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Recommend this book:
Chicken Coop Chaos
Nancy Tavares
2026 Finalist
32 Pages
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Scott Cahan for Readers' Favorite
Chicken Coop Chaos, written by Nancy Tavares and illustrated by Sian Moore, is a delightful picture book for young readers. Pearl the chicken runs a very neat and orderly hen house. Then, out of nowhere, a rooster named Wendell appears at her door, needing a place to stay. Pearl refuses him simply because he is different from all the other hens. He doesn’t even lay eggs. But Wendell is persistent, and soon Pearl’s world is turned upside down. By the end of the book, both the chicken and the rooster will learn some valuable lessons about how to get along with others, no matter how different they are.
Chicken Coop Chaos is a joy to read. Author Nancy Tavares has done a fantastic job of crafting a story that will entertain as well as educate children. The main characters, Pearl and Wendell, are colorful, fun, and easy to relate to. The problems that arise after Wendell moves in have just the right mix of action and silliness to keep young readers glued to the pages as their parents read to them. The artwork alone is enough to make readers of all ages smile. The illustrations are funny, colorful, easy to understand, and well laid out. The artist, Sian Moore, has a colorful style that moves the story along beautifully while providing lots of humorous details that are like icing on an already delicious cake. I highly recommend Chicken Coop Chaos for children who enjoy a good picture book and for the lucky parents who get to read to them.
Chicken Coop Chaos, written by Nancy Tavares and illustrated by Sian Moore, is a delightful picture book for young readers. Pearl the chicken runs a very neat and orderly hen house. Then, out of nowhere, a rooster named Wendell appears at her door, needing a place to stay. Pearl refuses him simply because he is different from all the other hens. He doesn’t even lay eggs. But Wendell is persistent, and soon Pearl’s world is turned upside down. By the end of the book, both the chicken and the rooster will learn some valuable lessons about how to get along with others, no matter how different they are.
Chicken Coop Chaos is a joy to read. Author Nancy Tavares has done a fantastic job of crafting a story that will entertain as well as educate children. The main characters, Pearl and Wendell, are colorful, fun, and easy to relate to. The problems that arise after Wendell moves in have just the right mix of action and silliness to keep young readers glued to the pages as their parents read to them. The artwork alone is enough to make readers of all ages smile. The illustrations are funny, colorful, easy to understand, and well laid out. The artist, Sian Moore, has a colorful style that moves the story along beautifully while providing lots of humorous details that are like icing on an already delicious cake. I highly recommend Chicken Coop Chaos for children who enjoy a good picture book and for the lucky parents who get to read to them.
Recommend this book:
Dog + Girl
María Murillo
2026 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
Dog + Girl by Maria Murillo is a warm picture book that celebrates the timeless friendship between people and their dogs, but in this case, a pup and her girl companion, Loops. Readers are introduced to the fuzzy Montana pup, Sascha, on the very first page, and the story is told through her playful perspective. Simple things, like getting treats and going for car rides, make her happy. The loving relationship between Sascha and Loops is interwoven, growing into a deep affection. The illustrations provide insight into what the dog sees, such as the landscapes and Texas skies described in the text. Sascha sees Loops not just as a best friend but as a source of comfort, laughter, and love, making everyday moments feel extraordinary. Dog + Girl is both a love letter to dogs and a reminder of the loyalty and joy that come from sharing life with a beloved companion.
What I loved most about Dog + Girl by Maria Murillo is its mellow and sweet tone. As an educator, I believe the use of rhyming words will keep kids interested from start to finish. In classrooms, it could spark conversations about favorite activities with pets, their names, and how to care for them, possibly leading to the creation of lists of words that sound the same. I could also imagine extending this story with activities like drawing a pet (or dog) and naming it, creating a memory game based on the book, or making charts with questions like “Do you have a pet?” The vibrant artwork by JuLi Litkei is both engaging and calming. This lovely story belongs in both school and home libraries. I highly recommend it.
Dog + Girl by Maria Murillo is a warm picture book that celebrates the timeless friendship between people and their dogs, but in this case, a pup and her girl companion, Loops. Readers are introduced to the fuzzy Montana pup, Sascha, on the very first page, and the story is told through her playful perspective. Simple things, like getting treats and going for car rides, make her happy. The loving relationship between Sascha and Loops is interwoven, growing into a deep affection. The illustrations provide insight into what the dog sees, such as the landscapes and Texas skies described in the text. Sascha sees Loops not just as a best friend but as a source of comfort, laughter, and love, making everyday moments feel extraordinary. Dog + Girl is both a love letter to dogs and a reminder of the loyalty and joy that come from sharing life with a beloved companion.
What I loved most about Dog + Girl by Maria Murillo is its mellow and sweet tone. As an educator, I believe the use of rhyming words will keep kids interested from start to finish. In classrooms, it could spark conversations about favorite activities with pets, their names, and how to care for them, possibly leading to the creation of lists of words that sound the same. I could also imagine extending this story with activities like drawing a pet (or dog) and naming it, creating a memory game based on the book, or making charts with questions like “Do you have a pet?” The vibrant artwork by JuLi Litkei is both engaging and calming. This lovely story belongs in both school and home libraries. I highly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Karma Cats to the Rescue
Kathleen Kastner
2026 Bronze Medal
36 Pages
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
In Karma Cats to the Rescue by Kathleen Kastner, Noah the cat was once loved, but when his owners abandoned him, he had to be independent. But to Noah, that meant fighting every cat he saw. When the Karma Cats tried to intervene, Noah was having none of it. When he found himself in the shelter, he was sad, but once again, the Karma Cats came to the rescue. Can they help turn Noah’s life around and turn him back into a happy cat?
Karma Cats to the Rescue by Kathleen Kastner is the first book in the Karma Cats series. It’s a lovely story accompanied by stunning illustrations by Caroline Tran, but it’s more than just a story. It teaches children that animals are part of the family and not to be thrown away and abandoned. It also teaches them how determination always wins, and the ability to extend a helping hand, even when it’s not welcomed at first, is of great value. It’s also about looking after abandoned animals and that when they decide to have a pet, adopting from a shelter is best. Books like this are an excellent way to teach kids, from an early age, about compassion and giving back. I love that the animal characters are based on real animals, too, and the photos help kids see that the characters aren’t just drawings on a page – they are real animals with real feelings and deserving of love and care. I loved this book, and I hope it goes a long way toward making the world a better place. Children are the future of this planet, and learning how they can make a difference is important. This book should be on every kid’s bookshelf.
In Karma Cats to the Rescue by Kathleen Kastner, Noah the cat was once loved, but when his owners abandoned him, he had to be independent. But to Noah, that meant fighting every cat he saw. When the Karma Cats tried to intervene, Noah was having none of it. When he found himself in the shelter, he was sad, but once again, the Karma Cats came to the rescue. Can they help turn Noah’s life around and turn him back into a happy cat?
Karma Cats to the Rescue by Kathleen Kastner is the first book in the Karma Cats series. It’s a lovely story accompanied by stunning illustrations by Caroline Tran, but it’s more than just a story. It teaches children that animals are part of the family and not to be thrown away and abandoned. It also teaches them how determination always wins, and the ability to extend a helping hand, even when it’s not welcomed at first, is of great value. It’s also about looking after abandoned animals and that when they decide to have a pet, adopting from a shelter is best. Books like this are an excellent way to teach kids, from an early age, about compassion and giving back. I love that the animal characters are based on real animals, too, and the photos help kids see that the characters aren’t just drawings on a page – they are real animals with real feelings and deserving of love and care. I loved this book, and I hope it goes a long way toward making the world a better place. Children are the future of this planet, and learning how they can make a difference is important. This book should be on every kid’s bookshelf.
Recommend this book:
Benjamin & Honka's Backyard Adventure
Second Edition
Sergio Teodoro, Jasmin Bailey
2026 Bronze Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Benjamin & Honka's Backyard Adventure is a children's picture book by Sergio Teodoro. Benjamin is a six-year-old boy. All he wants is to play by the pond in his backyard. After he comes across a cute woodland duck who has a quack unlike any other duck he has ever heard, Benjamin brings him some food from the house and names him Honka. Soon, Benjamin and Honka start playing together. Benjamin tries to imitate Honka's movements in the pond after he finds out that he is a great swimmer. Benjamin and Honka explore every corner of the backyard. There are always new surprises and adventures waiting for these two forever friends.
Benjamin & Honka's Backyard Adventure is a short and breezy read with everything you want in a children's picture book. Jasmine Bailey's captivating artwork goes really well with Sergio Teodoro's storytelling. It makes this a must-read for kids. The setting, the characters, and the story will make anyone smile, young and older readers alike. This is because the story shows how kindness and friendship are good for everyone around us. Benjamin and Honka make an adorable pair. Children will be able to relate to Benjamin and his love for adventure. Honka's lively personality was another one of the book's strengths for me. Jasmine Bailey has done a fantastic job with her illustrations, and the drawings really capture the light-hearted narrative tone to perfection. This book will appeal to young adventure lovers of all kinds. I think even parents will enjoy reading this to their kids. Highly recommended.
Benjamin & Honka's Backyard Adventure is a children's picture book by Sergio Teodoro. Benjamin is a six-year-old boy. All he wants is to play by the pond in his backyard. After he comes across a cute woodland duck who has a quack unlike any other duck he has ever heard, Benjamin brings him some food from the house and names him Honka. Soon, Benjamin and Honka start playing together. Benjamin tries to imitate Honka's movements in the pond after he finds out that he is a great swimmer. Benjamin and Honka explore every corner of the backyard. There are always new surprises and adventures waiting for these two forever friends.
Benjamin & Honka's Backyard Adventure is a short and breezy read with everything you want in a children's picture book. Jasmine Bailey's captivating artwork goes really well with Sergio Teodoro's storytelling. It makes this a must-read for kids. The setting, the characters, and the story will make anyone smile, young and older readers alike. This is because the story shows how kindness and friendship are good for everyone around us. Benjamin and Honka make an adorable pair. Children will be able to relate to Benjamin and his love for adventure. Honka's lively personality was another one of the book's strengths for me. Jasmine Bailey has done a fantastic job with her illustrations, and the drawings really capture the light-hearted narrative tone to perfection. This book will appeal to young adventure lovers of all kinds. I think even parents will enjoy reading this to their kids. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
At the Ragtag Hotel
The Elevator Ride
Freya Novak
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
In At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride by Freya Novak, young readers meet Dallas Dingo, a friendly elevator operator at a busy hotel. One by one, animals from all over the world, such as Colin the Capybara, Oona the Ostrich, and Queenie the Quokka, pile into the lift, each greeting Dallas in their own language as they seek an escape from the heat. With each new arrival, anticipation and chaos grow as they make their way to the mysterious fourteenth floor. Will they find the relief they’re looking for, or is there an even bigger surprise waiting behind the doors?
I truly enjoyed At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride by Freya Novak. It combines humor, heart, and I found myself relating to the animals because I absolutely hate being hot. From an educator’s perspective, the idea of multilingual greetings makes for an excellent extension activity: students could share different ways they know to say hello, or teachers could introduce new ones from around the world. The writing is gentle and expressive, making each animal distinct yet universally relatable, and the bustling elevator setting keeps kids interested as the plot progresses. Anastasiya Halionka’s illustrations are vibrant and bring each page to life with playful details. Books featuring animals are always a hit in children’s literature, and this story is no exception—it provides a safe, engaging way to explore friendship, inclusion, and the joy of learning something new. Overall, it’s a delightful read-aloud that will keep both youngsters and adults smiling throughout.
In At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride by Freya Novak, young readers meet Dallas Dingo, a friendly elevator operator at a busy hotel. One by one, animals from all over the world, such as Colin the Capybara, Oona the Ostrich, and Queenie the Quokka, pile into the lift, each greeting Dallas in their own language as they seek an escape from the heat. With each new arrival, anticipation and chaos grow as they make their way to the mysterious fourteenth floor. Will they find the relief they’re looking for, or is there an even bigger surprise waiting behind the doors?
I truly enjoyed At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride by Freya Novak. It combines humor, heart, and I found myself relating to the animals because I absolutely hate being hot. From an educator’s perspective, the idea of multilingual greetings makes for an excellent extension activity: students could share different ways they know to say hello, or teachers could introduce new ones from around the world. The writing is gentle and expressive, making each animal distinct yet universally relatable, and the bustling elevator setting keeps kids interested as the plot progresses. Anastasiya Halionka’s illustrations are vibrant and bring each page to life with playful details. Books featuring animals are always a hit in children’s literature, and this story is no exception—it provides a safe, engaging way to explore friendship, inclusion, and the joy of learning something new. Overall, it’s a delightful read-aloud that will keep both youngsters and adults smiling throughout.
Recommend this book:
Rosemary Chick
Pip, Zip, Hooray!
Dawn Feltrop
2026 Silver Medal
34 Pages
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Rosemary Chick: Pip, Zip, Hooray! by Dawn Feltrop is a children’s picture book that takes young readers on a journey with Rosemary. She’s inside her egg and is determined to hatch so she can see what’s outside. Everything that she tries, from kicking and punching her shell to tapping it with her beak, doesn’t seem to work in her favor. But when she hears her brother, Sassafras, chirping and peeping right outside her shell, she realizes he’s encouraging her to try and try again. Readers are invited to find out if Rosemary gives up or if she chooses not to go down without a fight. They are also invited to stick around for the pleasant surprise Rosemary discovers in the end.
I adored Dawn Feltrop’s story of a baby chick waiting to see the outside world. I also loved how she incorporated energetic rhyming sentences that matched Rosemary’s experiences inside the shell. It created a playful momentum that allowed readers to feel Rosemary’s frustrations but also root for her to persevere. Aleksander Jasinski’s illustrations complement the narrative with the bold and colorful layout from page to page. I especially loved the glowing interior of the egg and the cute bedroom inside that made Rosemary look like she was in an actual bedroom and not an egg. The bio about Rosemary and Sassafras at the end was a very nice touch. The author demonstrates the theme of triumph, no matter how difficult the challenge. Rosemary Chick: Pip, Zip, Hooray! would appeal most to readers who enjoyed similar inspirational stories, such as Ashley Spires’ The Most Magnificent Thing or Dan Santat’s After the Fall. It has the key elements like courage, persistence, and effort.
Rosemary Chick: Pip, Zip, Hooray! by Dawn Feltrop is a children’s picture book that takes young readers on a journey with Rosemary. She’s inside her egg and is determined to hatch so she can see what’s outside. Everything that she tries, from kicking and punching her shell to tapping it with her beak, doesn’t seem to work in her favor. But when she hears her brother, Sassafras, chirping and peeping right outside her shell, she realizes he’s encouraging her to try and try again. Readers are invited to find out if Rosemary gives up or if she chooses not to go down without a fight. They are also invited to stick around for the pleasant surprise Rosemary discovers in the end.
I adored Dawn Feltrop’s story of a baby chick waiting to see the outside world. I also loved how she incorporated energetic rhyming sentences that matched Rosemary’s experiences inside the shell. It created a playful momentum that allowed readers to feel Rosemary’s frustrations but also root for her to persevere. Aleksander Jasinski’s illustrations complement the narrative with the bold and colorful layout from page to page. I especially loved the glowing interior of the egg and the cute bedroom inside that made Rosemary look like she was in an actual bedroom and not an egg. The bio about Rosemary and Sassafras at the end was a very nice touch. The author demonstrates the theme of triumph, no matter how difficult the challenge. Rosemary Chick: Pip, Zip, Hooray! would appeal most to readers who enjoyed similar inspirational stories, such as Ashley Spires’ The Most Magnificent Thing or Dan Santat’s After the Fall. It has the key elements like courage, persistence, and effort.
Recommend this book:
The Know It Owl and the Beluga
Terri Sabol
2026 Gold Medal
31 Pages
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
The Know It Owl and the Beluga by Terri Sabol is an educational, fun story for younger readers. The Know It Owl is on a journey to meet and learn about beluga whales. He’s on a mission to discover the truth about these whales and correct common misconceptions, but beware – he hasn’t lost his sarcastic touch! His conversations with the whale are enlightening and fun, and the illustrations will capture your heart as you learn everything about these amazing animals. Learn about their habitat, anatomy, feeding habits, and so much more, as Know It Owl sets you – and the sporty whale – straight on lots of things. Laugh and have fun while you learn in the next installment of the Know It Owl series.
The Know It Owl and the Beluga by Terri Sabol is part of the Know It Owl series, each of which features a different animal. I’ve read another book in the series, and this one was just as much fun to read. The story is educational, as it teaches readers about beluga whales, but in a fun way. Each page is divided into two: the beluga whale’s perspective on things and the Know It Owl setting things straight with the facts. The illustrations by Paula Piechna are stunning, bringing the words to life on each page and helping kids understand better. It’s also an interactive book, with the opportunity for kids – or parents – to give the owl and the whale their own voices. There are lots of little puzzles scattered throughout, as well as measurements in colored pencils. And at the end of the book are some fast facts and an exercise for readers to learn how to draw a beluga whale. If you want your kids to learn about animals, you can’t go wrong with this series.
The Know It Owl and the Beluga by Terri Sabol is an educational, fun story for younger readers. The Know It Owl is on a journey to meet and learn about beluga whales. He’s on a mission to discover the truth about these whales and correct common misconceptions, but beware – he hasn’t lost his sarcastic touch! His conversations with the whale are enlightening and fun, and the illustrations will capture your heart as you learn everything about these amazing animals. Learn about their habitat, anatomy, feeding habits, and so much more, as Know It Owl sets you – and the sporty whale – straight on lots of things. Laugh and have fun while you learn in the next installment of the Know It Owl series.
The Know It Owl and the Beluga by Terri Sabol is part of the Know It Owl series, each of which features a different animal. I’ve read another book in the series, and this one was just as much fun to read. The story is educational, as it teaches readers about beluga whales, but in a fun way. Each page is divided into two: the beluga whale’s perspective on things and the Know It Owl setting things straight with the facts. The illustrations by Paula Piechna are stunning, bringing the words to life on each page and helping kids understand better. It’s also an interactive book, with the opportunity for kids – or parents – to give the owl and the whale their own voices. There are lots of little puzzles scattered throughout, as well as measurements in colored pencils. And at the end of the book are some fast facts and an exercise for readers to learn how to draw a beluga whale. If you want your kids to learn about animals, you can’t go wrong with this series.
Recommend this book:
A Little Labradoodle Christmas
The Little Labradoodle 4
April M. Cox, Kairi Fullerton
2025 Honorable Mention
35 Pages
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
April M. Cox and Kairi Fullerton capture the joy of Christmas in a beautiful children's story that follows a quest to spread love and happiness. A Little Labradoodle Christmas is an enchanting picture book with colorful pages and animated characters. It reminds children and adults of why Christmas is special. It also highlights the importance of love, empathy, and working together to create a better world. A little girl and two labradoodles playing outside get interrupted by a grouchy cat, who commands them to stop splashing in the puddles. Since the puppies find his attitude concerning, they try to fix the cat and make plans to make him happier despite his remarks. Will the puppies find a way to make the grumpy cat happy and help him share in the joy of Christmas?
The book starts with a strong hook and maintains its engaging pace until the end, from a splash incident to the cat's grouchiness and a quick discussion about the grumpy cat. Though Casper seems stern and acts like he doesn't like Christmas, I was drawn to his dramatic attitude and frank instructions, like "Stop with that mess! It’s a total disgrace!" April M. Cox and Kairi Fullerton's rhymes and simple words allow for a fun read, which is great for young children. Also, the cute animals, glittery Christmas trees, and human characters are captured in vivid colors and brilliant artwork by Remesh Ram. A Little Labradoodle Christmas is a perfect Christmas gift to share and enjoy with children. Its engaging characters and acts of love will have you smiling and cheering from start to finish.
April M. Cox and Kairi Fullerton capture the joy of Christmas in a beautiful children's story that follows a quest to spread love and happiness. A Little Labradoodle Christmas is an enchanting picture book with colorful pages and animated characters. It reminds children and adults of why Christmas is special. It also highlights the importance of love, empathy, and working together to create a better world. A little girl and two labradoodles playing outside get interrupted by a grouchy cat, who commands them to stop splashing in the puddles. Since the puppies find his attitude concerning, they try to fix the cat and make plans to make him happier despite his remarks. Will the puppies find a way to make the grumpy cat happy and help him share in the joy of Christmas?
The book starts with a strong hook and maintains its engaging pace until the end, from a splash incident to the cat's grouchiness and a quick discussion about the grumpy cat. Though Casper seems stern and acts like he doesn't like Christmas, I was drawn to his dramatic attitude and frank instructions, like "Stop with that mess! It’s a total disgrace!" April M. Cox and Kairi Fullerton's rhymes and simple words allow for a fun read, which is great for young children. Also, the cute animals, glittery Christmas trees, and human characters are captured in vivid colors and brilliant artwork by Remesh Ram. A Little Labradoodle Christmas is a perfect Christmas gift to share and enjoy with children. Its engaging characters and acts of love will have you smiling and cheering from start to finish.
Recommend this book:
Rhyming Riley
The Dog that Rhymes All the Time
Tracy L Markley
2025 Honorable Mention
24 Pages
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Foram Vyas for Readers' Favorite
Rhyming Riley: The Dog That Rhymes All the Time by Tracy L. Markley is a delightful children's book that tells the heartwarming story of a dog named Riley who loves to speak in rhymes. Inspired by a real-life dog adopted by the author, the book follows Riley's adventures and his special bond with his owner. Through playful and engaging rhymes, Riley shares his journey from needing a home to finding love and friendship with Tracy. The colorful illustrations add an extra layer of charm, making the book an enjoyable read for kids and adults alike. Riley's witty rhymes and cheerful demeanor are sure to bring smiles to the faces of young readers, making this a fun and educational read.
Tracy L. Markley’s writing in Rhyming Riley is both charming and engaging. The book is simple yet heartwarming, perfectly suited for a children's book. The pace is just right, keeping young readers entertained while delivering a meaningful message about love and friendship. Readers will find it light and humorous, with Riley’s rhymes adding a playful twist to the narrative. The characters, especially Riley, are endearing and easy to love. The themes of adoption, kindness, and companionship are beautifully woven into the story, making it not just fun but also educational. The illustrations are incredibly cute and vibrant, capturing Riley’s joyful personality perfectly. The silly rhymes are easy to follow and will likely generate plenty of giggles. Overall, Rhyming Riley is a delightful read that will easily become a favorite with kids. Tracy L. Markley has created a memorable character in Riley, and I highly recommend this book for its entertaining and heartwarming story.
Rhyming Riley: The Dog That Rhymes All the Time by Tracy L. Markley is a delightful children's book that tells the heartwarming story of a dog named Riley who loves to speak in rhymes. Inspired by a real-life dog adopted by the author, the book follows Riley's adventures and his special bond with his owner. Through playful and engaging rhymes, Riley shares his journey from needing a home to finding love and friendship with Tracy. The colorful illustrations add an extra layer of charm, making the book an enjoyable read for kids and adults alike. Riley's witty rhymes and cheerful demeanor are sure to bring smiles to the faces of young readers, making this a fun and educational read.
Tracy L. Markley’s writing in Rhyming Riley is both charming and engaging. The book is simple yet heartwarming, perfectly suited for a children's book. The pace is just right, keeping young readers entertained while delivering a meaningful message about love and friendship. Readers will find it light and humorous, with Riley’s rhymes adding a playful twist to the narrative. The characters, especially Riley, are endearing and easy to love. The themes of adoption, kindness, and companionship are beautifully woven into the story, making it not just fun but also educational. The illustrations are incredibly cute and vibrant, capturing Riley’s joyful personality perfectly. The silly rhymes are easy to follow and will likely generate plenty of giggles. Overall, Rhyming Riley is a delightful read that will easily become a favorite with kids. Tracy L. Markley has created a memorable character in Riley, and I highly recommend this book for its entertaining and heartwarming story.
Recommend this book:
Zeke Comes Out of His Shell
Shanti Hershenson
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Zeke Comes Out of His Shell is a charming and heartwarming tale that invites young readers to dive into the ocean and follow the adventures of Zeke, a young hermit crab. Shanti Hershenson crafts a story that's both educational and engaging, making it a delightful choice for children who love animals and the sea. The story begins with Zeke, who lives a peaceful life on the sunny coast of Southern California. However, Zeke must find his way back home when a storm sweeps him away from his familiar surroundings. This journey is more than just a physical one—it's a voyage of self-discovery. Along the way, Zeke meets new friends who help him learn about courage, friendship, and the importance of believing in oneself.
What makes this book stand out is its ability to teach valuable life lessons in a way that's accessible to young readers. Zeke's experiences mirror many children's challenges when stepping out of their comfort zones. Through Zeke's growth, readers are gently encouraged to embrace their own bravery and confidence. The vibrant descriptions of ocean life and the diverse cast of sea creatures add an extra layer of appeal, making this a story about personal growth and a celebration of the ocean and its inhabitants. The illustrations complement the text beautifully, capturing the vivid underwater world that Zeke explores. Zeke Comes Out of His Shell by Shanti Hershenson is a delightful read for budding adventurers and animal lovers. It's a story that resonates with anyone who has ever felt a little unsure of themselves and needed a gentle nudge to step out of their shell. This book is a perfect addition to any child's bookshelf, offering both entertainment and a meaningful message.
Zeke Comes Out of His Shell is a charming and heartwarming tale that invites young readers to dive into the ocean and follow the adventures of Zeke, a young hermit crab. Shanti Hershenson crafts a story that's both educational and engaging, making it a delightful choice for children who love animals and the sea. The story begins with Zeke, who lives a peaceful life on the sunny coast of Southern California. However, Zeke must find his way back home when a storm sweeps him away from his familiar surroundings. This journey is more than just a physical one—it's a voyage of self-discovery. Along the way, Zeke meets new friends who help him learn about courage, friendship, and the importance of believing in oneself.
What makes this book stand out is its ability to teach valuable life lessons in a way that's accessible to young readers. Zeke's experiences mirror many children's challenges when stepping out of their comfort zones. Through Zeke's growth, readers are gently encouraged to embrace their own bravery and confidence. The vibrant descriptions of ocean life and the diverse cast of sea creatures add an extra layer of appeal, making this a story about personal growth and a celebration of the ocean and its inhabitants. The illustrations complement the text beautifully, capturing the vivid underwater world that Zeke explores. Zeke Comes Out of His Shell by Shanti Hershenson is a delightful read for budding adventurers and animal lovers. It's a story that resonates with anyone who has ever felt a little unsure of themselves and needed a gentle nudge to step out of their shell. This book is a perfect addition to any child's bookshelf, offering both entertainment and a meaningful message.
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