Book Details:
The Adventures of Mollie & Ollie: Moving Day by Sally Beale
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot Books; Release date:   March, 2021
Content Rating:  G for everyone; Tour dates: May 10 to May 21, 2021
Book Description:
       Every child experiences change in their life. Moving can be difficult, but in this Mom’s Choice award-winning book, when eight-year-old Molly Day meets a new friend, a magical owl named Oliver Winston Howell III, her move to a new house in a new town becomes easier than she expected. Be on the lookout for Molly and Ollie’s next adventure!

Buy the Book: Mascot Books ~  Amazon ~ B&N ~ Target~ Add to Goodreads

Review by LAWonder10:
This is the sweetest book for young children, especially those moving to a new house or other location!  It would be a wonderful gift for a child's friend who is moving away.
Molly was distraught about moving from the only home she knew. She was moving away from friends, her surroundings and all that was familiar to her. When she arrived she was given gentle reminding of what she still had, plus, she met Ollie. Ollie, along with other things, helped her obtain a new attitude and look at her new surroundings in a different manner.
The illustrations by Cheryl Crouthamel were colorful and simply well-done.
I offer a Five Stars rating for this book.
*This was gifted me with no pressure to post a positve review. This is my honest review.

                                                          Writing Children’s Books Chose Me

        Right after I retired, I turned 66 years old, and I was so excited about the next adventures of my life. I spoke about that year as being my Route 66, in reference to the old TV show about all the adventures along the famous road. During that time, I became very reflective over all the opportunities I had while moving around from state to state when I was a kid, and about all the different jobs I have had as an adult. I realized that my life had not been linear; it has been like a roller coaster with so many ups and downs. An idea started forming to write a memoir of my adventures, so I bought a book on how to write one. Yet, my stories did not seem to fit that format.
       At that time, one of my favorite things to do was to walk the greenway trail behind my house. I found that I was inspired by the little things that I would see along the way: little flowers, snails, pinecones, ducks, and deer. My mind was filled with “What if….?” scenes. As I thought about all exciting times I had as a child and how much I’ve always loved spending time with kids, the question changed to “what if I wrote my stories as a children’s book?” That would be a fun way to show kids how to have adventures in their lives.
        I quickly became passionate about this idea, so I bought a book about how to write a children’s book. I studied it like a textbook and did the suggested activities. I would go to the library, sit at the little tables, and read children’s books. Then I would write and rewrite my first story. After a year of working on it, I had written my first book.
         Walking the greenway is still one of my favorite things to do, and so far, my walks have produced 4 more books in different stages of completion! I can’t imagine telling my stories in any other format now.

Meet the Author:

The Adventures of Molly & Ollie: Moving Day was inspired by Beale’s own experiences as a young child. Her father’s occupation required that her family move across the country every two years. Beale’s childhood was filled with adventures that captured her imagination in each new home. She continued her passion for adventure while raising her two daughters and working as a costume designer for local theaters. Now she is channeling her sense of fun and her youthful spirit into her children’s stories. Beale is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). The Adventures of Molly & Ollie: Moving Day, a Mom’s Choice Award winner, is the first book in the Molly & Ollie series.

connect with the author: website ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Here is the tour schedule. 

Giveaway Details:​

Enter to win a signed copy of Sally Beale's THE ADVENTURES OF MOLLY & OLLIE: Moving Day! (one winner/USA only) (ends May 28)

Book Details:
  Balloons for Tiger by Lori Orlinsky
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot Books;  Release date:   May 4, 2021
Tour dates: May 4 to May 31, 2021
Content Rating:  G for everyone.
Book Description:
        How can children begin to heal after losing a pet? Balloons for Tiger takes an imaginative look at this tough topic as colorful balloons travel from the hands of children to their beloved cat who has passed on. This book lets children open up their hearts and imaginations for a magical journey to the farthest corners of the world, where they'll meet skydivers, astronauts, superheroes, and everything in between. As they watch the balloons voyage to the other side of the rainbow bridge, they learn to positively process their grief. Balloons for Tiger is a great tool for any child who has experienced the loss of a pet- or any other loved one, too.
 Mascot Books ~ Amazon ~ B&N ~ IndieBound ~ add to Goodreads

REVIEW by LAWonder10:
      Author, Lori Orlinsky cleverly wrote this book in rhyme, delving into the vivid imagination of a child, to create this book of comfort, after the death of a beloved pet. This is sure to assist a child in overcoming the painful loss.
      Illustrator, Vanessa Alexandre, created bright, colorful and fun images to help a child visualize the happy peace of their beloved pet.
      It is a wonderful way to bring peace to a devastating situation. I only had a slight problem with the lack of rhythm in he rhyme stances and the fact some words didn't rhyme well. It also lacked a smooth flow from stanza to stanza.nit was still a very worthwhile book.
      I offer a Four Stars rating.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure to give a positive review. This is my honest review.

                      My journey as an author: finding inspiration through my daughter       
      When my daughter, Hayley, was three, she came home and declared that day would be her last attending the preschool she loved so much. When I asked her why, tears began streaming down her face. She explained to me that the teachers hung up a growth chart in the classroom and placed a piece of tape next to the measurements to show the height of each child. While
her friends landed at the top and middle of the chart, her name was at the very bottom, with no other names in sight. I tried to explain to her all the benefits of being small (she is the last one to get wet when it rains, she finds the best hide-and-seek spots), but she still felt sad and lonely. So, I turned to books. But little to my surprise, no books existed on the topic. However, there were books that talked about the opposite – how superheroes have special powers precisely because they are tall. I wrote “Being Small (Isn’t So Bad After All)” for Hayley and all the other kids who felt different than what society deems as normal. The book has been endorsed by the National Bullying Prevention Center, as its messages of self-confidence and self-esteem are for kids of all sizes.
       Writing “Being Small (Isn’t So Bad After All)” gave me the confidence to pursue my childhood dream of becoming an author, and the book will always hold a special place in my heart. Since that book, I have written two more (“The Tooth Fairy’s Tummy Ache,” “Balloons for Tiger") with dreams of additional books in the future.

Here is the tour schedule. 

Meet the Author:

Lori Orlinsky is a multi-award-winning children's book author who lives in Chicago. She was inspired to tell this story after her family experienced the loss of their beloved eighteen-year-old cat, Tiger. Unable to find books about pet loss to help her young kids cope with their grief, Lori wrote Balloons for Tiger. She hopes this book will help others, too.

connect with the author: website ~ instagram ~ facebook ~ goodreads

Book Details:
Lets Talk! A story of Autism and Friendship by Lisa Jacovsky
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 32 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book ~  Content Rating:  G.
Publisher:  Lisa Jacovsky ~ Release date:   July 2020
Tour dates: Mar 29 to Apr 16, 2021
Book Description:
       Harper, a seven-year-old little girl that is typically developing, meets a new friend one day at the pool that is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. They both love to swim at the pool and want to play together however, Emma has little communication skills. Emma can make sounds and not words and flaps her hands when she is excited.
      When Harper realizes she cannot communicate with her new friend she becomes determined to find a way to. She begins to learn about Autism Spectrum Disorder and the different ways that Emma can communicate. Once she does the two become inseparable. Harper introduces Emma to all her friends and teaches them how to communicate with Emma. Harper and Emma become the center of their circle of friends and have more many more adventures together.

Buy the Book: Amazon ~ BAM ~ B&N ~ IndieBound ~ add to Goodreads

                Talk about why you choose to self-publish rather traditionally publish                and how you found your self-publisher.

          One reason I think I always felt nervous about writing a book was how difficult it can be to find a traditional publisher. When I wrote my book, I did a lot of research. I love doing research and found that there are different kinds of publishers like vanity publishers. I had no idea what these were until I got my first offer and was shocked, I had to pay for part of publishing. It is totally ok to go with a vanity publisher, I almost did. I sent out tons of queries but kept getting rejections. I never let it get to me though; I was determined to publish my book even if I needed to pay. I got an offer from a vanity publisher that I loved because I had read books published by them before. The only problem was the amount of money they wanted to me put into the book. It was just too much for me. I did my research, looking for an illustrator because then it could be cheaper to go with the vanity publisher and found my amazing selfpublishing company. I compared the two and sat on them both for months because I had to save the money either way. It really came down to the fact I just thought the amount the vanity publisher wanted was too much. I decided to self-publish and honestly it was the best experience. I ordered illustrations from them for a short story and have my second book in production with them now.
        I sent queries for book two and got rejections, so I figured ill go with selfpublishing again. I plan to continue to query with each book I publish because you never know. I am determined and thankful for the self-publisher I use. I have met many other amazing self-published authors in the writing community. I think for publishing it really is about luck and what your comfortable with. I saw a tweet one day an editor wrote saying they received 2000 queries and had only 16 spots if that gives you an idea of the competition. My biggest advice is never give up and do your research. Self-publishing has been so amazing and honestly fun.

Meet the Author:

Lisa Jacovsky currently is a doctoral level student at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is excited the possibilities having her Doctorate degree will bring her. She has been in the field of ABA since 2014. She began working with children with Autism in 2018 and is currently working in Early Intervention. It is her experience with children that inspired her to finally fulfill her dream of writing a book. Lisa began writing short stories when she was seven years old. Writing is her passion and one of many things she enjoys. She is excited for the future of her series Lets Talk!.

connect with the authors:  website ~ twitter ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Here is the tour schedule. 

Giveaway Details:​

One of Six signed copies of LET'S TALK (6 winners) (USA only)
(ends Apr 23)
 Enter by filling in the Rafflecopter Below.

Book Details:
Cleo Can Tie a Bow: A Rabbit and Fox Story
by Sybrina Durant
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Sybrina Publishing
Release date:   Sept 27th, 2020
Tour dates: Apr 6 to Apr 19, 2021
Content Rating:  G for everyone.
Book Description:
        Cleo can tie a bow. She learned from a rabbit and a fox. They can help you learn to tie one, too. Great parent-child activity for learning to tie a bow with any ribbon or string - including shoe laces.

Buy the Book: ~ Amazon ~ add to Goodreads

Meet the Author:
        I've been writing creative and technical works for years. Many of my songs are on Youtube and Itunes. Two of my books are available as ebooks online. They are "Learn To Tie A Tie WIth The Rabbit And The Fox" and "Sybrina's Phrase Thesaurus".

Author's links: website ~ twitter ~ facebook ~ pinterest ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Win soft-back copy of CLEO CAN TIE A BOW, t-shirt, & $25 Amazon Gift Card
(1 winner)(USA only) (ends Apr 26)

 Book Details:
Whenever a Child Is Born by Nancy Diedrich
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  30 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book ~ Content Rating:  G for everyone.
Publisher:  WestBow Press ~ Release date:   July 2017
Tour dates: Mar 15 to Apr 9, 2021
Book Description:
      In his 2014 homily for the Feast of Holy Guardian Angels, October 2, Pope Francis told those gathered for daily mass to be like children who pay attention to their "traveling companion. No one journeys alone, and no one should think that they are alone.
     "According to Church tradition," the pope said, "we all have an angel with us, who guards us . . . It is what God said: 'I send an angel before you, to guard you, to accompany you on the way, so you will not be alone.'"
      In this children's book, angels wait anxiously and with great excitement to see which one of them will be chosen to be the guardian angel of a child that is to be born. This delightful book depicts the joy of all God's creations anticipating the birth of another precious child. The sun shines brighter, the moon has a shinier glow, flowers grow taller, birds tweet more sweetly, and angels dance and sing with bliss, as all creation awaits another baby girl or boy.
      Whenever a Child Is Born offers the perfect message for parents as it charmingly tells the story of how all of heaven and earth react to the news that a child is about to be born. The story comforts parents with the knowledge that their baby is a special gift from heaven to them, and that they will never be alone raising their child, and that their child will never ever be alone in life.
      Parents never worry. No one journeys alone through life because whenever a child is born, he is given a guardian angel.

Buy the Book: West Bow Press ~ B&N  ~ Amazon ~ BAM ~ Nancy Diedrich ~ add to Goodreads

REVIEW By LAWonder10:
Whenever a Child is Born is a beautifully illustrated book, with each page bursting with color. The Illustrator, Chis Diket did a lovely job with watercolor images. The author, Nancy Diedrich, created a literary work of art with her rhyming, tale of angels overlooking each child.
This would make a lovely gift for a newborn, as well as a Summer Reading story. It is a perfect book for reading anytime!
I offer a Five Stars rating.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.

                                                                       Walk the Walk
      When it comes to writing, for many years, I talked the talk, before I found the courage to actually walk the walk. In my first career, I taught high school English for ten years. I want to go on record, right now, admitting that I may not have instilled a love of literature and creative writing into anyone, but I surely had fun trying.
      Through the years, I nurtured my students’ confidence in their writing abilities, and watched them transform into talented young writers. I did an effective job teaching them to do, what I was uneasy doing myself. I did not give any consideration to publishing anything, not even, a magazine article. My excuse: I was just too busy. Being a wife, mother of three, homemaker and teacher absorbed all of the hours in my day. What a sad excuse!
      Later, in my second career, in which I am still active, I have been a Marriage and Family Therapist for almost twenty-eight years. In this work, I write case notes… lots of case notes! This type of writing is definitely not creative, and is never imaginative. It is, however, very detailed and precise. In many ways, it’s a much more difficult form of writing; however, it is only meant to inform; there is nothing entertaining about it.
       I believe, having to routinely read and write such factual and mundane notes, caused me to miss the kind of writing that entertained and inspired me. So, what did I do? I hit the bookstores, and began to read voraciously, to satisfy my longing for creative writing. Again, I did not have the confidence to write anything myself. My excuse: I was still really too busy. Being a wife, mother of three, grandmother of seven and therapist, truly left me with no time to write…. another sad excuse.
      I clung to those excuses until one day, I got a call from a local magazine, wanting me to submit an article as a guest author. Guest Author? Me? I was terrified. I began reciting all of my sad excuses over and over, hoping to rationalize why writing this magazine article was absolutely impossible for the likes of me.
      Guest author…the words kept ruminating through my head. Why did I feel so paralyzed with fear? I had no answer to my question; I had no excuse for myself, this time. So, I decided to give it a shot. I wrote that article, and many more, for that magazine and others.
       That one decision changed my entire confidence level. Since then, I have written children’s books for my grandchildren, and I have written three more for publication. I’m so happy that I stopped making excuses, stopped talking the talk, and started walking the walk

Meet the Author:
      Nancy Diedrich was born and raised in South Louisiana, where storytelling was not just an art form, but an authentic way of communicating. Everyone had a tale to tell! This was, more than likely, where her love of communication developed. With undergraduate degrees in English and speech, and graduate degrees in psychological counseling, Nancy learned that words can educate; they can entertain; they can inspire and they can heal. In Nancy’s career, she has been a teacher, a counselor and an author, where the power of words always guided her in interaction with her students, clients and readers. Nancy’s value for genuine communication extends beyond her career, to the anchors of her life, which are her faith, her family and her friendships.
        Whenever A Child Is Born is Nancy’s first published children’s book. In it, the reader gets a glimpse of this author’s compassion for family, and her gift of faith, as the story tells how all of heaven and earth react to the news that a child is about to be born.

connect with the author: website ~ twitter ~facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Giveaway Details:​

Autographed copy of WHENEVER A CHILD IS BORN (USA only) (1 winner) (ends Apr 16)
Enter by completing the Rafflecopter form below.

Join us for this tour from Mar 15 to Apr 9, 2021!
Book Details:
Zippy's Special Gift by Therese Van Ryne
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book ~ Tour dates: Mar 15 to Apr 9, 2021
Publisher:  Mascot Books ~ Release date:   Mar, 2021
Content Rating:  G for everyone.
Book Description:
        Zippy the Zebra doesn't like her stripes. She doesn't want to stand out! Follow Zippy as she embarks upon a thrilling adventure with her animal friends that helps her realize everyone is perfect just the way they are. Profits from the sales of Zippy's Special Gift will be donated to one of Zebra Technologies strategic charitable partners, Bernies Book Bank, a non-profit organization that changes the story for under-served children and helps them read their way to a better life! Learn more at www.berniesbookbank.org.

Buy the Book:Mascot Books ~  Amazon ~ B&N ~ add to goodreads

REVIEW by LAWonder10:
     Zippy's Special Gift is a well-written, truly rhyming work of art. It places emphasis on recognizing gifts in oneself and being aware gifts are often what we woud choose to have. These gifts are a part f what makes us "special".
     The illustrations by Walter Pollicelli are clear, colorful and very cute.
      This is a quality, well made book.
      I offer a Five Stars rating
      This book was gifted me with no pressure to post a positive review. This is my honest reveiw.

                             The “Imperfect” Quote Which Has Inspired Me

       As An Author My favorite inspirational quote was shared with me by one of my mentors: “Aim for progressive performance versus postponed perfection!” Many of us wait to pursue our dreams until everything is just right. Especially for those of us who are perfectionists, we pause until the perfect situation is set to kick off a new project. It is important to keep moving forward to achieve your goals because tomorrow is not guaranteed for anyone.
        Writing a children’s book has been on my bucket list for many years. I had my doubts that I would be able to publish my first book in the midst of a pandemic, but I had already postponed it for years while I raised my children, pursued my career, and lived one day at a time. When I finally put my fingers to my keyboard last year to bring "Zippy’s Special Gift” to life, it felt amazing! In the process,
        I have also met incredible people who work in the book publishing industry. Writers, illustrators, publishers, promoters, reviewers, and bloggers – it is truly a world of talented, dedicated people who are committed to celebrating books! They truly understand the value that reading brings to the world as a tool to educate, entertain and even escape. I have an incredible amount of respect for those who work in this field and am excited to now be a part of it! Furthermore, I’m now ready to keep progressing to check more boxes on my list rather than waiting for the perfect time to pursue them. I encourage all of you to start checking boxes on your bucket list too and if you don’t have a bucket list, start creating one!
         Blogger’s note: For over 50 years, Zebra Technologies has helped people around the world with solutions to keep them connected and make better business decisions. Our mascot, Zippy represents our diverse culture and the fun we like to have at work. In “Zippy’s Special Gift,” Zippy introduces us to her connections – her best animal friends who help her make an important decision about herself. Check us out at www.zebra.com

Meet the Author:

Zippy’s Special Gift is Van Ryne’s debut children’s book. She currently serves as the Global Director of PR, Thought Leadership and Advocacy for Zebra Technologies. One of PR News’ 2019 Top Women in PR, Van Ryne also has experience as a journalist, editor and producer, reporting nightly from Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

connect with the author: instagram ~ facebook ~ goodreads

Here is the tour schedule.

Giveaway Details:​

Autographed copy of ZIPPY'S SPECIAL GIFT (USA only) (1 winner) (ends Apr 16)

To Enter, Fill-in the Rafflecopter form Below

Book Details:
When the Sun Met the Moon by Simran Mohinani
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot Books ~ Release date:   March, 2021
Tour dates: Mar 15 to Apr 2, 2021
Content Rating:  G for everyone.
Book Description:
      In this enchanting tale of the origins of the Sun and the Moon, the Sun flies across the universe on an adventure to look for someone whose light matches his own. When the Sun Met the Moon is a story filled with so much love, excitement, and equality that you won't want to put down, and can be told for years to come.
      After centuries of brightening up the sky by himself, the poor Sun is exhausted, lonely, and in need of some help. So, he decides to search the galaxies for someone whose light is as strong and powerful as his to help him shine down on the people of Earth. When the Sun decides to take a holiday to go on this adventure, Earth is left with its first-ever nighttime where the sky goes dark and cold, leaving people afraid to come out of their homes.
      Will the Sun be able to find somebody whose light is equal to his? Find out in this gorgeous love story how the Sun met his perfect Moon.

Buy the Book:Mascot Books ~ Amazon ~ B&N ~ BAM

REVIEW by LAWonder10:
       This is a quality made, colorful book, ideal for very young children.
     Illustrator: Leo Hartas, has created simple images on beautifully illustrated pages.
      The story is written in short poetic verse. However, it lacks skill in rhyming.
It is a whimsical, incredulous tale,
     I offer a Three and a Half Stars rating
*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.

                      How to Get Your Children's Book Published the Right Way
        My latest book, 'When the Sun Met the Moon', was actually never even intended to be a book at all! I started writing it one day as a poem for my second book 'The Storyteller' after having the thought: 'What would the Sun even be without the Moon?', for starters: lonely, exhausted, and incomplete. I wanted to tell the love story between two characters the whole world knows and can relate to. After writing this poem and editing basic errors, about 20 minutes had passed. I immediately sent it over to my editor to see if it was good enough to be included in the manuscript. "Good enough?" He questioned, "this is some phenomenal stuff, you could turn this into a book for kids if you wanted to".
       The process of book publication is a very personal, yet grueling one, for anyone who encounters it. There are always inevitably going to be bumps in the road when trying to find someone to publish your book. My previous trilogy of books came relatively easy to me, I found a publisher whose vision aligned with mine and most importantly gave me autonomy with my creative process. Children's books are a whole different ball game. I emailed manuscripts to several literary agents and heard no after no. I submitted my manuscript to a ton of places, tried networking within the field, spent countless hours trying to figure out my next move, all to no avail. Fast forward a few months and 'When the Sun Met the Moon' was performed in interpretive dance at a festival I was attending; that ensemble touched so many people I thought: wow, I should just get this published, even if it means going down the self-publishing route, which I had never encountered before.
         As I started to do my research on self-publishing, I got an email back from one of the biggest publishing houses in the world, reaching out to sign me on for the rights to ‘When the Sun Met the Moon’. I was elated, and we quickly started the motions of bringing the book to life, except for one problem, the book they wanted to release was not the book I wrote. What do I mean by that? They changed the words, storyline, added more and subtracted most of what I had written, had picked a fancy illustrator for me that added arms and legs to the planets I loved and quite frankly in my eyes, made a mockery out of my work. I decided promptly that I wanted no part in this, and left the best traditional publishing contract I think I will ever see in my life.
        I moved on and forgot about publishing for a while, I put this project on the back burner and focused on producing things that I could control to avoid more disappointment. Eventually, one day, when I was checking my email, I received a notification from a company called Mascot Books telling me that they would like to publish my book and explaining that they were a hybrid publishing company, almost like traditional publishing, just with a different revenue model and way more freedom for creative expression. After doing my thorough due diligence, I assessed this would be the best option for me, and haven't looked back once since. Working with Mascot has been so amazing, they've truly provided me with the best in the industry and every opportunity possible to try and make my book a success!
       The key to getting your children's book published in the best way is by analyzing your options not based on the financial returns or notary success you may receive, but by finding a team that can support your goals, genuinely believes in your ideas, and works with you to make them flourish daily.

Meet the Author:

Simran Mohinani, otherwise known as Simi Moh, was born on September 8th, 1998. She is a graduate of Northeastern University, studying entrepreneurship with a minor in global fashion. She was born and raised in Hong Kong, and now lives between there, London, and Boston. She first worked for the United Nations with their environmental conservation team before also collaborating with Amazon, Marriott, and Snupps. She published her first trilogy of books comprised of poetry and short stories which are very successful. She now owns and runs three of her own businesses in the fields of consulting, denim supply, and commercial goods. She also has her own charity: The SiMission. After college, she also worked full-time at her family business, which deals with properties in Europe. On the side, she still loves to write, which came to fruition with When the Sun Met the Moon, for your enjoyment and pleasure.

connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Here is the tour schedule.

Giveaway Details:​


Autographed copy of WHEN THE SUN MET THE MOON (USA only) (1 winner)
 (ends Apr 9)

Book Details:
Rhythm Rescue by Vicky Weber
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  44 pages
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Trunk Up Books ~ Release date:   August 2020
Content Rating:  G. ~ Tour dates: Mar 8 to Mar 19, 2021
Book Description:
      Welcome to Music Metropolis, where there's always a song to sing and instruments playing all around. Everyone has something special to share, but Beat Street is where the real magic happens... The musicians of Beat Street have super abilities. The people who live here can do extraordinary things...with the power of music! When Tala's day begins with a phone call from a friend, she is SUPER excited...but she'll need your help to make it there in time! You won't want to miss this interactive musical adventure.

Buy the Book: Trunk Up Books ~  Amazon.com ~ B&N

Meet the Author:
      Vicky Weber is a musician and an elementary educator with a love for children’s literature. While she has taught a variety of grade levels, primary level education is where her passion lies. It has long been a dream of hers to teach children through the magic of books and she hopes you love reading her works as much as she loved writing them.

connect with the author: website ~ twitter ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodread

Giveaway Details:​

Autographed copy of RHYTHM RESCUE (USA only) (1 winner)
 (ends Mar 26)

Book Details:
WAR AT THE ICE CREAM STORE
by Cheryl DaVeiga and Dave Gibson
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  32 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Cheryl DaVeiga and Dave Gibson
Release date:   January, 2021
Tour dates: Mar 8 to Mar 26, 2021
Content Rating:  G. This children's book is for everyone.
Book Description:
          The first of the Frank TL Frogg and Friends series, War at the Ice Cream Store tells the story of one night at the Frozen Frogg, when Mustachio Pistachio and his “flavorite” flavor friends teach Bulli Vanilli a lesson in kindness and acceptance.

Buy the Book: Amazon

REVIEW By LAWonder10:
         Train your toddler/pre-schooler about the unpopular "bully" with this comical children's story, War at the Ice Cream Store. This is a new approach to each children from a very young age tha bullying is a bad thing and working together in kindness is a good thing.
       The book is very colorfully illustrate by Dave Gibson, Sarah Krogman and Jay Petsko. The cartoon characters are amusingly animated on each page, with a variety of bright colors. it is sure to capture each very young child's attention.
          It is a little silly, but along with the book is a se of stickers the child can stick on himself/herself to portray one of the characters.
           There is also a website address children can go to with music and puppets portraying the adventures.
           This is a terrific book for Summer Reading Programs.
           I offer a Four Stars rating.
          *This book was gifted me with no pressure to write a positive review. This is my honest review.

                      Ice Cream Memories by Dave Gibson.
             I’ve always been a kid in love with ice cream. We didn’t have much growing up in hot, dry Odessa Texas, but we did have a whole lot of love and sand, and mesquite bushes, ants, and horny toads.
           One of my favorite memories is of Sunday afternoons in the summer when we’d get out the homemade ice cream machine and pack the ice and salt around the steel cylinder while Mom poured in the sweetest confectionery concoction known to kids. It tasted so good my sister and brother and I wanted to drink it before it froze; it was hard to wait. But after an hour or so of muscle-cramping cranking, we couldn’t wait to dive in. We ate so much so fast we all got a brain freeze.
          So isn’t it funny that after years of following my music dreams, becoming a Nashville hit singer/songwriter, winning an Academy of Country Music award as the front man for the Gibson Miller Band, and co-creating a musical TV puppet show (bet you didn’t see that one coming did you?), I should end up following my West Texas heart memories and write a children’s book about...you guessed it...ice cream?
         The day I met my songwriting partner and co-author, Cheryl DaVeiga, I realized we were both kids at heart. She played me a song she had written for children called “Ice Cream Storm” and I played her one of mine called “The Frog Song.” We immediately knew we were on the same page (pun intended) and had the same sense of humor. Years and songs and a puppet show later, we ended up creating a children’s entertainment platform and writing a children’s book featuring the frog in my song and the ice cream in hers.
         We’re so proud of providing a place where children learn to love reading and experience positive messages through story, song and laughter….and if they learn a little something from adorable ice cream characters, all the sweeter! Come see us FrankTLFroggandFriends.com

                              Meet the Authors:

Here is the tour schedule. 

Giveaway Details:​

Autographed copy of WAR IN THE ICE CREAM STORE (USA only) (1 winner) (ends Apr 2)

Book Details:
Marvellous Macey, The Delightful Days by Caitlin Bangsund
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-8),  40 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Caitlin E. Bangsund
Release date:   March 2021
Tour dates: Mar 1 to Mar 28, 2021
Content Rating:  G. This children's book is for everyone.
Book Description:
      Can you va va voom? Do you light up the room? Marvellous Macey does! She may not quite fit the mould, but she is living delightful days. Embrace Macey's world of imagination and ability to love and accept everyone. Life may not be perfect and some things might be hard, but Macey shows us how to live in the moment and find the delight! Be inspired by Macey to make everyday the BEST day.
BUY THE BOOK: Author's Website ~ Amazon ~  add to Goodreads

REVIEW by LAWonder10:
 This is a very cute story which is sure to entertain most toddlers or very early elementary age children.

This is a fictionalized true story about Macey, who has found joy in a difficult world. She has issues not brought out clearly in the story. I feel it would have appealed to more individuals if further detail was shared.

The author cleverly added the enticement of finding a certain creature easily found on the various pages.

The illustrator, Csonger Veres, did a delightful job in creating  colorful, pleasing illustrations. There was a certain charm in the facial expressions.
I offer a Four Stars rating for this book.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure to post a positive review. This is my honest review.

                     What is the scariest thing that ever happened to you?
        In hospital shows there is always a small, windowless room where doctors take people to deliver difficult news. My husband and I were ushered into one of those rooms in real life in November 2016. This was the beginning of facing the scariest thing that ever happened.
       Macey, the star of the book, had been admitted to the hospital and was struggling to breathe all night. After attempting to provide oxygen in several different ways the doctors had to intubate her (put her on a ventilator). Even with the ventilator she couldn't get the air she needed.
        I was told (along with my husband) that she was so severely ill that there was only one more possible option and that was to put her on life support. There was incredible risk associated with connecting her to this heart and lung bypass machine, and it would result in her being air-lifted to a different city, but it was her last chance of survival.
         Macey’s brothers were brought to the hospital so everyone could say goodbye. I didn’t know what Christmas 2016 would look like, but I prayed it would include a miracle.
        I was not allowed on the plane with Macey so I drove the 3-hour highway stretch (along with my parents, husband, and his mom) to face the scariest thing - my daughter’s battle to live. There was a day the specialists thought there was no brain activity. To wheel her bed and all the medical equipment for a CT scan was a huge undertaking.
         The CT scan would show that there was brain activity, but the doctors were still uncertain as to whether she would make it. There was a lot of sitting, praying, crying, and waiting - endless amounts of waiting. There is no fear like that of wondering whether your sons would lose their sister and your family would be changed forever.
        I do feel like I am forever changed because of that experience, but we are so blessed that the story ended with a miracle. Now Macey lives with such exuberance and delight that I had to share her story!

Meet the Author:

Caitlin Bangsund is the author of Marvellous Macey, The Delightful Days. It is the first in a series based on true life. Caitlin knows the trial and trauma of childhood cancer, childhood disability, and the fear of almost losing her daughter — the star of the series — Macey. She encourages readers to look for the treasures that hide in the rubble and gloom. Life is beautiful chaos and her message is to press on and conquer. Read her stories and help create a world that is full of kindness and acceptance.

  author links:  website  ~  facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Here is the tour schedule.

Giveaway:​

Autographed copy of MARVELLOUS MACEY (USA only) (1 winner) (ends Apr 2)

Book Details:
The Adventures of Forkman: What's That Noise? by Tiffany Caldwell and W.R. MacKenzie
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book ~ Tour dates: Feb 1 to Mar 5, 2021
Publisher:  Mascot Books ~ Release date:   Jan 2021
Content Rating:  G. This children's book is for everyone.
Book Description:
      When poor manners are present, Forkman will be there to save the day! Join Kathryn and William as they learn how to load the dishwasher properly and avoid inappropriate distractions at the table with the help of all their utensil friends. This second book in the Adventures of Forkman series is a great introduction to mealtime etiquette for readers of all ages.

Buy the Book:Amazon.com ~ B&N ~ Mascot Books

BOOK REVIEW by LAWonder10:
   The Adventures of Forkman: What's That Noise? is a great children's picture book about mealtime etiquette and clean-up. It is a great way to instruct a child in properly loading a dishwasher, plus,  good table manners. It is a great book for young pre-school and elementary age readers.
    The illustrations done by Vanessa Alexandre are large, colorful and simple in a slightly abstract way.
      The Cover image and Title are eye-catching and somewhat "fitting". However the Title does not offer a clear idea of what is withing te pages.
        What I found slightly confusing is, that the book begins with Chapter 3. It can be confusing to the reader, wondering where the missing chapters are. Also, personally, I am not fond of cartoon-like depictions of characters. - However, this does not affect my rating of the book.
         I offer a  Four Stars rating.
       * This book was gifted to me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.

            On writing: Responses from Tiffany Caldwell (Daughter)
        
How did you do research for your book?
        I used life experiences as my research. I went to etiquette classes when I was younger, and my Grandma was very big on manners. She would buy us etiquette books like the books by Emily Post.

Which was the hardest character to write?
        The easiest? The hardest characters to write were the utensils. Trying to make utensils relatable can throw some curve balls! The easiest was Kathryn and William. Since those are my siblings, capturing their personalities was fun and easier to write!

What made you write a book about etiquette?
         I wrote a book about etiquette because etiquette has always played a role in my life. From classes with my grandma, dinners at nice restaurants, and working at a preschool that was very focused on loving one another and that manners mattered!

Where do you get inspiration for your stories?
       The inspirations for our stories come from dinners at the family table.

There are many books out there about....What makes yours different?
       There are many books about etiquette that you can buy and many are wonderful resources! Our book is different because Forkman is a superhero, which all kids love, but he is an unsuspected character!

What advice would you give budding writers?
      Don’t be afraid to revise your stories! With each revision, our story developed more and became better!

Your book is set in a home. Why did you choose a house.
        Our book is set in a family home. We tried to make the setting relatable to any reader’s house!

Meet the Authors:

Tiffany Caldwell: I have worked with children for over thirteen years and every year basic manners become less evident. When I was growing up, my sisters and I took etiquette classes during the summer while we visited our grandparents. Etiquette was always a big part of our upbringing. ​ When we would have our family dinners, my dad, W.R. MacKenzie, would make our utensils come to life as we were eating. Forkman became a part of our dinner routine! ​ I am a mother of three great kids and military wife to my hero. A few years ago, I told my dad we needed to start writing our story. We are so excited to share Forkman with the world!

W.R. MacKenzie: I spent thirty-nine years in the bakery business. After I retired and my four children were grown, I felt it was time to share the importance of the family meal with the world. ​​​​​The Adventures of Forkman teaches children how to properly conduct themselves at the table. Our books are filled with characters all children can relate with and I believe Forkman and his crew will help children of all ages learn manners and table etiquette.

connect with the authors: website ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Here is the tour schedule.

Giveaway Details:​

Autographed copy of THE ADVENTURES
OF FORKMAN (USA only) (1 winner) (ends Mar 12)
Enter by completing the Rafflecopter Below

Book Details:
 Mickey on the Move by Michelle Wagner
Category:  Children's Non-Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot Books ~ Release date:   Jan, 2021
Content Rating:  G for everyone. ~ Tour dates: Feb 1 to Mar 5, 2021
Book Description:
      In this bighearted book, the real story of a young boy with deafness in his ears is aided by his mother and teachers in navigating new school experiences. Mickey is just like everyone else, except he wears cochlear implants and has to do things just a little differently than most. This charming tale reminds us that we can all find happiness if we lean on and support each other.

Buy the Book: Amazon ~ B&N ~Mascot Books

REVIEW by LAWonder10:
   Mickey on the Move is a true story about a little boy with hearing impairment. It is also a story about a little boy who has had to frequently move to new schools. His attitude is very positive and uplifting.
    This is very educational, containing a lot of hearing impaired information. Although written for early elementary age reading, many will find tis book interesting.
     Illustrator, Jenny Phelps, has done a beautiful job in doig the illustrations. They are colorful, crisp and cleatr images.The book's pages are very colorful and the print copy has quality pages and binding.
     I offer a Five Stars rating.
     *This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.

Meet the Author:

Born and raised in Chicago, Michelle Wagner was always a very positive and outgoing woman. Her energetic love for children and zest for life was admired by everyone who knew her. Michelle is a realtor whose career background involved restaurants and always helping other people. She has dedicated time and support to charities and events to help other children with hearing loss and assist families as they work through the different approaches to raising a special needs child in a typical environment.

connect with author: website ~ instagram

Giveaway Details:​

Autographed copy of MICKEY ON THE MOVE (USA only) (1 winner)(ends Mar 12)
Enter by filling-in the Rafflecopter Below.