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Recommend this book:
Saygar the Detective
The Case of the Missing Noodle
Elizabeth Jurado
2024 Finalist
186 Pages
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Children - Mystery
Reviewed by P. Rosenthal for Readers' Favorite
In Saygar the Detective by Elizabeth Jurado, Saygar A. Hill is a kid-sized ant who lives in a treehouse when he’s not in school. As if keeping his best friend’s true identity a secret is not enough, third-grader Joseph Mateo is currently suffering from anxiety brought on by certain relatives he’d like to “un-family.” So, Joseph is horrified when he is unwittingly left to supervise his cousins, four-year-old Julia and toddler Saul Sam aka Noodle. True to form, Noodle locks himself in the bathroom, covers himself with toothpaste, then exits the bathroom and escapes through the back door. Julia, Saygar, and Joseph are joined by classmate Amanda on what turns out to be a comical search to find the little pasta monster. Will Saygar’s special abilities be enough to save the day?
Elizabeth Jurado’s talented writing creates a world where a kid-sized ant seems entirely plausible. A fantastical imaginative plot can quickly go sideways, but this is not true in Saygar the Detective: The Case of the Missing Noodle. The cast of characters is endearing and memorable. Saygar’s “down-to-earth” nature works well with Joseph’s marginally strong moral compass. Making them both relatable characters, Jurado enhances the cultural flavor of this fast-paced, action-filled story by including Spanish terms that reflect Joseph’s heritage. Further, the subtlety with which family bonds are featured is not lost and adds to the themes of friendship and acceptance. The cartoonish black-and-white illustrations by Davey Villalobos perfectly suit this writing style and resonate with humor. This is the third installment. Keep the author motivated and read the whole Saygar Books series!
In Saygar the Detective by Elizabeth Jurado, Saygar A. Hill is a kid-sized ant who lives in a treehouse when he’s not in school. As if keeping his best friend’s true identity a secret is not enough, third-grader Joseph Mateo is currently suffering from anxiety brought on by certain relatives he’d like to “un-family.” So, Joseph is horrified when he is unwittingly left to supervise his cousins, four-year-old Julia and toddler Saul Sam aka Noodle. True to form, Noodle locks himself in the bathroom, covers himself with toothpaste, then exits the bathroom and escapes through the back door. Julia, Saygar, and Joseph are joined by classmate Amanda on what turns out to be a comical search to find the little pasta monster. Will Saygar’s special abilities be enough to save the day?
Elizabeth Jurado’s talented writing creates a world where a kid-sized ant seems entirely plausible. A fantastical imaginative plot can quickly go sideways, but this is not true in Saygar the Detective: The Case of the Missing Noodle. The cast of characters is endearing and memorable. Saygar’s “down-to-earth” nature works well with Joseph’s marginally strong moral compass. Making them both relatable characters, Jurado enhances the cultural flavor of this fast-paced, action-filled story by including Spanish terms that reflect Joseph’s heritage. Further, the subtlety with which family bonds are featured is not lost and adds to the themes of friendship and acceptance. The cartoonish black-and-white illustrations by Davey Villalobos perfectly suit this writing style and resonate with humor. This is the third installment. Keep the author motivated and read the whole Saygar Books series!
Recommend this book:
The Magical Land of Hearts
Sherry Dahl
2024 Silver Medal
30 Pages
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Erin Nicole Cochran for Readers' Favorite
The Magical Land of Hearts by Sherry Dahl is an enchanting children’s picture book about an imaginary land where every heart’s desire seems to come true. Dahl’s narrative has a sweet child-like rhyming scheme that makes you almost want to sing the words out loud as you turn each page. The idea of the magical land becoming accessible simply by drawing a heart really made the book something extra special. There is an added surprise at the end of the book that will make children even more excited as the fun can continue but in another artistic way. This magical land is the kind of place that you’ll want to visit again and again, whether you’re a child or a child at heart.
Sherry Dahl’s The Magical Land of Hearts reminded me of all the things I loved the most as a child. All the sweets and treats, the joyful fun that came with no real responsibilities. The illustrations created by Aidar Zeineshev are vivid and colorful and play across the page as though they were images in a Pixar cartoon. Readers of all ages and sizes will no doubt salivate over the sundaes, jellybeans, and other yummy treats portrayed. They are so real you almost want to pick them off the screen and page. There is much to see and experience in this book and you will not want to miss out on it!
The Magical Land of Hearts by Sherry Dahl is an enchanting children’s picture book about an imaginary land where every heart’s desire seems to come true. Dahl’s narrative has a sweet child-like rhyming scheme that makes you almost want to sing the words out loud as you turn each page. The idea of the magical land becoming accessible simply by drawing a heart really made the book something extra special. There is an added surprise at the end of the book that will make children even more excited as the fun can continue but in another artistic way. This magical land is the kind of place that you’ll want to visit again and again, whether you’re a child or a child at heart.
Sherry Dahl’s The Magical Land of Hearts reminded me of all the things I loved the most as a child. All the sweets and treats, the joyful fun that came with no real responsibilities. The illustrations created by Aidar Zeineshev are vivid and colorful and play across the page as though they were images in a Pixar cartoon. Readers of all ages and sizes will no doubt salivate over the sundaes, jellybeans, and other yummy treats portrayed. They are so real you almost want to pick them off the screen and page. There is much to see and experience in this book and you will not want to miss out on it!
Recommend this book:
The Day the Clouds Went Away
Tales from the Princessdom, Book 1
Richard Rieman, Barbara Owczarek, Lor Bingham
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Children - Mythology/Fairy Tale
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
The Day the Clouds Went Away by Richard Rieman is a delightful children’s fairy tale that enchants young readers with its whimsical characters and magical storyline. The story follows Princess Claudia, who eagerly anticipates celebrating her eighth birthday under a clear, sunny sky. However, when a spell intended to fulfill her wish goes wrong, she finds herself longing for the clouds she wished away. This enchanting tale introduces young readers to a variety of cloud characters, including Cyrus the Cirrus Cloud and Chrissy the Cumulus, who help Claudia understand the importance and beauty of clouds. Guided by her wise owl and a clumsy but endearing wizard, Princess Claudia embarks on a heartwarming journey that teaches her, and readers, the true magic that lies in the sky.
Richard Rieman excels in both plot and character development, making this narrative stand out in the genre of children’s fairy tales. Claudia is a charming protagonist whose blindness adds a unique layer to her character, emphasizing the theme of appreciating beauty in all its forms. The supporting characters, such as the personified clouds and the bumbling wizard, are vividly portrayed and add depth and humor to the story. The narrative is engaging and accessible, with a pace that keeps young readers captivated while imparting valuable lessons about nature and the interconnectedness of all things. The illustrations by Barbara Owczarek beautifully complement the text, bringing the magical world to life with vibrant colors and imaginative scenes. Fans of mythology and fairy tales will appreciate the blend of fantasy, adventure, and gentle moral lessons. As the first book in the Tales from the Princessdom series, The Day the Clouds Went Away is a magical journey that encourages children to look up at the sky with wonder and appreciation, making it a must-read for young adventurers and dreamers.
The Day the Clouds Went Away by Richard Rieman is a delightful children’s fairy tale that enchants young readers with its whimsical characters and magical storyline. The story follows Princess Claudia, who eagerly anticipates celebrating her eighth birthday under a clear, sunny sky. However, when a spell intended to fulfill her wish goes wrong, she finds herself longing for the clouds she wished away. This enchanting tale introduces young readers to a variety of cloud characters, including Cyrus the Cirrus Cloud and Chrissy the Cumulus, who help Claudia understand the importance and beauty of clouds. Guided by her wise owl and a clumsy but endearing wizard, Princess Claudia embarks on a heartwarming journey that teaches her, and readers, the true magic that lies in the sky.
Richard Rieman excels in both plot and character development, making this narrative stand out in the genre of children’s fairy tales. Claudia is a charming protagonist whose blindness adds a unique layer to her character, emphasizing the theme of appreciating beauty in all its forms. The supporting characters, such as the personified clouds and the bumbling wizard, are vividly portrayed and add depth and humor to the story. The narrative is engaging and accessible, with a pace that keeps young readers captivated while imparting valuable lessons about nature and the interconnectedness of all things. The illustrations by Barbara Owczarek beautifully complement the text, bringing the magical world to life with vibrant colors and imaginative scenes. Fans of mythology and fairy tales will appreciate the blend of fantasy, adventure, and gentle moral lessons. As the first book in the Tales from the Princessdom series, The Day the Clouds Went Away is a magical journey that encourages children to look up at the sky with wonder and appreciation, making it a must-read for young adventurers and dreamers.
Recommend this book:
The Power of Empathy
Be the Friend You've Always Wanted
Ruth Maille
2024 Honorable Mention
35 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
The Power of Empathy: Be the Friend You've Always Wanted is a children’s book by Ruth Maille. Orbit, a personified image of our planet, gathers a group of children together to discover a superpower: empathy. Orbit explains the emotion, and gives some examples, before asking the children to describe instances where they have shown empathy. Orbit goes on by showing examples of where empathy can provide a positive experience, and the story ends with positive affirmations.
Ruth Maille has owned an early learning center for thirty-two years, and her ability to connect with children on their level is shown through her wording. Her writing is clear, and the examples are relatable. I read the book with two of my young children, and they were engaged by the content and beautiful illustrations. The material could encourage meaningful discussions about behavior and empathy, and children may find a comparable example in their lives from one of the events in the story. The note at the beginning of the book speaks positively about our world as it heals from the recent pandemic and explains the reason why Orbit is wearing two bandages.
The story is part of “The Power of…” series, which has won well-deserved awards, and parents can feel confident knowing that an experienced proponent of children’s emotional development wrote this book. It would be a fantastic fit for libraries and community centers where young children are present. The Power of Empathy is a beautiful learning tool for parents or caregivers to place in home libraries.
The Power of Empathy: Be the Friend You've Always Wanted is a children’s book by Ruth Maille. Orbit, a personified image of our planet, gathers a group of children together to discover a superpower: empathy. Orbit explains the emotion, and gives some examples, before asking the children to describe instances where they have shown empathy. Orbit goes on by showing examples of where empathy can provide a positive experience, and the story ends with positive affirmations.
Ruth Maille has owned an early learning center for thirty-two years, and her ability to connect with children on their level is shown through her wording. Her writing is clear, and the examples are relatable. I read the book with two of my young children, and they were engaged by the content and beautiful illustrations. The material could encourage meaningful discussions about behavior and empathy, and children may find a comparable example in their lives from one of the events in the story. The note at the beginning of the book speaks positively about our world as it heals from the recent pandemic and explains the reason why Orbit is wearing two bandages.
The story is part of “The Power of…” series, which has won well-deserved awards, and parents can feel confident knowing that an experienced proponent of children’s emotional development wrote this book. It would be a fantastic fit for libraries and community centers where young children are present. The Power of Empathy is a beautiful learning tool for parents or caregivers to place in home libraries.
Recommend this book:
Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code
Rick Felty
2024 Finalist
97 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
The Old West can teach modern society much about living. Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code by Rick Felty teaches young children civility in a fun way. Tabitha is a one-eyed cat who is the sheriff of the town. The town is full of kind people who care for each other. To this nice peaceful town comes Ornery the Outlaw. Many people would just avoid someone who is onery, but Tabitha wants him to feel welcome and to find out why he is ornery. Ornery the Outlaw is ornery because he feels he does not have a friend and never will. The kindness of the townspeople transforms Ornery and he becomes kind and friendly. Read this book to learn how you can use the Cowboy Code to help others learn to be kind and friendly. Learn to focus on joy and not on sadness.
Do you want your child to grow into a kind, gentle, caring soul? Then Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code by Rick Felty is the book for your child, which teaches that kindness can be shown in many different ways. This is a great picture book for children with wonderful illustrations and a rhyming style that add to the joy of reading the story. I love the fact that the rhymes are not contrived but flow naturally. As your child grows into adulthood, you will be glad you taught them the Cowboy Code, which teaches them to be kind and friendly, helpful, and that being unique is good. Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code has so many wonderful lessons, I highly recommend it for all children.
The Old West can teach modern society much about living. Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code by Rick Felty teaches young children civility in a fun way. Tabitha is a one-eyed cat who is the sheriff of the town. The town is full of kind people who care for each other. To this nice peaceful town comes Ornery the Outlaw. Many people would just avoid someone who is onery, but Tabitha wants him to feel welcome and to find out why he is ornery. Ornery the Outlaw is ornery because he feels he does not have a friend and never will. The kindness of the townspeople transforms Ornery and he becomes kind and friendly. Read this book to learn how you can use the Cowboy Code to help others learn to be kind and friendly. Learn to focus on joy and not on sadness.
Do you want your child to grow into a kind, gentle, caring soul? Then Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code by Rick Felty is the book for your child, which teaches that kindness can be shown in many different ways. This is a great picture book for children with wonderful illustrations and a rhyming style that add to the joy of reading the story. I love the fact that the rhymes are not contrived but flow naturally. As your child grows into adulthood, you will be glad you taught them the Cowboy Code, which teaches them to be kind and friendly, helpful, and that being unique is good. Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code has so many wonderful lessons, I highly recommend it for all children.
Recommend this book:
We're The Same, We're Different and We All Belong
KayJay Miller
2024 Silver Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Kristine Zimmerman for Readers' Favorite
We're the Same, We're Different and We All Belong by KayJay Miller is a beautiful picture book that embraces the differences that make us unique. Six-year-old Marnie is our guide through this story. She shares the wisdom she has learned from her Mama, that everyone has many layers to them. People are more than what you see on the outside. Marnie jubilantly shares the things she loves about herself. She celebrates her thick, beautiful hair, that she can do difficult things (even if they are scary), and her self-confidence. Marnie also talks about a time when people judged her based on her looks alone and how that made her feel. Throughout the story, kids are encouraged to answer questions about what makes them unique.
KayJay Miller's We're the Same, We're Different and We All Belong is one of the best books I've read about celebrating and respecting diversity. Everything about this book is top-notch. Marnie is a character that kids will immediately want as their friend. She is confident yet also vulnerable and engaging. The illustrations are vibrant and full of life and emotions. I love how they are sprinkled throughout the text in addition to the full-color pages. The layout of this book is so inviting with varied text sizes and formatting. The message of diversity and acceptance is woven expertly throughout the story. KayJay Miller has crafted a luminous character in Marnie. I hope to see her in future stories. As a retired children's librarian, I've read thousands of picture books, and We're the Same, We're Different and We All Belong is one of the best.
We're the Same, We're Different and We All Belong by KayJay Miller is a beautiful picture book that embraces the differences that make us unique. Six-year-old Marnie is our guide through this story. She shares the wisdom she has learned from her Mama, that everyone has many layers to them. People are more than what you see on the outside. Marnie jubilantly shares the things she loves about herself. She celebrates her thick, beautiful hair, that she can do difficult things (even if they are scary), and her self-confidence. Marnie also talks about a time when people judged her based on her looks alone and how that made her feel. Throughout the story, kids are encouraged to answer questions about what makes them unique.
KayJay Miller's We're the Same, We're Different and We All Belong is one of the best books I've read about celebrating and respecting diversity. Everything about this book is top-notch. Marnie is a character that kids will immediately want as their friend. She is confident yet also vulnerable and engaging. The illustrations are vibrant and full of life and emotions. I love how they are sprinkled throughout the text in addition to the full-color pages. The layout of this book is so inviting with varied text sizes and formatting. The message of diversity and acceptance is woven expertly throughout the story. KayJay Miller has crafted a luminous character in Marnie. I hope to see her in future stories. As a retired children's librarian, I've read thousands of picture books, and We're the Same, We're Different and We All Belong is one of the best.
Recommend this book:
Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes to School
Goes to School
A.M. Berkowitz
2024 Bronze Medal
24 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
In Gigglet the Happy Little Piglet Goes to School by A.M. Berkowitz, young readers are taken on a delightful adventure with a charming character, Gigglet, as she happily heads off to school. The book features vibrant illustrations and an engaging narrative that creates an inviting world for early learners, encouraging them to join Gigglet in a day filled with giggles and fun. The simple and rhythmic language makes it an ideal choice for young children, capturing their attention and fostering a love for reading from an early age. As Gigglet goes through the school day, the book becomes an interactive experience, inviting young readers to giggle along with the cheerful piglet. The repetitive and rhythmic structure of the story aids in language development, making it both an educational and entertaining read for its target audience.
In Gigglet the Happy Little Piglet Goes to School, A.M. Berkowitz has crafted a standout board book that not only provides an enchanting narrative but also features colorful illustrations that bring the story to life. The book's simplicity is its strength, catering to the developmental needs of very early learners. For an enhanced experience, the story is complemented by the companion coloring and activity book, adding an extra layer of engagement and making this a comprehensive and interactive learning package. The rhythmic cadence of the text, coupled with the endearing character of Gigglet, creates a memorable reading experience for both children and their caregivers. This is a delightful addition to the world of children's literature, offering a perfect blend of entertainment and education for the youngest of readers. This book should be on everyone’s list of enjoyable reads. It is perfect for family reading time or when you want to read a story to your very early learners right before bed.
In Gigglet the Happy Little Piglet Goes to School by A.M. Berkowitz, young readers are taken on a delightful adventure with a charming character, Gigglet, as she happily heads off to school. The book features vibrant illustrations and an engaging narrative that creates an inviting world for early learners, encouraging them to join Gigglet in a day filled with giggles and fun. The simple and rhythmic language makes it an ideal choice for young children, capturing their attention and fostering a love for reading from an early age. As Gigglet goes through the school day, the book becomes an interactive experience, inviting young readers to giggle along with the cheerful piglet. The repetitive and rhythmic structure of the story aids in language development, making it both an educational and entertaining read for its target audience.
In Gigglet the Happy Little Piglet Goes to School, A.M. Berkowitz has crafted a standout board book that not only provides an enchanting narrative but also features colorful illustrations that bring the story to life. The book's simplicity is its strength, catering to the developmental needs of very early learners. For an enhanced experience, the story is complemented by the companion coloring and activity book, adding an extra layer of engagement and making this a comprehensive and interactive learning package. The rhythmic cadence of the text, coupled with the endearing character of Gigglet, creates a memorable reading experience for both children and their caregivers. This is a delightful addition to the world of children's literature, offering a perfect blend of entertainment and education for the youngest of readers. This book should be on everyone’s list of enjoyable reads. It is perfect for family reading time or when you want to read a story to your very early learners right before bed.
Recommend this book:
The Phantom Firefighter
First Responder
J.W. Jarvis
2024 Gold Medal
200 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
The Phantom Firefighter: First Responder is a middle-grade novel by J.W. Jarvis. Noah loves video games and spending time with his father. After eating out one night, Noah and his father stumble across a bookstore they hadn’t noticed previously. Noah selects a children’s book with an unconventional cover, and he and his father read it at home. As their interest in the story grows, they find themselves mentally and physically immersed in the world of Zach, a firefighter whose adventures lead him into dangerous situations. Noah assumes Zach’s role and his father is a phantom who watches over him. Noah and his father think that their experience is a dream, but Noah finds evidence that Zach and his team are real, and the decisions made in the book seem to affect the outcomes of the incidents. When Noah shares the book with a friend at school, an unexpected turn of events causes a critical situation.
J.W. Jarvis has a knack for providing intellectually stimulating facts throughout this work. From Australian phrases to the degree of detail in his rescue scenes, it’s apparent that the author either drew on his wealth of knowledge or researched the subject extensively. Readers will be engrossed in this magically realistic story as they move along with the fast-paced plot, and the end leaves room for a sequel. With themes of friendship, family, bullying, tenacity, altruism, and humor, The Phantom Firefighter is a book readers won’t want to put down. Even though the protagonist is a preteen, the story would appeal to young adults and more mature audiences as well. Jarvis donates three percent of this book's sales to the First Responders Children’s Foundation, which provides funding for children whose parents are first responders who died while on duty.
The Phantom Firefighter: First Responder is a middle-grade novel by J.W. Jarvis. Noah loves video games and spending time with his father. After eating out one night, Noah and his father stumble across a bookstore they hadn’t noticed previously. Noah selects a children’s book with an unconventional cover, and he and his father read it at home. As their interest in the story grows, they find themselves mentally and physically immersed in the world of Zach, a firefighter whose adventures lead him into dangerous situations. Noah assumes Zach’s role and his father is a phantom who watches over him. Noah and his father think that their experience is a dream, but Noah finds evidence that Zach and his team are real, and the decisions made in the book seem to affect the outcomes of the incidents. When Noah shares the book with a friend at school, an unexpected turn of events causes a critical situation.
J.W. Jarvis has a knack for providing intellectually stimulating facts throughout this work. From Australian phrases to the degree of detail in his rescue scenes, it’s apparent that the author either drew on his wealth of knowledge or researched the subject extensively. Readers will be engrossed in this magically realistic story as they move along with the fast-paced plot, and the end leaves room for a sequel. With themes of friendship, family, bullying, tenacity, altruism, and humor, The Phantom Firefighter is a book readers won’t want to put down. Even though the protagonist is a preteen, the story would appeal to young adults and more mature audiences as well. Jarvis donates three percent of this book's sales to the First Responders Children’s Foundation, which provides funding for children whose parents are first responders who died while on duty.
Recommend this book:
The Noble Adventures of Beryl and Carol
Jeremy Sherr
2024 Bronze Medal
251 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Alex Ndirangu for Readers' Favorite
There aren't many feelings in the world more scary than having someone with really bad intentions relentlessly follow you for sport. When a gang of bullies nearly catches 11-year-olds Beryl and Carol, they bolt into the last place in the world anyone would want to be—the Forbidden Forest. In February 1982, Tim Marston took a hike into the forest and never came back. Search parties combed through the woods for months, but no one could find a trace of Tim. Since then, no one dared go beyond the forest's tree line except today when Beryl and Carol did. But as circumstances edge the two best friends deeper and deeper into the dark woods, they come to a large, magical clearing. The girls agree to keep the garden a secret, to visit only when no one's looking their way. But something terrible threatens to turn their lovely little village into a ghost town in a few months. When Beryl and Carol discover a buried rusty tobacco tin with a letter from Tim Marston inside, mentioning a treasure hidden somewhere in the forest, the two young minds hope there might be a chance to save their homes. Is there a lost treasure sitting in the woods? What happened to Tim? Dive into Jeremy Sherr's The Noble Adventures of Beryl and Carol to find out.
Whether you're 10 or 80, this award-winning story will enthrall you to the last word. It's a real page-turner! The plot is fast-paced, and the author did a fantastic job of coordinating the non-stop action and suspense. Sherr's apt descriptions and lively dialogues transport you into the unfolding narrative, where you can almost sense the decaying forest floor and hear the river bubbling in the distance. The characters are marvelous. I rooted for Beryl and Carol. These two BFFs have been together forever. They are fearless in protecting each other, quite resilient in their tactics against adversity, and smart with their minds always swirling with ideas and possibilities. The Noble Adventures of Beryl and Carol is a special find in which a dangerous turn into uncharted depths becomes the luckiest of events. You'll really enjoy this adventure!
There aren't many feelings in the world more scary than having someone with really bad intentions relentlessly follow you for sport. When a gang of bullies nearly catches 11-year-olds Beryl and Carol, they bolt into the last place in the world anyone would want to be—the Forbidden Forest. In February 1982, Tim Marston took a hike into the forest and never came back. Search parties combed through the woods for months, but no one could find a trace of Tim. Since then, no one dared go beyond the forest's tree line except today when Beryl and Carol did. But as circumstances edge the two best friends deeper and deeper into the dark woods, they come to a large, magical clearing. The girls agree to keep the garden a secret, to visit only when no one's looking their way. But something terrible threatens to turn their lovely little village into a ghost town in a few months. When Beryl and Carol discover a buried rusty tobacco tin with a letter from Tim Marston inside, mentioning a treasure hidden somewhere in the forest, the two young minds hope there might be a chance to save their homes. Is there a lost treasure sitting in the woods? What happened to Tim? Dive into Jeremy Sherr's The Noble Adventures of Beryl and Carol to find out.
Whether you're 10 or 80, this award-winning story will enthrall you to the last word. It's a real page-turner! The plot is fast-paced, and the author did a fantastic job of coordinating the non-stop action and suspense. Sherr's apt descriptions and lively dialogues transport you into the unfolding narrative, where you can almost sense the decaying forest floor and hear the river bubbling in the distance. The characters are marvelous. I rooted for Beryl and Carol. These two BFFs have been together forever. They are fearless in protecting each other, quite resilient in their tactics against adversity, and smart with their minds always swirling with ideas and possibilities. The Noble Adventures of Beryl and Carol is a special find in which a dangerous turn into uncharted depths becomes the luckiest of events. You'll really enjoy this adventure!
Recommend this book:
Jett Jamison and the Secret Storm
Brave Girls Collection
Kimberly Behre Kenna
2024 Finalist
173 Pages
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Children - Preteen
Reviewed by Afifa Raisa for Readers' Favorite
Jett Jamison and the Secret Storm by Kimberly Behre Kenna is the story of Jett, a traumatized sixth-grader who is tired of the noises inside and around her. She desperately seeks peace, but nothing seems to work out for this troubled girl. Her life takes a different turn the day she unexpectedly meets Sister Gia, a nun with an interesting personality. Sensing Jett’s struggles, Sister Gia recommends a book that Jett may find helpful. Jett decides to get her hands on the book, only to discover that all the copies have disappeared. To make things worse, everyone in her town seems to be reluctant to talk about it. The attempts to silence the author’s voice disturb Jett deeply, and she decides to do what it takes to free it.
Kimberly Behre Kenna’s Jett Jamison and the Secret Storm is a breathtaking book that immediately earned my sympathy for the protagonist. I loved how Kimberly effectively dealt with serious issues like sexual assault and censorship while keeping the book suitable for young readers. I also appreciated the use of symbolism and metaphors which added depth as well as beauty. Right from the beginning, I felt that Kimberly had put her heart and soul into the story, so I was not surprised at all when I learned from the About the Author section that she was inspired by her own experiences to write the story. I would recommend the book to middle-graders as well as older readers.
Jett Jamison and the Secret Storm by Kimberly Behre Kenna is the story of Jett, a traumatized sixth-grader who is tired of the noises inside and around her. She desperately seeks peace, but nothing seems to work out for this troubled girl. Her life takes a different turn the day she unexpectedly meets Sister Gia, a nun with an interesting personality. Sensing Jett’s struggles, Sister Gia recommends a book that Jett may find helpful. Jett decides to get her hands on the book, only to discover that all the copies have disappeared. To make things worse, everyone in her town seems to be reluctant to talk about it. The attempts to silence the author’s voice disturb Jett deeply, and she decides to do what it takes to free it.
Kimberly Behre Kenna’s Jett Jamison and the Secret Storm is a breathtaking book that immediately earned my sympathy for the protagonist. I loved how Kimberly effectively dealt with serious issues like sexual assault and censorship while keeping the book suitable for young readers. I also appreciated the use of symbolism and metaphors which added depth as well as beauty. Right from the beginning, I felt that Kimberly had put her heart and soul into the story, so I was not surprised at all when I learned from the About the Author section that she was inspired by her own experiences to write the story. I would recommend the book to middle-graders as well as older readers.
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