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People of the Sun
The Eye of Ra book 3
Ben Gartner
2022 Bronze Medal
262 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
People of the Sun is the third book in The Eye of Ra series by Ben Gartner. John and Sarah's trip to their Aunt Lorraine's home in Santa Cruz, California, doesn't quite turn out the way they thought it would, as an unexpected earthquake leads to a chain of events they could've never foreseen. Their future selves pay them a visit to warn them that the world is in grave danger, and John and Sarah must travel back in time to Aztec-ruled Mexico to stop the past from changing. But maneuvering history is never easy, as John and Sarah quickly discover after being held hostage by a cruel general with nefarious motives. Additionally, the battle between the Aztecs and Hernan Cortes's men puts them all in peril.
Spy Kids meets Back to the Future. A wondrous adventure odyssey for middle graders, People of the Sun, is a treat for sci-fi lovers. Author Ben Gartner's approach to the narrative makes the time-tested premise of time travel feel refreshingly unique and innovative. Despite the non-linear narrative style and the intricacies of the plot, the story is easily accessible, and you find yourself immersed within the first couple of pages. The characters are colorful and full of life. Their vibrant personalities make them easy to root for and thoroughly enjoyable to read. John and Sarah's sibling dynamic provides the narrative thrust to the story. I had an absolute blast with People of the Sun, and I highly recommend it to preteens and young teenagers who're into sci-fi.
People of the Sun is the third book in The Eye of Ra series by Ben Gartner. John and Sarah's trip to their Aunt Lorraine's home in Santa Cruz, California, doesn't quite turn out the way they thought it would, as an unexpected earthquake leads to a chain of events they could've never foreseen. Their future selves pay them a visit to warn them that the world is in grave danger, and John and Sarah must travel back in time to Aztec-ruled Mexico to stop the past from changing. But maneuvering history is never easy, as John and Sarah quickly discover after being held hostage by a cruel general with nefarious motives. Additionally, the battle between the Aztecs and Hernan Cortes's men puts them all in peril.
Spy Kids meets Back to the Future. A wondrous adventure odyssey for middle graders, People of the Sun, is a treat for sci-fi lovers. Author Ben Gartner's approach to the narrative makes the time-tested premise of time travel feel refreshingly unique and innovative. Despite the non-linear narrative style and the intricacies of the plot, the story is easily accessible, and you find yourself immersed within the first couple of pages. The characters are colorful and full of life. Their vibrant personalities make them easy to root for and thoroughly enjoyable to read. John and Sarah's sibling dynamic provides the narrative thrust to the story. I had an absolute blast with People of the Sun, and I highly recommend it to preteens and young teenagers who're into sci-fi.
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The Cat That Wanders by Itself
Mrs. D.
2022 Finalist
329 Pages
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Children - Grade 4th-6th
Reviewed by Steve Leshin for Readers' Favorite
The Cat That Wanders by Itself by Mrs. D. answers the question: what if your cat could speak to you? A calico cat who goes by the name of Nyda is the answer. As told in the first-person narrative, Nyda is the only female in a litter of kittens who navigates her way with the help of her mother and brothers. She certainly lives up to the title of the book, wandering into one adventure after another, which takes her away from the safety of her mother, while learning to be an independent and confident cat in the course of time. In each chapter, Nyda faces a new challenge as she seems to get into more mischief, something any cat owner can relate to. She faces indoor and outdoor confrontations with spiders, dust, frogs, and new people, until arriving at her new family home.
While reading The Cat That Wanders by Itself, I was reminded of my own feline friend of years gone by, C.C. the Cat, a rugged male tabby, who seemed to get into more trouble with each passing day yet would always come back home where purring and an occasional brush against your leg would be his way of saying, "Hello, I’m back." Nyda tells her story well, with the help of the author, Mrs. D, of course, and the illustrations by Saima Malik are marvelous. The Cat That Wanders by Itself is a delightful tale, suitable for children and cat lovers of any age.
The Cat That Wanders by Itself by Mrs. D. answers the question: what if your cat could speak to you? A calico cat who goes by the name of Nyda is the answer. As told in the first-person narrative, Nyda is the only female in a litter of kittens who navigates her way with the help of her mother and brothers. She certainly lives up to the title of the book, wandering into one adventure after another, which takes her away from the safety of her mother, while learning to be an independent and confident cat in the course of time. In each chapter, Nyda faces a new challenge as she seems to get into more mischief, something any cat owner can relate to. She faces indoor and outdoor confrontations with spiders, dust, frogs, and new people, until arriving at her new family home.
While reading The Cat That Wanders by Itself, I was reminded of my own feline friend of years gone by, C.C. the Cat, a rugged male tabby, who seemed to get into more trouble with each passing day yet would always come back home where purring and an occasional brush against your leg would be his way of saying, "Hello, I’m back." Nyda tells her story well, with the help of the author, Mrs. D, of course, and the illustrations by Saima Malik are marvelous. The Cat That Wanders by Itself is a delightful tale, suitable for children and cat lovers of any age.
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Rosie the Farm Truck
Victoria Scudder
2022 Gold Medal
33 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite
Eight inches of snow fell on the Callahan Farm overnight. Rosie the truck wanted to play with her friends in it. Unfortunately, they expected a storm the following night, and Farmer Jack enlisted the help of everyone to prepare for it. Rosie wasn’t happy, but she helped. Later, while they were playing, Mayor Hope sent for Rosie to help bring in four reindeer trapped on a stranded train. The reindeer were on an urgent mission but couldn’t brave the incoming storm. If the mission failed, many children would be sad. Would Rosie agree to help get the reindeer out of danger to a shelter? Would the storm stop the reindeer from their task? Find out in Rosie the Farm Truck by Victoria Scudder, illustrated by Kam Bayo.
Rosie the Farm Truck by Victoria Scudder is a perfect Christmas children’s story. However, the lessons in this picture book remain evergreen. It is a tale of kindness, teamwork, love, resourcefulness, courage, and healthy doses of confidence. I loved the beautiful illustrations and attractive choice of colors by Kam Bayo. The simple grammar and punchy sentences were catchy and easy to understand. Scudder awakened my imagination by creating living characters out of everything in the environment which I’m sure will excite children. Above all, this book reminds us never to second guess ourselves, as Rosie did. We must opt for a circle of people who would do everything to help us succeed, as we can only receive the energy we give. When we show up for people in difficult situations, we unlock another level of our own strength and uniqueness. Thank you for this educative book, Victoria Scudder!
Eight inches of snow fell on the Callahan Farm overnight. Rosie the truck wanted to play with her friends in it. Unfortunately, they expected a storm the following night, and Farmer Jack enlisted the help of everyone to prepare for it. Rosie wasn’t happy, but she helped. Later, while they were playing, Mayor Hope sent for Rosie to help bring in four reindeer trapped on a stranded train. The reindeer were on an urgent mission but couldn’t brave the incoming storm. If the mission failed, many children would be sad. Would Rosie agree to help get the reindeer out of danger to a shelter? Would the storm stop the reindeer from their task? Find out in Rosie the Farm Truck by Victoria Scudder, illustrated by Kam Bayo.
Rosie the Farm Truck by Victoria Scudder is a perfect Christmas children’s story. However, the lessons in this picture book remain evergreen. It is a tale of kindness, teamwork, love, resourcefulness, courage, and healthy doses of confidence. I loved the beautiful illustrations and attractive choice of colors by Kam Bayo. The simple grammar and punchy sentences were catchy and easy to understand. Scudder awakened my imagination by creating living characters out of everything in the environment which I’m sure will excite children. Above all, this book reminds us never to second guess ourselves, as Rosie did. We must opt for a circle of people who would do everything to help us succeed, as we can only receive the energy we give. When we show up for people in difficult situations, we unlock another level of our own strength and uniqueness. Thank you for this educative book, Victoria Scudder!
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The Scariest Story You've Ever Heard
Ron Keres
2022 Silver Medal
51 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
Reviewed by Lois J Wickstrom for Readers' Favorite
It was a dark and stormy night. I never thought I’d get to use those opening words, first penned by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, but they describe this story exactly. The Scariest Story You’ve Ever Heard by Ron Keres and designed by Arthur Lin is intended to be too scary for pictures. The power has gone out. The pages are black. The words do the job, just like telling a scary story in the dark. Readers and listeners can try to picture what is happening, along with the brothers in this imaginative tale, who hear unexpected sounds in the night that get their hearts and imaginations pumping. Thump, screams, crunch, crunch, crunch, drip drop, drip drop, grrr, clang and bang. Just what you need to get scared in the night.
Ron Keres’ sense of humor shines through in this story, just as it did in It’s Not That Big a Deal, also illustrated by Arthur Lin. The Scariest Story You've Ever Heard isn’t The Monkey’s Paw or The Telltale Heart. It is appropriate for children aged 4-8 and is also a suitable bedtime story. You might want to read this book in a darkened room, illuminating the words by flashlight to bring out the best effect. Show the creative typography to your listeners if they are old enough to read. Pause now and then to ask your listeners what they think is making all those sounds. Laugh with them when the brothers’ curiosity gets the better of them and they go hunting for the monster. Recommended for naptime, bedtime, or daytime reading.
It was a dark and stormy night. I never thought I’d get to use those opening words, first penned by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, but they describe this story exactly. The Scariest Story You’ve Ever Heard by Ron Keres and designed by Arthur Lin is intended to be too scary for pictures. The power has gone out. The pages are black. The words do the job, just like telling a scary story in the dark. Readers and listeners can try to picture what is happening, along with the brothers in this imaginative tale, who hear unexpected sounds in the night that get their hearts and imaginations pumping. Thump, screams, crunch, crunch, crunch, drip drop, drip drop, grrr, clang and bang. Just what you need to get scared in the night.
Ron Keres’ sense of humor shines through in this story, just as it did in It’s Not That Big a Deal, also illustrated by Arthur Lin. The Scariest Story You've Ever Heard isn’t The Monkey’s Paw or The Telltale Heart. It is appropriate for children aged 4-8 and is also a suitable bedtime story. You might want to read this book in a darkened room, illuminating the words by flashlight to bring out the best effect. Show the creative typography to your listeners if they are old enough to read. Pause now and then to ask your listeners what they think is making all those sounds. Laugh with them when the brothers’ curiosity gets the better of them and they go hunting for the monster. Recommended for naptime, bedtime, or daytime reading.
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Simone LaFray and the Red Wolves of London
S.P. O'Farrell
2022 Silver Medal
248 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite
What began as a short spy story for S.P. O'Farrell's niece is now an award-winning series that rivals a modern-day Nancy Drew. Simone LaFray and the Red Wolves of London find our junior spy, Simone, taking a new case to rescue another junior spy, Claire, who has gone missing. Going to a prestigious school in London allowed her to investigate the kidnapping and attend the opening of her family's new store. She is reluctant when the notorious Red Wolves ask her to join their mission until she discovers Claire was a part of their crusade. Keeping her friendships and family life separate becomes difficult when they are threatened because of the job she must do to find Claire and a dangerous key.
Grade school students will love the suspense, school drama, and cultural differences in Simone LaFray and the Red Wolves of London. S.P. O'Farrell continues Simone's career as a junior spy after she identifies a criminal. Children will enjoy living through Simone's character as she struggles with confidence and attention from her fellow students. Her fame brings a following of impressionable students as well as bullies. This story is well-written with a plot that moves between school life and dangerous steps to find the missing agent. I found this story captivating as the author blends adventure, humor, and doubt into the mission. Simone is an endearing character that will live on in the hearts of her audience. I am looking forward to her next set of adventures. I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy mystery and adventure at a student level.
What began as a short spy story for S.P. O'Farrell's niece is now an award-winning series that rivals a modern-day Nancy Drew. Simone LaFray and the Red Wolves of London find our junior spy, Simone, taking a new case to rescue another junior spy, Claire, who has gone missing. Going to a prestigious school in London allowed her to investigate the kidnapping and attend the opening of her family's new store. She is reluctant when the notorious Red Wolves ask her to join their mission until she discovers Claire was a part of their crusade. Keeping her friendships and family life separate becomes difficult when they are threatened because of the job she must do to find Claire and a dangerous key.
Grade school students will love the suspense, school drama, and cultural differences in Simone LaFray and the Red Wolves of London. S.P. O'Farrell continues Simone's career as a junior spy after she identifies a criminal. Children will enjoy living through Simone's character as she struggles with confidence and attention from her fellow students. Her fame brings a following of impressionable students as well as bullies. This story is well-written with a plot that moves between school life and dangerous steps to find the missing agent. I found this story captivating as the author blends adventure, humor, and doubt into the mission. Simone is an endearing character that will live on in the hearts of her audience. I am looking forward to her next set of adventures. I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy mystery and adventure at a student level.
Recommend this book:
Legend of the Rainbow Eater
The Stormwatch Diaries
Kristiana Sfirlea
2022 Honorable Mention
414 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Legend of the Rainbow Eater is a work of fiction in the fantasy and adventure subgenres and serves as the latest installment in the Stormwatch Diaries series. It is aimed at younger readers and was penned by author Kristiana Sfirlea. The book follows Rose and Marek as they search for the Wishing Mist and end up in a heap of trouble in the town of Mapleton. Surrounded by bizarre beings and mystical mishaps, their search for the Wishing Mist and its inhabitants – the Will-O’-The-Wisps – takes on a new urgency as only their magic can undo the chaos that has been unleashed.
This book is a whimsical spin on fantasy that uses the alternative takes on some classic fantasy staples in order to constantly subvert and surprise the reader. Kristiana Sfirlea’s prose is gorgeous and playful and will whisk any reader away into this unusual and highly original world with good-natured humor sprinkled throughout the story and two wonderful leading characters who lean on the reader as if confiding in a friend. It was so refreshing to read a children’s fantasy book that refuses to conform to the ideas and tropes of others in the genre and instead creates a thoroughly unique profile in the market. Legend of the Rainbow Eater is a reminder for children and adults alike that fantasy storytelling is limited only by our imagination, and within its pages is abundant fuel for the imaginations of young readers. A worthy addition to the series, and after finishing it I’m left hoping that this isn’t the last we see of Rose and Marek.
Legend of the Rainbow Eater is a work of fiction in the fantasy and adventure subgenres and serves as the latest installment in the Stormwatch Diaries series. It is aimed at younger readers and was penned by author Kristiana Sfirlea. The book follows Rose and Marek as they search for the Wishing Mist and end up in a heap of trouble in the town of Mapleton. Surrounded by bizarre beings and mystical mishaps, their search for the Wishing Mist and its inhabitants – the Will-O’-The-Wisps – takes on a new urgency as only their magic can undo the chaos that has been unleashed.
This book is a whimsical spin on fantasy that uses the alternative takes on some classic fantasy staples in order to constantly subvert and surprise the reader. Kristiana Sfirlea’s prose is gorgeous and playful and will whisk any reader away into this unusual and highly original world with good-natured humor sprinkled throughout the story and two wonderful leading characters who lean on the reader as if confiding in a friend. It was so refreshing to read a children’s fantasy book that refuses to conform to the ideas and tropes of others in the genre and instead creates a thoroughly unique profile in the market. Legend of the Rainbow Eater is a reminder for children and adults alike that fantasy storytelling is limited only by our imagination, and within its pages is abundant fuel for the imaginations of young readers. A worthy addition to the series, and after finishing it I’m left hoping that this isn’t the last we see of Rose and Marek.
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The Buccaneers of St. Frederick Island
Sibby's Secret
Linda Maria Frank
2022 Finalist
264 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Buccaneers of St. Frederick Island: Sibby's Secret is penned by author Linda Maria Frank in the historical, adventure, and action genres for young independent readers. The plot sees Lily, Frank, Leon, Ryan, and Amelia embroiled in a thrilling adventure as they investigate the disappearance of Sibby Fintail, a fisherman and bay constable. Following clues to a cave where Sibby harvested crystals, they find Sibby badly beaten, prompting questions about the perpetrators' motives. As they delve deeper, they uncover a plot to seize control of the caves from the native tribe and face danger when strangers kidnap Becca Dawes, Sprocket's mother. Through clever sleuthing and daring acts, the Buccaneers unravel the mystery, showcasing their wit and bravery in solving the case.
Author Linda Maria Frank crafts an exhilarating story that whisks young readers away into a world of adventure and mystery. The captivating narrative has a superb sense of pacing to balance big action moments with interesting, suspense-filled discovery sections, and it was filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations to keep young minds engaged. The dynamic characters of Lily, Frank, and their friends brought the story to life, each contributing their unique skills and personalities to the investigation. I was delighted by the dialogue, which felt suitably classic for this kind of historical adventure, yet was highly accessible for young modern readers. Frank's attention to detail and vivid descriptions transported me to the vibrant setting of St. Frederick Island in 1947, immersing me in the atmosphere of the period with a balanced amount of context and detail. As I followed the Buccaneers' escapades, I found myself laughing at their antics and cheering for their triumphs, making for an entertaining and engaging read. Overall, Sibby's Secret is a delightful blend of adventure, suspense, and camaraderie that kept me hooked until the very end, and I would not hesitate to recommend it for the young and the young at heart alike.
The Buccaneers of St. Frederick Island: Sibby's Secret is penned by author Linda Maria Frank in the historical, adventure, and action genres for young independent readers. The plot sees Lily, Frank, Leon, Ryan, and Amelia embroiled in a thrilling adventure as they investigate the disappearance of Sibby Fintail, a fisherman and bay constable. Following clues to a cave where Sibby harvested crystals, they find Sibby badly beaten, prompting questions about the perpetrators' motives. As they delve deeper, they uncover a plot to seize control of the caves from the native tribe and face danger when strangers kidnap Becca Dawes, Sprocket's mother. Through clever sleuthing and daring acts, the Buccaneers unravel the mystery, showcasing their wit and bravery in solving the case.
Author Linda Maria Frank crafts an exhilarating story that whisks young readers away into a world of adventure and mystery. The captivating narrative has a superb sense of pacing to balance big action moments with interesting, suspense-filled discovery sections, and it was filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations to keep young minds engaged. The dynamic characters of Lily, Frank, and their friends brought the story to life, each contributing their unique skills and personalities to the investigation. I was delighted by the dialogue, which felt suitably classic for this kind of historical adventure, yet was highly accessible for young modern readers. Frank's attention to detail and vivid descriptions transported me to the vibrant setting of St. Frederick Island in 1947, immersing me in the atmosphere of the period with a balanced amount of context and detail. As I followed the Buccaneers' escapades, I found myself laughing at their antics and cheering for their triumphs, making for an entertaining and engaging read. Overall, Sibby's Secret is a delightful blend of adventure, suspense, and camaraderie that kept me hooked until the very end, and I would not hesitate to recommend it for the young and the young at heart alike.
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 by Camille S. Campbell is an intriguing fairytale for children. The story follows a young girl named Janet, who discovers that magic is real, and not only that, she has powers too! The storyline is based on Janet flying over to Egypt to see her archaeologist grandfather, John Lester. On the trip, Janet meets a...){kind=link}
The Wishner's Curse
Wishner Prophecy
Camille S. Campbell
2022 Silver Medal
116 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Amy Louise Hill for Readers' Favorite
The Wishner's Curse (Wishner Prophecy) by Camille S. Campbell is an intriguing fairytale for children. The story follows a young girl named Janet, who discovers that magic is real, and not only that, she has powers too! The storyline is based on Janet flying over to Egypt to see her archaeologist grandfather, John Lester. On the trip, Janet meets an interesting boy, Ero, who has the extraordinary ability to read minds! At first, the two bump heads and don't get along, especially after Ero steals from Janet, but all isn't what it seems and the two of them come together to fight evil. Dive into The Wishner's Curse to find out what happens to Janet and Ero on their magical journey. You won't be disappointed!
The Wishner's Curse (Wishner Prophecy) had me hooked from the very first page. The front cover screams magic and it attracted my attention immediately. From reading it, I could tell how much time and effort had been put into the story and it left me feeling amazed that someone so young had written something so professional. Camille S. Campbell is extremely talented and has a vivid imagination. I can't wait for the next book so I can follow more of Janet and Ero's journey. There's so much more to be discovered and I'm eager to be one of the lucky people reading it! Keep up the great work, Camille; you've created a page-turning book that children will love!
The Wishner's Curse (Wishner Prophecy) by Camille S. Campbell is an intriguing fairytale for children. The story follows a young girl named Janet, who discovers that magic is real, and not only that, she has powers too! The storyline is based on Janet flying over to Egypt to see her archaeologist grandfather, John Lester. On the trip, Janet meets an interesting boy, Ero, who has the extraordinary ability to read minds! At first, the two bump heads and don't get along, especially after Ero steals from Janet, but all isn't what it seems and the two of them come together to fight evil. Dive into The Wishner's Curse to find out what happens to Janet and Ero on their magical journey. You won't be disappointed!
The Wishner's Curse (Wishner Prophecy) had me hooked from the very first page. The front cover screams magic and it attracted my attention immediately. From reading it, I could tell how much time and effort had been put into the story and it left me feeling amazed that someone so young had written something so professional. Camille S. Campbell is extremely talented and has a vivid imagination. I can't wait for the next book so I can follow more of Janet and Ero's journey. There's so much more to be discovered and I'm eager to be one of the lucky people reading it! Keep up the great work, Camille; you've created a page-turning book that children will love!
Recommend this book:
The Samurai's Gift
Kristi Shimada
2022 Honorable Mention
39 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Kristine Zimmerman for Readers' Favorite
The Samurai's Gift by Kristi Shimada is part fable and part self-help book for kids. Yoshi is a young Japanese boy who is suffering from asthma and the flu. His father is reading him his favorite book about samurai warriors until finally, Yoshi falls asleep, exhausted. The warrior in Yoshi's book, Takeshi, comes alive in his dreams and explains how he can heal himself. Takeshi leads him to a special place full of healing. He gifts him a silver samurai sword that has unique powers. Yoshi meets his anger in the form of a red dragon and, with Takeshi's help, learns how he can tame the dragon. Yoshi learns that he can choose how he responds to his feelings.
The Samurai's Gift shows kids that our minds have a lot of control over our bodies. The message is woven seamlessly into an engaging and exciting story that kids will enjoy. The colorful and vibrant anime-like illustrations by Eko Setiawan will intrigue and delight readers. Shimada also includes several interesting tidbits about Japanese culture, from descriptions of Yoshi and his family's clothing to the rice soup that his mother makes for him. The story flows smoothly between Yoshi's real life and his dreams. I enjoyed that Yoshi is in control when he confronts his dragon, but Takeshi is there as a supportive figure. The Samurai's Gift is a great story. It will be especially entertaining to those who love anime and Japanese culture. The Samurai's Gift is an empowering book for all.
The Samurai's Gift by Kristi Shimada is part fable and part self-help book for kids. Yoshi is a young Japanese boy who is suffering from asthma and the flu. His father is reading him his favorite book about samurai warriors until finally, Yoshi falls asleep, exhausted. The warrior in Yoshi's book, Takeshi, comes alive in his dreams and explains how he can heal himself. Takeshi leads him to a special place full of healing. He gifts him a silver samurai sword that has unique powers. Yoshi meets his anger in the form of a red dragon and, with Takeshi's help, learns how he can tame the dragon. Yoshi learns that he can choose how he responds to his feelings.
The Samurai's Gift shows kids that our minds have a lot of control over our bodies. The message is woven seamlessly into an engaging and exciting story that kids will enjoy. The colorful and vibrant anime-like illustrations by Eko Setiawan will intrigue and delight readers. Shimada also includes several interesting tidbits about Japanese culture, from descriptions of Yoshi and his family's clothing to the rice soup that his mother makes for him. The story flows smoothly between Yoshi's real life and his dreams. I enjoyed that Yoshi is in control when he confronts his dragon, but Takeshi is there as a supportive figure. The Samurai's Gift is a great story. It will be especially entertaining to those who love anime and Japanese culture. The Samurai's Gift is an empowering book for all.
Recommend this book:
Dragons in the Barn
Lola's Adventures
Ennes Higgins
2022 Finalist
32 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Jennie More for Readers' Favorite
Dragons in the Barn by Ennes Higgins is the story of four siblings engrossed in their digital devices. Lola is on her iPad researching global warming, Liam and Toby with the laptop are watching funny cat videos, and Sara, the teenager, is chatting away on her cell phone with her friends. When the children don’t listen to their grandma, she takes away their devices and instructs them to clean the barn. Discouraged by the filth in the barn, Lola cracks on with the work, thinking the sooner they finish cleaning, the sooner she can get back to her research project, but her siblings have other plans. Liam and Toby set the game in motion, and Sara, the eldest, surprisingly, is also willing. Three of the siblings search for ways to defend themselves from the imaginary hungry dragons, but Lola feels out of place because this imaginative game does not come as easily to her as it does to her siblings. With some help from their grandma, Lola finds a way to let her imagination run free.
Dragons in the Barn by Ennes Higgins is a well-written story that is insightful, refreshing, and relevant to our times. I remember a time when playing in the yard and using your imagination was the best fun you could have. Due to digital transformation and parents attempting to balance work and home life, digital devices have become the go-to toy to keep children busy. Higgins explores this troubling reality and reminds children and adults alike about the importance of using your imagination and how, unlike the world, through imagining, anything is possible and thus more fun and exhilarating. On the other hand, the story also shows how the brilliant young Lola uses her intelligence in the imaginative world; therefore, intellect and imagination complement one another. Dragons in the Barn by Ennes Higgins is a heart-warming story that I loved reading.
Dragons in the Barn by Ennes Higgins is the story of four siblings engrossed in their digital devices. Lola is on her iPad researching global warming, Liam and Toby with the laptop are watching funny cat videos, and Sara, the teenager, is chatting away on her cell phone with her friends. When the children don’t listen to their grandma, she takes away their devices and instructs them to clean the barn. Discouraged by the filth in the barn, Lola cracks on with the work, thinking the sooner they finish cleaning, the sooner she can get back to her research project, but her siblings have other plans. Liam and Toby set the game in motion, and Sara, the eldest, surprisingly, is also willing. Three of the siblings search for ways to defend themselves from the imaginary hungry dragons, but Lola feels out of place because this imaginative game does not come as easily to her as it does to her siblings. With some help from their grandma, Lola finds a way to let her imagination run free.
Dragons in the Barn by Ennes Higgins is a well-written story that is insightful, refreshing, and relevant to our times. I remember a time when playing in the yard and using your imagination was the best fun you could have. Due to digital transformation and parents attempting to balance work and home life, digital devices have become the go-to toy to keep children busy. Higgins explores this troubling reality and reminds children and adults alike about the importance of using your imagination and how, unlike the world, through imagining, anything is possible and thus more fun and exhilarating. On the other hand, the story also shows how the brilliant young Lola uses her intelligence in the imaginative world; therefore, intellect and imagination complement one another. Dragons in the Barn by Ennes Higgins is a heart-warming story that I loved reading.
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