing  the little figures (men and rockets), the glow-in-the-dark stars, and the sheets of stickers, I felt confident these items would make for fun time activities. The solar chart poster is nice. The book is filled with a variety of information that enables the child to peruse, delve into aspects of the solar system, and perhaps whet the appetite for further research.

An educationally sound and entertaining gift.


About the book and set: Take a trip through the stratosphere with the Smithsonian!

Take a trip into the stratosphere with Smithsonian Exploration Station: Space! With informative text and full-color photographs, young astronomers will learn about the intricate makeup of our solar system as well as distant galaxies and constellations. The 56-page fact book combined with the sticker sheet, space figurines to play with, and the glow-in-the-dark stars make this space experience interactive and engaging.

Includes:

• 56-page fact book
• 30 stickers
• 22 glow-in-the-dark stars
• 2 figurines (astronaut and rocket)

I highly recommend this set so the young child, or one a bit older, and explore the vastness that is our solar system.

Smithsonian Exploration Station: Human Body (978-1626867215, $21.99)

My thoughts:  When my children were growing up they constructed from kits various parts of the human body - eye, organs, skeleton. They were kids that enjoyed putting together kits and painting them. They especially liked to learn about the human body and how it works.

As "The Mom" I was always looking for ways to enrich my children's play time with constructive play. These kits provided that. The kits of those days didn't come with informative books - just instructions on how it went together and maybe a little about how that part worked.

This set, though geared toward the younger elementary child can easily span a few more years for educational entertainment. It might surprise you to see how fascinated your child is with the pursuit of knowledge when it is presented so entertainingly.

I highly recommend.

About the book and set: Discover the amazing systems in the human body with the Smithsonian!

Discover what makes your blood pump and your muscles stretch in this hands-on learning experience! With fascinating facts, full-color photographs, a plastic model skeleton, and 25 fact cards, Smithsonian Exploration Station: Human Body is a fun, engaging way to learn about the inner workings of the complex systems that make the human body.Discover what makes your blood pump and your muscles stretch in this hands-on learning experience! With fascinating facts, full-color photographs, a plastic model skeleton, and 25 fact cards, Smithsonian Exploration Station: Human Body is a fun, engaging way to learn about the inner workings of the complex systems that make the human body.

Includes:

• 56-page fact book
• 30 stickers
• 1 plastic model skeleton (13 pieces)
• 25 fact cards

Smithsonian Exploration Station: World Atlas (ISBN: 978-1626867208, $21.99)

My thoughts:  So many children travel extensively so they are already familiar with the World and what is in the different parts of our globe. This dynamic set that includes a book that will enrich one's knowledge of the Atlas facts of the World but also has the entertaining and fun cardstock models that can be constructed.

Stickers provide opportunities for more hands-on and fun activities to implant information in the mind. Facilitating learning via the entertainment mode is absolutely a highly desired method to education.

I recommend this set for the expansion of one's knowledge of our World.

About the book and set: Go on a globetrotting adventure with the Smithsonian! Head off on a globetrotting adventure in this interactive atlas! Learn about the diverse cultures, customs, wildlife, and natural beauty that form our world through informative text and full-color photograph. Children will love the hands-on aspect to learning as they blow up their inflatable globe and build the cardstock models of some of the wonders of the world. Smithsonian Exploration Station: World Atlas is the perfect way to engage kids in the amazing world around them!

Includes:

• 56-page fact book
• 30 stickers
• 1 inflatable globe
• 3 cardstock models to assemble: the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal, and a Mayan pyramid

Prize is a set of all 3 of the Smithsonian book/kits.
Total value Approx. $65.00

Giveaway
1 Winner will receive all 3 sets

Begins November 1

Ends November 22 at 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received all 3 sets from MMPublicity on behalf of Siver Dolphin Books to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given. Prize is provided and sent directly to the winner by either MMPublicity or the publisher, Silver Dolphin Books.

Blog Tour: The Big Book Adventure by Emily Ford and Tim Warnes - Illustrator's comments & Giveaway

Welcome to Day #5 of the Big Book Adventure Blog Tour!

To celebrate the release of The Big Book Adventure by Emily Ford and illustrated by Tim Warnes on September 4th, blogs across the web are featuring exclusive content from Emily and Tim, plus 5 chances to win a copy of The Big Book Adventure and a Canterbury Illustrated Classic edition of one of the classic tales featured in the book!

Favourite Books from Childhood
by Tim Warnes

I was so fortunate to have family who read to me when I was really young - my dad in particular stands out for me, as he would always use different voices and accents for the characters! Because of that, some favourite memories are of Miffy, Barbar, Mumfie the Elephant, Beatrix Potter, Richard Scarry, Brer Rabbit - and of course, Winnie-The-Pooh (which I sometimes listen to when I’m working).


From preschool I remember the book, Are you my Mother? by PD Eastman. I loved that! I don’t remember reading Maurice Sendak’s Little Bear books, but a few years ago I bought some for myself, and when I opened the parcel the rush of nostalgia was almost overwhelming - so sometime, somewhere they must have been really significant, too. My local library had picture books by Ezra Jack Keats, and the Mr. Bear books by the Japanese illustrator, Chizuko Kuratomi, and they still stand out in my memory.

Later down the line, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, the Oz books, The Wind in the Willows, Peter Pan and Gerald Durrell’s The New Noah were all significant reads (and rereads!). Whilst these stand out as great stories, it’s also significant that when I look back I realise the connection I have with the illustrations, too.

Wait! - I forgot to mention my big Disney story book - and Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein (favourite poem: True Story).

*****

Blog Tour Schedule:

September 24th – Word Spelunking

September 25th — Geek Reads Kids

September 26th — Christy's Cozy Corners

September 27th  — Books My Kids Read

September 28th — Chat with Vera

Buy: Amazon | Indiebound
Add on Goodreads

Follow Tim: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Journey back through childhood classics like Peter Pan, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, and more in this adorable picture book about the joys of reading!

There is nothing like a book to take you to places you’ve never been. Best friends Foxy and Piggy can’t wait to tell each other about all of their adventures in reading! Flying over Neverland, swimming with a mermaid, joining in a mad tea party, soaring on a magic carpet—old classics come to life in the eyes of two little readers who can’t believe what they’ve seen. Journey back to old favorites and experience the magic all over again in this adorable picture book about the joys of reading!

About the Author: Emily Ford has only ever worked in the world of children's books, apart from a very early foray into shoe fitting and face painting (she does a great tiger). She'll write on anything she can find—from notebooks to used envelopes and the backs of old receipts. As a child her handwriting was neat but now it's almost illegible—only she can read it. Emily lives and works in London. 

About the Illustrator: Children’s author-illustrator Tim Warnes lives in a creative household in rural Dorset, England, with his wife, illustrator Jane Chapman, their two boys, and a big, black cat. With more than twenty years working as a children’s author-illustrator, his passion for inspiring creativity in kids and encouraging a love of reading is infectious. Despite being a grown-up, Tim will often read a picture book to himself at bedtime. He also enjoys playing the banjo and wearing fancy hats.

GIVEAWAY

• One (1) winner will receive a copy of The Big Book Adventure and Treasure Island (Canterbury Word Cloud Classics edition), one of the fictional lands the characters visit!
• US/Canada only - Ends October 19, 2018 at 12:01 a.m.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of The Big Book Adventure. Content authored by MMPublicity. Giveaway hosted only on Chat With Vera and prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by MMPublicity or publisher.

Eppie the Elephant (Who Was Allergic to Peanuts) by Livingstone Crouse and Steve Brown [Review and Giveaway]

 

My thoughts: It is back to school time and that is always a good time to read books to the young ones about how to cope with the first day of school, getting along with others, making friends, and all sorts of adjustment issues.

In the case of Eppie the Elephant she has a major problem. She is allergic to peanuts. Not only is she sensitive to them, she has a major issue. So how are her new classmates and her teacher going to react to his problem? Laugh? Understand?

NAMES NOTE: I think it is really cute that the elephant's name is "Eppie" - hint, hint, she needs an "epipen." And of course, the alligator is named "Allie" and the squirrel's name is "Pearl".

So, just how does the news of her allergy get handled? As with many school's method of handling nut sensitivity, there is a nut free zone. Some schools prohibit bringing peanuts or peanut butter products into the school because of the widespread allergy problem.

Eppie makes new friends as the day begins and then at lunch the teacher separates them placing Eppie in the nut free zone. She feels deserted (and sorry for herself) throughout the remainder of the day and dreads going to school the next morning.

The book is written in rhyming prose and it is a cute story with meaning and social ramifications. The illustrations are really cute. I felt the cadence a bit awkward at times but still quite readable.

A charming book that most certainly has a well earned place on school library shelves.

Silver Dolphin also has a Reading Guide for EPPIE THE ELEPHANT. Check it out


About the book: Go on a school-time adventure with Eppie, the elephant who is allergic to peanuts!

It’s the first day of school for Eppie the elephant, and she’s a bit nervous about one thing: that her new classmates won’t understand her allergy to nuts. Like many kids today, this fun-loving elephant can’t partake in peanuts, pecans, or pistachios and has to be careful about what she eats. Eppie makes fast friends with Allie the alligator and Pearl the squirrel, but when Eppie’s allergy is explained at lunch, will her friends still stand by her side? Readers of all ages will relate to this heartwarming, lyrical story of understanding and acceptance.

GIVEAWAY

Begins August 26

Ends September 17 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from MMPublicity on behalf of the publisher to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

My First Wild Activity Book by Isabel Otter-Barry Ross, and illustrations by Maxime Lebrun

ISBN 9781626869578
Softcover $12.99
Ages 5 & up
Silver Dolphin Books

My thoughts:  This is undoubtedly one of the most, if not THE most amazing andd enjoyable children's activity book I've come across. The scope of information, activities, presentation is simply superb.

First of all it is beautifully and creatively illustrated with exciting drawings that are both fun, charming, and (to a degree) accurate. When you first flip through the book, you will see that it has large and very well executed fold out pages for the different habitats and in these sections (each section has color coded borders) there is such a variety of learning and fun activities. Of course, there is sticker fun. But there is so much more. Searches, matching, doodling,

At the very start of the book, you get to complete the owner (explorer) information page and finalize a drawing of yourself. Then you start your wild journey with a plunge into the Rain Forest. Critters are playful and have a tendency to snatch sun glasses or hats and then you have to hunt for the item on the pages of the habitat.

The quality of information and activities is tops. And as is befitting a quality book, it is made of nice sturdy paper.

I simply can't rave enough about this activity book. This would be great to have on hand for rainy days and will make a fabulous birthday or Christmas gift.

About the book:  Become an explorer and meet wild animals from all around the world in this action-packed activity book!

Become an explorer and meet wild animals from all around the world in this action-packed activity book. There are seven different habitats to discover, from the rain forest to the polar ice, and a wide variety of activities to complete along the way, including coloring, dot-to-dots, doodles, and mazes—get ready for hours of wild animal fun!

DISCLOSURE: I receive a complimentary copy from MMPublicity on behalf of Silver Dolphin books to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given.

Two early learning board books for little ones with rubber duckies and sweet owls [Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

Studio Fun $11.99 - 12 pgs
ISBN: 9780794441197

Sesame Street: 5 Little Rubber Duckies 

My thoughts: This is a bright, cheerful counting book that will appeal to little ones. Not only are they counting in reverse (5, 4, 3, 2, 1) but they also have an oversized numeral on each page that they can trace within the outline. Then at the top of the book they can move the little duckies to show how many are on the page they are counting.

This is "hands on" and "manipulated" learning that surely implants the lesson in the little one's mind.

The story is a bit of rhyming words though not quite poetry. It is cute in that the rubber duckies are out having fun-time adventures and not all like to go when called.

A cute counting book with the added functionality of tracing and hands-on counting. The is a durable board book sure to survive much love.

About the book: This is educational fun for little ones 2 and up, as they learn their numbers with Elmo and friends!

Join Ernie and his friends on Sesame Street as they try to find five little rubber duckies in this fun, hands-on board book! With touch and trace elements perfect for little hands and plastic duckies to push and count along, this book is the perfect story time activity for early learners. Also available in Spanish (5 Patitos de Hule)!

10, 9, 8…Owls Up Late! 

Silver Dolphin $9.99
 26 pgs - Ages 3-5
ISBN: 9781684121847

My thoughts:  Some of these little owls have an "I don't want to go to sleep yet" attitude. Not bad, just something mama Owl needs to deal with.

This charming little counting book has cut out spots that are two-fold. First, you see it highlighting an owl or so with each page turn. Secondly, when you turn the page the right side's cut outs now become the left side and they reveal little critters that your little one can identify.

The little purple owl is the social owl and he flits from one branch or one critter to another socializing. Mama owl finally has them all tucked in the nest.

You'll notice as you read that the deep blue of night lightens a bit with each page until it is sunshiny bright. This is an opportunity to teach that owls are nocturnal.

Not only are there owls to take note of, there is a host of other critters from a tiny snail to a frisky squirrel that scamper around the tree, too. A little grey mouse also scampers about collecting the fruit on the tree and has it all piled up by the end of the story. Don't miss the tiny snail that creeps upward on the tree trunk only to fall near the end and have to begin his journey anew.

This is a delightful counting book with the end pages providing an opportunity to see the owls all in rows to be counted all over again. The book is durable board book that will survive the love and attention a small child gives.

About the book: 

"Ten little owls are playing in a tree, 
hopping and hooting happily. 
But Mama Owl calls from down in the nest, 
“It’s bedtime now; it’s time to rest.” 

Peek through the pages and spot the mischievous owls in this fun counting book, perfect for bedtime! Featuring fun rhyming text, funny illustrations and peek-through die-cut pages. Ten cheeky, bouncy, noisy owls are playing in a tree. It's bedtime, but they're having far too much fun to go to sleep! Uh-oh. Will Mummy Owl ever convince all her little owlets to fly down to the nest?

GIVEAWAY

1 Winner Receives a Copy of Both Books

Begins April 23

Ends May 14 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA  and CANADA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each book to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Winner's copies will be sent by publicist or publisher directly to the winner.

You’re My Little Cuddle Bug by Nicola Edwards and illustrated by Natalie Marshall [Review & Giveaway - USA]

ISBN: 9781684122585
Board book $8.99 ~ ages Pre-K
Silver Dolphin

My thoughts:  This is an adorable little board book for those small ones you love and they will clutch it in their tiny hands carrying it about with them (well they might slip a little hand through one of the cutouts for toting) keeping all those cute little bugs with them.

The text is delightful and promotes a feeling of love and sweetness. The illustrations are bug-out-cute from the love-bug ladybug on the cover right on the the last bug in the book. You very own "Cuddle Bug" will love getting his "cuddle on" when this little book is read to him or her.

As you flip the page to see the "mommy/daddy" bug cuddling the little one, the left page cut out highlights the previous page's text. Good connectivity!

I just love this little book and highly recommend it for home with little ones and all preschools and church nurseries!

You're my baby bumblebee, You are so very sweet.
You fill my days with lots of joy, Like honey you're a treat!

About the book: Celebrate your little cuddle bug with this sweet and colorful rhyming board book, which has ranked on the Children’s Bookscan Juvenile Overall and Juvenile Overall Fiction bestseller lists! With chunky pages for little hands and die-cut cuddle bugs to add depth and interest, children will love the interactive features alongside the story.

GIVEAWAY

Begins March 20

ENDS April 9 at 12:01 a.m EDT

a Rafflecopter giveaway 
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from MMPublicity on behalf of Silver Dolphin Publishinng to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

Adventures in Science: The Human Body [Review & Giveaway USA/CANADA]

Silver Dolphin publishing has a real talent for producing quality books and project items or kits that are absolutely wonderful, providing inspiration to pursue further research and study into the subject. I find that the Adventures in Science: The Human Body ($21.99; ISBN:978-1684121298; Ages 5+; 40 pages) book and kit to be just such a product. Be sure to enter the giveaway offered below and open to USA/CANADA entries.

ISBN:978-1684121298
$21.99 Ages 5+; 40 pages

My thoughts: When my children were growing up I purchased a variety of kits for them so they could increase their knowledge of the human body, the skeleton, the eye, etc. They loved these kits. In Adentures in Science: The Human Body the child has an opportunity for a different experience.  

The boxed kit contains a variety of materials of which the two main items (in my opinion) are the 40-page paperback book and the plastic skeleton that they can put together.  I am quite impressed with this entire package of informative materials that can be of such enjoyment to the precocious child and provide hours of exploration into the workings of the human body. This will provide an opportunity to begin conquest of the study of human biology and physiology.

The 40-page paperback book is colorful and offers much information and opportunities to learn.

The kit contains a book, 2 pages of stickers, a two-sided poster to which the stickers can  be afixed, and the plastic skeleton.

About this book and kit: Which part of the brain is in charge of creativity? What is the smallest human muscle? Take a trip inside the human body and discover the amazing systems that allow us to move, breathe, and speak. After reading about everything from the digestive tract to the cornea, kids can assemble their own plastic skeleton and view the systems of the body in a layered cardstock model. With 20 fact cards, 2 sticker sheets, and a double-sided poster, this interactive kit is a perfect primer for learning about how the human body works.

About the Author: Courtney Acampora holds a B.A. in art history from San Diego State University and a M.A. from the University of Arizona. Currently working in publishing, Courtney's lifelong love for both art and books fused together and gave her the opportunity to write and create engaging books for kids. Courtney lives in San Diego, California.

• Age Range: 6 and up, Grade Level: 1 - 2
• Publisher: Silver Dolphin Books; Box Pck St edition (December 12, 2017)
• Language: English: ISBN-10: 1684121299; ISBN-13: 978-1684121298

GIVEAWAY

Begins March 7

Ends March 29 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary product via MMPublicity on behalf of Silver Dolphin Publishing and the author to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Prize is provided by publisher or publicist and sent by them directly to the winner.

KISSES FOR KINDERGARTEN by Livingstone Crouse [Review and Giveaway]

My thoughts: Often books about going off to kindergarten with reluctance focus on the child's inability to separate from home and family to venture into the strangeness and unfamiliarity of kindergarten. In Kisses for Kindergarten the vibrant Stella Isabella Harden simply has another solution - her dog is going to hold classes and her dog says she doesn't need to go. Well, that is until the end of the book when they both realize that her dog can't help her with books.

I found the illustrations to be lively and cheerful - well, alright, downright funny. The joy exuding from the pages is sheer happiness. Stella Isabella is a cute, active, happy child and young readers will fall in love with her.

The rhyming lines and alliteration are fun and catchy. Rhymes always capture a child's attention when infused with rollicking rhythm and lively cadence.

Stella Isabella Harden

contemplating kindergarten

declared she didn't have to go,

because her puppy told her so.

This is a fun book and helps generate interest in going to kindergarten and presents it as a good opportunity for the child. After all, who doesn't want to learn to read the words on the pages of a book?

About the book: School is about to begin, and Stella Isabella Harden decides that kindergarten just isn't for her. Instead, she decides to spend the day learning from her puppy named Buster. Together these two adventurers plan a day full of playtime, teatime, naptime, and storytime.

After every "lesson," Stella gets the best reward: a kiss from her best friend and favorite puppy. But will she change her mind about kindergarten before the first day of school? Join Stella and Buster in this lyrical read-aloud and uplifting story about growing up.

About the Author and Illustrator:

Livingstone Crouse has spent the last 20 years either selling, editing, or writing books for children. He's even done all three at once! So recently he decided he'd focus entirely on writing the kinds of books he likes to read, books in verse that are filled with heart, word-play, and lots of laughs. Books like this one. Livingstone lives in a large, 200-year old farmhouse in New York's Hudson Valley with his husband and a dog named Kat. (And you can be fairly certain that Livingstone Crouse is not his real name. But don't tell anyone!)

Macky Pamintuan was born and raised in Davao, a city in the southern Philippines. As a young child, drawing was his favorite pastime and an activity that brought him delight and satisfaction. Early on, his parents discovered that giving him paper and pencil was a sure way to keep him busy, quiet, and out of trouble. He still remembers the day when he successfully drew Mickey Mouse and Superman, a huge breakthrough and a sweet triumph. He moved to San Francisco at age 21 and in 1998 enrolled in the Academy of Art College to pursue illustration. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in December 2003. When not illustrating, Macky enjoys playing basketball, his other true passion.

GIVEAWAY

Begins July 21

ENDS August 4 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy on behalf of the Silver Dolphin Books and the author to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and freely given.

Gareth Lucas Noisy Books: Dinos on Deck! & Noisy Books: Dig Dig, Digger from Silver Dolphin Books

Two new books from Silver Dolphin to delight the young child.

My thoughts:  Children love when an adorable book has buttons they can push and produce sounds. Usually, books with pre-recorded sounds have one-button-fun sound opportunities for the young reader. With Gareth Lucas' Noisy Books there are "spots" to push on each two-page spread giving multiple opportunities to introduce specific noises into the story.  What fun!

Sounds of squawking, splashing, sand-digging, etc. are ready for finger-poking fun. The story is simple but fun.

Kids will love the adventure of the dinos and parents can replace the batteries so the Dino sounds can continue on and on.

About the book: Join your favorite dinosaur friends on an adventure in the seas in Gareth Lucas Noisy Books: Dinos on Deck! Hoist the sails, press the sound buttons, and laugh along as a Triceratops, a Stegosaurus, a T. rex and more search for treasure. With humorous art by Gareth Lucas and charming rhyming text, this sound book will be a perfect addition to story time. What will these dinosaur friends find when they open the treasure chest?

My thoughts:  As the construction crew digs and hammers their way through the pages of this fun book, there are sounds - noises - that alert to a backing vehicle, hammers that bam, whistles that shrill, etc. Lots of fun activities of the construction crew and the end result is a fabulous playground with a lovely tune to end the story.

Told in simple sentences the story is a fun read that little ones - boys or girls - will enjoy.

Replaceable batteries will enable parents to prolong to life of the book and the noises that delight the child.

About the book: Dig, dig, dig…and dig some more with your favorite animal friends! In Noisy Books: Dig, Dig Digger, children will be amused by the hilarious antics of the animals as they build an adventure playground. Young readers will delight in Gareth Lucas's artwork and in finding the sound button on every spread. Each turn of the page will bring humor and fun with hippos, bears, camels, and more on their day at the construction site.

DISLCOSURE: I was provided complimentary copies to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and freely given.

New series from Silver Dolphin Books: Woodworks Nursery Rhymes - Old MacDonald & Wheels On the Bus [Reviews & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

My thoughts:  Silver Dolphin is fast becoming a favorite of mine for durable, interesting, educational, play-worthy, and readable books and play sets. This new series with a delightful little wooden vehicle (school bus and farm tractor), picturesque play mat, fold out building, and charming little board book for each set will guarantee hours of fun play. The little wooden vehicle and board book are small enough for little hands to play with and carry around to their heart's content.

The illustrations are "little people" charming and the simplicity of every aspect of the sets makes this a product that parents will like having their children possess.

Featuring the old nursery rhyme songs that have been favorites of kids for so many years the words of The Wheels On the Bus and Old MacDonald' Farm can be simply read aloud or taught as a song. The book does not include audio accompaniment - but then, most adults will already know these old tunes from their own childhoods.

The play mat is of foldable, plastic that is thin but still durable. The set up is simple enough for young children and it all packs back into the charming carry case that includes a "rope" handle.

I highly recommend these as truly play-worthy.



About the book/playsets: Old MacDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O! This brand-new playset featuring the classic children’s singalong song "Old MacDonald Had a Farm" will be the perfect addition to your child’s library. With a chunky board book, a wooden tractor, and a playmat, little ones can read and play along as they go through the farm and meet cows, ducks, horses, and more! Join Old MacDonald and his farmyard friends for a reading adventure in Woodworks Nursery Rhymes: Old MacDonald. (ISBN: 9781626869554 - $13.99)

The wheels on the bus go round and round! Climb aboard the yellow bus with this sweet playset featuring a chunky board book, a wooden school bus, and a playmat for added fun. Young readers will enjoy reading and playing along with their favorite nursery rhyme as they drive around the town and sing their way through Woodworks Nursery Rhymes: Wheels on the Bus. (ISBN: 9781626869561 - $13.99)

GIVEAWAY ~ 1 Winner

One Set
Woodworks books

Nursery Rhymes: Old MacDonald and Wheels on the Bus

Begins June 29

Ends July 20 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA/CANADA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary products to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own, alone and are freely given. Publicist or publisher will ship winner's set to winner.