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Ranger Nader & The Sunstruck Phantom
The Guardian Chronicles
Kam Karem
2022 Honorable Mention
262 Pages
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Children - Fable
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Ranger Nader & The Sunstruck Phantom is a young adult fantasy adventure novel by Kam Karem. Fourteen-year-old Ranger Nader's life turns upside down after being given a powerful and magical ax called Nightmare by the Lady of the Forest. Plagued by visions of the ancient demi-god king Gilgamesh, Ranger learns from his grandfather Jid Joe that he belonged to a long line of Sun-Kissed people who were blessed to channel the power of Solar Sails. With his sister Milly, and his cousins, Art and Kara Hayek, Ranger travels to Bcharre, Lebanon, to attend the mysterious Solar Sails Academy. Soon he becomes a key member of the Grateful Guardian. He also meets an unlikely ally in Frederick Wasis, his great-uncle. Now, Ranger must train for a final confrontation with Gilgamesh and stop him once and for all.
An action-packed fantasy adventure saga at its finest, Ranger Nader & The Sunstruck Phantom is a blast to read from start to finish. Filled with magic, humor, and adventure, author Kam Karem's entertaining fantasy odyssey draws inspiration from ancient Sumerian mythology to create a mesmerizing tale that will appeal to kids and young adults in equal measure. The plot moves at a blistering pace, taking unexpected twists and turns to keep your eyes glued to the pages. The characters are colorful and full of life. Any scene involving Ranger, Art, Kara, and Milly is a joy to read, as the banter between the siblings and cousins keeps you entertained all the way through. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
Ranger Nader & The Sunstruck Phantom is a young adult fantasy adventure novel by Kam Karem. Fourteen-year-old Ranger Nader's life turns upside down after being given a powerful and magical ax called Nightmare by the Lady of the Forest. Plagued by visions of the ancient demi-god king Gilgamesh, Ranger learns from his grandfather Jid Joe that he belonged to a long line of Sun-Kissed people who were blessed to channel the power of Solar Sails. With his sister Milly, and his cousins, Art and Kara Hayek, Ranger travels to Bcharre, Lebanon, to attend the mysterious Solar Sails Academy. Soon he becomes a key member of the Grateful Guardian. He also meets an unlikely ally in Frederick Wasis, his great-uncle. Now, Ranger must train for a final confrontation with Gilgamesh and stop him once and for all.
An action-packed fantasy adventure saga at its finest, Ranger Nader & The Sunstruck Phantom is a blast to read from start to finish. Filled with magic, humor, and adventure, author Kam Karem's entertaining fantasy odyssey draws inspiration from ancient Sumerian mythology to create a mesmerizing tale that will appeal to kids and young adults in equal measure. The plot moves at a blistering pace, taking unexpected twists and turns to keep your eyes glued to the pages. The characters are colorful and full of life. Any scene involving Ranger, Art, Kara, and Milly is a joy to read, as the banter between the siblings and cousins keeps you entertained all the way through. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
The Namer of Spirits
Todd Mitchell
2022 Silver Medal
316 Pages
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite
The Doa Fora people of the Cloud forest and the villagers of Last Hope got along until they didn’t. While the villagers encroached on the forest, the Doa Fora warriors fought back with poisoned arrows. But who could explain the monstrous Illwen? When the villagers captured a Doa Fora named Fen, twelve-year-old Ash, who had a gift for naming things, rescued him from death. She gained a friend in Fen but became a traitor among her people. Ash, Fen, and her tamed Illwen puppy journeyed into the Cloud forest to save her village from the constant war. She went through caves, waters, and spirits into places unknown to discover a long-hidden secret that could take her life. Can Ash save Last Hope and survive? Find out in The Namer of Spirits by Todd Mitchell.
The Namer of Spirits by Todd Mitchell is a fable appropriate and highly recommended for children between nine and fourteen years old. This moving yet wholesome story revolved around deforestation, magic, kindness, selflessness, and environmental consciousness. Todd used a relatable story and excellent character development to portray our roles as change agents, regardless of our sizes and status. Also, ruining nature harms us because we have a symbiotic relationship. Hence, we should educate people more about the impact of deforestation on the climate. The Namer of Spirits puts motives, actions, morality, and logic into perspective. Was there anything like good and evil captivity, considering Ash’s and Lord Ocra’s respective Illwen? Was it okay to ignore the greater good in favor of doing something right, like setting Fen free to the villagers’ potential detriment? This situation is where balance becomes a crucial lesson for children. I loved the simple language and writing style. Great job, Todd.
The Doa Fora people of the Cloud forest and the villagers of Last Hope got along until they didn’t. While the villagers encroached on the forest, the Doa Fora warriors fought back with poisoned arrows. But who could explain the monstrous Illwen? When the villagers captured a Doa Fora named Fen, twelve-year-old Ash, who had a gift for naming things, rescued him from death. She gained a friend in Fen but became a traitor among her people. Ash, Fen, and her tamed Illwen puppy journeyed into the Cloud forest to save her village from the constant war. She went through caves, waters, and spirits into places unknown to discover a long-hidden secret that could take her life. Can Ash save Last Hope and survive? Find out in The Namer of Spirits by Todd Mitchell.
The Namer of Spirits by Todd Mitchell is a fable appropriate and highly recommended for children between nine and fourteen years old. This moving yet wholesome story revolved around deforestation, magic, kindness, selflessness, and environmental consciousness. Todd used a relatable story and excellent character development to portray our roles as change agents, regardless of our sizes and status. Also, ruining nature harms us because we have a symbiotic relationship. Hence, we should educate people more about the impact of deforestation on the climate. The Namer of Spirits puts motives, actions, morality, and logic into perspective. Was there anything like good and evil captivity, considering Ash’s and Lord Ocra’s respective Illwen? Was it okay to ignore the greater good in favor of doing something right, like setting Fen free to the villagers’ potential detriment? This situation is where balance becomes a crucial lesson for children. I loved the simple language and writing style. Great job, Todd.
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Azalea Fern and the Last Ruin of the Extinct
Becci Murray
2022 Honorable Mention
235 Pages
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite
The Homotium species live near the mechanicary house, the old and creepy place that caused the extinction of the Sapien people. Two Homotium people have already died because of that place. All Homotium fear going into it so as not to catch the sickness from the bones of the now extinct, but Azalea Fern and Oak-Lea Moss venture into it anyway. Azalea's foe, Bryony Vine, locks them inside the mechanicary house. Once Azalea and Oak-Lea escape, they think they have caught the sickness and will soon die. When only Oak-Lea gets sick, Azalea begins to unravel an ancient secret that threatens not only her but the future of the whole Homotium species. If you want to learn what has caused the extinction of the Sapiens and how they may still be a danger to the Homotium species, you should read Azalea Fern and the Last Ruin of the Extinct by Becci Murray.
There is much to commend in this book and I think it is worth reading simply for its originality. It's engrossing and engaging and destined to capture imaginations. The clear wake-up call about diversity, equality, and inclusion makes this book a standout. Azalea Fern and the Last Ruin of the Extinct by Becci Murray is riveting, brutal, and brilliantly told. This grittily provocative children's fantasy explores the true horror of damaging the environment and the importance of trust, equality, and unity in a community. All readers who sink into the pages of this enthralling middle-grade children's book will be rewarded. This book will surely keep readers thinking past the final page.
The Homotium species live near the mechanicary house, the old and creepy place that caused the extinction of the Sapien people. Two Homotium people have already died because of that place. All Homotium fear going into it so as not to catch the sickness from the bones of the now extinct, but Azalea Fern and Oak-Lea Moss venture into it anyway. Azalea's foe, Bryony Vine, locks them inside the mechanicary house. Once Azalea and Oak-Lea escape, they think they have caught the sickness and will soon die. When only Oak-Lea gets sick, Azalea begins to unravel an ancient secret that threatens not only her but the future of the whole Homotium species. If you want to learn what has caused the extinction of the Sapiens and how they may still be a danger to the Homotium species, you should read Azalea Fern and the Last Ruin of the Extinct by Becci Murray.
There is much to commend in this book and I think it is worth reading simply for its originality. It's engrossing and engaging and destined to capture imaginations. The clear wake-up call about diversity, equality, and inclusion makes this book a standout. Azalea Fern and the Last Ruin of the Extinct by Becci Murray is riveting, brutal, and brilliantly told. This grittily provocative children's fantasy explores the true horror of damaging the environment and the importance of trust, equality, and unity in a community. All readers who sink into the pages of this enthralling middle-grade children's book will be rewarded. This book will surely keep readers thinking past the final page.
Recommend this book:
Marco Swift and the Mirror of Souls
A Middle-Grade Fantasy Adventure
D. E. Cunningham
2022 Finalist
278 Pages
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Children - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Marco Swift and the Mirror of Souls is a work of fiction in the fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres. It is aimed at younger readers and was penned by author D.E. Cunningham. The book follows Marco as he is lured into a dangerous mission by an enchantress who offers to cure his declining mother if he agrees to venture to the World of Souls. On his journey he’ll realize that the secret life that his late father was leading could hold the information he needs to survive his quest, but will it be enough to rebuild the sword of light, save the World of Souls, and stop him from losing his mother too?
This was an excellent and fast-paced adventure for young readers, perfect for kids who have discovered the excitement of fantasy storytelling and are hungry for more. Author D. E. Cunningham’s ability to create such an engaging story with such important themes for young people – in particular the loss of a parent – is sublime, and this book is always willing to talk honestly about issues whilst never losing sight of the high fantasy adventure at its heart. Children will love the fantastic characters and creatures on display here, and the descriptive writing is a perfect example of creating beautiful prose at the middle-grade reading level. Macro Swift and the Mirror of Souls is a must-read for kids; it shares a fantastic story with wonderful themes and showcases some of the best elements of the genre for the next generation of fantasy readers.
Marco Swift and the Mirror of Souls is a work of fiction in the fantasy, action, and adventure subgenres. It is aimed at younger readers and was penned by author D.E. Cunningham. The book follows Marco as he is lured into a dangerous mission by an enchantress who offers to cure his declining mother if he agrees to venture to the World of Souls. On his journey he’ll realize that the secret life that his late father was leading could hold the information he needs to survive his quest, but will it be enough to rebuild the sword of light, save the World of Souls, and stop him from losing his mother too?
This was an excellent and fast-paced adventure for young readers, perfect for kids who have discovered the excitement of fantasy storytelling and are hungry for more. Author D. E. Cunningham’s ability to create such an engaging story with such important themes for young people – in particular the loss of a parent – is sublime, and this book is always willing to talk honestly about issues whilst never losing sight of the high fantasy adventure at its heart. Children will love the fantastic characters and creatures on display here, and the descriptive writing is a perfect example of creating beautiful prose at the middle-grade reading level. Macro Swift and the Mirror of Souls is a must-read for kids; it shares a fantastic story with wonderful themes and showcases some of the best elements of the genre for the next generation of fantasy readers.
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![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/the-power-of-kindness&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51cMdQIJm8L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="Can you think of ways you can be kind to others?" This is the question that Orbit, a cute globe-shaped character, asks the very young readers of Ruth Maille's The Power of Kindness. In this illustrated and delightful children's book, young readers (and their parents) will find a persuasive and delightful invitation to practice kindness in their li...){kind=link}
The Power of Kindness
Through the Eyes of Children
Ruth A Maille
2022 Gold Medal
36 Pages
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Children - General
Reviewed by Astrid Iustulin for Readers' Favorite
"Can you think of ways you can be kind to others?" This is the question that Orbit, a cute globe-shaped character, asks the very young readers of Ruth Maille's The Power of Kindness. In this illustrated and delightful children's book, young readers (and their parents) will find a persuasive and delightful invitation to practice kindness in their lives. One day, Orbit visits a kindergarten class and asks the children what kindness is and if they have seen it in their lives. The children answer with sensitive and delightful responses, entering each reader into a world full of simple actions and extraordinary feelings.
It is a pity that we do not ask children more questions because there is a lot to learn from them. Their selfless and kind answers have the power to remind us of the simple and precious things we need in our daily life. Ruth Maille is a praiseworthy author because she has placed great emphasis on the wisdom of children. The Power of Kindness is splendid not only because it helps to spread a message of kindness in the world but also because, thanks to its colorful images, it allows young readers to identify themselves with the equally young protagonists. Explaining very complex concepts in such a simple way, showing children how other children dealt with kindness, was not an easy task. Yet, Maille did it and gave us a book that we will never tire of rereading. Keeping in mind the wonderful lesson she has taught us is essential to living in a better world.
"Can you think of ways you can be kind to others?" This is the question that Orbit, a cute globe-shaped character, asks the very young readers of Ruth Maille's The Power of Kindness. In this illustrated and delightful children's book, young readers (and their parents) will find a persuasive and delightful invitation to practice kindness in their lives. One day, Orbit visits a kindergarten class and asks the children what kindness is and if they have seen it in their lives. The children answer with sensitive and delightful responses, entering each reader into a world full of simple actions and extraordinary feelings.
It is a pity that we do not ask children more questions because there is a lot to learn from them. Their selfless and kind answers have the power to remind us of the simple and precious things we need in our daily life. Ruth Maille is a praiseworthy author because she has placed great emphasis on the wisdom of children. The Power of Kindness is splendid not only because it helps to spread a message of kindness in the world but also because, thanks to its colorful images, it allows young readers to identify themselves with the equally young protagonists. Explaining very complex concepts in such a simple way, showing children how other children dealt with kindness, was not an easy task. Yet, Maille did it and gave us a book that we will never tire of rereading. Keeping in mind the wonderful lesson she has taught us is essential to living in a better world.
Recommend this book:
Hugo von Hector the Kids' Art Collector
Whitney Beatty
2022 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - General
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Hugo von Hector the Kids' Art Collector, written by Whitney Beatty and primarily illustrated by Allyson Arrogante, is a children's picture book that tells the story of an unfulfilled artist in a magical realm. Hugo von Hector loves to create art but feels the work he produces is too stiff and realistic. Still, his love of the craft keeps him from walking away...although he does end up walking through a floating door and into someone's Earthly kitchen. On the refrigerator, he sees an array of colorful drawings and art by the child who lives there. Hugo is enthralled by the work and sees how the art embodies soul over precision. A single piece is abandoned on the kitchen floor and Hugo “saves” it by bringing it back to his home. As new doors appear, Hugo becomes known as the collector of wonderful art and provides readers with a story on where their missing refrigerator art goes.
Oh my goodness, Hugo von Hector the Kids' Art Collector is an absolute delight! What an imagination Whitney Beatty has and how lucky we are that she shares it with us. For all the adults who have their kitchens lined with children's drawings, hung under a magnet, or taped on walls, you will know as well as I how precious the kitchen real estate becomes very quickly. Enter Hugo von Hector and his love of your little one's art. His mission to collect and share these treasures is told in a lyrical, sing-song narrative that only adds to an already pitch-perfect plot. Breathing it all to life, Allyson Arrogante shows us Hugo's journey visually with a bold primary palette and equally bold whimsy in each illustration. Arrogante is not alone in the visual creations, as the real work of young artists is included as well. Overall, this is a wonderful little story that will bring joy to young and young-at-heart readers alike. Very highly recommended.
Hugo von Hector the Kids' Art Collector, written by Whitney Beatty and primarily illustrated by Allyson Arrogante, is a children's picture book that tells the story of an unfulfilled artist in a magical realm. Hugo von Hector loves to create art but feels the work he produces is too stiff and realistic. Still, his love of the craft keeps him from walking away...although he does end up walking through a floating door and into someone's Earthly kitchen. On the refrigerator, he sees an array of colorful drawings and art by the child who lives there. Hugo is enthralled by the work and sees how the art embodies soul over precision. A single piece is abandoned on the kitchen floor and Hugo “saves” it by bringing it back to his home. As new doors appear, Hugo becomes known as the collector of wonderful art and provides readers with a story on where their missing refrigerator art goes.
Oh my goodness, Hugo von Hector the Kids' Art Collector is an absolute delight! What an imagination Whitney Beatty has and how lucky we are that she shares it with us. For all the adults who have their kitchens lined with children's drawings, hung under a magnet, or taped on walls, you will know as well as I how precious the kitchen real estate becomes very quickly. Enter Hugo von Hector and his love of your little one's art. His mission to collect and share these treasures is told in a lyrical, sing-song narrative that only adds to an already pitch-perfect plot. Breathing it all to life, Allyson Arrogante shows us Hugo's journey visually with a bold primary palette and equally bold whimsy in each illustration. Arrogante is not alone in the visual creations, as the real work of young artists is included as well. Overall, this is a wonderful little story that will bring joy to young and young-at-heart readers alike. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Stranger in the Mushroom Patch
The Mischief Series Book 4
Amanda M. Thrasher
2022 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Stranger in the Mushroom Patch is a work of fiction in the fantasy adventure subgenre, and it serves as the fourth book in the Mischief series. It is aimed at younger readers and was penned by author Amanda M. Thrasher. This novel continues the adventures of Lilly, Boris, and Jack as a game of slimy moss bomb leads them to an encounter with a human child, with whom they find some surprising common ground. Tasked with returning the child to their own kind, the group of friends must go on another fun-filled adventure to reunite their new friend with her family before the humans come looking for her.
This was a delightful adventure pitched perfectly at its young audience, with whimsical characters on a fun and exciting quest after making an unusual new friend. Like all good children’s authors, Amanda M. Thrasher has some important values she wants to share with the next generation of readers, and her characters lead by example to demonstrate the importance of friendship and being kind to the people you meet. These themes are delivered well and it never feels like morals are being forced on the reader. Instead, the author tells an excellent story with characters who embody those values. I was particularly fond of the elders who balance their protective nature with the knowledge with which they must equip the young to look after themselves, an elegant metaphor for the trust that develops in the parent and child relationship. Overall, Stranger in the Mushroom Patch is a worthy continuation of an already excellent series of children's books, and I recommend it highly.
Stranger in the Mushroom Patch is a work of fiction in the fantasy adventure subgenre, and it serves as the fourth book in the Mischief series. It is aimed at younger readers and was penned by author Amanda M. Thrasher. This novel continues the adventures of Lilly, Boris, and Jack as a game of slimy moss bomb leads them to an encounter with a human child, with whom they find some surprising common ground. Tasked with returning the child to their own kind, the group of friends must go on another fun-filled adventure to reunite their new friend with her family before the humans come looking for her.
This was a delightful adventure pitched perfectly at its young audience, with whimsical characters on a fun and exciting quest after making an unusual new friend. Like all good children’s authors, Amanda M. Thrasher has some important values she wants to share with the next generation of readers, and her characters lead by example to demonstrate the importance of friendship and being kind to the people you meet. These themes are delivered well and it never feels like morals are being forced on the reader. Instead, the author tells an excellent story with characters who embody those values. I was particularly fond of the elders who balance their protective nature with the knowledge with which they must equip the young to look after themselves, an elegant metaphor for the trust that develops in the parent and child relationship. Overall, Stranger in the Mushroom Patch is a worthy continuation of an already excellent series of children's books, and I recommend it highly.
Recommend this book:
The Awkward Avocado
C.J. Zachary
2022 Honorable Mention
34 Pages
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Children - General
Reviewed by Diana Lopez for Readers' Favorite
This book is about self-love, maintaining high self-esteem, and gaining self-confidence. The Awkward Avocado presents us with an avocado and its unique way of being. With the help of this amusing character, C.J. Zachary explains that it is normal to be different from our friends. We don't need to agree on everything if our attitude is correct, nor should we feel inadequate if we see ourselves as dissimilar from others. With the help of many examples, this book teaches us to be ourselves without fear. The idea is to learn to adapt to new situations and maintain a positive outlook. Children will see the importance of appreciating and valuing themselves for who they are.
The Awkward Avocado was significant for me because having healthy self-esteem will help children accept their mistakes and keep trying to improve. With higher self-esteem, children will do better at school, at home, and with friends. We are not always going to think the same way as our colleagues and our way of responding and acting can also be different from what others expect. This may make many children nervous, especially if they are learning to get along with new people. In reading this book they will learn about themselves and see that deep down, we are all unique. C.J. Zachary has produced an attractive book that will teach children a valuable lesson.
This book is about self-love, maintaining high self-esteem, and gaining self-confidence. The Awkward Avocado presents us with an avocado and its unique way of being. With the help of this amusing character, C.J. Zachary explains that it is normal to be different from our friends. We don't need to agree on everything if our attitude is correct, nor should we feel inadequate if we see ourselves as dissimilar from others. With the help of many examples, this book teaches us to be ourselves without fear. The idea is to learn to adapt to new situations and maintain a positive outlook. Children will see the importance of appreciating and valuing themselves for who they are.
The Awkward Avocado was significant for me because having healthy self-esteem will help children accept their mistakes and keep trying to improve. With higher self-esteem, children will do better at school, at home, and with friends. We are not always going to think the same way as our colleagues and our way of responding and acting can also be different from what others expect. This may make many children nervous, especially if they are learning to get along with new people. In reading this book they will learn about themselves and see that deep down, we are all unique. C.J. Zachary has produced an attractive book that will teach children a valuable lesson.
Recommend this book:
Petunia the Unicorn's Dazzling Christmas Debut
A Petunia Cupcake Fluffybottom Book
R.L. Ullman
2022 Finalist
40 Pages
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Children - General
Reviewed by Dr. Jordan Alexander for Readers' Favorite
If you are a unicorn lover - and who isn’t – you’ll adore the magical new series by R.L. Ullman that begins with Petunia the Unicorn’s Dazzling Christmas Debut. We know children need a lot of courage to start a new school. Now imagine that school is full of little human children and you are the only unicorn! Meet Petunia Cupcake Fluffybottom - the ideal unicorn for some big-city adventures in her new home of Manhattan. Children will immediately take to Petunia, as they would to Winnie the Pooh or Peppa Pig. Best-selling author R.L. Ullman has done it again with this new series that will delight pre-school readers with a charming, simple, and relatable story. Petunia’s family includes the never dull Lady Rainbow Sprinkles (or Auntie Sprinkles, as Petunia calls her), Gumdrop, their tiny dog that thinks he’s larger than a Labrador; and Winston, the patient and stereotypical calm, cultured human butler. The beautiful colored illustrations by Yusup Mediyan are both captivating and welcoming to readers. The bright, bold scenes are wonderful animated additions to Petunia’s magical journey.
Petunia the Unicorn’s Dazzling Christmas Debut will appeal to young readers as they relate to Petunia’s feelings about starting a new school and moving to a new city. Readers will also recognize familiar experiences of both wanting to fit in with other children yet also needing to showcase their own unique and special talents. In this first adventure, Petunia learns to believe in herself, and with some reassurance from Auntie Sprinkles, she can overcome her fear of participating in the school play. She acts with courage and shows her true colors even when technical difficulties threaten the Christmas concert finale! If you want to light up little smiles around the Christmas tree this year, introduce your young ones to Petunia the Unicorn’s Dazzling Christmas Debut. Enjoy the magic of the season and the wonder of unicorns in what is sure to be another award-winning book from R.L. Ullman.
If you are a unicorn lover - and who isn’t – you’ll adore the magical new series by R.L. Ullman that begins with Petunia the Unicorn’s Dazzling Christmas Debut. We know children need a lot of courage to start a new school. Now imagine that school is full of little human children and you are the only unicorn! Meet Petunia Cupcake Fluffybottom - the ideal unicorn for some big-city adventures in her new home of Manhattan. Children will immediately take to Petunia, as they would to Winnie the Pooh or Peppa Pig. Best-selling author R.L. Ullman has done it again with this new series that will delight pre-school readers with a charming, simple, and relatable story. Petunia’s family includes the never dull Lady Rainbow Sprinkles (or Auntie Sprinkles, as Petunia calls her), Gumdrop, their tiny dog that thinks he’s larger than a Labrador; and Winston, the patient and stereotypical calm, cultured human butler. The beautiful colored illustrations by Yusup Mediyan are both captivating and welcoming to readers. The bright, bold scenes are wonderful animated additions to Petunia’s magical journey.
Petunia the Unicorn’s Dazzling Christmas Debut will appeal to young readers as they relate to Petunia’s feelings about starting a new school and moving to a new city. Readers will also recognize familiar experiences of both wanting to fit in with other children yet also needing to showcase their own unique and special talents. In this first adventure, Petunia learns to believe in herself, and with some reassurance from Auntie Sprinkles, she can overcome her fear of participating in the school play. She acts with courage and shows her true colors even when technical difficulties threaten the Christmas concert finale! If you want to light up little smiles around the Christmas tree this year, introduce your young ones to Petunia the Unicorn’s Dazzling Christmas Debut. Enjoy the magic of the season and the wonder of unicorns in what is sure to be another award-winning book from R.L. Ullman.
Recommend this book:
 by Leah Cupps is a gripping middle-grade novel following the main character Harley as she tries to track down a missing statue and save the world. When Harley finds one of the statues of the Three Kings of Mayan history and legend, she hopes it will make her dad see th...){kind=link}
Harley James & the Mystery of the Mayan Kings
Harley James Adventures Book 1
Leah Cupps
2022 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Kristen Van Kampen (Teen Reviewer) for Readers' Favorite
Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings (Harley James Adventures Book 1) by Leah Cupps is a gripping middle-grade novel following the main character Harley as she tries to track down a missing statue and save the world. When Harley finds one of the statues of the Three Kings of Mayan history and legend, she hopes it will make her dad see that she’s mature enough to explore on her own. Unfortunately, the statue is stolen before she gets the chance to tell him about it, and she soon learns that if that statue is reunited with the other two, it could result in the end of the world. Together with her friend Aly, and Deacon, a boy she’s not sure she can trust, Harley must face her fears and get the statue back before it’s too late.
With strong characters and lots of action, Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings by Leah Cupps is not to be missed. The story is filled with exciting scenes that are sure to keep the reader in suspense, such as when Harley and Aly were almost trapped inside a temple, or when they nearly go over a waterfall. The book is well written, and the first-person narrative gives the reader a chance to get to know Harley, who is a likable and brave character who readers will root for. The occasional illustrations throughout the book are well drawn and enhance the reading experience. The book would be a fun way to learn about the Maya, and I feel I gained a lot by reading it. I found myself hooked from the first page and thoroughly enjoyed the book as a whole. I would certainly recommend it.
Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings (Harley James Adventures Book 1) by Leah Cupps is a gripping middle-grade novel following the main character Harley as she tries to track down a missing statue and save the world. When Harley finds one of the statues of the Three Kings of Mayan history and legend, she hopes it will make her dad see that she’s mature enough to explore on her own. Unfortunately, the statue is stolen before she gets the chance to tell him about it, and she soon learns that if that statue is reunited with the other two, it could result in the end of the world. Together with her friend Aly, and Deacon, a boy she’s not sure she can trust, Harley must face her fears and get the statue back before it’s too late.
With strong characters and lots of action, Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings by Leah Cupps is not to be missed. The story is filled with exciting scenes that are sure to keep the reader in suspense, such as when Harley and Aly were almost trapped inside a temple, or when they nearly go over a waterfall. The book is well written, and the first-person narrative gives the reader a chance to get to know Harley, who is a likable and brave character who readers will root for. The occasional illustrations throughout the book are well drawn and enhance the reading experience. The book would be a fun way to learn about the Maya, and I feel I gained a lot by reading it. I found myself hooked from the first page and thoroughly enjoyed the book as a whole. I would certainly recommend it.
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