BookAwards.com
Award-Winning Books from Today's Best Authors
A Free Resource for Book Lovers, Authors, Agents, Publishers and Journalists
Recommend this book:
Roland Looks for God
Tales of Roland 1
Phyllis Wheeler, Elzabeth Van der Bijl
2026 Finalist
32 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Tales of Roland Book 1: Roland Looks for God by Phyllis Wheeler is a charming Christian picture book for children aged 3-8. The story follows Roland, a curious duckling, as he embarks on a journey of discovery, appreciating the beauty of God's creations. While his siblings follow their mother to the pond, Roland pauses to admire a blue flower, sniff a green plant, and listen to the whirring bugs. His wonder and gratitude for nature are central themes, encouraging young readers to notice and appreciate the world around them. The book introduces moments of tension as Roland encounters a hungry fox and a turtle, both of whom initially see him as a potential snack. However, Roland's observations about the beauty of nature and his gentle reminders to look beyond immediate desires lead to unexpected interactions. These encounters subtly teach lessons about perspective and the importance of seeing the bigger picture.
The illustrations by Elzabeth van der Bijl are vibrant and engaging, perfectly complementing the narrative. The colorful depictions of meadows, ponds, and animals bring the story to life, making it visually appealing to young readers. Phyllis Wheeler's writing is straightforward and age-appropriate, with dialogue and descriptions that are easy for children to understand. The interactions between Roland and the other animals are engaging and provide opportunities for parents or caregivers to discuss themes of kindness, curiosity, and gratitude with their children. Through Roland's journey, children are introduced to the idea that everything around them is a gift from God. The story gently weaves this spiritual theme into the narrative without being overly didactic, making it suitable for its target audience. Tales of Roland Book 1: Roland Looks for God is a valuable resource for families seeking to instill faith-based values in their children.
Tales of Roland Book 1: Roland Looks for God by Phyllis Wheeler is a charming Christian picture book for children aged 3-8. The story follows Roland, a curious duckling, as he embarks on a journey of discovery, appreciating the beauty of God's creations. While his siblings follow their mother to the pond, Roland pauses to admire a blue flower, sniff a green plant, and listen to the whirring bugs. His wonder and gratitude for nature are central themes, encouraging young readers to notice and appreciate the world around them. The book introduces moments of tension as Roland encounters a hungry fox and a turtle, both of whom initially see him as a potential snack. However, Roland's observations about the beauty of nature and his gentle reminders to look beyond immediate desires lead to unexpected interactions. These encounters subtly teach lessons about perspective and the importance of seeing the bigger picture.
The illustrations by Elzabeth van der Bijl are vibrant and engaging, perfectly complementing the narrative. The colorful depictions of meadows, ponds, and animals bring the story to life, making it visually appealing to young readers. Phyllis Wheeler's writing is straightforward and age-appropriate, with dialogue and descriptions that are easy for children to understand. The interactions between Roland and the other animals are engaging and provide opportunities for parents or caregivers to discuss themes of kindness, curiosity, and gratitude with their children. Through Roland's journey, children are introduced to the idea that everything around them is a gift from God. The story gently weaves this spiritual theme into the narrative without being overly didactic, making it suitable for its target audience. Tales of Roland Book 1: Roland Looks for God is a valuable resource for families seeking to instill faith-based values in their children.
Recommend this book:
The Girl and Her Noble Steed
Kirthana J Fanning, Travis J Hill
2026 Honorable Mention
100 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian
Reviewed by Ann Linus for Readers' Favorite
On a faraway island called Ginobe lived a little girl who rode any animal she caught hold of—cat, dog, goat, you name it. This peculiar characteristic wasn’t abnormal, though, because riding was the biggest sport in Ginobe and the highlight of the annual Gino Games. Ofe was especially pumped about this year’s Games because she was finally eligible to participate in the Race for Little Ginos. However, she had yet to find a mentor, a steed, and a saddle, and she had limited funds as she lived in an orphanage with ten other children. These were just a few of the obstacles in Ofe’s path, and all she had in her arsenal was the word of God and loads of love and support. The Girl and Her Noble Steed by Kirthana J. Fanning is a story of victory against all odds.
The Girl and Her Noble Steed is a rich combination of characters, morals, and color. The characters are unique and unrelenting, from Ofe to the villain to the starring animals. The book is also filled with morals, some of which are founded on the Christian faith. There is a strong lesson about faith and trust in God. As for colors, the drawings by Travis J. Hill are some of the most colorful and animated illustrations I’ve ever come across. The diction was equally animated, as Kirthana J. Fanning coined a lot of interesting and funny new words, like “stompity” and “terribawful." I enjoyed the original and interesting storyline of this book, and I recommend it.
On a faraway island called Ginobe lived a little girl who rode any animal she caught hold of—cat, dog, goat, you name it. This peculiar characteristic wasn’t abnormal, though, because riding was the biggest sport in Ginobe and the highlight of the annual Gino Games. Ofe was especially pumped about this year’s Games because she was finally eligible to participate in the Race for Little Ginos. However, she had yet to find a mentor, a steed, and a saddle, and she had limited funds as she lived in an orphanage with ten other children. These were just a few of the obstacles in Ofe’s path, and all she had in her arsenal was the word of God and loads of love and support. The Girl and Her Noble Steed by Kirthana J. Fanning is a story of victory against all odds.
The Girl and Her Noble Steed is a rich combination of characters, morals, and color. The characters are unique and unrelenting, from Ofe to the villain to the starring animals. The book is also filled with morals, some of which are founded on the Christian faith. There is a strong lesson about faith and trust in God. As for colors, the drawings by Travis J. Hill are some of the most colorful and animated illustrations I’ve ever come across. The diction was equally animated, as Kirthana J. Fanning coined a lot of interesting and funny new words, like “stompity” and “terribawful." I enjoyed the original and interesting storyline of this book, and I recommend it.
Recommend this book:
 by Carmen Allen. A fire burns the homes and crops of the farmers who live around the village. While the King and the villagers find them temporary homes, Molly and her friends plan a fundraiser to support the farmers and their fa...){kind=link}
Molly’s New Treasure
Carmen Allen
2026 Bronze Medal
200 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian
Reviewed by Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite
Monsters, sharks, and danger lurk in the charming children’s book, Molly’s New Treasure (Molly Greenwood Adventures) by Carmen Allen. A fire burns the homes and crops of the farmers who live around the village. While the King and the villagers find them temporary homes, Molly and her friends plan a fundraiser to support the farmers and their families. In the meantime, the King sends Molly and her friends on a treasure hunt for items they can use to amuse the children at the fundraiser. With the first clue the King gives them, Molly, Ami, Walter, Rich, and Suzie start at the magic fountain. Leaving the fountain, the five courageous friends begin their journey filled with risks and danger. They had faith in the King and trusted that no harm would befall them as they traveled across water, through caves, and over mountain gorges. Can Molly and her friends find their treasure in time for the fun fair?
Seasoned with kindness and compassion, Molly’s New Treasure by Carmen Allen is a magical children’s adventure story. I was fascinated from the first dramatic scene, and the enchantment persisted until the last page. The charming illustrations enhance the narrative and spark the young reader’s imagination, and the storyworld is imaginative and engaging. It is perfect for the target audience. The snappy dialogue and intriguing riddles are fun; they enrich the story, creating an entertaining and memorable read. Molly is so loving and giving, and her character is easy to connect with, but I also thoroughly enjoyed the other characters as well, especially Mr. and Mrs. Twistleton. It is an enchanting story, and everyone will love this book.
Monsters, sharks, and danger lurk in the charming children’s book, Molly’s New Treasure (Molly Greenwood Adventures) by Carmen Allen. A fire burns the homes and crops of the farmers who live around the village. While the King and the villagers find them temporary homes, Molly and her friends plan a fundraiser to support the farmers and their families. In the meantime, the King sends Molly and her friends on a treasure hunt for items they can use to amuse the children at the fundraiser. With the first clue the King gives them, Molly, Ami, Walter, Rich, and Suzie start at the magic fountain. Leaving the fountain, the five courageous friends begin their journey filled with risks and danger. They had faith in the King and trusted that no harm would befall them as they traveled across water, through caves, and over mountain gorges. Can Molly and her friends find their treasure in time for the fun fair?
Seasoned with kindness and compassion, Molly’s New Treasure by Carmen Allen is a magical children’s adventure story. I was fascinated from the first dramatic scene, and the enchantment persisted until the last page. The charming illustrations enhance the narrative and spark the young reader’s imagination, and the storyworld is imaginative and engaging. It is perfect for the target audience. The snappy dialogue and intriguing riddles are fun; they enrich the story, creating an entertaining and memorable read. Molly is so loving and giving, and her character is easy to connect with, but I also thoroughly enjoyed the other characters as well, especially Mr. and Mrs. Twistleton. It is an enchanting story, and everyone will love this book.
Recommend this book:
Just Enough Room for Christmas
Robin Currie, Estelle Corke
2026 Silver Medal
32 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Just Enough Room for Christmas by Robin Currie offers a warm retelling of the nativity through the perspective of Old Hannah, a barnyard cow. The story begins with Old Hannah enjoying her quiet barn, only to be interrupted by a steady stream of visitors seeking shelter from the cold. One by one, a horse, goat, dog, cat, and even a mouse arrive, filling the small space with sound and commotion. The humor of animals crowding into the barn and the escalating chaos provide lighthearted entertainment, while the final quiet, when Mary, Joseph, and the newborn baby are welcomed, introduces the solemnity of the Christmas story.
The picture book uses cumulative storytelling to draw children into the familiar Christmas narrative while adding gentle humor and rhythmic repetition. This makes the tale ideal for reading aloud, as children can join in on the repeated phrases and animal sounds, which build anticipation for the arrival of the holy family. Estelle Corke’s illustrations complement the text beautifully. The warmth of the artwork underscores the central message of hospitality and kindness, even when space is scarce. The closing images, which show the newborn child in the crowded but peaceful barn, create a tender finish. The writing strikes a careful balance between lively pacing and reverence for the central moment of the nativity. Currie writes with simplicity, and for families with young children, the brevity and charm work to hold attention and highlight the spirit of the season. Just Enough Room for Christmas is a lovely addition to holiday reading, combining humor, warmth, and gentle reverence in a way that invites children to experience the nativity story with understanding.
Just Enough Room for Christmas by Robin Currie offers a warm retelling of the nativity through the perspective of Old Hannah, a barnyard cow. The story begins with Old Hannah enjoying her quiet barn, only to be interrupted by a steady stream of visitors seeking shelter from the cold. One by one, a horse, goat, dog, cat, and even a mouse arrive, filling the small space with sound and commotion. The humor of animals crowding into the barn and the escalating chaos provide lighthearted entertainment, while the final quiet, when Mary, Joseph, and the newborn baby are welcomed, introduces the solemnity of the Christmas story.
The picture book uses cumulative storytelling to draw children into the familiar Christmas narrative while adding gentle humor and rhythmic repetition. This makes the tale ideal for reading aloud, as children can join in on the repeated phrases and animal sounds, which build anticipation for the arrival of the holy family. Estelle Corke’s illustrations complement the text beautifully. The warmth of the artwork underscores the central message of hospitality and kindness, even when space is scarce. The closing images, which show the newborn child in the crowded but peaceful barn, create a tender finish. The writing strikes a careful balance between lively pacing and reverence for the central moment of the nativity. Currie writes with simplicity, and for families with young children, the brevity and charm work to hold attention and highlight the spirit of the season. Just Enough Room for Christmas is a lovely addition to holiday reading, combining humor, warmth, and gentle reverence in a way that invites children to experience the nativity story with understanding.
Recommend this book:
Your Jesus
Al Carraway
2026 Gold Medal
32 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian
Reviewed by Kathy Golden for Readers' Favorite
Your Jesus by Al Carraway offers children and adults a wonderful perspective on Jesus through some of the most well-known accounts and testimonies of people whose lives were profoundly touched by Jesus and His ministry. The power of this book lies in the manner in which the author presents each person’s story in the first person, allowing readers to immediately connect not just with the person’s encounter with Jesus, but also with the feeling of awe and appreciation that each one felt for this Master Teacher. Through their eyes, we see Jesus’s love and compassion and acceptance. We see His willingness to give comfort and healing without any judgment. In some instances, we experience several of the wonderful miracles that He wrought.
Your Jesus by Al Carraway is illustrated by Mikey Brooks. Mr. Brooks gives us illustrations that so wonderfully capture the ambience of this era in the life of Jesus. I especially enjoyed his drawings for two of my favorite biblical events. In one of them, I saw and felt the fierceness of the storm. In the second one, I was moved by the joy of a child rejoicing in the role he was given to play. This book also contains other valuable gems because, after each touching personal story, an uplifting lesson is presented. This allows each reader to benefit from what Jesus has done in the lives of others and what He can do in the life of one seeking His help today. Thank you, Al Carraway, for this rich and enriching perspective of the Master, Jesus Christ.
Your Jesus by Al Carraway offers children and adults a wonderful perspective on Jesus through some of the most well-known accounts and testimonies of people whose lives were profoundly touched by Jesus and His ministry. The power of this book lies in the manner in which the author presents each person’s story in the first person, allowing readers to immediately connect not just with the person’s encounter with Jesus, but also with the feeling of awe and appreciation that each one felt for this Master Teacher. Through their eyes, we see Jesus’s love and compassion and acceptance. We see His willingness to give comfort and healing without any judgment. In some instances, we experience several of the wonderful miracles that He wrought.
Your Jesus by Al Carraway is illustrated by Mikey Brooks. Mr. Brooks gives us illustrations that so wonderfully capture the ambience of this era in the life of Jesus. I especially enjoyed his drawings for two of my favorite biblical events. In one of them, I saw and felt the fierceness of the storm. In the second one, I was moved by the joy of a child rejoicing in the role he was given to play. This book also contains other valuable gems because, after each touching personal story, an uplifting lesson is presented. This allows each reader to benefit from what Jesus has done in the lives of others and what He can do in the life of one seeking His help today. Thank you, Al Carraway, for this rich and enriching perspective of the Master, Jesus Christ.
Recommend this book:
Frankendork
From Darkness Unto Light
Barney Ludkins
2025 Finalist
84 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Frankendork: From Darkness Unto Light by Barney Ludkins is a delightful and meaningful children's book that masterfully blends Christian values with an engaging storyline. Franky is a young boy dealing with the all-too-common issue of a school bully. Things take an unexpected turn when two mischievous monsters appear, coaxing Franky into seeking revenge through a series of pranks. The plot thickens as Franky struggles with the moral implications of his actions, guided by his neighbor George and the quiet yet powerful convictions of the Holy Spirit.
Barney Ludkins weaves biblical lessons into the tale without being overly preachy. The story's core message, inspired by Matthew 5:7 ("Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy"), encourages young readers to understand the importance of mercy and forgiveness, even in challenging situations. Illustrator Ilham Fatkurahman brings the characters to life with bold, vivid colors as Franky deals with Billy, a bully who does all he can to make Franky’s life miserable. After Franky reads the story of David and Goliath with his father and goes to bed, Ludkins introduces Chugg and Snot, two silly-looking monsters that encourage Franky to prank his bully. Each character is well-developed and relatable, especially to children who have been bullied and teased at school. The pacing is well-suited for a young audience, keeping readers engaged while delivering its important moral lessons. Frankendork is a great addition to any child's library, especially for those looking to reinforce Christian values and the power of forgiveness.
Frankendork: From Darkness Unto Light by Barney Ludkins is a delightful and meaningful children's book that masterfully blends Christian values with an engaging storyline. Franky is a young boy dealing with the all-too-common issue of a school bully. Things take an unexpected turn when two mischievous monsters appear, coaxing Franky into seeking revenge through a series of pranks. The plot thickens as Franky struggles with the moral implications of his actions, guided by his neighbor George and the quiet yet powerful convictions of the Holy Spirit.
Barney Ludkins weaves biblical lessons into the tale without being overly preachy. The story's core message, inspired by Matthew 5:7 ("Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy"), encourages young readers to understand the importance of mercy and forgiveness, even in challenging situations. Illustrator Ilham Fatkurahman brings the characters to life with bold, vivid colors as Franky deals with Billy, a bully who does all he can to make Franky’s life miserable. After Franky reads the story of David and Goliath with his father and goes to bed, Ludkins introduces Chugg and Snot, two silly-looking monsters that encourage Franky to prank his bully. Each character is well-developed and relatable, especially to children who have been bullied and teased at school. The pacing is well-suited for a young audience, keeping readers engaged while delivering its important moral lessons. Frankendork is a great addition to any child's library, especially for those looking to reinforce Christian values and the power of forgiveness.
Recommend this book:
Molly's Maze Discovery
Carmen Allen
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Children - Christian
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Have you ever wandered through a maze? It’s like a treasure map in a way, one that’s marked out by neatly trimmed hedges. Princess Molly is on a hedge-maze adventure behind the palace in Carmen Allen's Molly's Maze Discovery. There’s a rule that declares it’s out of bounds for children under the age of thirteen. Molly is under the age of thirteen, but she’s determined to explore the maze despite the rules. Why not? She discovered a secret map of the maze with a mysterious ‘X’ marking and she wants to know what it means. Is the hedge maze hiding some sort of treasure? Molly and her friends want to find out, but the adventure they encounter is nothing they expected, nor were they prepared for it.
Carmen Allen's middle-grade novel, Molly's Maze Discovery, is another addition to the fun-filled Molly series. Once an orphan, Molly is now a princess and she’s determined to follow one exciting adventure after another. The language is simple for young middle-grade readers. There’s lots of dialogue to make the plot move forward with ease. Illustrations are included to add zest to the plot development. The characters are well-developed and believable. The messages shared are family love, the power of friendship, and the importance and meaning of rules. Plus, young people need to know that they will make mistakes but can learn from them. Perhaps the real treasure is the lessons she learns on this adventure, the most important lesson being about rules and why they’re made in the first place.
Have you ever wandered through a maze? It’s like a treasure map in a way, one that’s marked out by neatly trimmed hedges. Princess Molly is on a hedge-maze adventure behind the palace in Carmen Allen's Molly's Maze Discovery. There’s a rule that declares it’s out of bounds for children under the age of thirteen. Molly is under the age of thirteen, but she’s determined to explore the maze despite the rules. Why not? She discovered a secret map of the maze with a mysterious ‘X’ marking and she wants to know what it means. Is the hedge maze hiding some sort of treasure? Molly and her friends want to find out, but the adventure they encounter is nothing they expected, nor were they prepared for it.
Carmen Allen's middle-grade novel, Molly's Maze Discovery, is another addition to the fun-filled Molly series. Once an orphan, Molly is now a princess and she’s determined to follow one exciting adventure after another. The language is simple for young middle-grade readers. There’s lots of dialogue to make the plot move forward with ease. Illustrations are included to add zest to the plot development. The characters are well-developed and believable. The messages shared are family love, the power of friendship, and the importance and meaning of rules. Plus, young people need to know that they will make mistakes but can learn from them. Perhaps the real treasure is the lessons she learns on this adventure, the most important lesson being about rules and why they’re made in the first place.
Recommend this book:
The Day Time Began
Mary Ellen Roberson
2025 Bronze Medal
34 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
The Day Time Began by Mary Ellen Roberson is a unique and engaging retelling of the creation story from the Book of Genesis. It stands out with its rhythmic, rhymed stanzas that bring the story of God’s creation to life in a memorable way. It offers a vibrant and delightful read for preschool through second-grade children. The lyrical narrative is easy to follow, making it a perfect read-aloud for parents and teachers. Children will love the poetic flow, which breaks down the days of creation in a simple way. The book captures the essence of the biblical creation account and infuses it with a sense of awe and wonder that will resonate with young readers.
Joanna Garcia’s illustrations are a standout feature, bringing over 160 animals to life on the pages. The realistic yet playful art encourages kids to explore the pages and identify all that God made. What impressed me most about the illustrations is how they look three-dimensional; each page is like looking through a View-Master—they come to life in a way that’s hard to explain. The Day Time Began is a valuable teaching tool for homeschoolers, Sunday School teachers, and Bible Club leaders. Mary Ellen Roberson and Joanna Garcia capture the grandeur of God's creation in a way that will excite children to learn more. I enjoyed trying to find and name all the animals, and it’s an excellent activity for kids to learn about nature and wildlife and how they came to be.
The Day Time Began by Mary Ellen Roberson is a unique and engaging retelling of the creation story from the Book of Genesis. It stands out with its rhythmic, rhymed stanzas that bring the story of God’s creation to life in a memorable way. It offers a vibrant and delightful read for preschool through second-grade children. The lyrical narrative is easy to follow, making it a perfect read-aloud for parents and teachers. Children will love the poetic flow, which breaks down the days of creation in a simple way. The book captures the essence of the biblical creation account and infuses it with a sense of awe and wonder that will resonate with young readers.
Joanna Garcia’s illustrations are a standout feature, bringing over 160 animals to life on the pages. The realistic yet playful art encourages kids to explore the pages and identify all that God made. What impressed me most about the illustrations is how they look three-dimensional; each page is like looking through a View-Master—they come to life in a way that’s hard to explain. The Day Time Began is a valuable teaching tool for homeschoolers, Sunday School teachers, and Bible Club leaders. Mary Ellen Roberson and Joanna Garcia capture the grandeur of God's creation in a way that will excite children to learn more. I enjoyed trying to find and name all the animals, and it’s an excellent activity for kids to learn about nature and wildlife and how they came to be.
Recommend this book:
The Last Storyteller
Book Four in The Pearls of Wisdom Series
Catherine Ann Russell
2025 Silver Medal
262 Pages
Check current price
Children - Christian
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
The Last Storyteller by Catherine Ann Russell is a children's fantasy and the fourth book in The Pearls of Wisdom series. In a mythical animal kingdom, Princess Journee, a mischievous mouse, sneaks out of the palace with her friends. They venture into the enchanted Zoe-Chai orchard that provides everlasting food and nourishment. The group experiences a magical moment that gives them supernatural abilities and gifts. Little do they know that the Zoe-Chai tree is preparing them for a war that will see them utilize these powers to protect their people and fight their enemies. The Zoe-Chai tree gives the orchard life and acts as a portal that attracts beings who wish to use it for evil. The only way to seal the portal is by possessing a magical staff forged by the elves. Unfortunately, a swarm of bats drawn to the tree has arrived and is ready to invade the peaceful animal kingdom. Journee and her friends are tasked to retrieve the staff, but will they succeed? Get a copy and find out what happens.
Action, drama, and suspense, The Last Storyteller by Catherine Ann Russell will give you all this and more. Brave animals defending their land and a group of young warriors discovering themselves amid a war kept me glued to the story. I loved reading every intriguing chapter; from the opening scene to the final battle, I was captivated and in awe. Russell does a fantastic job of bringing each character to life. At the back, creative illustrations help us visualize these characters and scenes. This unique story features various animals and mythical creatures living in harmony but ruled by a Mouse King. His size does not matter because his fearless spirit makes him a great leader. Journee's development and realization of her gift is a beautiful plotline. We all are gifted with talents and can choose to use them for good or evil. This story will teach children about love, hope, and never giving up.
The Last Storyteller by Catherine Ann Russell is a children's fantasy and the fourth book in The Pearls of Wisdom series. In a mythical animal kingdom, Princess Journee, a mischievous mouse, sneaks out of the palace with her friends. They venture into the enchanted Zoe-Chai orchard that provides everlasting food and nourishment. The group experiences a magical moment that gives them supernatural abilities and gifts. Little do they know that the Zoe-Chai tree is preparing them for a war that will see them utilize these powers to protect their people and fight their enemies. The Zoe-Chai tree gives the orchard life and acts as a portal that attracts beings who wish to use it for evil. The only way to seal the portal is by possessing a magical staff forged by the elves. Unfortunately, a swarm of bats drawn to the tree has arrived and is ready to invade the peaceful animal kingdom. Journee and her friends are tasked to retrieve the staff, but will they succeed? Get a copy and find out what happens.
Action, drama, and suspense, The Last Storyteller by Catherine Ann Russell will give you all this and more. Brave animals defending their land and a group of young warriors discovering themselves amid a war kept me glued to the story. I loved reading every intriguing chapter; from the opening scene to the final battle, I was captivated and in awe. Russell does a fantastic job of bringing each character to life. At the back, creative illustrations help us visualize these characters and scenes. This unique story features various animals and mythical creatures living in harmony but ruled by a Mouse King. His size does not matter because his fearless spirit makes him a great leader. Journee's development and realization of her gift is a beautiful plotline. We all are gifted with talents and can choose to use them for good or evil. This story will teach children about love, hope, and never giving up.
Recommend this book:
Heavenly Kids
Jeff Orlowski
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Children - Christian
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Heavenly Kids by Jeff Orlowski centers on three young angels—Lucy, Alvin, and Everett—assigned to help Jayden Zielinski, a 12-year-old boy having trouble emotionally following his parents' divorce. Jayden’s insecurities, made worse by issues with his basketball teammates and his father, who is also his coach, manifest in various missteps, including an unfortunate incident where he is persuaded to do something very naughty. Reconciling himself to what he has done, his regret kicks in, especially after he becomes lost in the woods while searching for a missing dog. The angels support Jayden as he works through the physical and emotional trials in the forest. Through their guidance, Jayden begins to understand his mistakes, make amends, and develop resilience, gaining a deeper understanding of forgiveness and love, especially within his fractured family.
Heavenly Kids by Jeff Orlowski does such a lovely job of addressing childhood hardship through the eyes of young angels. The story’s strength lies in its warm, engaging writing that draws readers into Jayden's world. Orlowski’s characters are uniquely well-developed for a piece of children's literature, with the angels’ playful yet thoughtful personalities offering a deliberate contrast to Jayden’s hardships. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of trouble and tenderness folded appropriately into the arc. As a parent, I completely appreciate a story that addresses a child's pain at changes beyond his control and not fully understanding the consequences of one's actions. I love that perseverance, accountability, and compassion are all sensitively explored, with the angels’ guidance serving as support for Jayden. Overall, this story offers a tender, uplifting message about the power of empathy and personal growth. Very highly recommended.
Heavenly Kids by Jeff Orlowski centers on three young angels—Lucy, Alvin, and Everett—assigned to help Jayden Zielinski, a 12-year-old boy having trouble emotionally following his parents' divorce. Jayden’s insecurities, made worse by issues with his basketball teammates and his father, who is also his coach, manifest in various missteps, including an unfortunate incident where he is persuaded to do something very naughty. Reconciling himself to what he has done, his regret kicks in, especially after he becomes lost in the woods while searching for a missing dog. The angels support Jayden as he works through the physical and emotional trials in the forest. Through their guidance, Jayden begins to understand his mistakes, make amends, and develop resilience, gaining a deeper understanding of forgiveness and love, especially within his fractured family.
Heavenly Kids by Jeff Orlowski does such a lovely job of addressing childhood hardship through the eyes of young angels. The story’s strength lies in its warm, engaging writing that draws readers into Jayden's world. Orlowski’s characters are uniquely well-developed for a piece of children's literature, with the angels’ playful yet thoughtful personalities offering a deliberate contrast to Jayden’s hardships. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of trouble and tenderness folded appropriately into the arc. As a parent, I completely appreciate a story that addresses a child's pain at changes beyond his control and not fully understanding the consequences of one's actions. I love that perseverance, accountability, and compassion are all sensitively explored, with the angels’ guidance serving as support for Jayden. Overall, this story offers a tender, uplifting message about the power of empathy and personal growth. Very highly recommended.
Contact Author -
