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Recommend this book:
The Magical World of Rosie & Rainn
The ZooZoo Cookies
Sydnie Suskind
2025 Finalist
178 Pages
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Children - Adventure
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
The Magical World of Rosie & Rainn: The ZooZoo Cookies by Sydnie Suskind, with illustrations by João Francisco, is a wildly imaginative adventure that blends sibling dynamics, magical mishaps, and heartfelt lessons into one enchanting tale. The story follows twelve-year-old twins Rosie and Rainn, who couldn't be more different. Rosie is impulsive, creative, and often messy, while Rainn is logical, studious, and organized. Despite their differences, the two team up for the summer to run a magical day camp for local kids, hoping to earn enough money to buy the coveted Adventure Bike 6000. The story begins with Rosie practicing low-level spells (often to the dismay of her family and their pet dragon lizard, Niko) and soon pivots into the zany world of enchanted sweets, mood-reading headbands, and the delightfully unpredictable Flip Flap Floo store.
Rosie’s first-person perspective radiates energy, effectively portraying the humor, warmth, and chaos of growing up in a magical world. The pacing is brisk, and the world-building is engaging, with scenes laden with sensory details and snappy dialogue. The camp activities are a joy to read, merging whimsy with gentle teachings about patience, cooperation, and understanding consequences. What truly stands out is Sydnie Suskind’s ability to capture the spirit of childhood exploration and creativity, complemented by João Francisco’s illustrations that infuse charm and motion into each scene. This narrative celebrates curiosity and bravery, all wrapped in a delightful, giggle-filled package that will thrill children dreaming of casting spells or simply riding the coolest bike in the neighborhood. After reading The Magical World of Rosie & Rainn: The ZooZoo Cookies, you'll scream for more. This series' debut is sure to be a literary classic.
The Magical World of Rosie & Rainn: The ZooZoo Cookies by Sydnie Suskind, with illustrations by João Francisco, is a wildly imaginative adventure that blends sibling dynamics, magical mishaps, and heartfelt lessons into one enchanting tale. The story follows twelve-year-old twins Rosie and Rainn, who couldn't be more different. Rosie is impulsive, creative, and often messy, while Rainn is logical, studious, and organized. Despite their differences, the two team up for the summer to run a magical day camp for local kids, hoping to earn enough money to buy the coveted Adventure Bike 6000. The story begins with Rosie practicing low-level spells (often to the dismay of her family and their pet dragon lizard, Niko) and soon pivots into the zany world of enchanted sweets, mood-reading headbands, and the delightfully unpredictable Flip Flap Floo store.
Rosie’s first-person perspective radiates energy, effectively portraying the humor, warmth, and chaos of growing up in a magical world. The pacing is brisk, and the world-building is engaging, with scenes laden with sensory details and snappy dialogue. The camp activities are a joy to read, merging whimsy with gentle teachings about patience, cooperation, and understanding consequences. What truly stands out is Sydnie Suskind’s ability to capture the spirit of childhood exploration and creativity, complemented by João Francisco’s illustrations that infuse charm and motion into each scene. This narrative celebrates curiosity and bravery, all wrapped in a delightful, giggle-filled package that will thrill children dreaming of casting spells or simply riding the coolest bike in the neighborhood. After reading The Magical World of Rosie & Rainn: The ZooZoo Cookies, you'll scream for more. This series' debut is sure to be a literary classic.
Recommend this book:
Exploring is NOT for Me!
George & Gemma Series
Nancy Jean, Lucy Shin
2025 Honorable Mention
36 Pages
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Children - Adventure
Reviewed by Mimie Odigwe for Readers' Favorite
In Exploring Is NOT For Me, written by Nancy Jean and illustrated by Lucy Shin, George does not want to go on an adventure. He would rather stay at home all day than explore. When he is made to go camping with Gemma, George grumbles and groans throughout the ride. Nothing Gemma does or says can brighten his mood, even when she sings or dances. At the park, George is miserable. The ride was extra bumpy, and he couldn’t make his blankets comfortable. When asked to go treasure hunting with other dogs, birds, and even squirrels, George refuses. His answer is always the same: “Exploring is NOT for me.” Can Gemma convince George to let loose and have fun at the park?
Gemma is an exemplary character. She tries her best to ensure George enjoys his stay, yet she doesn’t let his mood affect hers. George is a relatable character—many young children have things they dislike or fear, and they will quickly identify with George. Exploring Is NOT For Me teaches children to step out of their comfort zone and make sacrifices for those they care about. It’s clear that George cares for Gemma and tries his best to make her happy. Author Nancy Jean also adds an insightful lesson on eiderdowns and how These are made. Her words are simple and appropriate for the target audience, while Lucy Shin’s illustrations complement the story well. This book is an excellent recommendation for teachers and parents looking for engaging and relatable stories to introduce to children.
In Exploring Is NOT For Me, written by Nancy Jean and illustrated by Lucy Shin, George does not want to go on an adventure. He would rather stay at home all day than explore. When he is made to go camping with Gemma, George grumbles and groans throughout the ride. Nothing Gemma does or says can brighten his mood, even when she sings or dances. At the park, George is miserable. The ride was extra bumpy, and he couldn’t make his blankets comfortable. When asked to go treasure hunting with other dogs, birds, and even squirrels, George refuses. His answer is always the same: “Exploring is NOT for me.” Can Gemma convince George to let loose and have fun at the park?
Gemma is an exemplary character. She tries her best to ensure George enjoys his stay, yet she doesn’t let his mood affect hers. George is a relatable character—many young children have things they dislike or fear, and they will quickly identify with George. Exploring Is NOT For Me teaches children to step out of their comfort zone and make sacrifices for those they care about. It’s clear that George cares for Gemma and tries his best to make her happy. Author Nancy Jean also adds an insightful lesson on eiderdowns and how These are made. Her words are simple and appropriate for the target audience, while Lucy Shin’s illustrations complement the story well. This book is an excellent recommendation for teachers and parents looking for engaging and relatable stories to introduce to children.
Recommend this book:
Adele and the Whispering Garden
Adele and the Whispering Garden Series Book 1
Polly Richards
2025 Bronze Medal
49 Pages
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Children - Adventure
Reviewed by Diana Lopez for Readers' Favorite
In Adele and the Whispering Garden, Polly Richards invites children to discover a love of gardening and magic. Adele is a curious girl with a big heart. Upon moving into her new home, she decides to explore. In her backyard, she finds the entrance to an abandoned garden, where a gnome statue is hidden among neglected plants. Seeing the state of the place, she wishes to restore the garden to its former beauty. This desire awakens Albert, the gnome, who tells her that she has been chosen by his pure heart to restore splendor to this environment. However, the process requires patience, dedication, and learning about nature. Albert becomes her guide, teaching her everything from composting to planting new flowers and vegetables.
I loved Polly Richards' writing because it is fun and educational. She teaches a sense of responsibility, demonstrating that a garden requires consistency and attention. By adding a touch of magic, she encourages children's imagination and curiosity. The narration is entertaining and filled with detailed descriptions of nature and plants, which immerses you in the garden. The information is useful to bring children closer to the world of gardening. Even at the end, there is a section on how to make compost to allow children to get more involved. The images are also wonderful. They present a realistic touch with black and white backgrounds, while some elements stand out in vibrant colors, which enhances their magical aspect. Adele and the Whispering Garden is a great story that will teach children the value of hard work and perseverance.
In Adele and the Whispering Garden, Polly Richards invites children to discover a love of gardening and magic. Adele is a curious girl with a big heart. Upon moving into her new home, she decides to explore. In her backyard, she finds the entrance to an abandoned garden, where a gnome statue is hidden among neglected plants. Seeing the state of the place, she wishes to restore the garden to its former beauty. This desire awakens Albert, the gnome, who tells her that she has been chosen by his pure heart to restore splendor to this environment. However, the process requires patience, dedication, and learning about nature. Albert becomes her guide, teaching her everything from composting to planting new flowers and vegetables.
I loved Polly Richards' writing because it is fun and educational. She teaches a sense of responsibility, demonstrating that a garden requires consistency and attention. By adding a touch of magic, she encourages children's imagination and curiosity. The narration is entertaining and filled with detailed descriptions of nature and plants, which immerses you in the garden. The information is useful to bring children closer to the world of gardening. Even at the end, there is a section on how to make compost to allow children to get more involved. The images are also wonderful. They present a realistic touch with black and white backgrounds, while some elements stand out in vibrant colors, which enhances their magical aspect. Adele and the Whispering Garden is a great story that will teach children the value of hard work and perseverance.
Recommend this book:
Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl
Chelsea Chong Kim
2025 Silver Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Adventure
Reviewed by Cherubimaris Casino for Readers' Favorite
Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl is a children’s book by author Chelsea Chong Kim with illustrations by Michelle Simpson. The story centers on Carol, an ambitious carrot with a passion for bowling. Carol practices every day. When she learns that the Salad Bowling Club is holding tryouts for new team members, she is determined to pursue her dream of joining the team despite the odds stacked against her. The team has never had a carrot member before, and Carol needs to find a partner to enter the competition. Through this journey, she discovers not only a suitable partner but also a treasured friend.
This story is incredibly cute and engaging! The author skillfully weaves themes of perseverance, compassion, and unexpected friendships into a narrative that is both entertaining and educational. Through Carol's journey and her surprising partnership, the story encourages children to look beyond superficial differences and embrace empathy and kindness. The book also addresses complex social issues in an accessible way, helping children navigate challenges such as peer relationships, fitting in, and self-comparison. The vibrant illustrations bring the characters to life, adding depth to the emotional storytelling. Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl is not only adorable but also stands out as a valuable addition to children’s literature, offering important life lessons within a delightful package of animated vegetables and fruits. Promoting both positive mental and physical health, this book is a great addition to classrooms, libraries, and homes with children. I look forward to more from Chelsea Chong Kim!
Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl is a children’s book by author Chelsea Chong Kim with illustrations by Michelle Simpson. The story centers on Carol, an ambitious carrot with a passion for bowling. Carol practices every day. When she learns that the Salad Bowling Club is holding tryouts for new team members, she is determined to pursue her dream of joining the team despite the odds stacked against her. The team has never had a carrot member before, and Carol needs to find a partner to enter the competition. Through this journey, she discovers not only a suitable partner but also a treasured friend.
This story is incredibly cute and engaging! The author skillfully weaves themes of perseverance, compassion, and unexpected friendships into a narrative that is both entertaining and educational. Through Carol's journey and her surprising partnership, the story encourages children to look beyond superficial differences and embrace empathy and kindness. The book also addresses complex social issues in an accessible way, helping children navigate challenges such as peer relationships, fitting in, and self-comparison. The vibrant illustrations bring the characters to life, adding depth to the emotional storytelling. Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl is not only adorable but also stands out as a valuable addition to children’s literature, offering important life lessons within a delightful package of animated vegetables and fruits. Promoting both positive mental and physical health, this book is a great addition to classrooms, libraries, and homes with children. I look forward to more from Chelsea Chong Kim!
Recommend this book:
The Mirror Drifters
The Other Magic
D.D. Snows
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Adventure
Reviewed by Zahid Sheikh for Readers' Favorite
The Mirror Drifters: The Other Magic by D.D. Snows is a fantasy adventure where three siblings named Ben, Maya, and Archie discover they each have magical talents on their twelfth birthday. This changes the course of their lives as they are drawn into Aether: a magical parallel world full of enchantment and danger, yet brimming with light and dark. A malicious gang of conjurers seeking to take over both worlds must be avoided as the siblings, led by their long-lost sister Jo, learn how to use their new abilities. The story combines themes of identity, family, and bravery with exciting action in a way that will grab young fantasy fans. The settings are vividly crafted, and the twists are captivating.
D.D. Snows uses vivid prose and well-paced storytelling to create a riveting story. The plot is masterfully written, striking a balance between intense action sequences and poignant moments. Each character is skillfully developed, from the witty and mischievous Archie to the steadfast and inquisitive Maya, ensuring the story resonates on a personal level. Resilience, self-discovery, and unity are woven seamlessly throughout the pages, adding multiple layers of meaning to the lightning-fast adventure. The author truly shines at world-building as he paints Aether as a place of wonder and peril with its vibrant tapestry of magical tales and creatures. With engrossing characters, thrilling conflict, and a hint of humor, The Mirror Drifters: The Other Magic is an enticing beginning in a series that will surely cast its spell on readers of all ages.
The Mirror Drifters: The Other Magic by D.D. Snows is a fantasy adventure where three siblings named Ben, Maya, and Archie discover they each have magical talents on their twelfth birthday. This changes the course of their lives as they are drawn into Aether: a magical parallel world full of enchantment and danger, yet brimming with light and dark. A malicious gang of conjurers seeking to take over both worlds must be avoided as the siblings, led by their long-lost sister Jo, learn how to use their new abilities. The story combines themes of identity, family, and bravery with exciting action in a way that will grab young fantasy fans. The settings are vividly crafted, and the twists are captivating.
D.D. Snows uses vivid prose and well-paced storytelling to create a riveting story. The plot is masterfully written, striking a balance between intense action sequences and poignant moments. Each character is skillfully developed, from the witty and mischievous Archie to the steadfast and inquisitive Maya, ensuring the story resonates on a personal level. Resilience, self-discovery, and unity are woven seamlessly throughout the pages, adding multiple layers of meaning to the lightning-fast adventure. The author truly shines at world-building as he paints Aether as a place of wonder and peril with its vibrant tapestry of magical tales and creatures. With engrossing characters, thrilling conflict, and a hint of humor, The Mirror Drifters: The Other Magic is an enticing beginning in a series that will surely cast its spell on readers of all ages.
Recommend this book:
The Crafter
The Mysterious Game
Dan Sugralinov
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Children - Adventure
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
The Crafter: The Mysterious Game by Dan Sugralinov is a kids’ sci-fi fantasy story. When Kenny arrived in Kansas after living in New York, he expected to find a sleepy town. What he got was something completely different. His life suddenly becomes a game, but it’s nothing like the on-screen games he loves to play. Not only does he have to beat the monsters in the game, but he also has to beat the monsters and bullies he meets in real life. With Whiskers, his cat, by his side and some new-found friends, Kenny feels he can face anything. Every move must score him the maximum points, but it’s also about finding a place in a brand new world, one that will test him to his gaming limits.
The Crafter: The Mysterious Game by Dan Sugralinov is LitRPG at its best and well-aimed at its target audience. This is more than just a role-playing fantasy game, though. It also teaches kids about dealing with real-world experiences, such as a parent leaving or bullies in the schoolyard. It’s about having confidence in yourself and learning how to make friends and work as a team. The book is written in easy-to-follow language with some wonderfully developed characters that most kids, especially gamers, will find easy to relate to. It’s a combination of coming-of-age and fantasy with a narrative that perfectly fits both the real and gaming worlds. There is plenty of action to keep kids interested, and it’s a really inspiring read for them. This is the first in The Crafter series and is a great start. Looking forward to reading the next one.
The Crafter: The Mysterious Game by Dan Sugralinov is a kids’ sci-fi fantasy story. When Kenny arrived in Kansas after living in New York, he expected to find a sleepy town. What he got was something completely different. His life suddenly becomes a game, but it’s nothing like the on-screen games he loves to play. Not only does he have to beat the monsters in the game, but he also has to beat the monsters and bullies he meets in real life. With Whiskers, his cat, by his side and some new-found friends, Kenny feels he can face anything. Every move must score him the maximum points, but it’s also about finding a place in a brand new world, one that will test him to his gaming limits.
The Crafter: The Mysterious Game by Dan Sugralinov is LitRPG at its best and well-aimed at its target audience. This is more than just a role-playing fantasy game, though. It also teaches kids about dealing with real-world experiences, such as a parent leaving or bullies in the schoolyard. It’s about having confidence in yourself and learning how to make friends and work as a team. The book is written in easy-to-follow language with some wonderfully developed characters that most kids, especially gamers, will find easy to relate to. It’s a combination of coming-of-age and fantasy with a narrative that perfectly fits both the real and gaming worlds. There is plenty of action to keep kids interested, and it’s a really inspiring read for them. This is the first in The Crafter series and is a great start. Looking forward to reading the next one.
Recommend this book:
Loris Opens Up His Heart
An Emotional Story For Kids
Dagmara Sitek
2024 Honorable Mention
52 Pages
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Children - Adventure
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Cam and Inaya are promoting a charity run to raise money for their friend, Susie, who is recovering from open heart surgery. A new foster brother, Loris, joins their foster home, but he’s too distant and reserved to open up and share in the experience of working together for the common good. In Dagmara Sitek’s Loris Opens Up His Heart, a deeper meaning of open heart surgery emerges as Loris must share his frightening past to find his healing and, hopefully, find some good friends in the process. Loris joins the foster family, but his heart just isn’t ready to accept care, compassion, and love. That’s why he wears a hoodie all the time: to cower and hide. Can he find a way to leave the cocoon he’s created? Can he trust the world again and find the courage to love and be loved?
Dagmara Sitek’s picture book, Loris Opens Up His Heart: An Emotional Story For Kids, is a gentle, soothing, and sometimes sad story about a young foster child who came from a troubled background. The story is told like a graphic novel, complete with bubbles to identify who’s talking and allow the conversation to carry the plot. The plot includes loving, caring characters as well as contrasting mean bullies. There are some difficult issues addressed in this story, particularly child abuse, foster care, and bullies. The author expertly weaves a tender story out of these troubling blights in today’s society. The illustrations are bright, bold, and colorful and help move the story along. Young readers will be cheering on Cam and Inaya as they try to win the charity race, and also Loris who not only runs steadfastly to win but struggles to overcome his difficult past in the process. Beautiful story, yet powerful and raw.
Cam and Inaya are promoting a charity run to raise money for their friend, Susie, who is recovering from open heart surgery. A new foster brother, Loris, joins their foster home, but he’s too distant and reserved to open up and share in the experience of working together for the common good. In Dagmara Sitek’s Loris Opens Up His Heart, a deeper meaning of open heart surgery emerges as Loris must share his frightening past to find his healing and, hopefully, find some good friends in the process. Loris joins the foster family, but his heart just isn’t ready to accept care, compassion, and love. That’s why he wears a hoodie all the time: to cower and hide. Can he find a way to leave the cocoon he’s created? Can he trust the world again and find the courage to love and be loved?
Dagmara Sitek’s picture book, Loris Opens Up His Heart: An Emotional Story For Kids, is a gentle, soothing, and sometimes sad story about a young foster child who came from a troubled background. The story is told like a graphic novel, complete with bubbles to identify who’s talking and allow the conversation to carry the plot. The plot includes loving, caring characters as well as contrasting mean bullies. There are some difficult issues addressed in this story, particularly child abuse, foster care, and bullies. The author expertly weaves a tender story out of these troubling blights in today’s society. The illustrations are bright, bold, and colorful and help move the story along. Young readers will be cheering on Cam and Inaya as they try to win the charity race, and also Loris who not only runs steadfastly to win but struggles to overcome his difficult past in the process. Beautiful story, yet powerful and raw.
Recommend this book:
 written by Rosie J. Pova and illustrated by Amariah Rauscher is a fun and imaginative picture book for young children. A young boy called Elliott moves into a new home with his mum and dad. Elliott likes to spend his time reading adventurous books and getting lost in them. One day, Elliott is reading a rat...){kind=link}
Sunday Rain
Lantana Global Picture Books
Rosie J. Pova, Amariah Rauscher
2024 Bronze Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Adventure
Reviewed by Amy Louise Hill for Readers' Favorite
Sunday Rain (Lantana Global Picture Books) written by Rosie J. Pova and illustrated by Amariah Rauscher is a fun and imaginative picture book for young children. A young boy called Elliott moves into a new home with his mum and dad. Elliott likes to spend his time reading adventurous books and getting lost in them. One day, Elliott is reading a rather exciting book about a princess, but what Elliott soon realizes is that there is an adventure to be had outside. After a storm settles, Elliott looks out of his window and sees some children playing in the rain. Will Elliott embark on a new adventure and make some friends in the process? Find out in this book.
Sunday Rain (Lantana Global Picture Books) is a book children are going to love and learn from. It is short, sweet, and entertaining throughout. I loved the title. Children will enjoy reading about Elliott's adventures and learn to have the courage to step outside their comfort zone. I'm certain it will inspire them to pursue new friendships and to go and have fun in the rain from time to time. The writing by the talented Rosie J. Pova is professional, simple, and more importantly, fun! Amariah Rauscher's illustrations are colorful and vibrant and will attract the attention of young readers from the moment they see the cover. I know children far and wide will love reading this wonderful book. Keep up the great work, Rosie and Amariah. I hope to read more soon.
Sunday Rain (Lantana Global Picture Books) written by Rosie J. Pova and illustrated by Amariah Rauscher is a fun and imaginative picture book for young children. A young boy called Elliott moves into a new home with his mum and dad. Elliott likes to spend his time reading adventurous books and getting lost in them. One day, Elliott is reading a rather exciting book about a princess, but what Elliott soon realizes is that there is an adventure to be had outside. After a storm settles, Elliott looks out of his window and sees some children playing in the rain. Will Elliott embark on a new adventure and make some friends in the process? Find out in this book.
Sunday Rain (Lantana Global Picture Books) is a book children are going to love and learn from. It is short, sweet, and entertaining throughout. I loved the title. Children will enjoy reading about Elliott's adventures and learn to have the courage to step outside their comfort zone. I'm certain it will inspire them to pursue new friendships and to go and have fun in the rain from time to time. The writing by the talented Rosie J. Pova is professional, simple, and more importantly, fun! Amariah Rauscher's illustrations are colorful and vibrant and will attract the attention of young readers from the moment they see the cover. I know children far and wide will love reading this wonderful book. Keep up the great work, Rosie and Amariah. I hope to read more soon.
Recommend this book:
The Adventures of Dori
A Rescue Pup
Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis
2024 Silver Medal
34 Pages
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Children - Adventure
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup is a heartwarming children's picture book written by Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis, with illustrations by TullipStudio. The story revolves around Dori, who is a lovely white puppy living in a cozy cottage by the sea. Dori enjoys spending her days playing and running around the beach with her friends, Benito and Jillian. One day, while playing on the beach, the trio discovers a starfish that needs help. The starfish's limb is trapped in a bottle, and it cannot free itself. Dori and her friends immediately spring into action to rescue the poor creature and release it back into the sea. The incident leaves Dori feeling uneasy, and she decides to team up with her friends and other beachgoers to clean up the trash polluting the beach and the sea.
The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup by Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis is a delightful book that teaches children about the importance of environmental protection and helping others in need. Through Dori's adventures, young readers are inspired to be mindful of their surroundings and experience the joy of friendship and working together. The characters are cute and beautifully depicted in the colorful illustrations. I particularly appreciated the tiny details, such as the different colored collars that distinguish Dori and her friends. The book also raises awareness about animal rescue and protection, which is a worthy cause to champion and support. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend adding it to your children's reading collection.
The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup is a heartwarming children's picture book written by Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis, with illustrations by TullipStudio. The story revolves around Dori, who is a lovely white puppy living in a cozy cottage by the sea. Dori enjoys spending her days playing and running around the beach with her friends, Benito and Jillian. One day, while playing on the beach, the trio discovers a starfish that needs help. The starfish's limb is trapped in a bottle, and it cannot free itself. Dori and her friends immediately spring into action to rescue the poor creature and release it back into the sea. The incident leaves Dori feeling uneasy, and she decides to team up with her friends and other beachgoers to clean up the trash polluting the beach and the sea.
The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup by Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis is a delightful book that teaches children about the importance of environmental protection and helping others in need. Through Dori's adventures, young readers are inspired to be mindful of their surroundings and experience the joy of friendship and working together. The characters are cute and beautifully depicted in the colorful illustrations. I particularly appreciated the tiny details, such as the different colored collars that distinguish Dori and her friends. The book also raises awareness about animal rescue and protection, which is a worthy cause to champion and support. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend adding it to your children's reading collection.
Recommend this book:
Sandy the Service Dog
Lost in a Hurricane (The Adventures of Sandy the Service Dog)
Michelle M. Deyarmin
2024 Gold Medal
39 Pages
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Children - Adventure
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Sandy is a service dog. Her little girl, Shelby, has epilepsy and Sandy’s job is to watch over Shelby and warn others when Shelby is about to have a seizure. Sandy can sense when a seizure is coming on. And, with her training, she’s a very special type of dog. But there’s a hurricane coming and living in southern Florida is never safe during a hurricane. In the family’s escape efforts, they board a boat and Shelby’s younger brother, Luke, is swept away. Sandy’s the only one who can save him. She jumps into the water and manages to save Luke before he drowns. Only, in her efforts, Sandy is swept away. She is tossed about and finally finds herself in strange territory, alone and scared. When the storm passes, Sandy meets other creatures, including a dog, Max, who helps her find her way home.
Michelle M. Deyarmin’s early chapter book story, Sandy the Service Dog: Lost in a Hurricane (The Adventures of Sandy the Service Dog), is a compassionate story that will appeal to all young readers. The story introduces the strong bond between a service dog and the one he or she cares for. It also addresses issues like bullying and fear and risking all to help others. The story is told in the first person, from Sandy’s point of view. There is lots of dialogue to help carry this story along and the simple sketches provide a visual aspect to the story. The characters and setting are well developed and described and the plot is well constructed. A charming story of survival and dedication.
Sandy is a service dog. Her little girl, Shelby, has epilepsy and Sandy’s job is to watch over Shelby and warn others when Shelby is about to have a seizure. Sandy can sense when a seizure is coming on. And, with her training, she’s a very special type of dog. But there’s a hurricane coming and living in southern Florida is never safe during a hurricane. In the family’s escape efforts, they board a boat and Shelby’s younger brother, Luke, is swept away. Sandy’s the only one who can save him. She jumps into the water and manages to save Luke before he drowns. Only, in her efforts, Sandy is swept away. She is tossed about and finally finds herself in strange territory, alone and scared. When the storm passes, Sandy meets other creatures, including a dog, Max, who helps her find her way home.
Michelle M. Deyarmin’s early chapter book story, Sandy the Service Dog: Lost in a Hurricane (The Adventures of Sandy the Service Dog), is a compassionate story that will appeal to all young readers. The story introduces the strong bond between a service dog and the one he or she cares for. It also addresses issues like bullying and fear and risking all to help others. The story is told in the first person, from Sandy’s point of view. There is lots of dialogue to help carry this story along and the simple sketches provide a visual aspect to the story. The characters and setting are well developed and described and the plot is well constructed. A charming story of survival and dedication.
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