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Recommend this book:
Elliot & Bo in Icyland
Full Color Edition
Agatha Georges, Petronille
2026 Finalist
97 Pages
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Elliot & Bo in Icyland by Agatha Georges follows a ten-year-old boy named Elliot who lives in Oregon. He wants to be a marine biologist like his Uncle Jesse and decides to go to the beach to collect seashells. But he discovers what looks more like a waste disposal site instead of a beach. There’s old fishing gear, garbage, and a toilet seat. Then Elliot sees a penguin tangled in seaweed and plastic webbing. He frees her and soon learns that she can talk and her name is Bo. Bo explains she is from the magical realm of Icyland, and it’s melting and going to cause the oceans to rise, leaving coastal towns underwater and garbage. She creates a portal in Elliot’s kitchen, pulling them into Icyland, where he encounters floating books, snow pillows, sliding ice ramps, and a Library of Whispers. With the help of a rhyming narwhal librarian named Noria, Elliot and Bo must move quickly to save both worlds.
Agatha Georges balances adventure with environmental awareness in Elliot & Bo in Icyland. It was informative without overwhelming readers. The pacing was moderate, and the scenes just kept moving from the discovery of Bo wrapped in plastic to the portal in the kitchen, and the intricate worldbuilding inside the Library of Whispers. Elliot’s character was brave but uncertain, just like any child his age. Bo was sarcastic and humorous, which added warmth and a good contrast to the tension. Noria brought the lyrical layer into the story that made it feel quirky. I loved Petronille’s illustrations that elevated the whole book. My favorite were the translucent bubbles and the floating books. Readers who enjoyed other eco-conscious fantasy stories like The Last Bear by Hannah Gold would love Elliot & Bo in Icyland.
Elliot & Bo in Icyland by Agatha Georges follows a ten-year-old boy named Elliot who lives in Oregon. He wants to be a marine biologist like his Uncle Jesse and decides to go to the beach to collect seashells. But he discovers what looks more like a waste disposal site instead of a beach. There’s old fishing gear, garbage, and a toilet seat. Then Elliot sees a penguin tangled in seaweed and plastic webbing. He frees her and soon learns that she can talk and her name is Bo. Bo explains she is from the magical realm of Icyland, and it’s melting and going to cause the oceans to rise, leaving coastal towns underwater and garbage. She creates a portal in Elliot’s kitchen, pulling them into Icyland, where he encounters floating books, snow pillows, sliding ice ramps, and a Library of Whispers. With the help of a rhyming narwhal librarian named Noria, Elliot and Bo must move quickly to save both worlds.
Agatha Georges balances adventure with environmental awareness in Elliot & Bo in Icyland. It was informative without overwhelming readers. The pacing was moderate, and the scenes just kept moving from the discovery of Bo wrapped in plastic to the portal in the kitchen, and the intricate worldbuilding inside the Library of Whispers. Elliot’s character was brave but uncertain, just like any child his age. Bo was sarcastic and humorous, which added warmth and a good contrast to the tension. Noria brought the lyrical layer into the story that made it feel quirky. I loved Petronille’s illustrations that elevated the whole book. My favorite were the translucent bubbles and the floating books. Readers who enjoyed other eco-conscious fantasy stories like The Last Bear by Hannah Gold would love Elliot & Bo in Icyland.
Recommend this book:
The Ruinous Curse
The Hunt for Alesta
Mark K. McClain
2026 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Ibrahim Aslan for Readers' Favorite
In Mark K. McClain's The Hunt for Alesta, Barrett is the teen prince of Westmore who grapples with his mother's death and a strained relationship with his father. He often finds himself torn between his princely duties, thoughts of an approaching war, and spending time with his friends. Although Barrett sees himself as powerless, little does he know that he is yet to discover his ultimate purpose, which is linked to an ancient prophecy. This prophecy speaks of a Chosen One ordained to defeat Alesta, a corrupt sorceress leading a formidable army trained to destroy everything in its path. An unexpected attack during a prestigious festival leads to the deaths of many innocent people. Barrett and his friends flee their homes and are led by magical wolves to Elimar, a powerful wizard. Under Elimar's guidance, can Barrett awaken his full magical potential and fulfil his true destiny?
The Hunt for Alesta is the first novel in Mark K. McClain's thrilling The Ruinous Curse trilogy. It is an emotional and inventive YA tale teeming with fantasy, adventure, teen romance, and a compelling coming-of-age narrative. Barrett is an impressive and resilient young protagonist. I already look forward to following his fascinating journey from beginning to end. Although Barrett is initially depicted as a typical teenager, overly preoccupied with his teenage life and his growing romantic feelings for his friend, Zanora, once he realizes his role in defending his homeland from evil forces, he is determined to prove his true worth. His friends and their interesting characteristics are also vividly portrayed. I love how McClain highlights the unique strengths and vulnerabilities of each teen character, which in turn makes this tale a highly engaging read. The author builds a spellbinding world filled with mythical creatures, magical lore, and mesmerizing customs. Readers who love LOTR and Harry Potter novels will discover the same warmth and heart in these pages.
In Mark K. McClain's The Hunt for Alesta, Barrett is the teen prince of Westmore who grapples with his mother's death and a strained relationship with his father. He often finds himself torn between his princely duties, thoughts of an approaching war, and spending time with his friends. Although Barrett sees himself as powerless, little does he know that he is yet to discover his ultimate purpose, which is linked to an ancient prophecy. This prophecy speaks of a Chosen One ordained to defeat Alesta, a corrupt sorceress leading a formidable army trained to destroy everything in its path. An unexpected attack during a prestigious festival leads to the deaths of many innocent people. Barrett and his friends flee their homes and are led by magical wolves to Elimar, a powerful wizard. Under Elimar's guidance, can Barrett awaken his full magical potential and fulfil his true destiny?
The Hunt for Alesta is the first novel in Mark K. McClain's thrilling The Ruinous Curse trilogy. It is an emotional and inventive YA tale teeming with fantasy, adventure, teen romance, and a compelling coming-of-age narrative. Barrett is an impressive and resilient young protagonist. I already look forward to following his fascinating journey from beginning to end. Although Barrett is initially depicted as a typical teenager, overly preoccupied with his teenage life and his growing romantic feelings for his friend, Zanora, once he realizes his role in defending his homeland from evil forces, he is determined to prove his true worth. His friends and their interesting characteristics are also vividly portrayed. I love how McClain highlights the unique strengths and vulnerabilities of each teen character, which in turn makes this tale a highly engaging read. The author builds a spellbinding world filled with mythical creatures, magical lore, and mesmerizing customs. Readers who love LOTR and Harry Potter novels will discover the same warmth and heart in these pages.
Recommend this book:
Caput Mundi: The Head of the World
Book 1: Enarii
B.R. Kang
2026 Bronze Medal
271 Pages
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
In B.R. Kang’s Caput Mundi: The Head of the World, twelve-year-old Niil has spent a year on Umbra after Marcus and Mira Marcellus kidnapped him over a debt owed by his father, Hidemith Terra. When Niil discovers he can summon enarii, a liquid metal shaped through imagination, the couple train him in the ability once shared by his missing mother, Regina. After Ada, their thirteen-year-old daughter, arrives with news about the Marcelluses, Niil leaves Umbra beside her and enters Caput Mundi in search of his parents. Ada’s cousin Soes, an aspiring baker with a talent for invention, joins them as Niil learns that the Doubleyes, a group marked by burned rings, are preparing an attack connected to enarii. Niil must uncover why his family is involved before the most powerful nation in Hearth pays the price.
B.R. Kang’s Caput Mundi: The Head of the World follows Niil through a world where practical knowledge becomes as valuable as enarii. The world building is completely fleshed out, and Kang incorporates each invention part of life in a way that makes it feel totally organic. I love how every child contributes through a skill that belongs naturally to them. When moonstalk smoke traps Niil in hallucinations, his memory of his father’s tea identifies the plant before Soes uses an Alert patch to wake him. Kang returns to that teamwork in Osca, where Niil realizes the flowercrabs want Soes’s MSTG seasoning, then Ada turns their discovery into an agreement with the miners. Niil is a fantastic main character, and someone we really want to root for, and his kindness is present in every decision. Well written and imaginative, middle-grade fantasy readers will adore this.
In B.R. Kang’s Caput Mundi: The Head of the World, twelve-year-old Niil has spent a year on Umbra after Marcus and Mira Marcellus kidnapped him over a debt owed by his father, Hidemith Terra. When Niil discovers he can summon enarii, a liquid metal shaped through imagination, the couple train him in the ability once shared by his missing mother, Regina. After Ada, their thirteen-year-old daughter, arrives with news about the Marcelluses, Niil leaves Umbra beside her and enters Caput Mundi in search of his parents. Ada’s cousin Soes, an aspiring baker with a talent for invention, joins them as Niil learns that the Doubleyes, a group marked by burned rings, are preparing an attack connected to enarii. Niil must uncover why his family is involved before the most powerful nation in Hearth pays the price.
B.R. Kang’s Caput Mundi: The Head of the World follows Niil through a world where practical knowledge becomes as valuable as enarii. The world building is completely fleshed out, and Kang incorporates each invention part of life in a way that makes it feel totally organic. I love how every child contributes through a skill that belongs naturally to them. When moonstalk smoke traps Niil in hallucinations, his memory of his father’s tea identifies the plant before Soes uses an Alert patch to wake him. Kang returns to that teamwork in Osca, where Niil realizes the flowercrabs want Soes’s MSTG seasoning, then Ada turns their discovery into an agreement with the miners. Niil is a fantastic main character, and someone we really want to root for, and his kindness is present in every decision. Well written and imaginative, middle-grade fantasy readers will adore this.
Recommend this book:
Soledad and the Curse of the Phoenix
Mindy Baker, Timothy James Hantula
2026 Bronze Medal
160 Pages
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Soledad and the Curse of the Phoenix by Mindy Baker is a middle-grade novel about a journey of bravery, hope, and redemption. Set in a village haunted by mysterious curses, the story follows thirteen-year-old Soledad as she faces her past choices and embarks on a quest to heal her community. The story begins with Soledad running away from her village, clutching her mother’s wooden flute, determined to escape the dark forces linked to her family. Her journey takes her to Mount Gocta, where she discovers healing waters and a hidden path that holds the key to breaking the Phoenix’s curse. Along the way, Soledad meets a loyal llama named Suri, a kind stranger, and her estranged sister Rosalia, who has been turned to stone by the second plague. The tension builds as Soledad faces the Phoenix, a menacing figure who seeks to control her through her mother’s cursed flute.
The pacing is engaging, and Mindy Baker maintains high tension throughout the story. The chapters are perfectly sized for middle-grade readers, making it an excellent choice for classroom reading. The characters are well-developed, and the settings are descriptive without being overpowering, allowing the story to focus on Soledad and her journey. The themes of hope and redemption are woven throughout the narrative, offering a sense of optimism and the belief that even in the darkest times, light can prevail. Soledad and the Curse of the Phoenix is a beautifully crafted tale with an engaging plot, memorable characters, and a meaningful message. Baker has penned a story that inspires courage and reminds readers of the importance of forgiveness and hope in the face of challenges.
Soledad and the Curse of the Phoenix by Mindy Baker is a middle-grade novel about a journey of bravery, hope, and redemption. Set in a village haunted by mysterious curses, the story follows thirteen-year-old Soledad as she faces her past choices and embarks on a quest to heal her community. The story begins with Soledad running away from her village, clutching her mother’s wooden flute, determined to escape the dark forces linked to her family. Her journey takes her to Mount Gocta, where she discovers healing waters and a hidden path that holds the key to breaking the Phoenix’s curse. Along the way, Soledad meets a loyal llama named Suri, a kind stranger, and her estranged sister Rosalia, who has been turned to stone by the second plague. The tension builds as Soledad faces the Phoenix, a menacing figure who seeks to control her through her mother’s cursed flute.
The pacing is engaging, and Mindy Baker maintains high tension throughout the story. The chapters are perfectly sized for middle-grade readers, making it an excellent choice for classroom reading. The characters are well-developed, and the settings are descriptive without being overpowering, allowing the story to focus on Soledad and her journey. The themes of hope and redemption are woven throughout the narrative, offering a sense of optimism and the belief that even in the darkest times, light can prevail. Soledad and the Curse of the Phoenix is a beautifully crafted tale with an engaging plot, memorable characters, and a meaningful message. Baker has penned a story that inspires courage and reminds readers of the importance of forgiveness and hope in the face of challenges.
Recommend this book:
Raining Robots
A Boy and His D.O.G.
Jordan Hines
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite
Raining Robots: A Boy and His D.O.G. by Jordan Hines follows the adventures of 11-year-old Ben, a boy who longs for a pet dog. But his busy single mom says their tiny Boston apartment is too cramped for them to own one. However, an unexpected event in a dog park soon changes everything! When a massive whirlwind comes out of nowhere, a remarkable Great Dane named D.O.G. suddenly appears. D.O.G., however, is not a typical pooch. He is, in fact, a sentient robotic dog with incredible powers. Eventually, Ben acquires superpowers of his own and learns about the duties he must fulfill to keep his world and loved ones safe. Ben and his friends must confront a sinister Professor and the devious Consortium, who seek to control the universe with robots. Can Ben and his allies save the world from these clever fiends?
In Raining Robots: A Boy and His D.O.G., Jordan Hines skillfully merges adventure, sci-fi, and an exciting coming-of-age story with themes of bravery and loyalty. The captivating storyline of a teen boy forming a close friendship with a powerful robotic dog is both magical and entertaining. It offers readers the excitement of futuristic tech and the timeless bond between a boy and his dog. The narrative is action-packed and immersive. It is filled with alien schemes, robot warfare, and mindblowing AI concepts, yet it never loses sight of Ben’s journey of courage and self-discovery. I greatly admire how well the book highlights issues such as family ties and the power of uplifting friendships, making it both heartwarming and relatable. This exhilarating tale is guaranteed to be well-received by young readers who enjoy heroic adventure stories.
Raining Robots: A Boy and His D.O.G. by Jordan Hines follows the adventures of 11-year-old Ben, a boy who longs for a pet dog. But his busy single mom says their tiny Boston apartment is too cramped for them to own one. However, an unexpected event in a dog park soon changes everything! When a massive whirlwind comes out of nowhere, a remarkable Great Dane named D.O.G. suddenly appears. D.O.G., however, is not a typical pooch. He is, in fact, a sentient robotic dog with incredible powers. Eventually, Ben acquires superpowers of his own and learns about the duties he must fulfill to keep his world and loved ones safe. Ben and his friends must confront a sinister Professor and the devious Consortium, who seek to control the universe with robots. Can Ben and his allies save the world from these clever fiends?
In Raining Robots: A Boy and His D.O.G., Jordan Hines skillfully merges adventure, sci-fi, and an exciting coming-of-age story with themes of bravery and loyalty. The captivating storyline of a teen boy forming a close friendship with a powerful robotic dog is both magical and entertaining. It offers readers the excitement of futuristic tech and the timeless bond between a boy and his dog. The narrative is action-packed and immersive. It is filled with alien schemes, robot warfare, and mindblowing AI concepts, yet it never loses sight of Ben’s journey of courage and self-discovery. I greatly admire how well the book highlights issues such as family ties and the power of uplifting friendships, making it both heartwarming and relatable. This exhilarating tale is guaranteed to be well-received by young readers who enjoy heroic adventure stories.
Recommend this book:
Zoom to the Stars
A Bedtime Adventure
Megan Erin Hamilton
2026 Gold Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Mansoor Ahmed for Readers' Favorite
Getting a kid into bed is usually a mission in itself, so making it a literal space mission is a genius move. In Zoom to the Stars, Megan Erin Hamilton shows how Aaron turns a boring bath and pajamas into an astronaut’s adventure. I loved how his bedroom and hallway turn into deep space—his closet becomes a mysterious black hole, and the bathtub is suddenly an ocean landing site for his rocket. With "Space Commander Dad" and Mama leading the mission briefing, the typical steps of getting ready for bed become an adventure rather than a chore. It all leads up to a really cozy countdown, where Aaron finally drifts off just as he "blasts off" into his dreams. The story ends with 10 Awesome Space Facts, which is a great touch for kids who are starting to get curious about rockets and planets.
Megan Erin Hamilton’s writing is exactly what you want for a young reader: short, punchy sentences and fun sound words like “ZOOM!” and “BOUNCE!” that make it perfect for reading aloud. The story follows a really reassuring tone, moving from that initial "I'm not tired" energy to a very peaceful, sleepy ending. As someone who has survived plenty of one-more-story negotiations, I really appreciated how Zoom to the Stars respects a child’s imagination rather than just telling them to sit still. The moments where Aaron is chasing his alien dog or hiding from black holes feel very grounded in how kids actually play. It’s a warm, familiar story that turns a potential bedtime battle into something fun and gentle. I can easily see this becoming one of the books that kids ask for every single night.
Getting a kid into bed is usually a mission in itself, so making it a literal space mission is a genius move. In Zoom to the Stars, Megan Erin Hamilton shows how Aaron turns a boring bath and pajamas into an astronaut’s adventure. I loved how his bedroom and hallway turn into deep space—his closet becomes a mysterious black hole, and the bathtub is suddenly an ocean landing site for his rocket. With "Space Commander Dad" and Mama leading the mission briefing, the typical steps of getting ready for bed become an adventure rather than a chore. It all leads up to a really cozy countdown, where Aaron finally drifts off just as he "blasts off" into his dreams. The story ends with 10 Awesome Space Facts, which is a great touch for kids who are starting to get curious about rockets and planets.
Megan Erin Hamilton’s writing is exactly what you want for a young reader: short, punchy sentences and fun sound words like “ZOOM!” and “BOUNCE!” that make it perfect for reading aloud. The story follows a really reassuring tone, moving from that initial "I'm not tired" energy to a very peaceful, sleepy ending. As someone who has survived plenty of one-more-story negotiations, I really appreciated how Zoom to the Stars respects a child’s imagination rather than just telling them to sit still. The moments where Aaron is chasing his alien dog or hiding from black holes feel very grounded in how kids actually play. It’s a warm, familiar story that turns a potential bedtime battle into something fun and gentle. I can easily see this becoming one of the books that kids ask for every single night.
Recommend this book:
Norbu's Secret
Dana Klisanin
2025 Finalist
220 Pages
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite
Norbu's Secret by Dana Klisanin is a children’s fantasy that raises awareness about the importance of protecting our planet and the natural environment. The narrative follows Lexa and her friends as they confront a crime syndicate intent on destroying natural habitats to make way for industrial development that harms the environment. The adventure begins when Lexa and her friends suddenly leave her home in a technologically advanced vehicle to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a shaman and jaguars in the jungles of Ecuador. They collaborate with a local environmental activist, learning about the community's culture and their deep respect for wildlife. Throughout their journey, Lexa experiences vivid dreams that hint at impending danger related to Norbu, her time-traveling mentor. Join Lexa and her friends as they embark on an exciting quest to protect nature and uncover the true intentions of the crime syndicate.
Norbu's Secret is an enthralling story that addresses vital subjects such as environmental conservation, cultural respect, and collective action against exploitation. This book is the second in the series and picks up where the first book left off. Readers will discover the fates of familiar characters, both heroes and villains, while also being introduced to new figures like Remi, an Amazon girl who fights for her community's rights. Most importantly, the story teaches children about courage, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right. The book also presents crucial themes of ecological awareness and the value of wildlife while engaging readers with a thrilling narrative full of mystery and adventure. Additionally, the captivating artwork brings the story to life, making it visually appealing. Overall, Norbu's Secret by Dana Klisanin is an engaging tale with thought-provoking themes about endangered species and habitat conservation, making it an essential read for children, encouraging them to take action toward protecting our planet.
Norbu's Secret by Dana Klisanin is a children’s fantasy that raises awareness about the importance of protecting our planet and the natural environment. The narrative follows Lexa and her friends as they confront a crime syndicate intent on destroying natural habitats to make way for industrial development that harms the environment. The adventure begins when Lexa and her friends suddenly leave her home in a technologically advanced vehicle to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a shaman and jaguars in the jungles of Ecuador. They collaborate with a local environmental activist, learning about the community's culture and their deep respect for wildlife. Throughout their journey, Lexa experiences vivid dreams that hint at impending danger related to Norbu, her time-traveling mentor. Join Lexa and her friends as they embark on an exciting quest to protect nature and uncover the true intentions of the crime syndicate.
Norbu's Secret is an enthralling story that addresses vital subjects such as environmental conservation, cultural respect, and collective action against exploitation. This book is the second in the series and picks up where the first book left off. Readers will discover the fates of familiar characters, both heroes and villains, while also being introduced to new figures like Remi, an Amazon girl who fights for her community's rights. Most importantly, the story teaches children about courage, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right. The book also presents crucial themes of ecological awareness and the value of wildlife while engaging readers with a thrilling narrative full of mystery and adventure. Additionally, the captivating artwork brings the story to life, making it visually appealing. Overall, Norbu's Secret by Dana Klisanin is an engaging tale with thought-provoking themes about endangered species and habitat conservation, making it an essential read for children, encouraging them to take action toward protecting our planet.
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Dingo Toad Helps a Friend
Lamar Golden and Liana Golden
2025 Honorable Mention
26 Pages
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Unfortunately, bullies are everywhere and everyone needs a champion from time to time. When Dingo Toad is walking home from school, he notices his friend, Penny, being bullied. This makes him cross. He confronts the bullies and makes them apologize. In Lamar Golden and Liana Golden’s Dingo Toad Helps a Friend, Dingo Toad shows his courageous spirit and how he wants others to be polite and caring. The story takes place on a far-distant planet, but the message is the same: stand up for your friends and be caring and polite to others.
Lamar Golden and Liana Golden’s picture book, Dingo Toad Helps a Friend, is a heartwarming tale about friendship and having the courage to stand up for what’s right. The story is told in simple language to help young readers follow along and improve their reading skills. The illustrations are bright, bold, and colorful and add another dimension to the story – absolutely stunning! Young readers will be cheering on Dingo Toad as he confronts the bullies and makes things right for his friend. In return, she shows her appreciation by sharing a treat. It’s always important to thank someone for helping out. In the face of adversity, Dingo Toad is a shining example of kindness, courage, and compassion. We all have the power to make a positive difference in this world. This is a beautiful book that will inspire young readers to follow Dingo Toad’s example. As a must-read for youngsters, this book will open up topics of discussion between young people and their caregivers and teachers.
Unfortunately, bullies are everywhere and everyone needs a champion from time to time. When Dingo Toad is walking home from school, he notices his friend, Penny, being bullied. This makes him cross. He confronts the bullies and makes them apologize. In Lamar Golden and Liana Golden’s Dingo Toad Helps a Friend, Dingo Toad shows his courageous spirit and how he wants others to be polite and caring. The story takes place on a far-distant planet, but the message is the same: stand up for your friends and be caring and polite to others.
Lamar Golden and Liana Golden’s picture book, Dingo Toad Helps a Friend, is a heartwarming tale about friendship and having the courage to stand up for what’s right. The story is told in simple language to help young readers follow along and improve their reading skills. The illustrations are bright, bold, and colorful and add another dimension to the story – absolutely stunning! Young readers will be cheering on Dingo Toad as he confronts the bullies and makes things right for his friend. In return, she shows her appreciation by sharing a treat. It’s always important to thank someone for helping out. In the face of adversity, Dingo Toad is a shining example of kindness, courage, and compassion. We all have the power to make a positive difference in this world. This is a beautiful book that will inspire young readers to follow Dingo Toad’s example. As a must-read for youngsters, this book will open up topics of discussion between young people and their caregivers and teachers.
Recommend this book:
Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map
N. Degen
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map by N. Degen is the adventurous tale of Ray Taylor, an ordinary boy with a love for drawing and an adventurous spirit. The story follows Ray as he finds himself whisked away into an extraordinary world of pirates, treasure maps, and magical quests. Struggling with bullies and missing his absent father, Ray’s life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a mysterious elderly neighbor. Suddenly, he is transported to the 17th century, joining a cutthroat pirate crew aboard the schooner Celestine. His mission? To retrieve seven glowing magical stones hidden across seven unique worlds, with each stone unlocking a piece of a long-lost treasure map said to lead to unimaginable riches. Guided by the cryptic Secret Book of the Bloodthirsty Cook, Ray and his new companions must navigate treacherous seas and mystical challenges to figure out where the next clue will lead before it is too late.
N. Degen's charming and imaginative narrative blends themes of historical adventure with fantasy. Ray is a relatable protagonist; his insecurities and struggles make his journey feel all the more rewarding. The vivid world-building is one of the book’s greatest strengths, painting each exotic island and dangerous encounter with rich details and plenty of imagination. The cast of pirates, with their unique quirks and rivalries, adds both humor and suspense, which creates a dynamic and engaging story that readers will love. The Secret Book’s blank pages create a compelling mystery, keeping readers hooked as Ray and the crew decipher its hidden messages. I love how the story is full of daring escapades and heartwarming moments. I loved Ray, his enthusiasm, and the way the plot unfolded. Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map is a thrilling adventure for young and adult readers alike.
Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map by N. Degen is the adventurous tale of Ray Taylor, an ordinary boy with a love for drawing and an adventurous spirit. The story follows Ray as he finds himself whisked away into an extraordinary world of pirates, treasure maps, and magical quests. Struggling with bullies and missing his absent father, Ray’s life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a mysterious elderly neighbor. Suddenly, he is transported to the 17th century, joining a cutthroat pirate crew aboard the schooner Celestine. His mission? To retrieve seven glowing magical stones hidden across seven unique worlds, with each stone unlocking a piece of a long-lost treasure map said to lead to unimaginable riches. Guided by the cryptic Secret Book of the Bloodthirsty Cook, Ray and his new companions must navigate treacherous seas and mystical challenges to figure out where the next clue will lead before it is too late.
N. Degen's charming and imaginative narrative blends themes of historical adventure with fantasy. Ray is a relatable protagonist; his insecurities and struggles make his journey feel all the more rewarding. The vivid world-building is one of the book’s greatest strengths, painting each exotic island and dangerous encounter with rich details and plenty of imagination. The cast of pirates, with their unique quirks and rivalries, adds both humor and suspense, which creates a dynamic and engaging story that readers will love. The Secret Book’s blank pages create a compelling mystery, keeping readers hooked as Ray and the crew decipher its hidden messages. I love how the story is full of daring escapades and heartwarming moments. I loved Ray, his enthusiasm, and the way the plot unfolded. Ray Taylor and the Torn and Tattered Treasure Map is a thrilling adventure for young and adult readers alike.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/sean-dirts-and-the-hidden-city&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/915LcmLC5PL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=Sean Dirts and the Hidden City is a children's superhero adventure novel by Don Shirts. Sean Dirts, a twelve-year-old boy, wakes up to find himself ten inches tall and traveling with his family to the village of Lilliput, where all inhabitants are "smalled" people. As Sean adjusts to his new life, he finds out that all of Lilliput's inhabitants hav...){kind=link}
Sean Dirts and the Hidden City
Don Shirts
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Sean Dirts and the Hidden City is a children's superhero adventure novel by Don Shirts. Sean Dirts, a twelve-year-old boy, wakes up to find himself ten inches tall and traveling with his family to the village of Lilliput, where all inhabitants are "smalled" people. As Sean adjusts to his new life, he finds out that all of Lilliput's inhabitants have unique superpowers, including his family members. To Sean's surprise, Ms. Stepp tells him not to reveal his "mover" abilities when he accidentally stumbles upon them. He discovers he can also control animals, and with his newfound friend, Summer, hops on a bird for a ride and suddenly finds himself in the hidden city of Peteetneet. After unwittingly starting a rebellion, Sean must return to Lilliput and help its citizens face the might of the evil Shadrach.
Action-packed and filled with mystery, adventure, and intrigue, Sean Dirts and the Hidden City is one rollercoaster of a ride. As a reader, you don't know what to expect at any point in the story as the plot twists and turns its way to a climactic battle that will sate the appetites of any action-adventure lover. Don Shirts has written a brilliant superhero origin story for kids and young adults alike. You're never sure if your favorite characters are safe as the stakes are always high, especially after the midway point of the tale. I loved the friendships between Sean, Summer, and Luke and even enjoyed their interactions with Zach and Bert. The author leaves room for a sequel with the ending, and I hope to read it soon. Overall, this is a fantastic superhero story!
Sean Dirts and the Hidden City is a children's superhero adventure novel by Don Shirts. Sean Dirts, a twelve-year-old boy, wakes up to find himself ten inches tall and traveling with his family to the village of Lilliput, where all inhabitants are "smalled" people. As Sean adjusts to his new life, he finds out that all of Lilliput's inhabitants have unique superpowers, including his family members. To Sean's surprise, Ms. Stepp tells him not to reveal his "mover" abilities when he accidentally stumbles upon them. He discovers he can also control animals, and with his newfound friend, Summer, hops on a bird for a ride and suddenly finds himself in the hidden city of Peteetneet. After unwittingly starting a rebellion, Sean must return to Lilliput and help its citizens face the might of the evil Shadrach.
Action-packed and filled with mystery, adventure, and intrigue, Sean Dirts and the Hidden City is one rollercoaster of a ride. As a reader, you don't know what to expect at any point in the story as the plot twists and turns its way to a climactic battle that will sate the appetites of any action-adventure lover. Don Shirts has written a brilliant superhero origin story for kids and young adults alike. You're never sure if your favorite characters are safe as the stakes are always high, especially after the midway point of the tale. I loved the friendships between Sean, Summer, and Luke and even enjoyed their interactions with Zach and Bert. The author leaves room for a sequel with the ending, and I hope to read it soon. Overall, this is a fantastic superhero story!
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