BookAwards.com
Award-Winning Books from Today's Best Authors
A Free Resource for Book Lovers, Authors, Agents, Publishers and Journalists
Recommend this book:
A Garden Home for Normy the Gnome
Cindy Shirley
2022 Gold Medal
38 Pages
Check current price
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
Check current price
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
Check current price
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
Check current price
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
Check current price
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
Check current price
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.
Recommend this book:
Cotton
The Little Plant That Snored
Johnny Strader
2020 Finalist
114 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Lois J Wickstrom for Readers' Favorite
Imagine a little cotton plant that saves the day because he is different. First the animals and the other plants are curious about strange sounds in the cotton field. Then they discover a little cotton plant that snores when he sleeps. They tease him. They make fun of him. Meanwhile, little Cotton can’t remember snoring and doesn’t understand all the fuss. Then some crows arrive with the news about boll weevils coming to steal their softness. The information about boll weevils and their history of destroying crops in the United States is the most interesting part of the book. The boll weevils’ response to a snoring cotton plant ties it all up. Monica Sanchez’s illustrations are cute and well-defined. Johnny Strader’s Cotton: The Little Plant That Snored is a chapter book that kids who are used to picture books will readily find accessible.
The little main character who is different, and whose difference saves the day, is a common theme in picture books. The differences are in how they are different, and what the main character will do to save everybody. Usually, the different character has to do something active. In Cotton: The Little Plant That Snored by Johnny Strader, the snoring cotton plant isn’t able to control his snoring. But he saves the day anyway. This is actually fun to think about. Can a person be a hero just by being himself or herself? This story answers Yes! Monica Sanchez’s illustrations make clear all the problems – the bullying and the boll weevils. Strader adds the history of fighting boll weevils to round out the story.
Imagine a little cotton plant that saves the day because he is different. First the animals and the other plants are curious about strange sounds in the cotton field. Then they discover a little cotton plant that snores when he sleeps. They tease him. They make fun of him. Meanwhile, little Cotton can’t remember snoring and doesn’t understand all the fuss. Then some crows arrive with the news about boll weevils coming to steal their softness. The information about boll weevils and their history of destroying crops in the United States is the most interesting part of the book. The boll weevils’ response to a snoring cotton plant ties it all up. Monica Sanchez’s illustrations are cute and well-defined. Johnny Strader’s Cotton: The Little Plant That Snored is a chapter book that kids who are used to picture books will readily find accessible.
The little main character who is different, and whose difference saves the day, is a common theme in picture books. The differences are in how they are different, and what the main character will do to save everybody. Usually, the different character has to do something active. In Cotton: The Little Plant That Snored by Johnny Strader, the snoring cotton plant isn’t able to control his snoring. But he saves the day anyway. This is actually fun to think about. Can a person be a hero just by being himself or herself? This story answers Yes! Monica Sanchez’s illustrations make clear all the problems – the bullying and the boll weevils. Strader adds the history of fighting boll weevils to round out the story.
Recommend this book:
Bellerophon
Book 8 - Early Myths
Dr Simon Spence
2020 Honorable Mention
39 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Classic Greek and Roman literature is full of stories, myths, and legends about gods and heroes. Each story is exciting on its own, but there is usually a message being shared. And the story is depicted in classic art: painted vases and murals. The story of Bellerophon and the winged horse, Pegasus, is one of the Greek legends that follows a young hero as he defeats armies and vicious creatures. But sometimes power can be a heady thing, making a hero feel he (or she) is more powerful than anyone else. That was the case with Bellerophon. When he realized the extent of his power, he started to believe he was equal to the gods.
Dr. Simon Spence’s picture book story, Bellerophon: Book 8 – Early Myths, takes a classic Greek legend and creates a compelling story for young readers, complete with fascinating illustrations to help carry the story along. The language is simple, suited to early readers, and the plot develops with great excitement, which will definitely capture a young reader’s attention. The author brings the characters to life with vivid, cleverly crafted character descriptions. Dialogue is used effectively to make the scenes active and interesting. The font used for the text suggests an ancient script. The author uses the age-old art of storytelling well. At the end of the book, the author includes some illustrations of classic Greek pottery decorated with images of Bellerophon and Pegasus. The author also includes some historic detail behind the story such as notes about how this is one of the oldest and lesser-known stories and how classic literature incorporated stories of Bellerophon. A fascinating way to interest young readers in classic legends, literature, and art.
Classic Greek and Roman literature is full of stories, myths, and legends about gods and heroes. Each story is exciting on its own, but there is usually a message being shared. And the story is depicted in classic art: painted vases and murals. The story of Bellerophon and the winged horse, Pegasus, is one of the Greek legends that follows a young hero as he defeats armies and vicious creatures. But sometimes power can be a heady thing, making a hero feel he (or she) is more powerful than anyone else. That was the case with Bellerophon. When he realized the extent of his power, he started to believe he was equal to the gods.
Dr. Simon Spence’s picture book story, Bellerophon: Book 8 – Early Myths, takes a classic Greek legend and creates a compelling story for young readers, complete with fascinating illustrations to help carry the story along. The language is simple, suited to early readers, and the plot develops with great excitement, which will definitely capture a young reader’s attention. The author brings the characters to life with vivid, cleverly crafted character descriptions. Dialogue is used effectively to make the scenes active and interesting. The font used for the text suggests an ancient script. The author uses the age-old art of storytelling well. At the end of the book, the author includes some illustrations of classic Greek pottery decorated with images of Bellerophon and Pegasus. The author also includes some historic detail behind the story such as notes about how this is one of the oldest and lesser-known stories and how classic literature incorporated stories of Bellerophon. A fascinating way to interest young readers in classic legends, literature, and art.
Recommend this book:
Tales from Bombast's Bookshelf
Steve Michael Reedy
2020 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Bruce Arrington for Readers' Favorite
Tales from Bombast's Bookshelf by Steve Michael Reedy is a collection of stories for children and dare I say for adults as well? For those who have lost their way in life and are looking to rediscover their path, this title comes highly recommended. There are six stories in all, some shorter and some longer, all of which can be read at bedtimes, storytimes, teachable moments—actually any time of day or night would suffice. I say this because the messages provided in each story are common sense that is really needed in society. I appreciated the way the author expands our viewpoints and helps us understand that the way we see life, our perceptions of how life “should be,” are sometimes downright silly. This book allowed me to laugh at myself and appreciate another’s point of view. And all from a children’s book?
The poetry reminds me of Dr. Seuss's style of writing, but the gentle messages are much more. We learn about leadership, of giving, of caring for others, of sharing, and many other important facets that help strengthen the world in which we live. The targeted audience (young children), of course, needs to learn these things as guidance for growing up. However, the stories provide important reminders for everyone living today on planet Earth. Here. Today. Ages zero to 119 can benefit from the wit and wisdom, the humor and honor portrayed in each tale. It is uncommon to read a book such as Tales from Bombast's Bookshelf by Steve Michael Reedy. But if you take the time to read and ponder for yourself, you may find your mind and spirit turning child-like again. Books like these are why I love reading!
Tales from Bombast's Bookshelf by Steve Michael Reedy is a collection of stories for children and dare I say for adults as well? For those who have lost their way in life and are looking to rediscover their path, this title comes highly recommended. There are six stories in all, some shorter and some longer, all of which can be read at bedtimes, storytimes, teachable moments—actually any time of day or night would suffice. I say this because the messages provided in each story are common sense that is really needed in society. I appreciated the way the author expands our viewpoints and helps us understand that the way we see life, our perceptions of how life “should be,” are sometimes downright silly. This book allowed me to laugh at myself and appreciate another’s point of view. And all from a children’s book?
The poetry reminds me of Dr. Seuss's style of writing, but the gentle messages are much more. We learn about leadership, of giving, of caring for others, of sharing, and many other important facets that help strengthen the world in which we live. The targeted audience (young children), of course, needs to learn these things as guidance for growing up. However, the stories provide important reminders for everyone living today on planet Earth. Here. Today. Ages zero to 119 can benefit from the wit and wisdom, the humor and honor portrayed in each tale. It is uncommon to read a book such as Tales from Bombast's Bookshelf by Steve Michael Reedy. But if you take the time to read and ponder for yourself, you may find your mind and spirit turning child-like again. Books like these are why I love reading!
Recommend this book:
Reece's Timeless Tales
N. Reece Ho-Sheffield
2020 Silver Medal
116 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
Reece's Timeless Tales by N. Reece Ho-Sheffield is a collection of thirteen stories that will take children on a fantastical adventure filled with magic, whimsy, and enchantment. Out of the thirteen stories, eleven are original stories and two are adapted ones. Every story is different from each other but they will keep young readers glued to the page till the very end.
Saved by a Poem takes readers to ancient China where they see Prince Cao Zhi being saved from death by a poem he had written to overturn the death sentence passed on him by his brother, Emperor Cao Pi. A Chick Called Dee is about Dee, the brainy chick who wanted to live her life as a hen, understand love, and be loved instead of being eaten as a fried chicken drumstick or a chicken sandwich. Meet Itsy, Bitsy, and Ritsy, the three fish in Sea Reef Talent-Time, a story about their dream to earn recognition in their reef. Red Swans tackles the topic of poaching and how two beautiful swans and three cygnets were helped by Cymbeline, a little girl, from being captured.
All the stories are short and crisp, and the colorful illustrations will make them appealing to young readers. Every story has an interesting message, concept, and idea which makes it the perfect book for parents to use for bedtime tales and for tutors to use in classrooms for storytelling and read-aloud sessions. The glossary at the end of each chapter is a good way to help children learn new words in a fun way and enhance their vocabulary. This book is definitely a must-read and a must-have in personal collections in homes and in school and public libraries to take young readers on a journey of enchantment, laughter, and entertainment with its original and unique stories.
Reece's Timeless Tales by N. Reece Ho-Sheffield is a collection of thirteen stories that will take children on a fantastical adventure filled with magic, whimsy, and enchantment. Out of the thirteen stories, eleven are original stories and two are adapted ones. Every story is different from each other but they will keep young readers glued to the page till the very end.
Saved by a Poem takes readers to ancient China where they see Prince Cao Zhi being saved from death by a poem he had written to overturn the death sentence passed on him by his brother, Emperor Cao Pi. A Chick Called Dee is about Dee, the brainy chick who wanted to live her life as a hen, understand love, and be loved instead of being eaten as a fried chicken drumstick or a chicken sandwich. Meet Itsy, Bitsy, and Ritsy, the three fish in Sea Reef Talent-Time, a story about their dream to earn recognition in their reef. Red Swans tackles the topic of poaching and how two beautiful swans and three cygnets were helped by Cymbeline, a little girl, from being captured.
All the stories are short and crisp, and the colorful illustrations will make them appealing to young readers. Every story has an interesting message, concept, and idea which makes it the perfect book for parents to use for bedtime tales and for tutors to use in classrooms for storytelling and read-aloud sessions. The glossary at the end of each chapter is a good way to help children learn new words in a fun way and enhance their vocabulary. This book is definitely a must-read and a must-have in personal collections in homes and in school and public libraries to take young readers on a journey of enchantment, laughter, and entertainment with its original and unique stories.
Contact Author -
