Book Details:
Sometimes When I'm Mad by Deborah Serani
Category:  Children's Non-Fiction (Ages 3-7)
Genre:  Children's Picture Book; Content Rating:  G..
Publisher:  Free Spirit Publishing, 40 pages
Release date:   January 2022
Formats Available for Review: print-hardback USA
Tour dates: January 4 to January 24, 2022
Book Description:
​​       Award-winning author and psychologist Dr. Deborah Serani and illustrator Kyra Teis team up again for a companion to "Sometimes When I’m Sad" that tackles the difficult feeling of anger. "Sometimes When I'm Mad" describes a child's experience with anger and the many ways it can surface, along with ways children - and adults who love them - can use anger management techniques.
​
Buy the Book: Free Spirit Publishing ~ Amazon ~ Walmart

Book Details:
The Lizard Who Loves A Blizzard by Shelley Larkin and Michael John Sullivan
Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  36 pages
Publisher:  Magic Everywhere Inc. 
Release date:  September 2021
Tour dates: January 4 to January 31, 2022
Content Rating:  Rated G. Suitable for everyone
Book Description:
         Larry the Lizard has always dreamed of snow. The only problem is, he lives in Australia. Find out what happens when a lizard gets a very silly idea... and it finally comes true. Join Larry and his friends as they skid, skate, slide and have an adventure in this wonderful ride. ​

Buy the Book: Magic Everywhere  ~  Amazon ~  Barnes & Noble ~ Target ~   
​Add to Goodreads

BOOK REVIEW By LAWonder10:
This book is a fun read and a fun idea! I enjoyed snow filled Christmases for years at a very young age, then my family moved to the Mesa/Phoenix, AZ. I longed for "White Christmases'" again. 
This book encourages the very young child to dream big" and to never let others discourage you.
The poetry was in poor rhyme and failed to "flow" smoothly or mattacin a regular rhythm. The topic, characters and uniqueness were worth one adding this Christmastime book to ones library. It is an uncommon tale to entertain the very young child with and it is written in few enough words to maintain the interest of a child in the age range it is written for.
Because of uniqueness, originality, and entertaining topic, which encourages young children to "dream big" and to pursue their dreams, I offer a Four Stars rating.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure to post a positive review. This is my honest review.
​

        Sending a message - the importance of not giving up on your hopes and dreams. by ​Shelley Larkin

        When we were creating the story of Larry and his wish for snow on Christmas day in Australia, we knew that people who know Australia, would say we were trying to tell a story of something unlikely to happen.
         One of my favorite inspirational quotes, “shoot for the moon and if you miss, you’ll be among the stars” has always resonated with me. It reminds me to dream big. Both Michael and I like to dream big, and we reflected on a time when we were each raising children. We discussed how we encouraged our families to not be afraid to have a dream no matter how farfetched it might be to achieve. And we decided that we would convey this message in our story.
           That’s what is so wonderful about writing; to tell a story and to send a message. It doesn’t necessarily have to make sense. What does make sense is to write about what you feel and what you might like to experience.
          Being kids at heart, it was easy for Michael and me to create a fun, whimsical, fantasy for children to believe in and enjoy!
          Larry wanted to experience snow and his friends laughed and made fun of his dream. Little Larry however did not let his friends discourage his idea, instead he held on tight and never let go of the thought that it WOULD snow on Christmas day.
          The idea is to teach that the pursuit is worthwhile. In fact, the experience of pursuing your dreams is often more rewarding and more enlightening than the achievement of your dreams themselves. For Larry it is a win win on both counts!
          “You don’t have to be a lizard with unshakable hope. Be yourself, don’t mind what others think, nope! Sprinkle everyone with kindness and good friends will appear. And believe the impossible, just like little Larry here.”

                       Meet the Authors:

Here is the tour schedule.

Giveaway Details:​

Enter to win a signed copy of The Lizard Who Loves A Blizzard (one winner/USA only) (ends Feb 7)

Book Details:
 Gingersnap Snatcher by Vicky Weber
Category:  Children's Fiction (ages 3 to 7), 32 pages
Genre:  Children's ; Content Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone.
Publisher:  Trunk Up Books;  Release date:   December 2021
Formats : print-softback USA, e-book (PDF)
Tour dates: December 7 to December 17
Book Description:
​​Abuela made cookies to eat after school. The gingersnap kind, just the thought made us drool! We rushed home excited. We opened the door…The cookies were missing - just CRUMBS on the floor! Can you help the kids crack the case of the GINGERSNAP SNATCHER?

Pre-Order the Book: Amazon
(scheduled release Dec 7, 2021)

REVIEW By LAWonder10:
Gingersnap Snatcher is an adventure little toddlers are sure to enjoy. As three siblings rush home from school, eager to enjoy their grandmothers homemade cookies, they are met with a shocking mystery.
This book is in rhyme. The rhyming is, for the most part, well-written. However, there are a couple of times the author truly struggled to make the wording fit. Also, the end was a little abrupt. It felt unfinished.
The illustrations by Svitlana Liuta were cute and fun. With enough color to make them attractive.
This is a  good book for toddlers through first grade. It is also a good book for an early reader.
I offer a Four Stars rating for content and design.
*This book was gifted ne with no pressure to post a positive review. This is my honest review,.
​

​                                                 People always ask how I get so much done…

         When people look at me, they see how many books I’ve published, how many more I have in the works, how active I am on social media, and they wonder: how does she have the time?
         Spoiler alert: I get a full night’s sleep, I spend evenings and weekends with my family, and I’m not a magician. I’ve just found a process that works for me! So, what’s the secret? It’s simple, really. I focus on one task at a time. Too often, people get overwhelmed because they are so focused on the big picture. But you’ll find that if you break things into small, manageable pieces, you’ll be done before you know it!
         Take marketing as an example. When authors want to increase their sales, they need to make a marketing plan...but a marketing plan is made up of many strategies and each strategy takes time and commitment to implement. Instead of thinking “I need to work on my whole marketing plan” and stretching myself too thin, I break it down. Today, I’m going to reach out to 5 influencers and make a post on social media. Tomorrow, I’m going to reach out to 5 more influencers and email 1 bookstore. At the end of the week, I’m going to ship out the books to influencers and create an email plan/strategy for my email list.
         If you overachieve - GREAT! If not, that’s okay, just try to hit that minimum goal. I’ve often found that when I set a low goal like “I’m going to email 1 bookstore” I actually end up emailing 5 or 10. And let’s be real, overachieving always feels better than missing the mark.
        The point is to think of it like a journey. If you’re trying to climb a mountain and the whole time, you think “How am I ever going to accomplish this…” it’s going to take you a lot longer (and be less enjoyable) than if you were to look down at your feet and focus on taking one step at a time. Because that way, you’ll be there before you know it!

Meet the Author:

Vicky Weber is a musician and an elementary educator with a love for children’s literature. As a Puerto Rican author of Taíno descent, she strives to create picture books that are fun, engaging, and educational. All her current titles are based on her background in music education or her heritage. 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 ~  goodreads ~instagram

Here is the tour schedule.

Giveaway Details:
Enter to win a
signed copy of GINGERSNAP SNATCHER 
(one winner/USA only)(ends Dec 24)

​Book Details:
 Mother's Love: Animal moms and their babies by Diana Aleksandrova
Category:  Children's Fiction (ages 3 to 7), 32 pages
Genre:  Children's Book; Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone.
Publisher:  Dedoni Books; Release date:   November 5, 2021
Tour dates: November 26 
Book Description:
      A mother’s love is like the air;
you may not see it, but it’s there.
      A mother’s love is universal; and yet the way each species shows its love is unique.
       In a cloud, I’ll build a nest.
       For you, I want the very best.
       My love is fierce and very bright.
       It makes the world feel safe and right.
          Mother’s Love is a lyrical celebration of the unconditional bond every mother has with her child. The book is written from the point of view of ten different animal moms, ranging from elephants to eagles and depicts the various sides of motherhood, including joy, resilience, and sacrifice.

Buy the Book: Amazon  ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Book Depository ~  indiebound ~ add to goodreads

REVIEW By LAWonder10:
Mother's Love is a very well-written, entertaining book for toddlers and early elementary age chidden. 
The rhyme is creative and smoothly flows throughout the book. It tells of the different animal mothers with insight into their differences. At the end of the story, there are some interesting trivia about each animal spoken of. It enhances discussion and aids the child in his/her knowledge about the different types of animals. There are also some shot words one can use to aid in spelling and reading exercises. 
The one thing I didn't lie is - as illustrated on the cover image- the watercolor-painted images were slightly dim and abstract. I like a more defined color and image in illustrated books. 
I offer a Four and a Half Stars rating
*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. this is my honest review.

           There are many books out there about animal moms. What makes yours different?
         It separates mine from the rest is the different approach in presenting the subject.
At first sight, Mother's Love is about the universal theme of all mothers' love for their kids, as the title suggests. But the story, or rather the stories told, are through the unique perspective of each different animal mom featured in the book. All mothers shown in Mother's Love are very different, but they all have their love for their kids in common. Each of them has her exclusive way of taking care of her babies in nature. I used their distinctiveness to make each stand out through a lyrical text showing their love and dedication.
        Mother's Love tells your child he is loved through fascinating true facts for all the different animals featured in, which makes it unique.

​Meet the Author:
      Born and raised in Bulgaria, Diana Aleksandrova moved across the ocean in pursuit of the American dream, only to realize that her dream was not limited to any one country, or even continent. Rather, it was within her all along.
      Diana finds joy in creating stories that make kids of all ages laugh-out-loud, open up their minds and hearts, and let their imaginations run freely.
        “Books are our tickets to adventure. They let us explore fascinating places, and join charming heroes, crooked villains, and magical creatures through unforgettable journeys. My job is to create the itinerary.”

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

Here is the tour schedule.

Giveaway Details:​
​
Enter to win a signed copy of Mother's Love 
(one winner/USA only) (ends Dec 24)​

​***** 2021 Family Choice Award Winner *****

Book Details:
The Living Christmas Tree by Kristin Sponaugle
Category:  Children's Fiction (ages 3 to 7), 38 pages
Genre:  Children's Book; Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone.
Publisher:  Mascot;  Release date:   September 2021
Tour dates: November 26 to December 17
Book Description:
​      During the day, the Miller family’s Christmas tree stands tall in their living room, sparkling with lights and ornaments. Little does the family know that their Christmas tree is anything but ordinary. Each evening, the magic of Christmas brings their tree to life—much to the delight of Hannah and William Miller. Follow along as Hannah and William experience the magic of Christmas in a whole new way.

Buy the Book: Mascot  ~  Amazon ~  Barnes and Noble ~ Target

REVIEW By LAWonder10:
This is a story which reminds one of the 'Toy Story' adventures, when the toys come alive at night. 
 'The Living Christmas Tree' is magic! Join in with two small children when they make this discovery.
The illustrations by Agus Prajogo, are very cute, colorful and very well done.
The storyline does not smoothly connect from one stanza o another. It lacks depth in wording. Still, it is a fun idea, beautifully illustrated and worth reading to very young chidren. I do feel it is too wordy for most three and four year olds. I recommend 5 to 8 years of age for this book. 
I offer  Three and a Half Stars rating.
This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest Review.
​

                                                                Memories Within the Story

        One of my favorite things about writing is hiding little memories or weaving special meanings into my books that might not be so obvious to others. It might sound silly, but I truly enjoy writing in these little snippets so that when I look through my book, I see these small memories winking back at me.
        For example, in my second children’s book, The Living Christmas Tree, you’ll notice a Nativity scene consistently placed under the tree. I grew up with a Nativity scene always under the tree and I’ve continued the tradition in my home as well. This represents my faith in Christ, as well as a warm childhood memory I have of always seeing the Nativity there. The four stockings that hang on the mantle in the family’s home represent my childhood of being a family of four – my dad, mom, sister, and me. The red bow in the center reminds me of the big red bow my mom would hang on our front door at Christmastime. Hannah, the main character, is named after my daughter, and her brother, William, is named after my best friend’s son. The books on the nightstand in the children’s bedroom represent my love for reading.
           There are other hidden memories in my story – I can’t give them all away! I have so much fun writing stories for children, and putting in a few personal touches makes it all the more meaningful to me when I see my book in print.

​Meet the Author:
​
Kristin Sponaugle was born in Butler, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Duquesne University, where she received her bachelor’s degree in health sciences and her master’s degree in physician assistant studies. Kristin had always dreamed of becoming an author, and made that dream a reality with her two published children’s books, The Princess Puppy and The Living Christmas Tree. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, cross-stitching, and playing with her Maltese dog, Rosie. Kristin lives with her husband, daughter, and Rosie, and resides wherever the Air Force sends them.

Connect with the Author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram

Here is the tour schedule. 

Giveaway Details:​

Enter to win a signed copy of The Living Christmas Tree !
(one winner/USA only) (ends Dec 24)

Book Details:
Popper and Friends: Popper Finds a New Home by IL Ritchie
Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot;  Release date:  December 2021
Tour dates: November 26 to December 17, 2021
Content Rating:  Rated G. Suitable for everyone
Book Description:
       Popper is a sweet little woodpecker who is trying to find a new home. Now that he is grown, it’s time for him to leave the nest and find a home of his own. The first book in the Popper and Friends series, follow along as Popper explores different options and gets helpful advice from his friends.

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

REVIEW BY LAWonder10:
Popper is a woodpecker. he has outgrown his bed and must find a new home. After he searches high and low, plus receives a lot of helpful advise,  he becomes aware of the obvious .
This is a cute story and is comically illustrated by Yulia Potts. The colors are brightly colored. 
It is a great Storytime book. It is written for ages three to eight but I recommend at least age five. Very small children will quickly lose interest with the amount of conversation.
I offer a Four Stars rating.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.
​

                                                     What is something you do for fun?
         I have been playing golf most of my life. Golf is a very fulfilling game for me, as it is a way for me to disconnect from technology and spend time with family and friends. Playing golf is also one of the ways that I connect with nature.
         Some golf courses are arguably the most amazing properties on the planet. It’s nice to take a moment during a round of golf to appreciate how lucky we are to be able to play this game with these beautiful views.
        In a couple of my recent rounds of golf, I have heard woodpeckers pecking in trees on the course. It makes me think that Popper is out there with me!!

Meet the Author:

A California native, IL Ritchie lives in San Francisco, where he is creating new adventures for Popper and his friends.

connect with the author: goodreads

Here is the tour schedule

Giveaway Details:​
Enter to win a signed copy of Popper and Friends: Popper Finds a New Home 
(one winner/USA only) (ends Dec 24)​

​Telly Award -winning artist Jennifer Shaw's new children's book, “Dumplings Mean Family,” is told from her son Ethan’s perspective as he shares what it was like to join their family after his adoption.

Book Details:
Dumplings Mean Family by Jennifer Shaw
Category:  Children's Non-Fiction (Ages 3-7), 32 pages
Genre: Children's Picture Book; Content Rating:  G.
Publisher:  This Side Up LLC;  Release Date: May 2021
Tour dates: November 15 to November 30
Book Description:
​​        “When Ethan and his siblings are adopted from China to the United States, everything seems so strange and different. Their new American family doesn't even know how to make Chinese food! The children are worried. Will they ever get to eat their favorite meals again? For Ethan's family, embracing two cultures means learning to fold and pinch their way to dumplings that taste like home.”
        Truly a family project, Jennifer’s oldest daughter, Rinnah, served as illustrator for this heartwarming book celebrating the truth that families can be strong and united when they commit to loving each other for who they truly are. As Ethan says, “We may be different in some ways, but we are one family!”

BUY THE BOOK: Dumplings Mean Family  ~  Amazon

        ​ With six kids, we have learned some simple household switches that have saved us precious time and money and have helped us avoid more chemicals in our home. Check out these swaps for your family to try:

        1.)  Swap plastic shampoo and body wash bottles for shampoo and bath bars.
            This is a new one for us. I was really bothered by how many plastic bottles our family was throwing away, and so I started looking for alternatives. Bath bars are easy – my grandmother would laugh that we ever switched to body wash! But shampoo bars were a bit harder. Many of them are really expensive, and would they actually feel like shampoo? After some searching, I found a set, and everyone loves them! My hair actually has more body than it did before. I paid about $25 for a set of four, and each bar is supposed to be the equivalent of 2-3 bottles of shampoo, so that’s $25 for 8-12 bottles of shampoo— a total bargain! Plus, they are tiny, came wrapped in paper, and will be amazing for traveling.
         2.)  Swap paper towels for fabric wash cloths.
              I’ve done this for most of my adult life. The last time I bought wash cloths, I think I bought a pack of 20 for about $25 and we use them for washing dishes and the like. They are super easy to clean, and we keep a stack of them under the sink or in a drawer where they are always handy. I only use paper towels now for something truly disgusting that I just want to throw away. The last set of paper towels I bought has lasted over a year.
          3.)  Swap cleaning supplies and paper towels for microfiber cleaning cloths.
               This was a big change for us about four years ago, and it’s been a great one. I bought a few microfiber cleaning cloths from e-cloth (much, much cheaper than competitors and very effective) and loved them, so I invested in a whole set and we haven’t looked back. Basically, you can clean your whole house with water and these cloths, and they pick up 98% of germs and bacteria. And then you just wash them. I love them! Our house is very clean, I’ve saved countless dollars and many plastic bottles of cleaning supplies, and I don’t have chemicals all over my house which is very important to me with my kiddos.

         These simple switches can help us all save some money and be a little greener in the process.

Meet the Author:

          Jennifer Shaw is a Telly Award-winning singer/songwriter, author, speaker, and five-time Top 40 Billboard artist. Her work has been featured by Focus on the Family, Insight for Living, Family Life Today, Compassion International, Autism Speaks, and many more. Her book, “Life Not Typical: How Special Needs Parenting Changed My Faith and My Song,” has brought national attention to the issue of Sensory Processing Disorder. She lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband, six busy kids, and two crazy dogs.
​
connect with the author: website ~ twitter ~ facebook ~ instagram

Here is the tour schedule.

Giveaway Details:​


Enter to win DUMPLINGS MEAN FAMILY signed by the author
(one winner/USA only) (ends Dec 7)

Book Details:
Twin Tales: Alike and Different by Brielle and Nadia Dupervil
Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 28 pages
Genre:  Children; Format: Print - Hardback USA, e-book PDF
Publisher:  RiaJay Publishing;  Release date:  October 2021
Tour dates: October 25 to November 19
Content Rating:  G - Suitable for all readers.
Book Description: 
​       Imagine having someone that is just like you in the world. Or what if there were not just like you, but everyone thought they were? Twin sisters Alexia and Denise might look alike on the outside, but they are very different on the inside. Join the sisters as they reveal what makes them unique. An enduring story of siblings who share a strong bond that parents will appreciate, and children will love.
Buy the Book: Amazon ~ Authors' Website  ~  add to Goodreads

Review by Deanna Watts:
This children story was a reminder of one’s individuality. From the characters point of view, Alexia and Denise (twin sisters) want to be seen and appreciated by what makes them different and unique from one another.
 I think it’s so sweet that the authors are actually twin sisters!
I read this story to a 3 year old boy who was able to relate with the characters. Since he has a little brother who is very close in age, but also wants to be seen as his own person.
The illustrations are beautifully done and really make it easy for kids to follow along with the story.
Overall, I give this book a 4/5 stars rating.

​                              Twin Tales: Alike and Different - A unique quarantine project

          Like it did for most, the world Nadia and Brielle knew turned upside down in March of 2020. Suddenly the girls had to attend school on the computer and were forced to spend all day at home with their parents who work full time and run multiple businesses. Nadia and Brielle went from learning their ABCs to listening in on mommy and daddy’s work conversations.
         One day they overheard a meeting where their parents were talking about writing a book. Brielle was especially curious about her parent’s book and decided that she too would like to write a book. After talking it over with Nadia they decided that was exactly what they were going to do. Next, they had to figure out what to write about. They eventually decided to write about being twins.
        The girls pitched the idea to their mother and asked if she would help them. Of course, mom was all in. Mommy got everything set up and involved Nadia and Brielle through every step of the process. A few days each week, the girls would sit with mom and talk about what they loved about being twins, what they had in common, and what made them different. Mom helped them to write it down and structure their words into the format of a story.
        After they got the content, it was time to choose an illustrator. Mom found lots of illustrators and let Brielle and Nadia pick the ones they liked best. After they selected an illustrator, they had to decide how they wanted their character to look. They were very interested in the character development, even down to the clothes and accessories.
            Nadia and Brielle were involved in every step of the way. Although they are young, they are very opinionated and super detail oriented. There were times when mommy didn’t agree with Nadia and Brielle about the direction of the book or the illustrations, during those times, Nadia and Brielle were quick to remind mommy that it was their book. When it came to this book, Nadia and Brielle always had the final say!
        Although 2020 and much of 2021 was non-traditional, from being at home with their parents, Nadia and Brielle got the opportunity to do something that they ordinarily might not have been able to do. From writing this book, they have learned so many lessons such as the importance of hard work, money management, and negotiations skills. Perhaps most important of all, they have learned how to take a bad situation and make it better! Nadia and Brielle came out of quarantine with something great!

Meet the Authors:

​             Brielle has a bold and bubbly personality and never meets a stranger. You can call her the life of the party because there is never a dull moment when she is around. Brielle is a curious conversationalist who will talk to anyone who will listen.
      Nadia is a soft spoken, articulate, gentle spirit. Initially she is reserved, but once comfortable she will win you over with her contagious laughter and the silly jokes she keeps in her back pocket for the right time. Nadia is caring and always does what she can to help others feel better. She is very in tune with her emotions and very direct when expressing them.
​
Connect with the Author:  ​website ~ facebook ~ instagram

Here is the tour schedule. 

Giveaway Details:​

Enter to win a signed copy of
​TWIN TALES: ALIKE AND DIFFERENT!
(one winner/USA only) (ends Nov 26)

​Book Details:
BOBOS BABES ADVENTURES: A MAGICAL HALLOWEEN by Karen M. Bobos
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-10),  30 pages; Children's Picture Book, Fairy Tale
Publisher:  Bobos Babes, Ltd.; 
Release date:   September 2021
Tour dates: Oct 11 to Oct 22, 2021
Content Rating:  G for everyone. It's a children's Halloween-themed book about magic and sisterhood.
Book Description:
       It’s Halloween time in the land of Harmony, and the Bobos Babes are ready for some fun!
        When Angel Scarlett, Fairy Cora, and Princess Daphne visit Lily the Ladybug’s Boutique to look for Halloween costumes, they find Lily has left aside three special masks for them. The ladybug informs the sisters that they must wait until noon on Halloween to try on the mysterious masks but assures them they will have the best costumes in all of the land of Harmony.
      The sisters can hardly wait, counting down the minutes on Halloween until they can don their curious masks. When the time comes, they learn their secret masks are enchanted, and the girls are magically transformed into the costumes of their dreams.
         After a fun outing Trick-or-Treating, the little monster, witch, and ghost — or sisters — agree that this was the best Halloween of all.

Buy the Book: Bobos Babes ~  Amazon ~ B&N 

REVIEW by Deanna!
Bobos Babes Adventures: A Magical Halloween 
         This book was a fun little read. It had a rhyming rhythm that kept moving the story forward. I enjoyed the sweet simplicity of the characters and their interactions with one another. The illustrations are cute and follow along great with the text. I read this to a 3-year-old boy, and it kept his attention for about half of it. So maybe a little older child would enjoy it more. 
        In some spots, the rhyming rhythm didn’t flow as naturally as I would’ve liked. In those areas it did feel a little forced or stretched. Overall, a positive little adventure story to add to your Halloween tales.  
         Stay Spooky!! 
I’d give this book  3.5 stars rating

​                                               Balancing Mom Life and Being an Author
          I can only assume that most mothers who are authors, also have other jobs. Not only am I an author and a mother, but I also own a wellness company for the past 15 years. Juggling any job and life is difficult. When you throw kids, a dog, a house, and don’t forget your spouse into the mix -- now you have a circus. Let the balancing act begin . . .
         The best part about being a writer is that I not only love writing but feel like I was born to write. It’s in my blood. Writing makes me feel more like me. It’s a stress relief, especially writing about a life with creatures who all co-exist in a land of harmony. Life is often messy and stressful being a mom. Writing is a beautiful escape from the chaos that is inevitable being a parent. Although, it is one more line item to balance, because it’s an escape, it doesn’t feel like a chore, so that helps.
          Finding time to write can be challenging. It’s so important for authors to write as often as they can to keep strengthening their writing skills. I write when the kids are at school, waiting in line to pick them up from school, during their gymnastics’ practice . . . you make an effort to prioritize writing and squeeze it in wherever and whenever you can.
         Writing stories whose main characters are inspired by my actual daughters brings a closer bond with my daughters. They are definitely my focus group for kids’ reactions in the age group who my books target, ages 3-11. Scarlett is only eight, but she is a very advanced reader, which helps know that I am reaching a broader audience. They love reading and hearing my stories because they can’t wait to hear what they did or what new characters come into the series.
        Being a business owner, I became incorporated as soon as I decided to begin the publishing process. I am teaching my daughters how to be a part of the business. They have their own shows on our YouTube channel. We work together on their segments. Reading and writing is a passion for all members of our family. Scarlett is very instrumental in choosing books that we review for our Bobos Babes Book Reviews shows. Having the girls get involved helps me feel like I am not working instead of being with them but rather we are working together.

​Meet the Author:
        Karen M. Bobos began writing poetry and stories at the early age of ten. She is a life-long Chicagoan who now raises her family in the downtown area. During the 2020 Coronavirus Pandemic, Chicago also became a city of unrest. Trying to keep her three young daughters in a world of magic during such scary times, the Bobos Babes Adventures were born. Her goal was to create a world of Harmony for her family and hopefully for others to escape, even if only for a moment.
         The first book of the series, The Case of the Giggles, was published in December 2020. The Missing Egg launched in March 2021. The Lion's Secret was published in June 2021, a tribute to her mother and late father's incredible love story.  The Lovey That Came to Life and The Bobcat Birthday Party will be releasing in the upcoming months.​

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

Giveaway Details:​
Enter to win a signed copy of Karen Bobos' BOBOS BABES 
ADVENTURES: MAGICAL HALLOWEEN!
(one winner/USA only) (ends oct 29)

​A "Mom's Choice Award Winner"!

Book Details:
Chipper Makes Merry by Kimber Fox Morgan
Category: Children's Fictions (Ages 3-7)
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Simple Wonder Press, 34 pages
Release date:  October 2021
Format available for review:  Print softback, ebook (PDF)
Will send print books out:  USA
Tour dates: October 4 to October 29, 2021
Content Rating:  Rated G - Suitable for All Ages
Book Description:
​          Tip toe, tip toe, crackle, crunch!
          Chipper the Fox sneaks through the forest to spread cheer to his weary friends. Will his merry making be a success? Or will a smelly fish disaster and a log pile tumble ruin his plans?

     “Chipper Makes Merry” takes you on Chipper’s arctic quest filled with lessons of love, kindness and determination.
Buy The Book: Kimber Fox Morgan  ~  Amazon

REVIEW by LAWonder10:
Begin this Holiday Season with Chipper Makes Merry. It is a cute story of Chippers various ways of spreading cheer within his animal habitat!
Kim Sponangle, did a marvelous job in creating the scenes that depicted the tale. They are charming, colorful and simple. .. Even the writing is a form of art.
The only negative I find, is the rhyminh does not always rhyme well which throws off the rhythm and timing. It prevents a smooth flow in her writing
​I offer a Four and a Half Stars rating
*This book was gifted me with no pressureto post a positive review.
​

                                                   Incorporating favorites into my book
            Everyone has favorite things— favorite colors, animals, books, music, foods, and the list can go on and on. When writing Chipper Makes Merry, I wanted to incorporate my favorites into my writing in places other than the dedication. Of course, the dedication is all about my favorite people, who are the most important favorites of all. But the hidden favorites were fun to find places for and I enjoyed weaving them in. Gus the Walrus was the easiest character to name. I love the name GUS. I wanted it for one of our dogs, but the family vetoed it. But since it’s my book, I didn’t have to deal with vetoes. Win for me! Speaking of my family, I did include a tribute within illustrations to my cute hubby with a tree carving and to my kids with their initials on some steppingstones. It might have taken them a few passes through the book before they noticed! There is also a little red bird who appears throughout the book, who is a signal to my dad who loves cardinals. I am an AVID coffee lover, so no “winter” celebration was complete in my mind without a “cup of steamy joe”! In addition, the characters party with maple cake, which is a family favorite and our top donut flavor of the house. Writing is so personal, and I found it fun to give away little nuggets about myself along the way!

​Meet the Author:

Morgan is a fun wife, and imperfect mom of 3 crazy kiddos and 2 little lemon (problematic) dogs. She tries to live her strengths the best she can. She likes to say she is creative, not crafty. Morgan is a homemade Halloween costume type of mom. She lets her kids mix the play doh. She bakes fun birthday cakes (cutely, but far from perfection). She loves a homemade valentine and a school project. Chipper the Fox is an extension of Morgan's creative strength. Originally designed as character to create merry during the holiday season, Chipper has grown and developed into a story of determination and love.

connect with the author: website ~ instagram  ~facebook

Giveaway Details:

Enter to win CHIPPER MAKES MERRY signed by the author (one winner/USA only) (ends Nov 5)

Book Details:
My Cat Is Blue by Sarah Sommer
Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  36 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot Books; Release date:  October 2021
Format: Print - Hardback USA
Tour dates: October 5 to October 18
Content Rating:  G - Children's picture book featuring feelings of sadness and grief (loss of a pet), but no explicit content or language.
Book Description: 
​        When someone you love is feeling down in the dumps, you try everything to help. But sometimes, you don't have the cure, and those blues can even become contagious. It just might be the unexpected that allows you both to shed your blues and move toward a bright and colorful future.
Buy the Book: Mascot Books ~   Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble  ~Chapters Indigo ~ Books-A-Million    

REVIEW by LAWonder10:
This is a great tale for someone who has lost a pet or even a beloved human. 
The color effects were good. It added emphasis in depicting the "play" of wording on subject matter.
Although most of the verse was in rhyme, there were many phrases which weren't. I feel the author would have been wiser to not try rhyming but just wrote it as a regular story. It lacked a steady rhythm and a smooth flow.
The llustrations by Ekaterina Bulankina, were very good and a great "fit" for the story.
The hardcovered book is of great quality bound well and is an attractive addition to any library.
I offer a Four Stars rating for this book
*This book was gited me with no pressure to post a positove review. This is my honest review.

Meet the Author:

​        Sarah Sommer is an award-winning children's picture book author who blends her love for music, animals, and positivity in her books. Having trained in classical music and performed internationally as a professional clarinetist, rhymes and lyrics are an important part of her writing style. She is an advocate for animals, as seen in her work fostering German shepherds, and as a result, animals are always a central part of her stories. Sarah aims to include encouraging themes, such as helping others, in all of her narratives because we all need a little help sometimes.

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

Here is the tour schedule.

Giveaway Details:​

Enter to Win a signed MY CAT IS BLUE (hardback)
and $50 Amazon Gift Card (one winners/USA only) (ends Oct 25)

Book Details:
Our Moon Festival by Yobe Qiu
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  30 pages
Genre: Children's Picture Book; Content Rating:  G
Publisher:  Yobe Qiu LLC: Release date:  January 2020
Format:  print - hardback (USA), pdf
Tour dates: September 7 to September 27, 2021

Book Description:
​"Our Moon Festival" is a beautifully illustrated children's book celebrating the unique ways the Japanese, Vietnamese, and Chinese communities celebrate the Moon Festival. The story highlights different families and their traditions as they observe Zhong Qiu Jie, Tết Trung Thu, and Tsukimi!
Buy the Book:  Amazon ~  Author's Website ~ ​Oakiebees

 REVIEW by LAWonder10:
​Our Festival Moon introduces the varied traditions three countries have in celebrating the Moon Festival.
The story is slightly advanced fr pre-school age children. I would be ideal for early elementary age, 
It is informative of a celebration that most are unaware of. It is a good educational tool in teaching other cultures and traditions. It helps children be more aware and educated in learning about the differences and similarities of children throughout the world.
The illustrations, by Christina Nel Lopez, are very colorful. It seems to be a type of Impresionalism that I do not care for. It barely adds face features.  The other issue I have with it is,  some of the writing is over dark areas of illustrations so it is hard to read the entire sentence. Mostly, it contains typing colors that are easily read.
I offer a Four Stars rating for this well-made, quality book.
This book was gifted me with no pressure to post a positive review. This is my honest review.

Here is the tour schedule.

​Meet the Author:
Yobe is an educator, entrepreneur and mom who lives in NYC. As an educator, she focused on teaching families to embrace love, diversity and different cultures. Through the years working in the classrooms and closely with other educators, she noticed the lack of multi-cultural resources that represented children of color. That is when Yobe decided to create multicultural children stories that feature Asian children, families and cultures! Yobe loves spending time with her daughter, reading to children and taking long walks during the day!

Connect with the Author:  Website ~ Facebook ~ Instagram

​Giveaway:​
Enter to win OUR MOON FESTIVAL signed by the author (one winner/USA only) (ends Oct 4)

​REVIEW by LAWonder10:
​      These are adorable, educational illustrated Board Books by Clever Publishing. The inside tab allows the child to select the picture that each page directs him/her to select. Thus, assists in the development of cognitive and of motor skills. 
       It will surely delight each child in the description of each's personality trait and suggests dreams that can come true..
          The Book assists the child in  way to find their "sign" in the constellations, as well as in finding the other signs shown in the individual books.
            The Illustrator, Alyona Achilova, has donne an excellent job in creating fun, colorful, well-defined pictures.
                The wording is simple and not too detailed for toddler minds.
               The only qualms I have is not all Zodiac symbols are the same in every Zodiac book. Which symbols are correct?
             I give this set of Picture books a Five Stars rating.
The Illustrator:

​