Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

Granny JJ is always right and in the story The Granny JJ Adventures: Guyana’s Daily Detective (Volume 1) by Joshua Cartwright, readers are introduced to her where she lives in a little house surrounded on three sides by a bush in Soesdyke, Guyana. Granny always marks the story with a special fingerprint after solving the mystery. Granny speaks Creole mixed with words from African, Arawakan, Dutch, and East Indian languages. This collection of stories takes young readers along with Granny, who does not like dogs but ends up having one. They also get to see her solving the mystery of the stolen soup and other interestingadventures. So what are the mysteries Granny solves and what are her adventures? Let us read the book to find out.

The stories are adorable and written in Creole, which is the Guyanese English, it is a fun read. Granny’s character is well sketched and her zest for life and righteousness is infectious. The black and white illustrations are delightful, just like the story, and they can be colored, making it more appealing to young readers. The stories are fun and can be used in classrooms for interactive sessions and bedtime story-telling. I like the way Granny stays active and alert, despite her age, and that is encouraging to readers as it will make them realize that age is not a barrier. All the stories and all the characters in the stories are lovable and memorable and they will make children want more adventures from Granny. I cannot wait for Volume 2 and I am sure readers will echo that thought with me!

Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite

The Order of Time by Scott P. Southall is an engaging children's fantasy with believable characters and strong hints of adventure. It follows Anastasia and Edward Upston, eleven-year-old twins who attend the elite Blake Academy and who love exploring the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. When they have a run-in with a weird, freaky character, a person who looks like he belonged to another time, the twins eventually unearth a more disturbing truth: their friend and mentor, Dr. Alfred Gregorian (Dr. G.), the curator of the Smithsonian, a wrinkly man who radiates kindness, belongs to a Secret Society known as the Order of Time. A disruption has occurred in the past and it threatens the present, so Anastasia and her brother must travel back in time and try to fix it. But ancient Egypt is filled with danger and enemies—assassins, unforgiving gods, corrupt high priests, and more. Can they succeed and make their way back to the present?

This is a fantastic tale that will appeal to fans of adventure, time travel, and fantasy, and a story that is well-written for young readers. The twins make a wonderful pair, and while they have their unique personalities, they share a powerful bond that is deftly explored in the narrative. Scott P. Southall writes in prose that is enchanting and accessible and weaves powerful descriptions in the story. The journey to the past is an exciting one and while I marveled at the excitement that accompanies the two lead characters, I also worried about their fate as they move from one danger to the next. The concept of time is skillfully developed, and time appears to be like a character in the story. The Order of Time is fast-paced, featuring compelling characters, a great setting, and a cleverly written plot. It is a delightful read for fans of young adult fantasy and time travel.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

Waverly the Witch: Waverly's Magical Adventures, A Magical Adventure for Children Ages 3-9 is a children’s fantasy adventure picture book written by Angela Lindsey and illustrated by Corryn Webb. Waverley was nervous about attending a new school after her family moved to a new town, but she soon discovered her school was rather special. She couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw a teacher in wizard robes, and there was even a wand she noticed in the cafeteria during lunch. What kind of school was this anyway? Her curiosity and excitement grew even deeper when she stumbled upon a classroom where potions were being brewed by the students, creating marvelous bubbles tinted in neon shades that floated throughout the room. And while it was all strange and new, Waverly felt comfortable with it all. She loved her new school and the friends she was making there, and she couldn’t wait to tell her parents all about it.

Angela Lindsey’s Waverly the Witch addresses the fears kids and grownups often feel when encountering new experiences and places. As Waverly discovers, her new school is a warm and friendly place where she feels perfectly at home. I appreciated how her parents encouraged her to discover the magical qualities of her school and herself for herself. Corryn Webb’s images are the perfect accompaniment to this charming story. Each page holds clues for careful readers to learn more about Waverly and her family’s magical background. Likewise, those panels showing the school are brimming with magic -- dragons, pointed hats, wands, and even a flying broomstick or two can be spied as young readers follow Waverly’s adventures. While an excellent selection for story hour, Lindsey’s choice of vocabulary and large font make this a perfect choice for a new reader, magical even. Waverly the Witch: Waverly's Magical Adventures is most highly recommended.

Reviewed by Carolina Restrepo for Readers' Favorite

Kristi Shimada writes children's stories that are not only fun and original, but also teach valuable lessons to children and their parents. Children may learn most things at school and with their friends, but the deep and heartfelt teachings and lessons are learned at home with the people they love. Princess Serafina and The Mystical Unicorn is a tale following Mirabella, a special unicorn who is unlike the other unicorns in the land of Lilia. Mirabella has wings and a golden glowing horn. Her differences have led her to live a solitary life with no friends. Her fellow unicorns have failed to accept her due to her differences. This book teaches young readers that beauty is on the inside and that everyone is different; our uniqueness should be celebrated.

Princess Serafina and The Mystical Unicorn by Kristi Shimada is a timely tale that has a wide number of valuable lessons, and not just for children. I have been reminded of just how important it is to love oneself even though each individual is different from the next. Life is more than looks and true friends will always support and appreciate you and, most importantly, help you be happier with yourself. This book helps children understand that being mean to other children because of their physical differences is not acceptable. This lesson is one that should be taught to every child in this world. Maybe then humanity could improve for the better, for us, and for the ones to come. Everyone is beautiful in their own way.

Reviewed by Marta Tandori for Readers' Favorite

Finding out who you’re NOT is at the heart of this delightful children’s book, Mango the Long Haired Ginger Cat, written by Grandma Krazy and illustrated by Lauren Garcia. Mango didn’t like being a long-haired ginger cat because her long hair was hard to care for. She was tired of the rules and the chores she was made to do and she longed to be different – a LOT different, as it turns out! Mango’s seemingly dissatisfied life takes a drastic turn the day she finds a beautiful sparkling rock that turns into some wonderful colors. The rock comes with an added surprise that has the power to change Mango’s life...

Most children, even adults, often fantasize about being something that they’re not. Mango has the opportunity of a lifetime to actually change who she is but receives a rude awakening when her family becomes frightened of her and ends up rejecting her. Like most children’s books, the author teaches children valuable life lessons like not trying to be something you’re not and being satisfied with being the best you can. Grandma Krazy also underscores the importance of family and the loving embrace and acceptance family provides.

Garcia’s illustrations are simple, sweet, and filled with emotional authenticity. Each image of Mango and her family leaps off the pages as if inviting the reader to rub a belly or scratch under a chin. Garcia manages to nail the mannerisms of cats, from the way they flatten their ears to the way in which they delicately wash themselves or huddle in a group. Mango the Long Haired Ginger Cat is also a great introduction to cats and their mannerisms for children who may be a little unsure or nervous around animals. Mango the Long Haired Ginger Cat is a great book that teaches some important life lessons and is sure to be a treat for young children.

Reviewed by Trisha Dawn for Readers' Favorite

Suzanne Lowe’s The Pirate Princess and the Sirens’ Song is the sequel to the award-winning Pirate Princess and the Golden Locket and it continues on with Lotty, her dog Mr. Jacks, and her newfound family. Despite being treated as an outcast by most of the pirates on the ship, Lotty still feels excited and overwhelmed as she finally gets to be with her father, the captain of the pirates. In the middle of their journey to Feather Island, an unexpected fierce storm pushes their ship to an island where three mystical sirens await. Thus begins Lotty’s quest in search of what the sirens requested from her. Will Lotty be able to overcome her biggest fears and rescue her shipmates from the sirens’ spell?

The Pirate Princess and the Sirens’ Song by Suzanne Lowe is a short but delightful book that holds valuable lessons about facing your fears. The moment I started the first chapter, I could already sense the warmth and positivity that this story holds. Lotty’s relationship with her dad remains sweet and adoring despite their long separation. The familial love they showed each other tugs on my heartstrings and it is one of the many things I loved about this story. Lotty’s display of bravery, selflessness, and goodwill is truly praiseworthy. Even after being treated rudely by Frankie, Lotty shows him pure kindness right until the very end. Lotty is definitely a great role model to everyone and I found that she displayed that side well in her adventures. Reading Lotty's journey was exhilarating and she was so heroic. I enjoyed every part of The Pirate Princess and Sirens’ Song.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Xyla is only three, but she already loves the four seasons of the year. There is so much to enjoy in each season; so much to do. In the summer, when it’s hot, you can enjoy ice cream, building sandcastles, and make chalk pictures on the driveway. In the fall, you can pick apples, run through the leaves, and pick the best pumpkin ever for Halloween. In the winter, you can toboggan, ice skate, and enjoy the clear night sky; and then there’s spring, with so much hope in the air for new growth, new life, and new fun. Xyla loves it all.

Dr. Skyla Duncan’s picture book story, The Four Seasons: Limited Edition Children’s Poetry, is a sweet and soothing glance at the four seasons of the year. Told in rhyming verse, the author follows the four seasons, outlining the many different changes and activities one can enjoy during each season. The author begins with summer, depicting the fun times Xyla can enjoy with her family while learning some of the wonderful things that summer presents. Even a rainy day can be lots of fun if Mommy bakes fresh cookies and Dad reads to her. Each verse is beautifully illustrated, some of the scenes taking place in Saint Lucia where her parents came from and other scenes in New York City where they live now. This collection of verse is a comforting look at the four seasons, presented in a way that young readers will enjoy as well as learn something new each time they have it read to them. This book is a real treasure.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Bradley rushes outside to the garden to collect flowers for his mother. He’s having fun collecting all kinds of flowers when a loud noise startles him. Then he sees it: a giant dinosaur. It’s not frightening, but rather friendly and it takes Bradley on an adventure to a land full of all kinds of dinosaurs: Dinoland. Bradley shares his flowers with the dinosaurs and enjoys playing with them, even having a ride on one of the dinosaurs, a pterasaur, getting a good view of Dinoland from above. He loses track of time, but fortunately, he realizes when it’s time to leave. The only thing is, he no longer has the flowers he promised to collect for his mother. That’s what imagination can do to a child, or anyone, really: it whiles away the time so quickly but with effective creativity.

Julian Hilton’s children’s picture book, Bradley and the Dinosaur, is a sweet story about having creative, imaginative fun. There’s nothing complex about this story, no hidden messages. With a simple plot that follows young Bradley’s adventures in Dinoland, it inspires young readers to enjoy their own imaginations and not to be afraid to allow dreams to fill their time with simple pleasures. Told mostly in rhyming verse and with beautiful, bold, colorful illustrations, this story will appeal to the very young reader and perhaps those just learning to read. Young dinosaur enthusiasts will take special pleasure in the many dinosaur names listed and illustrated in this charming story. Wouldn’t you love to be a child again and visit Dinoland? The invitation to adventure is one’s own imagination.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

Idia of the Benin Kingdom is a children’s historical fiction picture book written by Ekiuwa Aire and illustrated by Alina Shabelnyk. Idia had the strangest dream on the night before the Igue festival. The villagers in Ugieghudu, in Benin, an African kingdom, looked forward to this day of dancing, music, and mouth-watering things to eat. Idia and her best friend Adesuwa were excited as they walked along the wooded path that led into town. They and the other young children had practiced a dance in honor of the festival. Her dream, however, kept hold of Idia’s imagination. In it, she watched a woman who was a mighty warrior. She seemed virtually indestructible, no matter how many arrows were launched at her. And, after the fighting, this same woman helped to heal the injured, her knowledge of herbs and potions being indispensable to her healing arts. Idia loved to hear stories about battles and magic, but her own country was blessed with peace, and its people were happy. Who was this woman, and why did Idia have this dream about her?

Idia of the Benin Kingdom introduces young readers to the story of Queen Idia of Benin, who played an important role during the reign of her son, Esigie, who ruled Benin from 1504-1550. But don’t let the dry historical facts deter you from selecting this book for storytime or even a bedtime read. Ekiuwa Aire’s story is compelling and fascinating. Children become familiar with Idia when she is approximately their age. They get the premise of the story that dreams can be important and that their goals are worth working to achieve. I especially appreciated the fact that Idia’s father is supportive of her desire to learn to be a warrior. What a grand way of showing a young girl that she’s not limited by societal expectations and can take on any role in life.

Alina Shabelnyk’s illustrations are superb! Each panel tells a complete story, filled with action, drama, and meticulous detail. Readers see the imagery of Idia’s dream, her happy walk with her friend to the village for the celebration, and her studies under her father’s tutelage. My favorite panel, however, would have to be the one depicting Idia and the other children dancing at the festival. There’s so much to love about this picture: the depiction of motion, the joy expressed on the adults' faces, and those graceful dancing children. Idia of the Benin Kingdom is that rare jewel of a children’s picture book that can be read over and over, and the historical information the author gives at the end of the book may get kids considering history in a whole new light. Most highly recommended.

Reviewed by Joy Hannabass for Readers' Favorite

The Big Adventures of a Little Tree: Tree Find Friendship is about a little tree living down by the shore with his brothers and sisters. This little tree wants to branch out, to find adventure, so he starts calling for his forest friends until the birds hear him and help him walk around on his adventure through the forest. Tree has lots of fun with many friends until it is time for winter. Oh, the tree needs to go home, but how? He can't move all by himself. Find the answers when you read The Big Adventures of a Little Tree by Nadja Springer.

Having a live talking tree is a brilliant idea for a story to teach children about love and friendships. Can trees dream? Tree, in this adorable story, dreamed and his dream came true. It was so much fun to watch Tree interact with the children throughout this book. Each page is filled with the story and the wonderful, vivid, and colorful illustrations make the perfect backdrop. Tilla Rand-Belle does an amazing job with the illustrations in this book. Each page of illustrations fits the story well. This is my first book by this author but after reading The Big Adventures of a Little Tree by Nadja Springer, I will definitely be reading more. If you know of a daycare, pre-school, or anywhere children will be, please suggest they purchase this book, or you can purchase it yourself and donate it. And your small child won't be able to read this yet, but his/her imagination will run wild as they look at the pictures and hear you read it aloud.