Vivienne in Paris by Maria Castellucci Moore Book Tour, Guest Post & More! {Ends 2/9/24)

.Review By LAWonder10:

In this children’s book, for a Sunday sctivity, Vvienne’s “papy” challenged her to ride her bike through the city -that was her normal routine, but this time, really observe things and people around her.

This is a beautifully illustrated oversized book inspiring an awareness in children of things often taken for granted and not appreciated. It is so easy to feel the author’s energy and optimism as she describes each scene. The illustrator, Emanuela Manello, did a fabulous job in creating such soft, colorful and clear images in her impressive artwork. I truly felt the joy and conviction expressed through her words.

The oversized book is made of secure binding and quality paper. It would make an actractive gift.

The only criticism I offer is, that it would be further educational if there was a glossary with the the highlighted French words and phrases.

I offer a strong Four and a Half Stars rating.

This book was gifted to me with no pressure to post a positive review. This is my honest review.

Where do I draw inspiration from? Where is it most present?

Inspiration: noun: an inspiring or animating action or influence.

The key word here is action. How can we take action in our writing to bring about this
inspirational idea or influence to our readers.

First, I start with all the things I love. In the case of Vivienne in Paris, I could not have brought more things in unison that I adore: Europe, traveling, culture, foreign languages, gorgeous illustrations, and the color palette to match! Living in an emotional landscape of adventure amidst the backdrop of the magical city of Paris.

Despite the whimsicality of the pictures, their colors, and the sweet girl named Vivienne, what more did this story mean to me? Her actions; her thoughtful awareness and pause for the mundane, which turned out to truly move her and create lasting change within. THAT was the action that led to inspiration which ultimately leads to inner peace, joy, you name it!

Authors try to get into the zone; the headspace that holds all the writing superpower…the state of mind where creative flow seems to gush. An outpouring of creativity that beams great light, great substance; this is the most inspirational place for an author to be in. This zone doesn’t come easily to most. It happens usually after you have had an awesome night’s sleep, an emotionally clear and peaceful time, some” good ol’ girl” time, or just some healthy space away from it all. I find my most zone-like times are when there are no children around, it has not been an emotionally charged week, and my head space has felt balanced.

Where do you draw inspiration from? I too, am moved by the thought leaders in my life who push me to think outside the box and create lasting change.

I hope I have given you, my readers, some inspiration in this new year to go forth and connect to the world around you in ways you have yet to experience.