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Recommend this book:
Five Different Boo-Boos
Margaret Keefe
2026 Finalist
34 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Diana Helentjaris for Readers' Favorite
The little girl starring in Maggie Keefe’s picture book, 5 Different Boo-Boos, has a rough week. On Monday, she scratches her knee while tree climbing. On Tuesday, she falls off her scooter. For five days, it’s one minor injury after another. But the child in this book sets a good example. As a retired public health physician, my heart warmed to see her respond with age-appropriate actions. She wears a bike helmet, puts on her own band-aid, spends time with her dad, and knows that the minor boo-boos of childhood heal. She shows us what resilience and family support can look like. Vaughn Duck's illustrations in 5 Different Boo-Boos are lively and vibrant. The characters reflect multiple races and ethnicities.
Maggie Keefe has written 5 Different Boo-Boos entirely in rhyme. It is done in the little girl’s voice, using simple but charming language. Keefe keeps the message positive and very much in tune with the needs of picture-book-age children and their parents. For them, scrapes, bumps, and bruises are a familiar part of the landscape. Keefe confirms their ability to respond to this normal part of growing up. She also presents a multicultural world where fathers are actively involved with their children. The illustrations support the story. They are full of action as well as the pet dogs, stuffed toys, and playgrounds familiar to little ones. Children will be able to find reflections of their lives in the poetry and images. Those with little ones in the boo-boo age range will appreciate having Maggie Keefe’s 5 Different Boo-Boos to share with them.
The little girl starring in Maggie Keefe’s picture book, 5 Different Boo-Boos, has a rough week. On Monday, she scratches her knee while tree climbing. On Tuesday, she falls off her scooter. For five days, it’s one minor injury after another. But the child in this book sets a good example. As a retired public health physician, my heart warmed to see her respond with age-appropriate actions. She wears a bike helmet, puts on her own band-aid, spends time with her dad, and knows that the minor boo-boos of childhood heal. She shows us what resilience and family support can look like. Vaughn Duck's illustrations in 5 Different Boo-Boos are lively and vibrant. The characters reflect multiple races and ethnicities.
Maggie Keefe has written 5 Different Boo-Boos entirely in rhyme. It is done in the little girl’s voice, using simple but charming language. Keefe keeps the message positive and very much in tune with the needs of picture-book-age children and their parents. For them, scrapes, bumps, and bruises are a familiar part of the landscape. Keefe confirms their ability to respond to this normal part of growing up. She also presents a multicultural world where fathers are actively involved with their children. The illustrations support the story. They are full of action as well as the pet dogs, stuffed toys, and playgrounds familiar to little ones. Children will be able to find reflections of their lives in the poetry and images. Those with little ones in the boo-boo age range will appreciate having Maggie Keefe’s 5 Different Boo-Boos to share with them.
Recommend this book:
Leon the Chameleon
Sofia Elena Politano
2026 Honorable Mention
31 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
Have you ever had fun changing your clothes over and over again? Well, in Leon the Chameleon by Sofia Elena Politano, the lizard at the heart of the story is basically doing just that. He's a chameleon named Leon who enjoys changing his colors far more often than other chameleons do. Most chameleons change color to stay safe, but Leon does it because he enjoys expressing himself. Leon's parents don't quite understand him, so he sets off on his own. As the months pass, he spends his days changing colors and exploring the world around him. But one day, something feels different. Leon starts struggling to find a place where he truly belongs. Can Leon return home and embrace his true colors?
I really enjoyed Leon the Chameleon by Sofia Elena Politano. It's a gentle story about being true to yourself. As an educator, I think many kids would relate to Leon, making this a wonderful book for discussions about belonging and being yourself. Students could create their own colorful chameleon or write poems about what makes them special. The rhyming text flows naturally, keeping children engaged and helping them recognize word patterns. Vivien Sárkány's illustrations are beautiful. The colors are soft and soothing, while the imaginative details bring Leon's world to life. Readers looking for a picture book about self-discovery, belonging, or self-confidence will want to pick up a copy. It's an excellent choice for classrooms, libraries, and families looking for a story that encourages children to embrace who they are.
Have you ever had fun changing your clothes over and over again? Well, in Leon the Chameleon by Sofia Elena Politano, the lizard at the heart of the story is basically doing just that. He's a chameleon named Leon who enjoys changing his colors far more often than other chameleons do. Most chameleons change color to stay safe, but Leon does it because he enjoys expressing himself. Leon's parents don't quite understand him, so he sets off on his own. As the months pass, he spends his days changing colors and exploring the world around him. But one day, something feels different. Leon starts struggling to find a place where he truly belongs. Can Leon return home and embrace his true colors?
I really enjoyed Leon the Chameleon by Sofia Elena Politano. It's a gentle story about being true to yourself. As an educator, I think many kids would relate to Leon, making this a wonderful book for discussions about belonging and being yourself. Students could create their own colorful chameleon or write poems about what makes them special. The rhyming text flows naturally, keeping children engaged and helping them recognize word patterns. Vivien Sárkány's illustrations are beautiful. The colors are soft and soothing, while the imaginative details bring Leon's world to life. Readers looking for a picture book about self-discovery, belonging, or self-confidence will want to pick up a copy. It's an excellent choice for classrooms, libraries, and families looking for a story that encourages children to embrace who they are.
Recommend this book:
Jagger Finds his Forever Home
The Adventures of Jagger the Pig
Tracie Tachovsky, Savannah Reifers
2026 Bronze Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Jenny Alexander for Readers' Favorite
The Adventures of Jagger the Pig: Jagger Finds His Forever Home by Tracie Tachovsky is a rhyming children’s story about a boy named Jarett. He has a dream to run a farm one day with lots of animals. Even as a boy, he starts working toward that dream, slowly but surely. Through his hard work, he saves up enough to buy his first animal, a pig. The remainder of the story focuses on the pig and the pig’s process of becoming acclimatized to his new home. He has a few adventures along the way. One of those adventures helps the boy discover the perfect name for his beloved animal. The story is completed by sweet illustrations by Savannah Reifers.
Jagger Finds His Forever Home is a story that both adults and children will enjoy. Tracie Tachovsky does a great job of reminding readers that dreams don’t come true automatically. They require hard work. This is an important lesson for children and adults alike. It teaches readers responsibility – a much-needed quality in today’s world. Through this story, Tachovsky imparts other valuable lessons. These lessons are that dreams often start small and that they require focus. Jarett demonstrates this well. The rhymes throughout add a touch of charm, and the thoughtful illustrations bring the story to life. Anyone unsure how to work toward their big dreams will appreciate the message in this book and return to it for inspiration. Readers who like heartwarming rhyming stories about animals in a children’s book will also enjoy it.
The Adventures of Jagger the Pig: Jagger Finds His Forever Home by Tracie Tachovsky is a rhyming children’s story about a boy named Jarett. He has a dream to run a farm one day with lots of animals. Even as a boy, he starts working toward that dream, slowly but surely. Through his hard work, he saves up enough to buy his first animal, a pig. The remainder of the story focuses on the pig and the pig’s process of becoming acclimatized to his new home. He has a few adventures along the way. One of those adventures helps the boy discover the perfect name for his beloved animal. The story is completed by sweet illustrations by Savannah Reifers.
Jagger Finds His Forever Home is a story that both adults and children will enjoy. Tracie Tachovsky does a great job of reminding readers that dreams don’t come true automatically. They require hard work. This is an important lesson for children and adults alike. It teaches readers responsibility – a much-needed quality in today’s world. Through this story, Tachovsky imparts other valuable lessons. These lessons are that dreams often start small and that they require focus. Jarett demonstrates this well. The rhymes throughout add a touch of charm, and the thoughtful illustrations bring the story to life. Anyone unsure how to work toward their big dreams will appreciate the message in this book and return to it for inspiration. Readers who like heartwarming rhyming stories about animals in a children’s book will also enjoy it.
Recommend this book:
Best Chef in Town
A Children’s Book Cooking Adventure about Teamwork and Fair Play
Lori Rotter
2026 Silver Medal
34 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Join Chef Romi Rabbit on one of her cooking adventures with Lori Rotter's Best Chef in Town. When Chef Romi Rabbit learns about a cooking show over the hill, she is determined to participate and win the contest by cooking the best dinner, and be hailed by everyone as the best chef in town. With her Sous Chef Sam, Romi arrives at the contest. But time is running out, and Romi still hasn't selected a dish to cook. Meanwhile, Sam is panicking seeing Romi so nonchalant, and he takes matters into his own hands to cook the meal. However, things don't go according to plan, and now, Romi has run out of ideas. Can Sam save the day? Will Romi appreciate Sam and give him the credit he deserves?
We must always put teamwork above our desire for fame and recognition. A proud rabbit learns this lesson in Best Chef in Town. Full of humor, heart, and charm, this picture book will delight young readers and their parents alike. With colorful illustrations by Vaughan Duck, author Lori Rotter presents readers with an uplifting tale about teamwork and friendship, told through engaging rhymes. This book entertains you from start to finish. Children will be captivated by the artwork, rhymes, and the feel-good storytelling. The two main characters, Romi and Sam, couldn't be more different. Readers will find it easy to root for Sam to get the recognition he deserves for his work. This picture book offers the whole package for kids!
Join Chef Romi Rabbit on one of her cooking adventures with Lori Rotter's Best Chef in Town. When Chef Romi Rabbit learns about a cooking show over the hill, she is determined to participate and win the contest by cooking the best dinner, and be hailed by everyone as the best chef in town. With her Sous Chef Sam, Romi arrives at the contest. But time is running out, and Romi still hasn't selected a dish to cook. Meanwhile, Sam is panicking seeing Romi so nonchalant, and he takes matters into his own hands to cook the meal. However, things don't go according to plan, and now, Romi has run out of ideas. Can Sam save the day? Will Romi appreciate Sam and give him the credit he deserves?
We must always put teamwork above our desire for fame and recognition. A proud rabbit learns this lesson in Best Chef in Town. Full of humor, heart, and charm, this picture book will delight young readers and their parents alike. With colorful illustrations by Vaughan Duck, author Lori Rotter presents readers with an uplifting tale about teamwork and friendship, told through engaging rhymes. This book entertains you from start to finish. Children will be captivated by the artwork, rhymes, and the feel-good storytelling. The two main characters, Romi and Sam, couldn't be more different. Readers will find it easy to root for Sam to get the recognition he deserves for his work. This picture book offers the whole package for kids!
Recommend this book:
Luna’s Magic
A Story About Trying New Foods
Lida Wyatt
2026 Gold Medal
31 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
Inspiring young readers to be a bit braver—especially at the dinner table—Luna's Magic: A Story About Trying New Foods by Lida Wyatt is a charming tale about embracing healthier eating habits with an open mind and curious taste buds. It begins by introducing readers to Luna, a sweet little witch whose birthday party includes her favorite foods, but they are pretty plain and predictable. After a back-and-forth about her favorite beige foods and the colorful suggestions from her friend, Cauldron, and listening to her other friends telling her how much healthier food choices will help them, she’s convinced to try some new foods. Then she experiences a magical food adventure of sorts, and quickly discovers that trying new, healthier foods can be a wonderful and enjoyable experience. This whimsical celebration comes to life through Moran Reudor's colorful and enchanting illustrations. With its positive message and encouragement to try foods, this book proves that even the pickiest eaters can find a little magic in something new.
Luna's Magic: A Story About Trying New Foods by Lida Wyatt gently encourages children who are hesitant to try new or healthy foods to take that brave first bite. It has just the right amount of magic and is written in an easy-to-follow way that is certain to keep children engaged. As a regular reader and an educator, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I could easily see it being used during a nutrition or health week, sparking classroom and at-home discussions about food habits. Her friend, Cauldron, is her biggest cheerleader. He persuaded her to try new foods, demonstrating to readers the power of positive friendship—a concept that children can relate to, and my favorite theme in the story. This book is good for the mind, heart, and body. The illustrations are endearing, reminding me of books from when I was a child, and they perfectly match the playfulness, words, and message. Uplifting and fun, this story makes trying something new—maybe even broccoli—feel like a magical experience.
Inspiring young readers to be a bit braver—especially at the dinner table—Luna's Magic: A Story About Trying New Foods by Lida Wyatt is a charming tale about embracing healthier eating habits with an open mind and curious taste buds. It begins by introducing readers to Luna, a sweet little witch whose birthday party includes her favorite foods, but they are pretty plain and predictable. After a back-and-forth about her favorite beige foods and the colorful suggestions from her friend, Cauldron, and listening to her other friends telling her how much healthier food choices will help them, she’s convinced to try some new foods. Then she experiences a magical food adventure of sorts, and quickly discovers that trying new, healthier foods can be a wonderful and enjoyable experience. This whimsical celebration comes to life through Moran Reudor's colorful and enchanting illustrations. With its positive message and encouragement to try foods, this book proves that even the pickiest eaters can find a little magic in something new.
Luna's Magic: A Story About Trying New Foods by Lida Wyatt gently encourages children who are hesitant to try new or healthy foods to take that brave first bite. It has just the right amount of magic and is written in an easy-to-follow way that is certain to keep children engaged. As a regular reader and an educator, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I could easily see it being used during a nutrition or health week, sparking classroom and at-home discussions about food habits. Her friend, Cauldron, is her biggest cheerleader. He persuaded her to try new foods, demonstrating to readers the power of positive friendship—a concept that children can relate to, and my favorite theme in the story. This book is good for the mind, heart, and body. The illustrations are endearing, reminding me of books from when I was a child, and they perfectly match the playfulness, words, and message. Uplifting and fun, this story makes trying something new—maybe even broccoli—feel like a magical experience.
Recommend this book:
Quack Along with Zack, Mack, and Jack
Jane Francis
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
Zach, Mack, and Jack are mallard ducks that live on Farmer Hobbletick’s farm. Jane Francis shares their adventure in Quack Along with Zack, Mack, and Jack. This is a fun book to read with a heartwarming story. As your child enjoys the tale, they will be thrilled by the adventure of the day. The three mallards are joined in the pond by two ruddy ducks. First, the mallards have to decide if they will be friends with the new ducks or chase them away. The mallards decide the ruddy ducks are safe and they become friends. Lurking at the shore of the pond is a fox and the smaller ruddy duck is stuck in the weeds. Will the fox eat the unfortunate duck? The mallards and the ruddy ducks unite against the danger. See what happens when friends stick together even against a larger bully.
Ducks love to quack and so will your children as they follow Quack Along with Zack, Mack, and Jack. Jane Francis intends that children quack aloud as they read the book or have the book read to them. It won’t take much prodding for a parent to have their children join in the quacking. Jane’s style of writing is designed for younger children yet it teaches some major life lessons using many rhymes. Help your child learn the importance of sharing and making friends. Teach them to be cautious, but remind them that if friends stick together they can overcome any threat. Bullies tend to pick on the lonely and to leave groups alone. There is safety in numbers. This book will hold your child’s attention and make learning fun.
Zach, Mack, and Jack are mallard ducks that live on Farmer Hobbletick’s farm. Jane Francis shares their adventure in Quack Along with Zack, Mack, and Jack. This is a fun book to read with a heartwarming story. As your child enjoys the tale, they will be thrilled by the adventure of the day. The three mallards are joined in the pond by two ruddy ducks. First, the mallards have to decide if they will be friends with the new ducks or chase them away. The mallards decide the ruddy ducks are safe and they become friends. Lurking at the shore of the pond is a fox and the smaller ruddy duck is stuck in the weeds. Will the fox eat the unfortunate duck? The mallards and the ruddy ducks unite against the danger. See what happens when friends stick together even against a larger bully.
Ducks love to quack and so will your children as they follow Quack Along with Zack, Mack, and Jack. Jane Francis intends that children quack aloud as they read the book or have the book read to them. It won’t take much prodding for a parent to have their children join in the quacking. Jane’s style of writing is designed for younger children yet it teaches some major life lessons using many rhymes. Help your child learn the importance of sharing and making friends. Teach them to be cautious, but remind them that if friends stick together they can overcome any threat. Bullies tend to pick on the lonely and to leave groups alone. There is safety in numbers. This book will hold your child’s attention and make learning fun.
Recommend this book:
Boo Bear's Light
An A B C Rhyming Picture Book for Children (Little Library Treasures)
Catherine Ann Russell, Jessica Robin Harkey
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Kristine Zimmerman for Readers' Favorite
Boo Bear's Light: an ABC Adventure by Catherine Ann Russell features the alphabet in a fun story. Boo Bear's Mama has just made a delicious apple cake, but where is Boo Bear? Boo Bear is cozied up in a tree, reading a book. When he hears his Mama call for him, he heads down the tree. He happens upon a little bug named Jack. The firefly has injured his wing and doesn't know how he will get home. Boo Bear's Mama and Papa are waiting for him. What will Boo Bear do? Will he be able to help Jack? Each alphabet letter is highlighted with a word from the rhyming verse. In addition, a hidden letter can be found on each page.
Catherine Ann Russell has written a sweet little adventure story that uniquely incorporates the alphabet in each rhyming verse. Boo Bear's Light starts with the traditional A is for Apple but then uses a variety of words, not just nouns, for the remaining letters. Jessica Robin Harkey's watercolor illustrations engage the young reader right away. There are some delightful details, especially when the bears are enjoying their cake with some uninvited guests. The hidden letters are cleverly disguised in the forest surroundings. Alphabet books can often be repetitive, so it is nice to read a story that includes some interesting words, which will increase a child's vocabulary. Catherine Ann Russell has created a thoughtful and caring character in Boo Bear. Boo Bear's Light: An ABC Adventure highlights the alphabet in an amusing tale.
Boo Bear's Light: an ABC Adventure by Catherine Ann Russell features the alphabet in a fun story. Boo Bear's Mama has just made a delicious apple cake, but where is Boo Bear? Boo Bear is cozied up in a tree, reading a book. When he hears his Mama call for him, he heads down the tree. He happens upon a little bug named Jack. The firefly has injured his wing and doesn't know how he will get home. Boo Bear's Mama and Papa are waiting for him. What will Boo Bear do? Will he be able to help Jack? Each alphabet letter is highlighted with a word from the rhyming verse. In addition, a hidden letter can be found on each page.
Catherine Ann Russell has written a sweet little adventure story that uniquely incorporates the alphabet in each rhyming verse. Boo Bear's Light starts with the traditional A is for Apple but then uses a variety of words, not just nouns, for the remaining letters. Jessica Robin Harkey's watercolor illustrations engage the young reader right away. There are some delightful details, especially when the bears are enjoying their cake with some uninvited guests. The hidden letters are cleverly disguised in the forest surroundings. Alphabet books can often be repetitive, so it is nice to read a story that includes some interesting words, which will increase a child's vocabulary. Catherine Ann Russell has created a thoughtful and caring character in Boo Bear. Boo Bear's Light: An ABC Adventure highlights the alphabet in an amusing tale.
Recommend this book:
Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap
A Laugh-Out-Loud Children's Farm Animal Adventure About Dancing, Friendship, and One Unexpected Smelly Noise!
Heidi Brooks
2025 Bronze Medal
34 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap by Heidi Brooks is a joyful romp through the barnyard, featuring a cow with a knack for moonwalking and a heart full of rhythm. We’re with Missy Moo, the life of the farm, who spends her time dazzling her fellow animals with her slick dance moves. But when an accidental fart erupts during her daily stroll, her confidence takes a hit as her friends scatter in shock and disgust. Mortified and lonely, Missy Moo hides away, sure that her days of barnyard fame are over. However, a group of empathetic animals, including a wise old cat and a bashful owl, share their tales of awkward moments, teaching Missy that friendship means loving each other through every little mishap, no matter how smelly. With playful language and hilarious illustrations by Zeeshan Shahid, this heartwarming tale delivers laughs, self-acceptance, and the timeless message that everyone farts sometimes, even moonwalking cows.
Author Heidi Brooks has a real knack for getting on the same level as her target audience, but in such a warm way that never feels like they’re being talked down to. This keen eye for inclusive and enthusiastic language has resulted in a hilarious and heartwarming story that makes children giggle while gently teaching empathy and self-acceptance. Missy Moo is such a lovable central character and a real active participant in her story, who doesn’t just let things happen around her. Zeeshan Shahid’s vibrant illustrations bring the barnyard to life with clear emotional cues for readers who need the pictures to help give them vital context for the characters’ inner feelings. It’s the perfect read-aloud book for parents, but also for educators who are looking to pair humor with meaningful life lessons, and I could see it forming the basis of some great classroom and playgroup sessions to explore important messages dynamically. Overall, I would certainly recommend Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap as an unapologetically silly and wonderfully sweet work of farmyard fun for young readers.
Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap by Heidi Brooks is a joyful romp through the barnyard, featuring a cow with a knack for moonwalking and a heart full of rhythm. We’re with Missy Moo, the life of the farm, who spends her time dazzling her fellow animals with her slick dance moves. But when an accidental fart erupts during her daily stroll, her confidence takes a hit as her friends scatter in shock and disgust. Mortified and lonely, Missy Moo hides away, sure that her days of barnyard fame are over. However, a group of empathetic animals, including a wise old cat and a bashful owl, share their tales of awkward moments, teaching Missy that friendship means loving each other through every little mishap, no matter how smelly. With playful language and hilarious illustrations by Zeeshan Shahid, this heartwarming tale delivers laughs, self-acceptance, and the timeless message that everyone farts sometimes, even moonwalking cows.
Author Heidi Brooks has a real knack for getting on the same level as her target audience, but in such a warm way that never feels like they’re being talked down to. This keen eye for inclusive and enthusiastic language has resulted in a hilarious and heartwarming story that makes children giggle while gently teaching empathy and self-acceptance. Missy Moo is such a lovable central character and a real active participant in her story, who doesn’t just let things happen around her. Zeeshan Shahid’s vibrant illustrations bring the barnyard to life with clear emotional cues for readers who need the pictures to help give them vital context for the characters’ inner feelings. It’s the perfect read-aloud book for parents, but also for educators who are looking to pair humor with meaningful life lessons, and I could see it forming the basis of some great classroom and playgroup sessions to explore important messages dynamically. Overall, I would certainly recommend Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap as an unapologetically silly and wonderfully sweet work of farmyard fun for young readers.
Recommend this book:
Count to 20 with the Silly Dinosaurs
Bonnie Kostan, Adept Content Solutions, Jon Kalvin
2025 Silver Medal
43 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs by Bonnie Kostan is a colorful and cheerful counting book that introduces young readers to numbers 1 through 20 through the antics of playful prehistoric creatures. Each page highlights a new number, paired with simple text and delightful illustrations that show dinosaurs engaging in a wide variety of silly activities like going to the beach, joining a rock band, attending a birthday party, and more. The repetition of structure helps reinforce number recognition, while the vibrant scenes create visual interest and energy. The friendly, smiling dinosaurs keep the tone lighthearted and engaging, ensuring that little learners stay interested from start to finish. Whether they’re counting two dinosaurs swimming in the sea or twenty dinosaurs saying goodnight, young readers are encouraged to participate by counting along with the pictures.
As an educator, I found Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs by Bonnie Kostan to be an inviting and valuable resource for supporting early numeracy skills. The illustrations by Jon Kalvin are fun and whimsical without being visually overwhelming, allowing children to match each number to the correct quantity easily. The consistent format and bold, clear numbers make it especially accessible to preschoolers just beginning to grasp numerical concepts and kindergarteners learning to read. This book would work beautifully as a read-aloud during circle time, with natural pauses to count aloud as a group. It also offers opportunities for follow-up activities like drawing, physical counting games, or creating your own silly dinosaur scenarios. With its appealing theme, engaging artwork, and educational value, Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs is a wonderful addition to any home, classroom, or early childhood math library. It brings energy and fun to foundational learning in a way that children will appreciate.
Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs by Bonnie Kostan is a colorful and cheerful counting book that introduces young readers to numbers 1 through 20 through the antics of playful prehistoric creatures. Each page highlights a new number, paired with simple text and delightful illustrations that show dinosaurs engaging in a wide variety of silly activities like going to the beach, joining a rock band, attending a birthday party, and more. The repetition of structure helps reinforce number recognition, while the vibrant scenes create visual interest and energy. The friendly, smiling dinosaurs keep the tone lighthearted and engaging, ensuring that little learners stay interested from start to finish. Whether they’re counting two dinosaurs swimming in the sea or twenty dinosaurs saying goodnight, young readers are encouraged to participate by counting along with the pictures.
As an educator, I found Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs by Bonnie Kostan to be an inviting and valuable resource for supporting early numeracy skills. The illustrations by Jon Kalvin are fun and whimsical without being visually overwhelming, allowing children to match each number to the correct quantity easily. The consistent format and bold, clear numbers make it especially accessible to preschoolers just beginning to grasp numerical concepts and kindergarteners learning to read. This book would work beautifully as a read-aloud during circle time, with natural pauses to count aloud as a group. It also offers opportunities for follow-up activities like drawing, physical counting games, or creating your own silly dinosaur scenarios. With its appealing theme, engaging artwork, and educational value, Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs is a wonderful addition to any home, classroom, or early childhood math library. It brings energy and fun to foundational learning in a way that children will appreciate.
Recommend this book:
Happy Bumble Bee
Ngoc Khanh Schmidt
2025 Gold Medal
40 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Melinda Facal for Readers' Favorite
Happy Bumble Bee is a delightful children’s picture book written and illustrated by Ngoc K. Schmidt. Young readers follow a charming bee as he goes joyfully about his day. From a shower in the morning, visiting flowers during the day, and dealing with the ever-changing weather, this little bee has a full day. Vibrant and cheerful illustrations enhance the upbeat and positive tone of this engaging story. Children will enjoy the bee’s adventures as he works together with butterflies to pollinate flowers. Readers of all ages will have fun seeing the world from the bee’s perspective as he seeks shelter from storms or basks in the sun. Interesting educational facts about the importance of bees are included along with the vital contributions bees make to the environment.
Happy Bumble Bee by Ngoc K. Schmidt presents the work of a bee in a fun and interesting way. This lively bee’s daily activities and adventures will likely spark discussions about bees' unique role in our environment. As the bee interacts with flowers and butterflies, children will also learn about nature's interconnectedness and pollinators' significant work. Parents, teachers, and caregivers will find this book to be a helpful beginning resource in teaching youngsters about the fascinating world of bees. Bright and colorful illustrations throughout vividly bring the natural world to life. This sweet story portrays bees as helpful and curious creatures, who work tirelessly all day to help maintain balance in our ecosystem. This is a highly recommended and enjoyable read.
Happy Bumble Bee is a delightful children’s picture book written and illustrated by Ngoc K. Schmidt. Young readers follow a charming bee as he goes joyfully about his day. From a shower in the morning, visiting flowers during the day, and dealing with the ever-changing weather, this little bee has a full day. Vibrant and cheerful illustrations enhance the upbeat and positive tone of this engaging story. Children will enjoy the bee’s adventures as he works together with butterflies to pollinate flowers. Readers of all ages will have fun seeing the world from the bee’s perspective as he seeks shelter from storms or basks in the sun. Interesting educational facts about the importance of bees are included along with the vital contributions bees make to the environment.
Happy Bumble Bee by Ngoc K. Schmidt presents the work of a bee in a fun and interesting way. This lively bee’s daily activities and adventures will likely spark discussions about bees' unique role in our environment. As the bee interacts with flowers and butterflies, children will also learn about nature's interconnectedness and pollinators' significant work. Parents, teachers, and caregivers will find this book to be a helpful beginning resource in teaching youngsters about the fascinating world of bees. Bright and colorful illustrations throughout vividly bring the natural world to life. This sweet story portrays bees as helpful and curious creatures, who work tirelessly all day to help maintain balance in our ecosystem. This is a highly recommended and enjoyable read.
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