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Recommend this book:
Ruthless the Elf
Keeper of the Naughty List
Chad E Henry, Dakota A Tallman
2026 Finalist
26 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite
Join Ruthless on an exciting adventure as she learns to be kind and serve others in the fantastic children's story, Ruthless the Elf: Keeper of the Naughty List by Chad E Henry and Dakota A. Tallman. Six-year-old Ruthless could not have imagined how things would turn out. She was adorable but mean and pushed around every child she encountered. Ruthless would say nasty things to other children and try to steal their toys. Her mother was shocked at her hurtful responses and rude behavior. She was not the only one displeased by Ruthless's antics. Santa Claus at the North Pole noticed how mean she was and decided he had to see this for himself. That led to Ruthless embarking on an exciting journey of discovering how to treat others with kindness.
This is a fascinating story with an incredible lesson. I loved the brilliant illustrations which vividly portray the characters and the scenes. The rhyme scheme gives the verses a lovely rhythm that makes the story engaging and easy to read aloud with youngsters. The story has a unique, captivating twist to the familiar plot about Santa and the elves at the North Pole, and the naughty list they keep. Children will find this engrossing book to be a wonderful adventure. A splendid tale with an invaluable, timeless message, Ruthless the Elf by Chad E Henry and Dakota A. Tallman will be a favorite for young readers. Its eye-catching illustrations and characters are hard to forget.
Join Ruthless on an exciting adventure as she learns to be kind and serve others in the fantastic children's story, Ruthless the Elf: Keeper of the Naughty List by Chad E Henry and Dakota A. Tallman. Six-year-old Ruthless could not have imagined how things would turn out. She was adorable but mean and pushed around every child she encountered. Ruthless would say nasty things to other children and try to steal their toys. Her mother was shocked at her hurtful responses and rude behavior. She was not the only one displeased by Ruthless's antics. Santa Claus at the North Pole noticed how mean she was and decided he had to see this for himself. That led to Ruthless embarking on an exciting journey of discovering how to treat others with kindness.
This is a fascinating story with an incredible lesson. I loved the brilliant illustrations which vividly portray the characters and the scenes. The rhyme scheme gives the verses a lovely rhythm that makes the story engaging and easy to read aloud with youngsters. The story has a unique, captivating twist to the familiar plot about Santa and the elves at the North Pole, and the naughty list they keep. Children will find this engrossing book to be a wonderful adventure. A splendid tale with an invaluable, timeless message, Ruthless the Elf by Chad E Henry and Dakota A. Tallman will be a favorite for young readers. Its eye-catching illustrations and characters are hard to forget.
Recommend this book:
Magical Spring Wish
A Heartwarming Children’s Fairy Tale About Kindness, Selfless Wishes and the Magic of Fairy Locks
Matija Oreb Maša
2026 Honorable Mention
35 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Matija Oreb Maša’s Magical Spring Wish is a children’s story about kindness, family, and the magic that can grow from caring for others. The book follows Granny and her loyal horse Toby as they prepare their small countryside home for the changing seasons. Young Nina comes to help plant sunflower seeds, and the peaceful routines of springtime farming create a warm setting filled with flowers, animals, and storytelling. While resting beneath the trees, Granny shares a memory from her own childhood about a fairy who once granted a special wish after seeing kindness in a horse’s heart. That story stays with Toby long after the others fall asleep. During the night, a tiny fairy named Lullu appears in the stable and offers Toby one wish. Though Toby briefly imagines exciting possibilities such as flying or endless treats, he instead wishes for Granny’s old home to be repaired and made safe and beautiful again.
Matija Oreb Maša writes in soft, rhyming verse that flows smoothly, giving the story a soothing bedtime quality. The pacing is calm and steady, allowing younger readers to enjoy both the narrative and the detailed illustrations without feeling hurried. Repetition, rhyme, and vivid imagery are used effectively throughout the book, especially during the nighttime scenes where sparkling fairy dust and glowing skies create an enchanting mood. Bruna Rezende’s illustrations add charm to the story, blending soft colors and storybook textures that complement the narrative’s emotional tone. The relationship between Toby and Granny is especially touching because it is shown through actions rather than long explanations. Readers who enjoy fairy tales, animal stories, and comforting bedtime books will appreciate the warmth and tenderness in Magical Spring Wish.
Matija Oreb Maša’s Magical Spring Wish is a children’s story about kindness, family, and the magic that can grow from caring for others. The book follows Granny and her loyal horse Toby as they prepare their small countryside home for the changing seasons. Young Nina comes to help plant sunflower seeds, and the peaceful routines of springtime farming create a warm setting filled with flowers, animals, and storytelling. While resting beneath the trees, Granny shares a memory from her own childhood about a fairy who once granted a special wish after seeing kindness in a horse’s heart. That story stays with Toby long after the others fall asleep. During the night, a tiny fairy named Lullu appears in the stable and offers Toby one wish. Though Toby briefly imagines exciting possibilities such as flying or endless treats, he instead wishes for Granny’s old home to be repaired and made safe and beautiful again.
Matija Oreb Maša writes in soft, rhyming verse that flows smoothly, giving the story a soothing bedtime quality. The pacing is calm and steady, allowing younger readers to enjoy both the narrative and the detailed illustrations without feeling hurried. Repetition, rhyme, and vivid imagery are used effectively throughout the book, especially during the nighttime scenes where sparkling fairy dust and glowing skies create an enchanting mood. Bruna Rezende’s illustrations add charm to the story, blending soft colors and storybook textures that complement the narrative’s emotional tone. The relationship between Toby and Granny is especially touching because it is shown through actions rather than long explanations. Readers who enjoy fairy tales, animal stories, and comforting bedtime books will appreciate the warmth and tenderness in Magical Spring Wish.
Recommend this book:
The Guardians of Maru
Kristi Shimada
2026 Bronze Medal
47 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite
At the center of Lake Anamizu, there was an island. It was home to an elderly couple referred to as Grandpa and Grandma Maru by the people who lived along the shores of the lake. The couple was kind and generous, and they had a nice Japanese garden. One day, the Marus leave their island to go to the mainland to do some grocery shopping. On the shore, the elderly couple notices a young boy playing on the beach. Out of concern, they check on the boy. After a short discussion, they realize Seiji is deaf and escort him to his parents’ house. Seiji’s parents invite the Marus in for breakfast. Seiji is very comfortable around the elderly couple, which surprises his parents since he is usually shy with other people. The elderly couple invites them to visit their island. How will things unfold in The Guardians of Maru by Kristi Shimada when Seiji visits the island?
The Guardians of Maru by Kristi Shimada is wonderfully written with a steady pacing that keeps readers intrigued and eager to discover the next twist in the flawlessly flowing plot. Kristi ensured all events are vividly described, which will capture the imaginations of young readers. The themes in the book also help youngsters to appreciate their uniqueness and what they already have. The messages of generosity, kindness, and sharing will also resonate with many guardians who might be reading the book to children. Kristi also ensured the language used was easy to understand and appropriate for the target audience. Eko Setiawan didn’t disappoint with the illustrations, which add to the overall beauty of the work. This was a good read, and I look forward to reading something else by Kristi Shimada.
At the center of Lake Anamizu, there was an island. It was home to an elderly couple referred to as Grandpa and Grandma Maru by the people who lived along the shores of the lake. The couple was kind and generous, and they had a nice Japanese garden. One day, the Marus leave their island to go to the mainland to do some grocery shopping. On the shore, the elderly couple notices a young boy playing on the beach. Out of concern, they check on the boy. After a short discussion, they realize Seiji is deaf and escort him to his parents’ house. Seiji’s parents invite the Marus in for breakfast. Seiji is very comfortable around the elderly couple, which surprises his parents since he is usually shy with other people. The elderly couple invites them to visit their island. How will things unfold in The Guardians of Maru by Kristi Shimada when Seiji visits the island?
The Guardians of Maru by Kristi Shimada is wonderfully written with a steady pacing that keeps readers intrigued and eager to discover the next twist in the flawlessly flowing plot. Kristi ensured all events are vividly described, which will capture the imaginations of young readers. The themes in the book also help youngsters to appreciate their uniqueness and what they already have. The messages of generosity, kindness, and sharing will also resonate with many guardians who might be reading the book to children. Kristi also ensured the language used was easy to understand and appropriate for the target audience. Eko Setiawan didn’t disappoint with the illustrations, which add to the overall beauty of the work. This was a good read, and I look forward to reading something else by Kristi Shimada.
Recommend this book:
When Fred the Snake and friends learn the Chinese Zodiac, and the Great Race
Peter B Cotton
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
When Fred the Snake and Friends Learn the Chinese Zodiac, and the Great Race is a children's picture book by Peter B. Cotton. Fred the Snake and his two friends, Perdy and Jack, run into two Chinese students at their school. Soon, they became friends with Ellie and her brother, Connor. Ellie and Connor tell their new friends about the Chinese calendar and how it was formed. During the reign of the Jade Emperor, he ordered all the nearby animals to get ready for the Great Race. The Great Race will lead to the Heavenly Gate. One by one, the animals, including the cat, the rat, the dragon, the horse, and many more, finished the race. And the Chinese zodiac was formed according to each animal's position in the race.
When Fred the Snake and Friends Learn the Chinese Zodiac, and the Great Race is a fun-filled children's adventure. I think it will not only entertain kids but also teach them about the Chinese calendar and its historical significance. Author Peter B. Cotton has crafted a delightful rhyming narrative that young ones can read aloud and even create their own melodies. Fred and his friends are a joyful bunch. I liked how quickly Fred, Perdy, and Jack became friends with Ellie and Connor. Among the animals, each has a distinctive personality that really comes alive through Cotton's narrative and Bonnie Lemaire's colorful illustrations. It's a quick read, but I loved every moment of it. I'm sure young readers will enjoy the book even more. Highly recommended.
When Fred the Snake and Friends Learn the Chinese Zodiac, and the Great Race is a children's picture book by Peter B. Cotton. Fred the Snake and his two friends, Perdy and Jack, run into two Chinese students at their school. Soon, they became friends with Ellie and her brother, Connor. Ellie and Connor tell their new friends about the Chinese calendar and how it was formed. During the reign of the Jade Emperor, he ordered all the nearby animals to get ready for the Great Race. The Great Race will lead to the Heavenly Gate. One by one, the animals, including the cat, the rat, the dragon, the horse, and many more, finished the race. And the Chinese zodiac was formed according to each animal's position in the race.
When Fred the Snake and Friends Learn the Chinese Zodiac, and the Great Race is a fun-filled children's adventure. I think it will not only entertain kids but also teach them about the Chinese calendar and its historical significance. Author Peter B. Cotton has crafted a delightful rhyming narrative that young ones can read aloud and even create their own melodies. Fred and his friends are a joyful bunch. I liked how quickly Fred, Perdy, and Jack became friends with Ellie and Connor. Among the animals, each has a distinctive personality that really comes alive through Cotton's narrative and Bonnie Lemaire's colorful illustrations. It's a quick read, but I loved every moment of it. I'm sure young readers will enjoy the book even more. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
A Flash of Fire
The Phoenix Rising Trilogy, Book 1
A.L. Wyss
2026 Gold Medal
314 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite
A Flash of Fire by A.L. Wyss follows Vivian Carmine, an ordinary teen whose life is turned upside down when she discovers she has superpowers. Her powers are destructive because the first time she uses them, she almost burns down the school gym during a science fair. Everyone thinks it is a freak accident and that her robot suit project malfunctioned, but Vivian knows that is not the case. Her body has been feeling hotter, and she has been feeling a fire burning in her. Her parents are not ordinary people, but phoenixes. Unfortunately, before she can learn more, they go missing. Vivian meets Samael, a mysterious customer at her family's book store. Out of options, Vivian joins him and discovers RISE, a secret organization for mythical beings. Her only wish is to find her parents, but that might be a problem because they could be traitors. Join Vivian as she learns about her phoenix bloodline and navigates a new world of powerful beings.
A Flash of Fire is a fast-paced and action-packed story. It is book one in The Phoenix Rising Trilogy, and it lays an intriguing foundation for the series. A.L. Wyss does a great job of giving you just enough information about the characters, but also leaves you with questions about their motivations and plans. Not knowing where Vivian's parents went and who the bad guys were made the story suspenseful. Issues like bullying, friendship, family secrets, and education are included, with a powerful message about the importance of believing in yourself and the magic of books and stories. Vivian is still learning about herself and her family's legacy, and Samael is at a crossroads that might see him taking the good or bad path. I cannot wait to see where the author will take their stories. Overall, this is a wonderful read, and I recommend it to readers of all ages who enjoy fantasy novels about secret superheroes and family legacies.
A Flash of Fire by A.L. Wyss follows Vivian Carmine, an ordinary teen whose life is turned upside down when she discovers she has superpowers. Her powers are destructive because the first time she uses them, she almost burns down the school gym during a science fair. Everyone thinks it is a freak accident and that her robot suit project malfunctioned, but Vivian knows that is not the case. Her body has been feeling hotter, and she has been feeling a fire burning in her. Her parents are not ordinary people, but phoenixes. Unfortunately, before she can learn more, they go missing. Vivian meets Samael, a mysterious customer at her family's book store. Out of options, Vivian joins him and discovers RISE, a secret organization for mythical beings. Her only wish is to find her parents, but that might be a problem because they could be traitors. Join Vivian as she learns about her phoenix bloodline and navigates a new world of powerful beings.
A Flash of Fire is a fast-paced and action-packed story. It is book one in The Phoenix Rising Trilogy, and it lays an intriguing foundation for the series. A.L. Wyss does a great job of giving you just enough information about the characters, but also leaves you with questions about their motivations and plans. Not knowing where Vivian's parents went and who the bad guys were made the story suspenseful. Issues like bullying, friendship, family secrets, and education are included, with a powerful message about the importance of believing in yourself and the magic of books and stories. Vivian is still learning about herself and her family's legacy, and Samael is at a crossroads that might see him taking the good or bad path. I cannot wait to see where the author will take their stories. Overall, this is a wonderful read, and I recommend it to readers of all ages who enjoy fantasy novels about secret superheroes and family legacies.
Recommend this book:
Plain Princess Jane
Jennifer Milne
2025 Finalist
345 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Plain Princess Jane by Jennifer Milne is a preteen adventure story. Princess Jane should be getting her magical gifts, but something has gone horribly wrong – her cat got them instead! While Lady Caterina is the perfect princess, Jane is just ordinary. Nothing can be done to reverse this mistake, but it must be kept quiet, or the Royal Family will lose everything. Things change when Jane has to go to the Royal Retreat, where she can’t let on that she has no magical gifts. Lady Caterina stows away with her, and the two must learn to work together to stop the truth coming out. But danger is lurking and Jane and Lady Caterina must save the Royal Kingdom. Will they succeed? Jane has to decide whether to tell the truth, and her answer will change the future forever.
Plain Princess Jane by Jennifer Milne is refreshingly unique and a lot of fun. This is a story about learning to love what and who you are rather than what you should have been. It’s about having the courage to take a stand and putting your differences aside to work together. The characters are amazing, likable, and relatable, and you’ll love the dynamics between Plain Jane and Lady Caterina. It’s a humorous adventure story with enough tension to make for a satisfying and exciting read, with clear dialog and plenty of action. If there’s one thing any child who reads this should learn, it’s to make the best of what you have and understand that success isn’t handed to you on a plate – you have to work for it. Highly recommended reading for kids and I’d also love to see this made into a TV movie.
Plain Princess Jane by Jennifer Milne is a preteen adventure story. Princess Jane should be getting her magical gifts, but something has gone horribly wrong – her cat got them instead! While Lady Caterina is the perfect princess, Jane is just ordinary. Nothing can be done to reverse this mistake, but it must be kept quiet, or the Royal Family will lose everything. Things change when Jane has to go to the Royal Retreat, where she can’t let on that she has no magical gifts. Lady Caterina stows away with her, and the two must learn to work together to stop the truth coming out. But danger is lurking and Jane and Lady Caterina must save the Royal Kingdom. Will they succeed? Jane has to decide whether to tell the truth, and her answer will change the future forever.
Plain Princess Jane by Jennifer Milne is refreshingly unique and a lot of fun. This is a story about learning to love what and who you are rather than what you should have been. It’s about having the courage to take a stand and putting your differences aside to work together. The characters are amazing, likable, and relatable, and you’ll love the dynamics between Plain Jane and Lady Caterina. It’s a humorous adventure story with enough tension to make for a satisfying and exciting read, with clear dialog and plenty of action. If there’s one thing any child who reads this should learn, it’s to make the best of what you have and understand that success isn’t handed to you on a plate – you have to work for it. Highly recommended reading for kids and I’d also love to see this made into a TV movie.
Recommend this book:
Secret of the Sea Legumes
L J L
2025 Honorable Mention
118 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Yvonne Akinyi for Readers' Favorite
Secret of the Sea Legumes by L J L is a children’s book focusing on the importance of environmental conservation. Lila loves fishing with her grandfather, but on this particular day, she is very excited because Grandpa Finn will show her the sea legumes, the rarest of all sea creatures. While out on this fishing trip, Grandpa shares the secret behind the sea legumes that generations before him have protected while cautioning Lila that this information is a secret they must protect. Back in the village, Lila excitedly shares the secret with her friend Emma. Soon, a stranger who has taken an interest in Lila’s village approaches the villagers with a promise of great wealth and fame. Grandpa highly suspects this proposal and, upon investigation, sees the danger this deal poses to their village and the sea life around them.
L J L writes with a spirit of community, responsibility, and courage to stand up for what is right. Two messages -- take only what you need, and a promise of great wealth and fame comes at a steep cost -- are aptly captured in the themes that include environmental conservation, responsibility, greed, and the allure of false riches, beauty, and youth which the villagers believed, not realizing this would cause them problems in the future. The pacing follows a logical flow of events, and every chapter starts with an illustration that depicts the crux of the chapter. I liked this approach as the images anchored the story so that even if you consider only the illustrations, you will understand the story. Overall, Secret of the Sea Legumes is an enchanting story that children will learn from and enjoy.
Secret of the Sea Legumes by L J L is a children’s book focusing on the importance of environmental conservation. Lila loves fishing with her grandfather, but on this particular day, she is very excited because Grandpa Finn will show her the sea legumes, the rarest of all sea creatures. While out on this fishing trip, Grandpa shares the secret behind the sea legumes that generations before him have protected while cautioning Lila that this information is a secret they must protect. Back in the village, Lila excitedly shares the secret with her friend Emma. Soon, a stranger who has taken an interest in Lila’s village approaches the villagers with a promise of great wealth and fame. Grandpa highly suspects this proposal and, upon investigation, sees the danger this deal poses to their village and the sea life around them.
L J L writes with a spirit of community, responsibility, and courage to stand up for what is right. Two messages -- take only what you need, and a promise of great wealth and fame comes at a steep cost -- are aptly captured in the themes that include environmental conservation, responsibility, greed, and the allure of false riches, beauty, and youth which the villagers believed, not realizing this would cause them problems in the future. The pacing follows a logical flow of events, and every chapter starts with an illustration that depicts the crux of the chapter. I liked this approach as the images anchored the story so that even if you consider only the illustrations, you will understand the story. Overall, Secret of the Sea Legumes is an enchanting story that children will learn from and enjoy.
Recommend this book:
Princess Meesa
Kindra Westercamp
2025 Bronze Medal
36 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Kayleigh Perumal for Readers' Favorite
Princess Meesa by Dr. Kindra Westercamp is a wholesome children’s story about what it means to be a real princess. Young Meesa lives with her mother, father, and ‘copycat’ sister. Meesa’s sister wants to be just like her, but Meesa knows that being royal is not only about being fabulous or dressing well. She does her best to always embody the true traits of a princess so that her sister can learn from her example. But when Meesa’s sister wrenches her tiara off her head, Meesa loses her temper and the two fight over it. Knowing a real princess apologizes for mistakes, she does the right thing and reconciles with her. Younger children will especially enjoy reading about Meesa’s adventures with her sister, and discovering how to become more princess-like with Meesa and her sister’s help!
Dr. Kindra Westercamp’s characters teach us to dream big and be true to ourselves while remembering to treat others with consideration, particularly those who admire us. Princess Meesa is a wonderful character, and those who have younger siblings will see a lot of themselves in her relationship with her sister. I enjoyed reading about Meesa’s family dining on lizards and spiders as children’s stories often overly humanize their animal characters. This tidbit of accuracy (meerkats eat reptiles and insects) is informative and unique. Josh Heilaman’s illustrations also bring Meesa’s story to life, including an adorable drawing of a hand-crafted recipe for being a princess. I highly recommend Princess Meesa to children who may be finding it difficult to manage their relationships with their siblings, and to those who enjoy tales centered on the heartwarming dynamics of family life.
Princess Meesa by Dr. Kindra Westercamp is a wholesome children’s story about what it means to be a real princess. Young Meesa lives with her mother, father, and ‘copycat’ sister. Meesa’s sister wants to be just like her, but Meesa knows that being royal is not only about being fabulous or dressing well. She does her best to always embody the true traits of a princess so that her sister can learn from her example. But when Meesa’s sister wrenches her tiara off her head, Meesa loses her temper and the two fight over it. Knowing a real princess apologizes for mistakes, she does the right thing and reconciles with her. Younger children will especially enjoy reading about Meesa’s adventures with her sister, and discovering how to become more princess-like with Meesa and her sister’s help!
Dr. Kindra Westercamp’s characters teach us to dream big and be true to ourselves while remembering to treat others with consideration, particularly those who admire us. Princess Meesa is a wonderful character, and those who have younger siblings will see a lot of themselves in her relationship with her sister. I enjoyed reading about Meesa’s family dining on lizards and spiders as children’s stories often overly humanize their animal characters. This tidbit of accuracy (meerkats eat reptiles and insects) is informative and unique. Josh Heilaman’s illustrations also bring Meesa’s story to life, including an adorable drawing of a hand-crafted recipe for being a princess. I highly recommend Princess Meesa to children who may be finding it difficult to manage their relationships with their siblings, and to those who enjoy tales centered on the heartwarming dynamics of family life.
Recommend this book:
Santa Claws
A Christmas Tail for Cats
Denise Alicea, Sadiqa Akhter
2025 Silver Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Santa Claws: A Christmas Tail for Cats by Denise Alicea is a delightful holiday tale that will warm the hearts of cat lovers and Christmas enthusiasts alike. The story follows Apollo, a spirited feline whose real-life journey to find a forever home inspired this charming adventure. With a whimsical narrative and festive illustrations by Sadiqa Akhter, the book captures the season's magic from a cat’s perspective. Alicea skillfully combines humor and heart, weaving a tale that entertains and celebrates the joy and comfort pets bring to our lives. As Apollo embarks on his Christmas mission to spread cheer to cats everywhere, readers are treated to a cozy and uplifting story that reminds us of the importance of kindness and the spirit of giving.
The illustrations bring the story to life, adding to the charm and making it perfect for sharing with young readers during the holiday season. Santa Claws is a beautifully crafted story by Denise Alicea that serves as a festive reminder of the unconditional love pets provide, making it a perfect addition to any holiday bookshelf. Whether you’re reading it with children or simply looking for a heartwarming tale, Apollo’s adventure will leave a lasting impression. Santa Claws would also make an excellent addition to any elementary classroom. This charming story can encourage discussion about the importance of kindness in school, at home, and anywhere they visit. Children can use the post-reading time to draw Apollo or make finger puppets. With Apollo's many expressions, there's no end to the activities the book provides.
Santa Claws: A Christmas Tail for Cats by Denise Alicea is a delightful holiday tale that will warm the hearts of cat lovers and Christmas enthusiasts alike. The story follows Apollo, a spirited feline whose real-life journey to find a forever home inspired this charming adventure. With a whimsical narrative and festive illustrations by Sadiqa Akhter, the book captures the season's magic from a cat’s perspective. Alicea skillfully combines humor and heart, weaving a tale that entertains and celebrates the joy and comfort pets bring to our lives. As Apollo embarks on his Christmas mission to spread cheer to cats everywhere, readers are treated to a cozy and uplifting story that reminds us of the importance of kindness and the spirit of giving.
The illustrations bring the story to life, adding to the charm and making it perfect for sharing with young readers during the holiday season. Santa Claws is a beautifully crafted story by Denise Alicea that serves as a festive reminder of the unconditional love pets provide, making it a perfect addition to any holiday bookshelf. Whether you’re reading it with children or simply looking for a heartwarming tale, Apollo’s adventure will leave a lasting impression. Santa Claws would also make an excellent addition to any elementary classroom. This charming story can encourage discussion about the importance of kindness in school, at home, and anywhere they visit. Children can use the post-reading time to draw Apollo or make finger puppets. With Apollo's many expressions, there's no end to the activities the book provides.
Recommend this book:
Gabriel's Tooth Fairy Tale
Sharon Leya, Jennifer Saylor, Ivan Sulima
2025 Gold Medal
28 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
In Gabriel’s Tooth Fairy Tale by Sharon Leya and Jennifer Saylor, a boy named Gabriel, who enjoys building rockets in his makerspace and dreams of space travel, prepares for bed and places a lost tooth under his pillow. That night, he is awakened by the Tooth Fairy, whose jetpack is malfunctioning. Impressed by Gabriel’s workspace, she asks for his help. Gabriel successfully repairs the jetpack, and as thanks, the Tooth Fairy shrinks him so he can visit Tooth Fairy Land. There, he sees a daily parade and a coin orchard and learns that lost teeth become stars in the land’s sky. After returning home, Gabriel wakes up to find gold coins and a letter from the Tooth Fairy, who encourages him to keep dreaming and using his unique talents.
Gabriel’s Tooth Fairy Tale by Sharon Leya and Jennifer Saylor is a delightful and imaginative read, with crisp and playful writing and a storyline that cleverly depicts a child’s dreamer spirit. What absolutely elevates this already wonderful tale is Ivan Sulima’s artwork, which easily sits in the top ten of the hundreds of kid-lit books we've read. The illustrations are spectacularly rendered in a golden age style with a stunning, deep, jewel-toned palette that radiates texture, warmth, and wonder. Between the well-written and unique storytelling and the extraordinary artwork, this book is a real gem. It's engaging, beautifully told, and visually unforgettable, perfect for little readers with big dreams and even bigger imaginations. Very, very highly recommended.
In Gabriel’s Tooth Fairy Tale by Sharon Leya and Jennifer Saylor, a boy named Gabriel, who enjoys building rockets in his makerspace and dreams of space travel, prepares for bed and places a lost tooth under his pillow. That night, he is awakened by the Tooth Fairy, whose jetpack is malfunctioning. Impressed by Gabriel’s workspace, she asks for his help. Gabriel successfully repairs the jetpack, and as thanks, the Tooth Fairy shrinks him so he can visit Tooth Fairy Land. There, he sees a daily parade and a coin orchard and learns that lost teeth become stars in the land’s sky. After returning home, Gabriel wakes up to find gold coins and a letter from the Tooth Fairy, who encourages him to keep dreaming and using his unique talents.
Gabriel’s Tooth Fairy Tale by Sharon Leya and Jennifer Saylor is a delightful and imaginative read, with crisp and playful writing and a storyline that cleverly depicts a child’s dreamer spirit. What absolutely elevates this already wonderful tale is Ivan Sulima’s artwork, which easily sits in the top ten of the hundreds of kid-lit books we've read. The illustrations are spectacularly rendered in a golden age style with a stunning, deep, jewel-toned palette that radiates texture, warmth, and wonder. Between the well-written and unique storytelling and the extraordinary artwork, this book is a real gem. It's engaging, beautifully told, and visually unforgettable, perfect for little readers with big dreams and even bigger imaginations. Very, very highly recommended.
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