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Recommend this book:
Journey to Cassiopeia
John K. Addis
2022 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite
Journey to Cassiopeia is a tale of loss and survival written by John K Addis and illustrated by Daniela Olaru. When a man comes home late from work, he hears his young child, Cassie, coughing from her bed. The father enters Cassie's room and they talk about how she was named after Cassiopeia - a woman who was obsessed with her own beauty - as well as the distance and brightness of the beautiful stars overhead. When he finally settles Cassie off to sleep, he retires to his own bed where his wife asks who he was talking to. It is at that time that there is a knock at the door which changes his life forever. Over time, the father learns how to accept that his daughter has gone but finds his own way to deal with the loss, as well as how to be close to Cassie on nights when the stars shine bright.
Although very well written, it took me a couple of reads to actually understand what had happened within the pages of this book. Journey to Cassiopea is not only a remarkable tale, but also shines a light on our own mortality and that nothing can be taken for granted in this world, especially the safety of the ones we love. Losing a child is one of the most painful things that a parent ever has to face - it is a pain that is never extinguished. Learning to accept what has happened, as well as keeping the ones you love inside your heart forever so that their light never goes out, is most definitely a positive way to honor them. John K Addis' heart-wrenching tale, accompanied by the remarkable illustrations of Daniela Olaru, makes Journey to Cassiopeia a book that will forever remain etched within my own heart alongside the memories of my own son. I highly recommend Journey to Cassiopeia to parents, young and old, who have lost a child and are struggling to find a way to keep that child's memory alive. My personal bookshelf is now one high-quality tale richer.
Journey to Cassiopeia is a tale of loss and survival written by John K Addis and illustrated by Daniela Olaru. When a man comes home late from work, he hears his young child, Cassie, coughing from her bed. The father enters Cassie's room and they talk about how she was named after Cassiopeia - a woman who was obsessed with her own beauty - as well as the distance and brightness of the beautiful stars overhead. When he finally settles Cassie off to sleep, he retires to his own bed where his wife asks who he was talking to. It is at that time that there is a knock at the door which changes his life forever. Over time, the father learns how to accept that his daughter has gone but finds his own way to deal with the loss, as well as how to be close to Cassie on nights when the stars shine bright.
Although very well written, it took me a couple of reads to actually understand what had happened within the pages of this book. Journey to Cassiopea is not only a remarkable tale, but also shines a light on our own mortality and that nothing can be taken for granted in this world, especially the safety of the ones we love. Losing a child is one of the most painful things that a parent ever has to face - it is a pain that is never extinguished. Learning to accept what has happened, as well as keeping the ones you love inside your heart forever so that their light never goes out, is most definitely a positive way to honor them. John K Addis' heart-wrenching tale, accompanied by the remarkable illustrations of Daniela Olaru, makes Journey to Cassiopeia a book that will forever remain etched within my own heart alongside the memories of my own son. I highly recommend Journey to Cassiopeia to parents, young and old, who have lost a child and are struggling to find a way to keep that child's memory alive. My personal bookshelf is now one high-quality tale richer.
Recommend this book:
Ranger Nader & The Sunstruck Phantom
The Guardian Chronicles
Kam Karem
2022 Honorable Mention
263 Pages
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Ranger Nader & The Sunstruck Phantom is a young adult fantasy adventure novel by Kam Karem. Fourteen-year-old Ranger Nader's life turns upside down after being given a powerful and magical ax called Nightmare by the Lady of the Forest. Plagued by visions of the ancient demi-god king Gilgamesh, Ranger learns from his grandfather Jid Joe that he belonged to a long line of Sun-Kissed people who were blessed to channel the power of Solar Sails. With his sister Milly, and his cousins, Art and Kara Hayek, Ranger travels to Bcharre, Lebanon, to attend the mysterious Solar Sails Academy. Soon he becomes a key member of the Grateful Guardian. He also meets an unlikely ally in Frederick Wasis, his great-uncle. Now, Ranger must train for a final confrontation with Gilgamesh and stop him once and for all.
An action-packed fantasy adventure saga at its finest, Ranger Nader & The Sunstruck Phantom is a blast to read from start to finish. Filled with magic, humor, and adventure, author Kam Karem's entertaining fantasy odyssey draws inspiration from ancient Sumerian mythology to create a mesmerizing tale that will appeal to kids and young adults in equal measure. The plot moves at a blistering pace, taking unexpected twists and turns to keep your eyes glued to the pages. The characters are colorful and full of life. Any scene involving Ranger, Art, Kara, and Milly is a joy to read, as the banter between the siblings and cousins keeps you entertained all the way through. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
Ranger Nader & The Sunstruck Phantom is a young adult fantasy adventure novel by Kam Karem. Fourteen-year-old Ranger Nader's life turns upside down after being given a powerful and magical ax called Nightmare by the Lady of the Forest. Plagued by visions of the ancient demi-god king Gilgamesh, Ranger learns from his grandfather Jid Joe that he belonged to a long line of Sun-Kissed people who were blessed to channel the power of Solar Sails. With his sister Milly, and his cousins, Art and Kara Hayek, Ranger travels to Bcharre, Lebanon, to attend the mysterious Solar Sails Academy. Soon he becomes a key member of the Grateful Guardian. He also meets an unlikely ally in Frederick Wasis, his great-uncle. Now, Ranger must train for a final confrontation with Gilgamesh and stop him once and for all.
An action-packed fantasy adventure saga at its finest, Ranger Nader & The Sunstruck Phantom is a blast to read from start to finish. Filled with magic, humor, and adventure, author Kam Karem's entertaining fantasy odyssey draws inspiration from ancient Sumerian mythology to create a mesmerizing tale that will appeal to kids and young adults in equal measure. The plot moves at a blistering pace, taking unexpected twists and turns to keep your eyes glued to the pages. The characters are colorful and full of life. Any scene involving Ranger, Art, Kara, and Milly is a joy to read, as the banter between the siblings and cousins keeps you entertained all the way through. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
The Tale Of Brian And The House Painter Mervyn
a fable for children and their parents
Lance Lee, Illustrated by Meilo So
2022 Bronze Medal
68 Pages
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Jessica Barbosa for Readers' Favorite
Brian is the son of the richest man in Sandstone-by-the-Sea but he is stricken with a mysterious illness and not even his brothers, sisters, and friends are allowed to visit him. After Brian’s mysterious disease was diagnosed, he spent most of his time in a bare white room, on a bare white bed, unable to play or even read. It all changed one day when his father hired Mervyn who paints a whole, new wonderful world. What adventures will these beautiful paintings bring Brian? Find out in The Tale Of Brian And The House Painter Mervyn, a fable for children and their parents by Lance Lee and illustrated by Meilo So.
The Tale Of Brian And The House Painter Mervyn is a fantastical story that starts with a sick and sad little boy named Brian. Through his meeting with growling, grumpy Mervyn, Brian is taken on an amazing adventure through the world of art, both literally and figuratively. Lance Lee paints vivid scenes that are as colorful and mesmerizing as the art that accompanies the story. Mervyn is standoffish, unlikeable, but he paints the most beautiful scenery and his art comes to life, bringing joy and awe to those who see it. Meilo So brings life to the story in the same way Mervyn does. The colorful art accompanies the fantastical fable and together they create a magical vision of the book. But of course, such great powers have consequences and the story delves deeper into the effect this has on the people and the community. Along the way, people learn the consequences of their actions and greed and I think their regret and redemption were the best parts of the plot! This story successfully kept my attention right to the very end and, overall, I found this to be an exceptional book. Great work!
Brian is the son of the richest man in Sandstone-by-the-Sea but he is stricken with a mysterious illness and not even his brothers, sisters, and friends are allowed to visit him. After Brian’s mysterious disease was diagnosed, he spent most of his time in a bare white room, on a bare white bed, unable to play or even read. It all changed one day when his father hired Mervyn who paints a whole, new wonderful world. What adventures will these beautiful paintings bring Brian? Find out in The Tale Of Brian And The House Painter Mervyn, a fable for children and their parents by Lance Lee and illustrated by Meilo So.
The Tale Of Brian And The House Painter Mervyn is a fantastical story that starts with a sick and sad little boy named Brian. Through his meeting with growling, grumpy Mervyn, Brian is taken on an amazing adventure through the world of art, both literally and figuratively. Lance Lee paints vivid scenes that are as colorful and mesmerizing as the art that accompanies the story. Mervyn is standoffish, unlikeable, but he paints the most beautiful scenery and his art comes to life, bringing joy and awe to those who see it. Meilo So brings life to the story in the same way Mervyn does. The colorful art accompanies the fantastical fable and together they create a magical vision of the book. But of course, such great powers have consequences and the story delves deeper into the effect this has on the people and the community. Along the way, people learn the consequences of their actions and greed and I think their regret and redemption were the best parts of the plot! This story successfully kept my attention right to the very end and, overall, I found this to be an exceptional book. Great work!
Recommend this book:
The First Unibear
Kathleen J. Shields
2022 Silver Medal
48 Pages
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Rolanda Lyles for Readers' Favorite
Little Bear loves to run and play. He chases birds, climbs trees, and is so curious about the world. One day, while Little Bear went exploring, he spotted a butterfly and followed it to a clearing where he found a horse that was stuck. Little Bear hurried to help the horse and set him free, but once he set the horse free, he realized that it was no ordinary horse. It was a unicorn, but not everyone could see it. Little Bear was brave and kind so he could see the unicorn. Little Bear went back and told his friends, but not everyone believed him. Bunny believed and prayed that she could meet a unicorn too. So Little Bear and Bunny continued to go about helping other animals that needed it and one day something amazing happened. Little Bear and his friend Bunny were brave and kind and you can be too.
Kathleen Shields's The First Unibear is a wonderful children's adventure story that promotes kindness, bravery, and faith in the goodness of others. The illustrations are done by Aashay Utkarsh and they are vibrant and captivating for young readers. The story flows with a rhyme scheme that is catchy and perfect for reading to children. The First Unibear is a great, imaginative children's story that encourages compassion and helpfulness to others and the belief that we can all achieve goodness. The First Unibear is an inspirational tale that would be a great addition to any child's library.
Little Bear loves to run and play. He chases birds, climbs trees, and is so curious about the world. One day, while Little Bear went exploring, he spotted a butterfly and followed it to a clearing where he found a horse that was stuck. Little Bear hurried to help the horse and set him free, but once he set the horse free, he realized that it was no ordinary horse. It was a unicorn, but not everyone could see it. Little Bear was brave and kind so he could see the unicorn. Little Bear went back and told his friends, but not everyone believed him. Bunny believed and prayed that she could meet a unicorn too. So Little Bear and Bunny continued to go about helping other animals that needed it and one day something amazing happened. Little Bear and his friend Bunny were brave and kind and you can be too.
Kathleen Shields's The First Unibear is a wonderful children's adventure story that promotes kindness, bravery, and faith in the goodness of others. The illustrations are done by Aashay Utkarsh and they are vibrant and captivating for young readers. The story flows with a rhyme scheme that is catchy and perfect for reading to children. The First Unibear is a great, imaginative children's story that encourages compassion and helpfulness to others and the belief that we can all achieve goodness. The First Unibear is an inspirational tale that would be a great addition to any child's library.
Recommend this book:
A Garden Home for Normy the Gnome
Cindy Shirley
2022 Gold Medal
38 Pages
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Did you know gnomes are magical? In fact, it is believed that “gnomes bring a touch of magic to any garden they live in.” So why would someone throw away a gnome garden ornament? Margaret lived alone and spent most of her time tending her beautiful garden, with her trusty dog, Daisy. She was surprised to find a gnome discarded at a local garden center. Since she didn’t have any ornaments in her garden, and she was quite taken with the little gnome, she carried it to her car, planning to clean it up and repaint it so it looked as good as new. The events that transpired next were nothing short of pure magic: “She was in awe. The garden was beyond beautiful. It was magical.” The gnome, who she discovered by a name written on its shoe was Normy, had found his forever home with Margaret and Daisy in the beautiful garden they tended.
Cindy Shirley’s picture book story, A Garden Home for Normy the Gnome, is as magical as the gnome itself. This whimsical story was inspired by her beloved grandmother who loved to garden and often won awards and local recognition for both her garden and what she grew in it. Written in simple language so young readers can follow along, this tender, compassionate story is all about believing in and caring for the magic that is all around us, thanks to Mother Nature. The plot is a journey of discovery, unexpected friendships, and adorable characters. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and spectacular, certainly adding to the magical element of the story. Beautifully told with love and compassion. I always enjoy a good gardening story, especially if the story includes a dog.
Did you know gnomes are magical? In fact, it is believed that “gnomes bring a touch of magic to any garden they live in.” So why would someone throw away a gnome garden ornament? Margaret lived alone and spent most of her time tending her beautiful garden, with her trusty dog, Daisy. She was surprised to find a gnome discarded at a local garden center. Since she didn’t have any ornaments in her garden, and she was quite taken with the little gnome, she carried it to her car, planning to clean it up and repaint it so it looked as good as new. The events that transpired next were nothing short of pure magic: “She was in awe. The garden was beyond beautiful. It was magical.” The gnome, who she discovered by a name written on its shoe was Normy, had found his forever home with Margaret and Daisy in the beautiful garden they tended.
Cindy Shirley’s picture book story, A Garden Home for Normy the Gnome, is as magical as the gnome itself. This whimsical story was inspired by her beloved grandmother who loved to garden and often won awards and local recognition for both her garden and what she grew in it. Written in simple language so young readers can follow along, this tender, compassionate story is all about believing in and caring for the magic that is all around us, thanks to Mother Nature. The plot is a journey of discovery, unexpected friendships, and adorable characters. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and spectacular, certainly adding to the magical element of the story. Beautifully told with love and compassion. I always enjoy a good gardening story, especially if the story includes a dog.
Recommend this book:
Omma Can Do It
Effortless moms aren't born - they are made through practice.
Allison Park Brown
2021 Finalist
36 Pages
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Jessica Barbosa for Readers' Favorite
“Omma can do it!” is Ronan’s favorite phrase whenever he is in someone else’s care. Whether he is being tucked into bed, being sung a lullaby, served food, or helped in stacking up blocks perfectly straight, in Ronan’s eyes, no one can do it better than his omma! Ronan calls his mother “omma,” a Korean version of mommy, and to him, there is no one more amazing than her! She always knows what Ronan needs most and he knows that no matter what happens, she will always be there to help him. Read more in Omma Can Do It by Allison Park Brown.
Omma Can Do It by Allison Park Brown shows me the sacrifices a loving mother makes for her child and how the love of her child makes her feel that every trial she goes through is worth it. Omma is a very hardworking and considerate woman who always has the best interests of her child at heart. In this heartwarming story that showcases the love of a mother and child, I got a glimpse of a mother’s daily struggles as she cares for the child she loves. Ronan is observant and is grateful and aware of how his mother has always done the best for him. Although he does not see the constant practice and deep planning his mother does to get everything perfect, he still appreciates everything she has done for him. His love for his mother and his mother’s dedication to giving him the best is what warms my heart the most.
Another thing I like about this book is that the illustrations are done in light colors to match the story’s lighthearted tone. In its simplicity, it successfully conveys the emotions of its characters. Overall, the written story and the drawn illustrations convey appreciation for the hardworking and loving Omma who always tries her best for the one she loves. The trials Omma has gone through and the sacrifices she makes in the story teach me the importance of a mother’s love. I feel it would encourage and warm the hearts of other readers who are like Omma as well.
“Omma can do it!” is Ronan’s favorite phrase whenever he is in someone else’s care. Whether he is being tucked into bed, being sung a lullaby, served food, or helped in stacking up blocks perfectly straight, in Ronan’s eyes, no one can do it better than his omma! Ronan calls his mother “omma,” a Korean version of mommy, and to him, there is no one more amazing than her! She always knows what Ronan needs most and he knows that no matter what happens, she will always be there to help him. Read more in Omma Can Do It by Allison Park Brown.
Omma Can Do It by Allison Park Brown shows me the sacrifices a loving mother makes for her child and how the love of her child makes her feel that every trial she goes through is worth it. Omma is a very hardworking and considerate woman who always has the best interests of her child at heart. In this heartwarming story that showcases the love of a mother and child, I got a glimpse of a mother’s daily struggles as she cares for the child she loves. Ronan is observant and is grateful and aware of how his mother has always done the best for him. Although he does not see the constant practice and deep planning his mother does to get everything perfect, he still appreciates everything she has done for him. His love for his mother and his mother’s dedication to giving him the best is what warms my heart the most.
Another thing I like about this book is that the illustrations are done in light colors to match the story’s lighthearted tone. In its simplicity, it successfully conveys the emotions of its characters. Overall, the written story and the drawn illustrations convey appreciation for the hardworking and loving Omma who always tries her best for the one she loves. The trials Omma has gone through and the sacrifices she makes in the story teach me the importance of a mother’s love. I feel it would encourage and warm the hearts of other readers who are like Omma as well.
Recommend this book:
Sarah and the Dragons
Michael R Stern
2021 Honorable Mention
201 Pages
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
If you love tales of dragons, dolphins, and whales, grab a copy of Sarah and the Dragons by Michael R. Stern. Sarah is a precocious young girl with a mind full of curiosity and an adventurous spirit. After getting lost in a storm, Sarah's life changes forever when she finds herself rescued by two dragons named Trevor and Sebastian. Sarah feels an instant connection with the dragons, and the three of them form a strong bond of friendship. As she introduces the dragons to the townsfolk of Brightlights, she feels a deep longing. Sarah wishes for the gift of sight. To fulfill her wish, her parents, Trevor and Sebastian, alongside the three eccentric cousins -- Margaret, Maggie, and Meg -- undertake a journey to the Dragon Island where the leader of the dragons, Silveria, awaits with her brood.
Sarah and the Dragons is a heartwarming adventure tale for children and adults alike as it touches upon the universal themes of love, friendship, family, and empathy. The characters are colorful with distinguishable quirks. You can't help but adore the relationship between Sarah, Trevor, and Sebastian. The three cousins and Mayor Fruddy Duddy also provide their share of entertainment. Author Michael R. Stern crafts a world that is inspired and wondrous and deftly captures a sense of childlike wonder and awe in the narrative. The Dragon Island felt original and creative, and I enjoyed the lore and history of the dragons. If you're itching for a feel-good adventure with dragons, Sarah and the Dragons is just the book for you.
If you love tales of dragons, dolphins, and whales, grab a copy of Sarah and the Dragons by Michael R. Stern. Sarah is a precocious young girl with a mind full of curiosity and an adventurous spirit. After getting lost in a storm, Sarah's life changes forever when she finds herself rescued by two dragons named Trevor and Sebastian. Sarah feels an instant connection with the dragons, and the three of them form a strong bond of friendship. As she introduces the dragons to the townsfolk of Brightlights, she feels a deep longing. Sarah wishes for the gift of sight. To fulfill her wish, her parents, Trevor and Sebastian, alongside the three eccentric cousins -- Margaret, Maggie, and Meg -- undertake a journey to the Dragon Island where the leader of the dragons, Silveria, awaits with her brood.
Sarah and the Dragons is a heartwarming adventure tale for children and adults alike as it touches upon the universal themes of love, friendship, family, and empathy. The characters are colorful with distinguishable quirks. You can't help but adore the relationship between Sarah, Trevor, and Sebastian. The three cousins and Mayor Fruddy Duddy also provide their share of entertainment. Author Michael R. Stern crafts a world that is inspired and wondrous and deftly captures a sense of childlike wonder and awe in the narrative. The Dragon Island felt original and creative, and I enjoyed the lore and history of the dragons. If you're itching for a feel-good adventure with dragons, Sarah and the Dragons is just the book for you.
Recommend this book:
Secret of the Forest
Wise Tales for a Happy Healthy Life
M. R. Neer
2021 Bronze Medal
163 Pages
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Astrid Iustulin for Readers' Favorite
Secret of the Forest is the second volume written by M. R. Neer on Junah Cat and his path to knowledge. After our hero discovered the secret of the garden in the first installment of the series, he broadens the perspective with his next adventure. This time, Junah Cat and his friend Mo Mouse, accompanied by Philip Fox, go to the forest to discover its secret. Along the way, they meet many extraordinary animals such as deers, an owl, a bear, and also Mother Tree, the mother of all other trees in the forest. Each stage of the journey teaches a lesson that helps Junah Cat to come closer to the secret. But will he be able to find it out in the end?
I have always thought that children should understand the importance of knowledge. Yet, I did not imagine a book explaining this concept existed before I read Secret of the Forest. I am grateful to M. R. Neer for this work because there is so much wisdom in many passages and sentences that I confess I often paused while reading. Meditating on a children's book is something that has never happened to me, yet it was necessary because of the depth and value it contains. Junah Cat's journey into the forest is an excellent opportunity to explain concepts that help kids live a fulfilled and happy life. I encourage parents to discuss Secret of the Forest with their children and to read it more than once. Junah Cat's discovery is so precious that it does not have to be wasted.
Secret of the Forest is the second volume written by M. R. Neer on Junah Cat and his path to knowledge. After our hero discovered the secret of the garden in the first installment of the series, he broadens the perspective with his next adventure. This time, Junah Cat and his friend Mo Mouse, accompanied by Philip Fox, go to the forest to discover its secret. Along the way, they meet many extraordinary animals such as deers, an owl, a bear, and also Mother Tree, the mother of all other trees in the forest. Each stage of the journey teaches a lesson that helps Junah Cat to come closer to the secret. But will he be able to find it out in the end?
I have always thought that children should understand the importance of knowledge. Yet, I did not imagine a book explaining this concept existed before I read Secret of the Forest. I am grateful to M. R. Neer for this work because there is so much wisdom in many passages and sentences that I confess I often paused while reading. Meditating on a children's book is something that has never happened to me, yet it was necessary because of the depth and value it contains. Junah Cat's journey into the forest is an excellent opportunity to explain concepts that help kids live a fulfilled and happy life. I encourage parents to discuss Secret of the Forest with their children and to read it more than once. Junah Cat's discovery is so precious that it does not have to be wasted.
Recommend this book:
The S.O.U.R.C.E.
Suzanna Lou Royse
2021 Silver Medal
226 Pages
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Francis Mont for Readers' Favorite
The S.O.U.R.C.E. by Suzanna L. Royse is an inspiring story aimed at children and their parents. The target group falls between the ages of 5 and 11 and the vocabulary is aimed at that audience, but the sentiments expressed should move all readers, regardless of age. The theme of the book is the massive pollution of the world’s oceans by millions of tons of plastic garbage and abandoned fishing nets that form huge floating islands on every ocean on the planet, trapping, maiming, and killing hundreds of thousands of aquatic animals. The plot involves a group of characters that include two young children, an adult reporter, a scientist, and several animals: a sea lion, three whales, a sea otter, two dolphins, and a pelican. They are aided by two magical creatures who protect and guide them in spreading a message of awareness in the world, primarily among children and their parents. The book ends with internet links to articles containing more information.
The S.O.U.R.C.E. by Suzanna L. Royse is an educational tale in the guise of a highly entertaining adventure story that should appeal to any age group. However, the graphic description of the stark reality should bring tears to any readers’ eyes and a determination to reduce their footprint by recycling and curbing pollution. Excellent illustrations by Jo Gershman underline the message of both hope and fear over what is happening to the oceans and their wildlife denizens. It is a very well-written and timely story that will increase awareness and determination, motivating readers to monitor their behavior and reduce their contribution to the mostly unknown scope of environmental disasters happening to our oceans. I highly recommend it to all parents who want to raise their kids as conscientious citizens of the world.
The S.O.U.R.C.E. by Suzanna L. Royse is an inspiring story aimed at children and their parents. The target group falls between the ages of 5 and 11 and the vocabulary is aimed at that audience, but the sentiments expressed should move all readers, regardless of age. The theme of the book is the massive pollution of the world’s oceans by millions of tons of plastic garbage and abandoned fishing nets that form huge floating islands on every ocean on the planet, trapping, maiming, and killing hundreds of thousands of aquatic animals. The plot involves a group of characters that include two young children, an adult reporter, a scientist, and several animals: a sea lion, three whales, a sea otter, two dolphins, and a pelican. They are aided by two magical creatures who protect and guide them in spreading a message of awareness in the world, primarily among children and their parents. The book ends with internet links to articles containing more information.
The S.O.U.R.C.E. by Suzanna L. Royse is an educational tale in the guise of a highly entertaining adventure story that should appeal to any age group. However, the graphic description of the stark reality should bring tears to any readers’ eyes and a determination to reduce their footprint by recycling and curbing pollution. Excellent illustrations by Jo Gershman underline the message of both hope and fear over what is happening to the oceans and their wildlife denizens. It is a very well-written and timely story that will increase awareness and determination, motivating readers to monitor their behavior and reduce their contribution to the mostly unknown scope of environmental disasters happening to our oceans. I highly recommend it to all parents who want to raise their kids as conscientious citizens of the world.
Recommend this book:
Calvin the Christmas Tree
The Greatest Christmas Tree of All
Stephen G. Bowling
2021 Gold Medal
36 Pages
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Believe it or not, Christmas trees have feelings, too. Calvin grew up on a Christmas tree farm. He was supposed to be a Christmas tree like all the other trees around him, only he didn’t really grow fast enough. When Christmas came and all the other trees were chosen, Calvin was sad about being left behind. He so desperately wanted to be a Christmas tree and he didn’t appreciate the taunting and teasing he received from the other Christmas trees. Finally, on Christmas Eve, the owner and his wife brought Calvin to the Christmas tree store along with the last of the Christmas trees. He stood up as tall and as proud as he could, but no one chose him. A storm blew up and knocked him over, so the owner drove off, leaving Calvin all alone, half-buried in snow. That is, until a little boy had his father stop the car to take a look at poor Calvin. As the boy pleaded his case to his father, he firmly declared, “No Christmas tree should be alone on Christmas.” But that wasn’t the end of Calvin’s story; the events of Christmas Eve would make him a legend.
Stephen G. Bowling’s picture book story, Calvin the Christmas Tree: The Greatest Christmas Tree of All, is a charming story for young readers that emphasizes some of the key elements of the meaning of Christmas, most particularly that no one, not even a Christmas tree, should be alone. The story is told in simple language so a young reader can follow along and perhaps even read the story themselves. The colorful illustrations help carry the story forward. The author emphasizes the littlest tree’s (Calvin’s) determination to be a Christmas tree and how he never really did give up hope, even when he was half buried and deserted in a snowstorm. Calvin’s story is a journey of determination and trying to do your best in spite of all the odds stacked up against you. I found this story touching and heartwarming and I would certainly want to share it with younger members of the family every Christmas. Beautifully told and the illustrations are classic – this book is a keepsake.
Believe it or not, Christmas trees have feelings, too. Calvin grew up on a Christmas tree farm. He was supposed to be a Christmas tree like all the other trees around him, only he didn’t really grow fast enough. When Christmas came and all the other trees were chosen, Calvin was sad about being left behind. He so desperately wanted to be a Christmas tree and he didn’t appreciate the taunting and teasing he received from the other Christmas trees. Finally, on Christmas Eve, the owner and his wife brought Calvin to the Christmas tree store along with the last of the Christmas trees. He stood up as tall and as proud as he could, but no one chose him. A storm blew up and knocked him over, so the owner drove off, leaving Calvin all alone, half-buried in snow. That is, until a little boy had his father stop the car to take a look at poor Calvin. As the boy pleaded his case to his father, he firmly declared, “No Christmas tree should be alone on Christmas.” But that wasn’t the end of Calvin’s story; the events of Christmas Eve would make him a legend.
Stephen G. Bowling’s picture book story, Calvin the Christmas Tree: The Greatest Christmas Tree of All, is a charming story for young readers that emphasizes some of the key elements of the meaning of Christmas, most particularly that no one, not even a Christmas tree, should be alone. The story is told in simple language so a young reader can follow along and perhaps even read the story themselves. The colorful illustrations help carry the story forward. The author emphasizes the littlest tree’s (Calvin’s) determination to be a Christmas tree and how he never really did give up hope, even when he was half buried and deserted in a snowstorm. Calvin’s story is a journey of determination and trying to do your best in spite of all the odds stacked up against you. I found this story touching and heartwarming and I would certainly want to share it with younger members of the family every Christmas. Beautifully told and the illustrations are classic – this book is a keepsake.
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