Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Ella McBella in the Dark, written by Laura Pells and illustrated by Peter Trimarco, is a children's book that follows the titular character as she faces her biggest fear. Ella is a happy, active child who enjoys the outdoors. She rides her bike to the park after school where she plays and immerses herself in the surrounding nature. As it comes close to the time when Ella needs to return home, she begins to feel anxiety, knowing that the setting sun is a precursor to her having to go to bed. She immediately fears the shadows that start to form as she races home, distracted momentarily by a wonderful dinner. When the lights are out, Ella is confronted by the sights and sounds that give rise to her fear of the dark, which ultimately leads to her seeing what it all really is and creating a safe space for herself to make each new bedtime less scary.

There are so many reasons why I love Ella McBella in the Dark, even as an adult. Laura Pells taps into an intense fear I suffered from myself as a child, which was so great that before even reaching the first grade I wore a sleeping mask to avoid “seeing” whatever was or was not there. Like Ella, I had to take steps to overcome this on my own, which is where this book really stands out in the crowded field of children's literature. We know that Ella obviously does not live by herself, as her mom snuggles her while reading Ella a bedtime story. But after the lights are out, there are no parents who swoop in and assure Ella it's all fine. There's no soothing. There's just Ella, her teddy bears, and her fear. Ella endeavors to find other things to divert her attention. She turns on lights and finds comfort in an environment she crafts on her own. The lyrical, rhythmic narrative is fun and engaging, and Peter Trimarco brings it all to life with sublime, full-color hand-drawn artistry. All of these brilliant elements come together perfectly to turn Ella, her fear, and her small acts of courage into a fantastic read. Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Do you frequently get distracted and end up doing something other than what you should be doing? Then you forget what you were supposed to do? And you end up on another tangent and the day just keeps on getting more and more complicated and disorganized? That’s Riley’s problem. She’s a very energetic, creative young lady and wants to be busy at all times, only her busy-ness is what leads her away from the tasks she should be doing. So, on her first day of school, when she should be organized with her clothes ready and everything where it should be, she becomes distracted yet again and ends up wearing one shoe, one boot, mismatched socks, and an ugly top. Her friends comment on her wardrobe and she’s feeling rather uncomfortable about her choice of clothes. So, when her new teacher hands all the students a list of things they must do and check off the things as they’ve done them, Riley at first ignores the list and wanders around the classroom, looking at books, drawing a picture, anything and everything except what she should be doing. At some point, she addresses the list and is amazed at how organizational methods help her get her jobs done when they should be done and she feels good about herself and her accomplishments. This list-thing is a new superpower, one that she is going to put to good use.

June Akers's early chapter book, Riley Madison Discovers the Superpower of a List, is a clever way to introduce young readers to a better way to organize their time. Being super organized doesn’t come easily for everyone; it certainly isn’t easy for Riley. But the teacher’s insistence on following a list and reaching a goal, which is the best reward, teaches Riley a valuable lesson in how to organize one’s time and still have fun. The plot develops with a lot of humor as Riley does some amazingly silly things. Her brain is obviously over-active; she’s definitely a high achiever. Only, she doesn’t know where to draw the line and she wants desperately to do everything all at once. Enter the teacher’s solution: the list. And, quite remarkably, Riley has a new superpower. This is a fun way to help overactive, high achievers organize their lives. After all, no one wants to be embarrassed by something as simple as a mismatched wardrobe like Riley wore on her first day to school.

Reviewed by Jon Michael Miller for Readers' Favorite

The Day the Screens Stood Still written by R.L. Ullman and illustrated fabulously by Buhmi Loupito is a book all middle grade kids should read—and parents too. With all the blessings home computing has brought us, some bad things have come along. Like taking us away from the world and the people around us. This splendid picture book brings the point home. Sammy, a bright little boy, is fixated on the screen of his laptop, streaming cat videos (he has a dog named Howie but prefers looking at cats), playing games, and taking selfies—he’s really a cute kid and the selfies are great. Then, strangely, the screen goes off, not only for him but for his parents. But only for them, not their neighbors.

Then they freak out (like we all do when it happens to us). R.L. Ullman suggests the sadness of our screen dependence by showing the advantages of off-screen time in bringing us together with our natural surroundings, with our families and friends, and with people in need. It’s a well-taught lesson. Bhumi Loupito’s drawings are superbly eye-catching, especially Sammy’s many selfies. My favorite is Howie the dog’s hideout at the end. There are words that will stretch kids’ vocabulary too: permanent, freak-out, twitched, whiz, notice, epic, realized, and unexpected. But the best part is the message that the unexpected turns in life can bring new things into our awareness and that much enjoyment in life happens in places other than the internet. The Day the Screens Stood Still by R. L. Ullman and Buhmi Loupito teaches lessons not only kids but many adults should learn.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Believe it or not, Christmas trees have feelings, too. Calvin grew up on a Christmas tree farm. He was supposed to be a Christmas tree like all the other trees around him, only he didn’t really grow fast enough. When Christmas came and all the other trees were chosen, Calvin was sad about being left behind. He so desperately wanted to be a Christmas tree and he didn’t appreciate the taunting and teasing he received from the other Christmas trees. Finally, on Christmas Eve, the owner and his wife brought Calvin to the Christmas tree store along with the last of the Christmas trees. He stood up as tall and as proud as he could, but no one chose him. A storm blew up and knocked him over, so the owner drove off, leaving Calvin all alone, half-buried in snow. That is, until a little boy had his father stop the car to take a look at poor Calvin. As the boy pleaded his case to his father, he firmly declared, “No Christmas tree should be alone on Christmas.” But that wasn’t the end of Calvin’s story; the events of Christmas Eve would make him a legend.

Stephen G. Bowling’s picture book story, Calvin the Christmas Tree: The Greatest Christmas Tree of All, is a charming story for young readers that emphasizes some of the key elements of the meaning of Christmas, most particularly that no one, not even a Christmas tree, should be alone. The story is told in simple language so a young reader can follow along and perhaps even read the story themselves. The colorful illustrations help carry the story forward. The author emphasizes the littlest tree’s (Calvin’s) determination to be a Christmas tree and how he never really did give up hope, even when he was half buried and deserted in a snowstorm. Calvin’s story is a journey of determination and trying to do your best in spite of all the odds stacked up against you. I found this story touching and heartwarming and I would certainly want to share it with younger members of the family every Christmas. Beautifully told and the illustrations are classic – this book is a keepsake.

Reviewed by Francis Mont for Readers' Favorite

The S.O.U.R.C.E. by Suzanna L. Royse is an inspiring story aimed at children and their parents. The target group falls between the ages of 5 and 11 and the vocabulary is aimed at that audience, but the sentiments expressed should move all readers, regardless of age. The theme of the book is the massive pollution of the world’s oceans by millions of tons of plastic garbage and abandoned fishing nets that form huge floating islands on every ocean on the planet, trapping, maiming, and killing hundreds of thousands of aquatic animals. The plot involves a group of characters that include two young children, an adult reporter, a scientist, and several animals: a sea lion, three whales, a sea otter, two dolphins, and a pelican. They are aided by two magical creatures who protect and guide them in spreading a message of awareness in the world, primarily among children and their parents. The book ends with internet links to articles containing more information.

The S.O.U.R.C.E. by Suzanna L. Royse is an educational tale in the guise of a highly entertaining adventure story that should appeal to any age group. However, the graphic description of the stark reality should bring tears to any readers’ eyes and a determination to reduce their footprint by recycling and curbing pollution. Excellent illustrations by Jo Gershman underline the message of both hope and fear over what is happening to the oceans and their wildlife denizens. It is a very well-written and timely story that will increase awareness and determination, motivating readers to monitor their behavior and reduce their contribution to the mostly unknown scope of environmental disasters happening to our oceans. I highly recommend it to all parents who want to raise their kids as conscientious citizens of the world.

Reviewed by Astrid Iustulin for Readers' Favorite

Secret of the Forest is the second volume written by M. R. Neer on Junah Cat and his path to knowledge. After our hero discovered the secret of the garden in the first installment of the series, he broadens the perspective with his next adventure. This time, Junah Cat and his friend Mo Mouse, accompanied by Philip Fox, go to the forest to discover its secret. Along the way, they meet many extraordinary animals such as deers, an owl, a bear, and also Mother Tree, the mother of all other trees in the forest. Each stage of the journey teaches a lesson that helps Junah Cat to come closer to the secret. But will he be able to find it out in the end?

I have always thought that children should understand the importance of knowledge. Yet, I did not imagine a book explaining this concept existed before I read Secret of the Forest. I am grateful to M. R. Neer for this work because there is so much wisdom in many passages and sentences that I confess I often paused while reading. Meditating on a children's book is something that has never happened to me, yet it was necessary because of the depth and value it contains. Junah Cat's journey into the forest is an excellent opportunity to explain concepts that help kids live a fulfilled and happy life. I encourage parents to discuss Secret of the Forest with their children and to read it more than once. Junah Cat's discovery is so precious that it does not have to be wasted.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

If you love tales of dragons, dolphins, and whales, grab a copy of Sarah and the Dragons by Michael R. Stern. Sarah is a precocious young girl with a mind full of curiosity and an adventurous spirit. After getting lost in a storm, Sarah's life changes forever when she finds herself rescued by two dragons named Trevor and Sebastian. Sarah feels an instant connection with the dragons, and the three of them form a strong bond of friendship. As she introduces the dragons to the townsfolk of Brightlights, she feels a deep longing. Sarah wishes for the gift of sight. To fulfill her wish, her parents, Trevor and Sebastian, alongside the three eccentric cousins -- Margaret, Maggie, and Meg -- undertake a journey to the Dragon Island where the leader of the dragons, Silveria, awaits with her brood.

Sarah and the Dragons is a heartwarming adventure tale for children and adults alike as it touches upon the universal themes of love, friendship, family, and empathy. The characters are colorful with distinguishable quirks. You can't help but adore the relationship between Sarah, Trevor, and Sebastian. The three cousins and Mayor Fruddy Duddy also provide their share of entertainment. Author Michael R. Stern crafts a world that is inspired and wondrous and deftly captures a sense of childlike wonder and awe in the narrative. The Dragon Island felt original and creative, and I enjoyed the lore and history of the dragons. If you're itching for a feel-good adventure with dragons, Sarah and the Dragons is just the book for you.

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

The Unicorn Princess by Ektaa Bali is the first book in the Pacific Princesses series. Sonakshi is the first princess to be born as a unicorn. Her parents have kept her locked away to keep her safe, but the isolation has made her long for freedom. The witch Mankini kidnaps Sonakshi's friend Rowen, and only Sonakshi and Kiera can find him. The adventure takes them through the Australian Bushland and far across the water to Fiji to go up against Mankini. Along their journey, a secret is revealed that could change everything and puts the princess on a journey where she encounters various beings, including mermaids, emus, and kangaroos. But danger lies in wait as Sonakshi and Kiera prepare to save their friend.

The story centers around the secret that the king and queen have kept about their daughter. Sonakshi was born a unicorn, and though her parents have given her everything she could need, she's not free to truly embrace her unicorn side. Ektaa Bali explores Sonakshi's longing for freedom by searching for her identity and purpose as a unicorn. Her wish for freedom comes true unexpectedly when an evil witch kidnaps her friend, and it's up to her, along with her companion, to find him. The story weaves an epic adventure throughout the search for self-discovery and freedom of self. The adventure to save Rowen creates an opportunity for Sonakshi not only to get her freedom but allows her to explore the unicorn part of her and lets her become who she was born to be. The world she ventures into is full of amazing creatures, which provides new allies for Sonakshi and Kiera. The world Ektaa Bali brings to life is stunning with beautiful details. The Unicorn Princess is an enchanting story brought to life through lovely details, endearing characters, and an epic quest for identity.

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

Thomas Wildus and the Wizard of Sumeria by J.M. Bergen is the second book in The Elandrian Chronicles. Thomas and his closest friends are back for another adventure as they become entangled in the search for a powerful object and face off against a surprising new threat. Thomas won the fight against Arius Strong and managed to save mankind. Still, Thomas and his friends quickly discover that was only the start of the battles they'd face. Their next adventure kicks off after Thomas receives a mysterious message which sets them after a powerful talisman before Arius and his cohort of wizards and witches can reach it first. A betrayal soon surfaces that will shake Thomas to his core, and he'll need to rally with his friends to prevent another brewing threat that could have severe consequences. Thomas and his friends have their first battle behind them, but Arius Strong is still a threat that steadily grows as he puts his next plan into action. The three friends have realized what they're capable of and are training under their mentor Scott Alpheus, helping them reach the true extent of their abilities. They've saved the world but still have a lot to learn, and these lessons are woven throughout as Scott's guidance is key to helping them handle their next challenge.

Thomas and his friends have maintained their fun-loving and carefree attitude despite their responsibilities and training, which gives the story a lighter tone that drives the adventure. The three maintain their carefree spirits, which captures the wonder these three kids have and how they use this to become heroes. Saving the world doesn't keep them from enjoying their lives or having fun racing each other and going on group dates. Their friendship is at the base of the story, as their real strength lies in their bond with each other. Part of the charm that author J.M. Bergen works into Thomas Wildus's story is the friendship between the three central characters, and the other part is the thrilling elements of magic and action with epic battles, quests, and hellhounds. They're just three ordinary kids with abilities that make them extraordinary and drive them to make a difference in the world. It quickly becomes evident that the threat isn't over as Arius sets in motion his latest plan. A mysterious new threat soon comes to light that challenges everything they know. These action-packed moments make Thomas Wildus and the Wizard of Sumeria an urban fantasy that all ages will be addicted to with humor, suspense, and twists as Thomas continues his quest to discover his destiny.

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

The Splendid Secrets of 66 Lilly Pilly Lane (The Faren Chronicles Book 1) by Elena Paige is a fantastical adventure that will take young readers on an adventurous trip with twelve-year-old Chia, a blind girl working in the mines, to 66 Lilly Pilly Lane, a whimsical house where she is transported along with her duck, Pip, by a mysterious woman. Chia always wanted to escape from the mines and from her stepmother, Priscilla, who wants her to work in the mines to get diamonds. She wants to take Pip and her twin sister Viola along with her. Ms. Roberta, the mysterious woman, makes her change her clothes and leaves her at the doorstep of the new house, promising her that there will be people inside who will take good care of her. There are lots of secrets in the house that are still to be discovered but for the first time in her life, Chia feels that she belongs there. Though she is keen to rescue Viola, her new friends do not think Viola is as innocent as she seems to be. Will Chia be able to free herself and Viola from Priscilla? Do you think Chia can trust Viola? What is the biggest secret Chia discovers about 66 Lilly Pilly Lane along with the other secrets there?

The story has lots of twists and turns and will keep young readers glued till the very end, leaving them eagerly waiting for Book 2. The author does a marvelous job portraying the many interesting characters and making them memorable to readers with their actions and deeds. The plot has magic, fantasy, adventure, intrigue, and suspense and Elena Paige knits them together seamlessly, giving the story a good pace and fluidity. There is not one boring moment in the book as readers join Chia in an adventure of fantasy as she tries to break the curse put on her family!