Champ's Champion Christmas!

Here’s a special after-Christmas post by my collaborator and co-Pawthor, Champ.

“I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and that Santa Paws brought you exactly what you wanted. Here’s me in my Christmas Elf coat, next to the tree, wondering if Santa Paws got my special letter to him…

Isn't our Christmas tree just beautiful?

Yay! Santa Paws brought me just what I wanted! A whole bunch of squeaky balls!!!

Yay! Lucky me!

Don’t forget that there are so many needy animals out there, animals who didn’t have a warm cosy bed or a loving family over Christmas. It’s our duty to spread the word and save as many lonesome or homeless animals as possible. Just a small donation at any animal shelter or rescue will help so much.

If you want to help S.A.F.E. Rescue, the wonderful people that saved me from abuse and illness, please consider buying my book about my journey back to life. Champ: My Story of Survival is available on Amazon and proceeds go to help S.A.F.E. Rescue save as many animals as they can.”

About Champ: Champ is a 7-year-old poodle mix brought back to life from the brink of death by S.A.F.E. Rescue, a no-kill animal shelter in California. He lives happily for now with foster parents and their loving family while he gets completely well. He loves to be loved, and has not let being a celebrity turn his head. His favorite toy is his squeaky ball; and he loves going for walks and being cuddled. Collaborating on this book was the biggest step in his life and he hopes that people will love it to bits and tell the whole world.

Readers and supporters will agree with S.A.F.E. Rescue when they say: "Champ has touched the hearts of so many people and has been an inspiration, if for no other reason than to bring awareness and attention to the plight of abused and neglected pets. They too just want to be loved and cared for and can and will blossom into wonderful companions with unconditional love, despite their past."

Book Blast: Beenie's Search

About the Book

Title: Beenie's Search | Author: J.J. Schousboe | Publication Date: March 20, 2014 | Publisher: Friesen Press | Pages: 48 | Recommended Ages: 3 to 8 Book Description: Join Beenie, the friendly bear, as he searches for his family after hibernating for the long winter. Spring arrives and Beenie discovers that he is all alone. In search of food, friends and his family, Beenie gets side tracked and lost. When he remembers what he was taught by his parents, he overcomes his fears and sets off in the right direction. Beenie's Search teaches young readers the importance of listening and following directions as they join Beenie in his adventure.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Friesen Press

J J Schousboe Designs | Google Play | Goodreads

 

About the Author: J.J. Schousboe

JJ Schousboe migrated from the lovely island of Trinidad, in the Caribbean. She has been writing poems as a teenager and began writing stories for her children. A preschool teacher since 2007, JJ currently lives in Largo, Florida.

Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

   

* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash (winner's choice) Contest closes: January 2, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open to: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, J.J. Schousboe and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Moat is Not a Goat: Poems for Clever Little Girls

About the Book

Title: A Moat is Not a Goat: Poems for Clever Little Girls * Author: Elsa Takaoka * Illustrator: Fanny Liem * Publication Date: November 27, 2014 * Publisher: Independent * Pages: 32 * Recommended Age: 4 to 8

Summary (Amazon): This is a collection on 16 beautifully illustrated poems about sweet and charming everyday experiences, especially written for little girls. This book will teach, inspire and empower little precocious lassies, opening their hearts and minds to the delightful world of imagination.

Amazon (Paperback) * Amazon (eBook) * Goodreads

 

*** FREE DOWNLOAD OF PAPER DOLLS! ***

You can download three adorable pdfs of paper dolls created by illustrator Fanny Liem based on A Moat is Not a Goat. Just click on the thumbnail below to take you to the author's site!  

The Buzz About the Book

"A Moat is not a Goat - Poems for Clever Little Girls" follows Elsa's interesting writing style of letting the reader have loads of fun, solving fiendish clues and reading aloud rhymes that trip off the tongue with ease." ~ Read it Daddy!

"Each story is told as a poem and takes the reader on a magical journey through a pony car wash, a snow scene, and a strange world deep under the ocean. There’s a visit to the home of the five sisters, a chance to meet a pink-gowned female pirate, and find out how Miss Wafer saves her pie and tea from a snake. Learn about happiness and making up after a squabble, and how losing a tooth isn’t a disaster. What happens when you snip a lock of hair, and how a day in bed with a cold isn’t all it was planned to be." ~ Reviewed by Jane Finch for Readers' Favorite

"Cute rhyming book with beautiful illustrations. I recommend it for bedtime stories. Definitely worth it." ~ 5 Star Review, celestial, Amazon

"This book is full of clever poems that little girls will love. Everything from dreaming about becoming a pirate or a princess to fighting with your siblings is in here. Little girls will be able to relate to every page. The illustrations by Fanny Liem are SUPER adorable to boot!" ~ 5 Star Review, Teddy O., Amazon

"I am a preschool teacher and I am always looking for books that will amaze and excite my students. I think they will love this book." ~ 5 Star Review, Darla W., Amazon

 

Message From The Author: Elsa Takaoka

On the first day of National Poetry Month in April of 2014, I set the goal of writing a poem a day. My little girls and I would sit at the kitchen table - my five year-old doodled and my one year-old scribbled while Mommy wrote. As I struggled to find inspiration, I would occasionally glance at my eldest girl, who has been a doodling machine since the age of two and will often draw pictures for hours. Her doodles contained many of her favorite things: twins and mermaids, princesses and pets. But on closer inspection, they also contained stories of brave and bold little girls -girls with real feelings who fought, made-up, cried and got angry. These girls sailed ships, fought beasts and were pirates. These girls were tender and caring, who doodled and read. Her art contained REAL little girls- imaginative, clever and able to do anything they set their minds to. My hope is that I was able to crawl into the mind of a child and bottle up even a bit of the innocent yet powerful confidence of clever little girls everywhere.  

Book Website * Author Website

Facebook * Twitter * Google+

 

About the Illustrator: Fanny Liem

Fanny Liem is a freelance artist from Jakarta, Indonesia who became captivated with art at a very young age. She credits her talented father for passing on the love of artistic creation. Driven by grit and passion, Fanny learned about digital art on her own, redefining her hobby of drawing to budding career in children’s illustrations. Fanny also taps her feet while enjoying American Country music. For more information, please visit https://www.behance.net/fannywen  

* Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash prize (winner's choice) Contest ends: December 30, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Elsa Takaoka and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Guinevere: On the Eve of a Legend

About the Book

Title: Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend * Author: Cheryl Carpinello * Publication Date: March 30, 2009 * Publisher: Outskirts Press * Pages: 122 * Recommended Age: 7+

Summary (Amazon):

At the dawn of Camelot, one young girl is about to take her place beside the greatest king in England's history. She is a mere child of twelve. But in these medieval days, this is the age when childish things must be put away and greater responsibilities accepted--all in preparation for a betrothal of marriage. For young Lady Guinevere, on the advent of her thirteenth Birth Day, the whole idea is quite unbearable. After all, what could be better than spending her youth playing with her best friend Cedwyn, roaming the grounds around the castle looking for mythical creatures or hunting rabbits? However, the wizard Merlyn--her teacher and friend--knows that destiny has a way of catching up with a person. His arrival sets in motion a series of events that will lead Guinevere to her destiny whether she is ready for it or not.

** Finalist Pre-Teen Literature: Dan Poynter's 2011 Global Ebook Awards **

Amazon (U.S. Print) * Amazon (UK) * Amazon (CA) * Amazon (FR)

Amazon (IT) * Amazon (DE) * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository

 

Book Trailer

The Buzz About the Book

"The story is a nice balance between action, elements of magic and fantasy, and important life lessons, all woven within the historical context of medieval times. This was an enjoyable and educational read and I would recommend Guinevere to tween girls and boys." ~ Mother Daughter Book Reviews

"Cheryl Carpinello's 'Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend', is a unique introduction into Arthurian Legend focusing on the life of the young princess. It is perfect for tweens interested in this genre. While most young people aren't royalty, they will likely relate with the emotions associated with wanting independence while struggling with the responsibility that comes with it. ~ Vine Voice, Amazon Customer

"'Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend' is an interesting and well-written tale told in a way that will appeal to middle school aged readers, especially girls but boys too, who can relate to the idea of wanting independence yet struggling with the obligations that come with it. The euphemistic "darn it" is used a few times, and there are some references to drinking ale. But those who really like to read the Arthurian legends should enjoy this fun peek into Guinevere's early life. In addition, it illustrates the important lesson that situations may arise in life when we must choose doing our duty rather than just doing what we want." ~ Wayne S. Walker for Home School Book Review, Amazon

"An interesting read for the 8- to 14-year-old, this book skillfully integrates vocabulary and information about life in medieval Europe without verging on preachy or textbook-like. While it will most definitely interest the bookish child with an unquenchable thirst for history, it will also amuse those with a penchant for adventure-- or unicorns. ~ Thomas, Amazon

"…an outstanding job detailing the escapades of the Princess and her young friend, Cedwyn. Carpinello keeps you turning those pages with her descriptions of the dangers and adventures that are ribboned throughout the entire story. Wizards, unicorns, and dragons are a few of the mythical creatures you will encounter in this enchanting book. I am excited to give this to several of my grandchildren to read! ~ Penny Estelle, Amazon

"Refreshing and fanciful, a perspective on Guinevere that people don't consider, what with the focus on Arthur's childhood. The rural homespun castle and kitchen are illuminating of the time. Guinevere's adventurousness, as a girl who will someday be surrounded by courageous knights, is well-imagined. The detail is delightful at times. Storyline with bards and Merlyn is clever and in the tradition of the Arthurian legends. ~ Katherine L. Holmes, Amazon

 

About The Author: Cheryl Carpinello

I love the Ancient and Medieval Worlds! As a retired English teacher, I hope to inspire young readers to read more through my Quest Books. Please follow me on this adventure. Hook up with me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Google. Also please visit my other sites: Carpinello's Writing Pages where I interview childrens/MG/Tween/YA authors; my home website Beyond Today Educator, and The Quest Books where I've teamed up with Fiona Ingram from South Africa and Wendy Leighton-Porter of England/France/Abu Dhabi to enable readers to find all of our Ancient and Medieval quest books in one place.

Beyond the Educator * Carpinello's Writing Pages

Facebook * Goodreads * Twitter * Google+

 

* Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash prize (winner's choice) Contest ends: December 26, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Cheryl Carpinello and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Blast: The Magic of Friendship

About the Book

Title: The Magic of Friendship | Authors: Subhash Kommuru & Sujata Kommuru | Publication Date: August 25, 2014 | Publisher: Kommuru Books | Pages: 42 | Recommended Ages: 3 to 8 Book Description: A flock of migrating geese stumble upon Tadoba, the land of the fierce tiger Babbar who does not tolerate anyone in his area. Will Babbar show any mercy? Can he change? Will the geese make it to safety? This is a story about change -- a transformation that comes with the magic of friendship. Personality may not change, but nature can surely change. This story will shows the value of friendship and how that can change a person, particularly one who is lonely and never really had the gift of laughter.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

 

The Buzz About the Book

"Committed to introducing Indian culture into children’s literature, Kommuru has set The Magic of Friendship in the heart India amid an imagined Tadoba Forest, which is not that farfetched from the real Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve near Maharashtra, India. Including other aspects of the country, such as the banyan tree — its national tree, and Kojagiri, an Indian term loosely related to a celebration, Kommuru’s story opens opportunities for children to learn and ask questions about another part of the world. Closing with a great moral that children will easily be able to figure out, The Magic of Friendship, is not just a fascinating read. Wonderfully written with aptly complementing illustrations, it is also a welcomed addition to children’s literature." ~ Pacific Book Review

"I really enjoyed this story. I thought it expressed how friendship changes people and makes their lives better very well. The art is cute and explanatory without the story as well."~ Phaedra S., Amazon

"When it comes to stories about friendship, children's picture book literature is replete with tales of boys and girls who form mutually beneficial relationships; but The Magic of Friendship aims for something more and stands above most others in pairing vivid, colorful animal drawings with a narrative that at first seems predictable, but offers some satisfying differences...the real value of friendship and its world-changing potentials in this winning, feel-good story perfect for read-aloud or young picture book readers." ~ D. Donovan, eBook Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

"This is a really cute book that teaches that things are not always what they seem. The book is well illustrated and one that kids can easily relate to. This book is appropriate all the way up to 3rd grade reading level. My first grader was able to read it easily!" ~ Bonnie R., Amazon

"A story that will certainly put a smile on your face while teaching the importance of friendship." ~ Brenda C., Amazon

 

About the Authors: Subhash & Sujata Kommuru

Subhash and Sujata Kommuru hail from India. They migrated to the United States along with their memories of childhood and youth. Now that they are parents, just like every immigrant they crave to introduce their child to the culture and values of their upbringing. Yet it is challenging to teach something while you are in the midst of adjusting to a different culture yourself. Subhash and Sujata both work in different disciplines and have different styles and backgrounds, but it is the upbringing of their son that brings them on the same page. That exact place where they meet is captured and reflected in their stories, where Subhash can express in words, and Sujata can illustrate them beautifully. Where he puts it in black and white, she adds color to it. You get the idea! These stories are their attempt to share a glimpse of their childhood days with their son. He is their inspiration to write short stories that have meaning to them and provide teaching in some shape or form.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Google+ | Goodreads

 

* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: January 8, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Subhash Kommuru and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Who Was King Arthur?

So much has been written about Arthur that it is hard to decide which resources have the right idea about Arthur’s origins. When I began researching Book 2 in The Chronicles of the Stone: The Search for the Stone of Excalibur, I felt quite overwhelmed. King Arthur is without doubt the greatest legendary figure in the western world. Countless poems, books, screenplays, and material have been written about him, speculating on his birth, his exploits, his legacy, and what he has come to represent to the world. Even death cannot touch him since legend says he is not dead, but sleeping in a cave on the isle of Avalon, waiting to be awakened in time of his country’s direst need. Mystery and magic surround the story of this man who became a leader, a kingly figure, a symbol of hope and renewal. Who was the real Arthur, the man who lived and fought in the tumultuous period in history called the Dark Ages?

 

 

THERE IS NO WORSE DEATH THAN THE END OF HOPE ~ KING ARTHUR

 

 

The Dark Ages (also called the Early Middle Ages) was a period of chaos and warfare that lasted from the 5^th Century to approximately AD 1000. It is appropriately called the Dark Ages because, not only was it a time when civilization collapsed, but very few records survive from this era. That is why we know so little about the period in which Arthur is said to have lived and why there is such debate concerning his historical existence. There was a real Arthur, a great and skilled war leader who performed many brave and epic deeds. He most likely was a nobleman of British-Roman ancestry. Arthur was believed to have had extensive knowledge of Roman military strategies and warfare, which he successfully used against the Saxons during the late 5^th and early 6^th Centuries. His possible birth date was circa AD 478. An important aspect of Arthur’s heritage, whoever he was, is that he was a Celt by tradition and history. At the time Arthur lived there was no distinct ‘England’ to speak of. He was a Briton, of Celtic stock, the product of a Celtic society.

By AD 410, Rome had withdrawn from Britain, leaving it vulnerable. It wasn’t long before the barbarian tribes that the Roman troops had kept at bay began to reappear. Soon the invasions increased in size and number as the news spread that Britain was easy pickings and practically defenceless since the British clans and kingdoms were unable to unite for their own protection. It is here that history starts to merge with legend and the famous names of Vortigern, Ambrosius Aurelianus, Uther Pendragon, and Arthur appear.

By AD 500, Britain had fragmented into a number of smaller kingdoms, a situation intensified by the tendency of rulers to leave their realms to be divided amongst their sons, instead of direct inheritance to the eldest. Thus tribal groups became even more splintered. The largest and strongest of these kingdoms was Powys. It is against this background that the figure of Arthur emerges. Arthur is thought to be one of the princes in South-Western England who fought in an alliance of British leaders against the Saxons and their allies, the Angles, Jutes, and Frisians, as well as the Picts and Scots who came from the north after the Romans left. The fighting continued until circa AD 516 when, at the Battle of Mount Badon, the united Britons inflicted a severe defeat on the Anglo-Saxons. This victory turned the tide of the barbarian advances for the next fifty years, permitting a final ‘golden age’ for Celtic civilization in Britain. The utterly defeated Saxons did not attack the Celts again until 571.

Live the adventure with young heroes Adam and Justin and get introduced to a new heroine, Kim. The Search for the Stone of Excalibur is available on Amazon and all major book sites.

 

 

Book Blast: The Bravest Squirrel Drives a Race Car

Title: The Bravest Squirrel Drives a Race Car | Author: Sara Shafer | Publication Date: November 7, 2014 | Publisher: Independent | Pages: 96 | Recommended Ages: 5 to 12 Book Summary: When his baby cousin Zander runs away, Chaz finally has a chance to live his dream of rescuing someone and proving his bravery. But Zander doesn't want to be rescued, and he certainly doesn't listen.

When the little squirrel crawls into a race car, Chaz follows him, expecting they will hide from the humans until the race is over. But Zander doesn't stay hidden, wanting to try everything the humans do.

When the race car spins out of control, Chaz is the only one who can save them. If he's not brave enough, not only will they crash, he'll lose Zander forever.

The Bravest Squirrel Series:

1. The Bravest Squirrel Ever

2. The Bravest Squirrel in the Forest

3. The Bravest Squirrel in School

4. The Bravest Squirrel Drives a Race Car

Amazon * CreateSpace

Barnes & Noble * Goodreads

 

The Buzz About the Series

"Totally awesome book!! You are brave to be an author!" ~ reader Valerie D., age 9

"A wonderful children's book. I am passing mine on to my youngest grandson. He will enjoy this story." ~ Susie, Amazon

"I liked how the squirrels act. They were funny. It was a really good book. I think other kids that are reading chapter books should read this." ~ Gaea, 12 year old reader

 

About the Author: Sara Shafer

When two squirrels moved into Sara Shafer’s attic, she went on a quest to figure out what they were doing. She knocked on the ceiling, and they scratched back. Imagining what they thought and felt, she wrote The Bravest Squirrel Ever and then continued their adventures with The Bravest Squirrel in the Forest, The Bravest Squirrel in School, and The Bravest Squirrel Drives a Race Car. Although her attic is currently vacant, the squirrels outnumber the humans in her neighborhood and could decide to take over at any moment. She watches for signs of invasion as she plots more stories of squirrel bravery.

Website | Newsletter | Twitter

Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads

 

* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: December 22, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Sara Shafer and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Blast: Bash and Lucy Fetch Jealousy

Meet Lisa and Michael Cohn, a Mother-Son writing team who created "Bash and Lucy" to help (then) 4 year-old Michael cope with the death of their family dog, Lucy. They have become media darlings, including being featured in The Daily Mail in the U.K. and making an appearance on The Today Show! "Bash and Lucy Fetch Jealousy" is their latest release.

Title: Bash and Lucy Fetch Jealousy | Authors: Lisa Cohn & Michael Cohn | Illustrator: Heather Nichols | Publication Date: December 6, 2014 | Publisher: Canines and Kids Publishing | Pages: 39 | Recommended Ages: 3 to 8 Book Summary: From an award-winning Mom-Son team featured on the Today Show, Bash and Lucy Fetch Jealousy is a contemporary boy-and-dog book. Bash's dog, Lucy, helps coach his soccer team, and Lucy leads the team to the championships. But Bash is overcome with jealousy when Lucy enchants a team of Special Olympics kids who say they want her to coach their team. Can Bash overcome his jealousy and learn to share Lucy with kids who say they need her? This is Book Two in the Bash and Lucy series, following Bash and Lucy Fetch Confidence, a Mom's Choice Silver Award winner and finalist, USA Best Book Awards. Co-uthor Michael Cohn, age 6, has appeared on the Today Show, on SiriusXM Radio, in Disney's Babble, in The Oregonian and other media.

Amazon * Goodreads

 

Early Buzz About the Book

"This is a sweet story that teaches young readers not only about dealing with jealousy, but how dogs help kids with special needs. In the book, Bash, the boy who is the main character, learns how to help others, in spite of feeling jealous. Beautiful, expressive illustrations!" ~ 5 Star Review, Kristi H., Amazon

 

About the Authors: Lisa Cohn and Michael Cohn

Writer Lisa Cohn and her 6-year-old son, Michael Cohn, have appeared on the Today Show, SiriusXM Radio, AM Northwest and Disney's Babble, in addition to the Oregonian and other media. Their first book, "Bash and Lucy Fetch Confidence," received a Mom's Choice Silver Award and was a 2013 USA Best Book Award finalist. Lisa and Michael's aim is to share with children their love of dogs, books and writing! Learn about their school visits, dog blog and book reviews by Michael and friends by visiting www.BashAndLucy.com

Website | YouTube | Twitter | Facebook

Google+ | Pinterest | Goodreads

 

* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: December 21, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Lisa Cohn and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Nancy Cat Book Blast

Title: The Nancy Cat | Author: M.R. Shields | Illustrator: Martin Paterson | Publication Date: November 15, 2014 | Publisher: Independent | Pages: 140 | Recommended Ages: 8+ Book Description: Agent Rose is a secret Agent and the best in the business. Everyday he has to deal with the dangerously impossible, the risky and improbable. When tasked with infiltrating a super maximum security vault, Agent Rose calls upon help from an unusual source.. The Nancy cat! A fantastic little story for children aged 8+.

Amazon * Goodreads

 

About the Author: M.R. Shields

M R Shields is a Children's and Young Adult fiction writer from Perth, Scotland. He is best known for his 'Chronicles of Astoria' Young Adult series and loves creating stories that make children smile or laugh, and not necessarily in that order.

Google+ | Goodreads

     

* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: December 20, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author M.R. Shields and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Blast: John Bloom and the Victory Garden

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About the Book

Title: John Bloom and the Garden of Victory | Author: Leigh Shearin | Publication Date: October 27, 2014 | Publisher: Independent | Pages: 195 | Recommended Ages: 9+ Book Summary: John Bloom and the Victory Garden is the rollicking tale of 3 boys at the dawn of America's involvement in WWII. John Bloom, and his best friends Joe and Chewie live, play, and get into adventures in 1940's era Appleside, NJ. Because children are generally joyful and tend to put more importance on the goings-on of their own worlds than those of grown-ups, the events of the war are woven into the boy's daily lives. Along the way, a bitter and cynical old man is drawn into their hijinks, and contributes his own joy to the lives of these 3. Chapter One invites the reader to join John and his friends in Appleside, NJ on the afternoon of December 6th, 1941. Through newspaper headlines and radio bulletins, the boys learn about the incredible events of the war- beginning with the attack on Hawaii by the Empire of Japan. As the story moves along, John and his friends learn that everyone- not just soldiers- can make a difference. They learn that commitment leads to ultimate success and that taking a seemingly insurmountable task one step at a time will make that task simple. John, Joe and Chewie learn about where their food comes from, and how important good food is to the Allies overseas. John Bloom and the Victory Garden is not just a story of Homefront USA during WWII. Its about faith, endurance and sturdy values that transcend time and cultural differences. It's about accepting tough times, struggle and adversity and overcoming them anyway. It's about seeing the humor in life, and helping others to see the humor too. But mostly, they just have a gut-busting great time!

Amazon | Goodreads

 

About the Author: Leigh Shearin

I am a Writer, Chef, Baker and Farmer. I earned a B.A. in Studio Art from Maryville College in Maryville, TN, and worked as a Graphic Artist and Photographer before earning my A.A.S in Culinary Art. I've worked as a Chef, Baker and Culinary Art Instructor. Most recently, my husband and I have bought rural land and are developing our own small, sustainable farm, Winter'Rest Farm in north Central New York. Through it all, I've written stories and poems, some published, some tucked away. The older I get, the more the stories stalk me, so I hope to move into full-time writing in the very near future.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

 

* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: January 3, 11:59 pm, 2015 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Leah Shearin and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Book Blast: Mystic Princesses

Title: The Mystic Princesses and the Whirlpool | Author: PJ LaRue | Illustrator: Aristides Rodriguez | Publication Date: June 28, 2014 | Publisher: Independent | Pages: 63 | Recommended Ages: 5 to 10 Book Description: Join Exciting Princess Adventures and Learn Life Lessons Along the Way Have you ever wanted to ride a dolphin or dreamed of playing on a rainbow as if it were a waterslide? How would you feel if someone tried to kidnap you, and you were forced to move to Hawai'i to hide and live with people you don't know? That happened to Harmonie. Come meet Harmonie, her new Mystic Princess friends, and find out what happens when her enemies, the Children of Ares, find her again.

Purchase * Goodreads

 

The Buzz About the Book

"The Mystic Princesses and the Whirlpool has a delightful plot. P. J. LaRue uses mythological characters to tell a lively story of bravery and friendship. The book teaches important lessons on strengths and weaknesses, conservation and safety. This is the first book in the Mystic Princesses series, and I cannot wait for the next princesses' adventure to come. Young girls will love The Mystic Princesses adventure on their bedside table." ~ Kelly Santana, Readers' Favorite Book Reviews

"A lovely book for children with colourful pictures and any child who reads it will be looking for a sequel." ~ 5 Star Review, Diane, Amazon

"'The Mystic Princesses and the Whirlpool' is a confidence boosting book for children, giving them important information. It is the first in a series and I look forward to reading more about Harmonie and her friends." ~ 5 Star Review, Mary C., Goodreads

"This early chapter book is perfect for children ages six through ten. It does not portray wimpy princesses, but strong, respectful and independent female role models involved in many adventures in which they learn to overcome their weaknesses, act against bullying, and cooperate with friends and family to promote human welfare and peace. Short chapters interspersed with illustrations will maintain interest if the book is read aloud for younger children. Introduce your little princess to this one." ~ 5 Star Review, Barbara M., Amazon

"The short chapters would make this ideal for younger girls who are newer to reading Chapter Books. The colourful illustrations are excellent, and compliment this warm story nicely. A new series for girls, offering a fun way to learn valuable life lessons." ~ 5 Star Review, M.J. Kinsmen, Amazon

 

About the Author: PJ LaRue

PJ LaRue wrote poetry in high school, but she discovered writing children’s books and short stories later in life. Her writing inspirations are hiking, photography and environmental consciousness, but she links these interests to much larger social issues. A person very close to PJ was molested as a child, making PJ passionate about providing child safety tips. And, PJ was bullied in the third grade by girls much larger than she, who demanded that PJ give them her lunch money. As a result, PJ is committed to spreading the word that bullying must be stopped.

One of PJ’s goals is to help educate children, parents and caregivers, in a fun way, using her children’s book series, The Mystic Princesses. Because PJ loves to travel, the princesses will visit many locales, learning about environmental concerns along the way.

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Pinterest | Google+ | Goodreads

 

About the Illustrator: Aristides Rodriguez

Aristides Rodriguez has worked with clients to create websites, social media graphics, print graphics, and logos. His print media projects include cards, posters and magazine ads. He is comfortable working with a team, but has also designed client projects independently. While in school, Aristides participated in job shadows to Central Florida design community members including Disney Event Group, Orlando, SeaWorld, Orlando, and large offset and digital printing companies. Currently, Aristides is a Winter Park Tech Advisory Board member.

Website

 

* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: December 17, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author PJ LaRue and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

$100 Book Blast Giveaway: A Year in the Secret Garden

Title: A Year in the Life of the Secret Garden | Author: Valarie Budayr | Illustrator: Marilyn Scott-Waters | Publication Date: November, 2014 | Publisher: Audrey Press | Pages: 144 | Recommended Ages: 5 to 99 Book Description: Award-winning authors Valarie Budayr and Marilyn Scott-Waters have co-created A Year in the Secret Garden to introduce the beloved children’s classic, The Secret Garden to a new generation of families. This guide uses over two hundred full color illustrations and photos to bring the magical story to life, with fascinating historical information, monthly gardening activities, easy-to-make recipes, and step-by-step crafts, designed to enchant readers of all ages. Each month your family will unlock the mysteries of a Secret Garden character, as well as have fun together creating the original crafts and activities based on the book.Over 140 pages, with 200 original color illustrations and 48 activities for your family and friends to enjoy, learn, discover and play with together. A Year In the Secret Garden is our opportunity to introduce new generations of families to the magic of this classic tale in a modern and innovative way that creates special learning and play times outside in nature. This book encourages families to step away from technology and into the kitchen, garden, reading nook and craft room.  

Purchase

Great News!

You can purchase your very own copy of this gorgeous book for only $15 (a savings of $5) directly from Audrey Press between Dec. 1 and 7, 2014. PLUS, if you miss these dates, you can still purchase the book between December 8 and 31, 2014 for $15 using the code word "SECRETGARDEN".

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE THE BOOK NOW!!

Amazon * Audrey Press * Goodreads

 

Blog Tour Excerpts

The Blog Tour for A Year in the Secret Garden took place Nov. 1 to 30, 2014. Below you will find review excerpts from some of the participating blogs as well as links to a guest post by the author and an interview with the illustrator. Click HERE for the full Tour Schedule and the full list of participating blogs.

"A Year in the Secret Garden is a treasure trove of activities, crafts, games, recipes and information all related to the classic children's book, The Secret Garden, bringing to life this wonderful book to a new generation of readers. I cannot recommend this beautifully illustrated and detailed, information-packed book highly enough to parents, homeschoolers, teachers, and librarians." ~ Mother Daughter Book Reviews

"The authors love of the Secret Garden book comes through SO clearly and I am a student of literature so I loved it for the explanations and history of what was happening." ~ WS Momma Readers Nook

Guest Post by Author Valarie Budayr: "A brief article on A Year in The Secret Garden" ~ Coffee, Books & Art

"A perfect book not only for the summer activities but all through the year. Truly it shows the way into the SECRET GARDEN." ~ Eloquent Articulation

"These ladies have created a fabulous book that can stand alone or be used as companion to the classic either in a classroom setting, or homeschool setting or for anyone that loves to share great literature and activities with their children." ~ Adalinc to Life

"While the children enjoyed the activities associated with this book, I was entranced by the beautiful water color illustrations and the scrumptious looking images of foods to make. I am certain that any person who grew up hoping to find that secret key to let them into an enchanting garden will fall in love with the magic inside this book to share with their children." ~ Books, Babies and Bows

Interview with Illustrator, Marilyn Scott-Waters: "A Year in the Secret Garden Interview" ~ Pragmatic Mom

"This would make such a nice Christmas gift for a young one to grow up with. Why not add a copy of the reading book and maybe even the DVD and some supplies to do an activity or two. " ~ The Blended Blog

"It is a wonderful, hands on, practical way to take kids on a journey back in time and see how children and families lived in another era." ~ Hide-N-(Sensory)-Seeking

 

Month by Month Guide

September

• Indian Style Chicken Curry
• Rangoli
• Magic Carpets
• Misselthwaite Manor
• Character Study: Mary Lennox
• Ploughman’s Lunch

 

October

• Cutouts of the Secret Garden Characters
• Planting Bulbs
• The English Garden
• Character Study: Mrs. Medlock

November

• Hot Oatcakes
• Jump Rope
• Plastic Bag Jump Rope
• Jump Rope Rhymes
• Shovel, Shovel, Spade
• Character Study: Ben Weatherstaff

December

• Bringing in the Evergreen
• Yorkshire Pudding Toad-in-a-Hole
• The Oak King vs. The Holly King
• The Story of Mistletoe
• Character Study: Martha Sowerby

January

• Parkin Cake
• Wutherin' Wind Flags
• Ice Disks
• Yorkshire Phrasebook
• Character Study: Dickon Sowerby
• Perfectly Good Porridge with Treacle

February

• Oaten Pipe
• Garden in a Jar
• Death in Victorian England
• Character Study: Archibald Craven

March

• Sticky Toffee Pudding
• Nest Building
• Seed Paper & Packets
• Grow-Me Seed Paper
• Seed Packets
• Class of Hunger
• Character Study: Colin Craven

April

• Robin Cake
• Dickon’s Felt Creatures
• The World of Mason Bees
• Making of a Mason Bee House
• British Money
• Old British Money
• Character Study: Dr. Craven

 

May

• Freezer Strawberry Jam
• Planting a Rose Bush
• Wheelbarrow Race
• Wheelbarrow
• Spot-Sitting
• Character Study: Lilias Craven

June

• A Midsummer Garden Tea Party
• Ladybug Sandwiches
• Rainbow Fruit Kabobs
• Simply Divine Lemon Cookies
• Daisy Chain Crowns
• Midsummer Dancing Ribbon Wreaths
• Flower Pressing
• Character Study: Victorian/Edwardian Family Life

July

• The Secret Meal
• Tin Foil Breakfast
• The Cooking Campfire
• Creating a Garden Journal
• Colin’s Exercises
• Blindfolded Garden Walk
• Colin’s Magic Chant and Affirmations
• Affirmation Stones
• Character Study: Susan Sowerby

August

• Scones and Ginger Tea
• A Taste of Summer
• Paper Garden Model
• Garden Games for Family and Friends
• Blind Man’s Bluff
• Red Rover
• Character Study: Frances Hodgson Burnett

 

About the Author: Valarie Budayr

Valarie Budayr loves reading and bringing books alive. Her popular website, www.jumpintoabook.com, inspires children and adults alike to experience their books through play, discovery, and adventure. She is founder of Audrey Press, an independent publishing house, as well as an Amazon and iTunes best-selling author. She has written The Fox Diaries: The Year the Foxes Came to our Garden and The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Valarie is passionate about making kid’s books come alive and encouraging families and schools to pull books off the shelves and stories off the pages.  

Book Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook

Pinterest | Google+ | Goodreads

 

About the Illustrator: Marilyn Scott-Waters

Marilyn Scott-Waters loves making things out of paper. Her popular website, www.thetoymaker.com, receives 2,000 to 7,000 visitors each day, who have downloaded more than six million of her easy-to-make paper toys. Her goal is to help parents and children spend time together making things. She is the creator of a paper toy craft book series The Toymaker’s Christmas: Paper Toys You Can Make Yourself (Sterling), and The Toymaker’s Workshop: Paper Toys You Can Make Yourself (Sterling). She is also the co-creator with J. H. Everett of the middle grade nonfiction series, Haunted Histories, (Christy Ottaviano Books / Henry Holt Books for Young Readers). Ms. Scott-Waters illustrated The Search For Vile Things (Scholastic), and created paper engineering for Pop & Sniff Fruit (Piggy Toes Press).

Website | Facebook | Google+

 

* $100 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $100 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest ends: December 31, 11:59 pm, 2014 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the authors Valarie Budayr and Marilyn Scott-Waters and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway