Tag Archives: dreams

December 16, 2024 · 7:00 am

The Adventures of Bronx by Heidi Brooks (Book Review)

Welcome to The Adventures of Bronx,
a wonderful little boy with Down Syndrome…

Through his story, you’ll see that children like Bronx are just like everyone else—full of love, laughter, and dreams. This book celebrates the power of inclusion and reminds us that our differences are what make us unique.

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(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

Bronx is a happy, energetic little boy who enjoys playing dress-up, having fun outside, watching movies, dancing to his favorite tunes, and spending time with his family. Bronx loves bringing smiles to others and offering one back. The pictures of Bronx smiling without his front teeth were cute!

Bronx has one thing that makes him unique: he has Down Syndrome. Kids might wonder what Down Syndrome is. The author (Heidi Brooks) gives an overview of the genetic condition, stating most babies have 46 chromosomes, but children born with Down Syndrome have an extra one. The writer notifies young readers that chromosomes are “one of the things that makes us who we are.” The informative page also shares a strain of DNA and a developing baby.

Bronx has short, chubby fingers and extra wide feet, but that’s just part of his outer shell charm. It might take him a bit longer to learn new things, but we all struggle now and then. Deep down, he is like any other person. When he’s sad, he needs hugs. When he’s happy, he dazzles the world with his beautiful, infectious smile. 

I encourage you to share The Adventure of Bronx with your family or classroom. Teach children to be kind to others and include everyone in  game time. When you see someone with Down Syndrome, take Heidi’s advice and say “hi” to them. If you’re at the park or recess, invite them to play with you. Remember, people with Down Syndrome have feelings just like you, so treat them how you want people to treat you: with kindness and respect.

I loved getting to know Bronx. He was an adorable child who made me want to smile. Well, every photo except for his “I’m sorry,” portrait. That one made me want to hug the darling boy. I liked the inclusion of the real-life snap sort of Gammy and Bronx hugging. (That’s Bronxy to her.) You can tell there is a lot of love in his family! 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score:  ❤❤❤❤❤

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Meet the Author

Heidi Brooks is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose delightful experiences with her grandchildren fuel her passion for writing. With a lifelong love for children’s literature, Heidi is particularly inspired by the whimsical worlds of Shel Silverstein, Dr. Seuss, and Roald Dahl.

Her keen sense of humor allows her to find joy in the everyday antics of her grandchildren, often turning their adventures into tales featuring brave heroes and heroines.

When she’s not writing, Heidi cherishes spending quality time with her family, embarking on countless adventures that spark laughter and inspire her next story. Through her writing, she hopes to capture the magic of childhood and share it with young readers everywhere.

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August 30, 2024 · 7:00 am

Gilly the Golf Ball: Gilly’s Big Dream by JiB Bruebaker (Book Review)

 

Delightful and wholesome, these short stories are infused with playfulness that will brighten the day of any reader.

Gilly’s tales offer a charming introduction to golf for children, providing valuable life lessons both on the golf course and beyond.

In Gilly’s Big Dream, Sam helps Gilly overcome his fear of the hole. Then, Gilly prepares for a tournament.

When you say “Gilly,” remember this trick, It’s the “G” in “Golf,” strong and quick. Every time you play or cheer, You’ll say “Gilly” loud and clear!

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

A tiny Golf Ball named Gilly lived in the sunny town of Fairway Fields. Gilly differed from the average ball used on a course. This Golf Ball had bright blue eyes, gloves on its hands, shoes on its feet, a cute hat bearing its name, and a big smile. Gilly wasn’t the only uniquely designed character. Sam, Gilly’s canine companion, was super adorable! I tip my golf hat to the artist who did a stellar job creating golf puppy. I adored his big, beautiful brown eyes. 

When Sam slept beside his best friend’s bed, he dreamed about chasing golf carts and digging holes in the fairway. (Funny and sweet image!) Meanwhile, Gilly dreamt about becoming “The Best Golf Ball in the World!” All readers will be pulling for the cute Golf Ball, but golfing fans might be envious of Gilly and Sam’s room. It was a golfer’s paradise: golf balls on the bedspread, pictures of lush green courses hung on the wall, green painted walls, green rug, green desk, green curtains, and (of course) personalized golf bag with clubs. I loved Sam’s doggie bed! 

Gilly and Sam had golf on the brain 24-7. When one has a dream, one must follow in the footsteps of Gilly and practice, practice, and practice some more. Like in this story, you might fail many times before succeeding. There’s no better feeling when you do accomplish your goal! Gilly faced his fears and, in time, overcame them. He deserved the cheers from his friends and fellow competitors! While Gilly’s success was inspiring, I was glad the writer mentioned him cheering his competitors’ good shots and learning from their techniques. Good sportsmanship never goes out of style!

Gilly the Golf Ball; Gilly’s Big Dream had outstanding illustrations. I liked the attention to detail in every Golf Ball. Not a single dimple was left out! Nice touch adding the golfer’s name to each of their hats! There was one major factor of this adorable story I didn’t quite grasp: Gilly was hitting a ball, but the images show him going into the holes and climbing out of them. The line: “Gilly soared through the air, landed on the green, and rolled… rolled… rolled… right into the hole!” also supported this claim and added to my confusion. Even though that puzzled me, I did enjoy the story and positive message behind Gilly’s journey: with courage, friendship, and a dream, anything is possible. Oh, and don’t forget it’s not whether you win or lose but how you play the game, so remember to be a good sportsman. 

Gilly’s actions and journey will inspire young readers to be brave, be nice, and always follow their dreams.

(The story capitalized Golf Ball, so I followed the writer’s example.)

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

As an avid golf enthusiast, I immerse myself in the artistry of the game, from mastering techniques to unraveling it’s mysteries with data. My passion for golf is not just about playing; it’s a canvas for creativity. I revel in composing whimsical golf parody songs. Golf has become my schtick.

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July 29, 2024 · 7:00 am

The Golden One: A Comedy by W.T. Kosmos (Play Review)

WANTED: A GOLDEN LEADER TO RESTORE THE MONARCHY

 

The Golden One is a one-act satirical comedy that lampoons loyalty to authoritarian figures, intolerance, and environmental mayhem. After the monarchy falls, the Lumberjack Leprechauns hold a costume contest to find their next golden leader.

For generations, the loyal Lumberjack Leprechauns have followed their king’s orders to find the great pot o’ gold buried underneath trees. But when President Leafhopper, an ally of the dreaded Tree Huggers, wins the first democratic election and enforces deforestation regulations, their world is turned upside down. With their leader Stumpsharp captured after a disastrous attempt to storm the castle, Axestorm, Chopwit, and Sawdunce devise an ingenious method for finding their next golden leader: a costume contest in the North Woods. Ingenious, that is, until eccentric contestants and a lively audience challenge their quest to restore the monarchy.

 

W.T. Kosmos, humorist author of the award-winning Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools, presents his debut play for teens and adults, designed for 6 to 15 actors and minimal props.


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(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

The Golden One is a one-act satirical comedy whose roles are not gender-specific, as the author states in the “Directing Notes.” The writer also states that this play is designed for six or more actors with minimal props needed.

Tis true, there are some props that many theater groups will have no trouble acquiring, such as the spoons and pan hat for Thumper or a robe for the Guide. I also suspect finding or making green goggles wouldn’t be hard. But the uniquely designed catapult? The writer does provide “notes” on it. I suspect many production companies would not want to rely on puppets or shadow play. They might want to tackle something more dynamic. I’m not sure how they’d bring the leprechaun catapult scene to life, but I’m sure any end product will amaze the audience. (Read the play to find out more about it.) Oh, and depending on the actors’ closets, they might have on-hand costumes the contestants wore in front of the judges: the Lumberjack Leprechauns.

Speaking of the leprechauns, they are holding a costume contest to find “The Golden One.” This chosen person will help them storm the castle, oust the prez, release their leader Stumpsharp, and restore the monarchy. Why? The lumberjacks want to chop down as many trees as much as they like, find the pot o’ gold, and end democracy. Hefty goals! Do they achieve their goals? You’ll find that out once you read the play!

Actors will undoubtedly have a blast playing any role in this comedic masterpiece. The audience will laugh as they listen to the judge’s bickering and watch as Pig and Sheep approach the judge’s table or listen to the Nurse whine about her thirst. They’ll especially get a kick out of Thumper’s battle gear. And Willow’s interaction with the judges will have viewers on the edge of their seats!

There is a lot of comedy in the one-act play. There is also political undertones. Mainly, what’s the point of democracy? Adults know the answer to that, but kids might not. President Leafhopper breaks it down as he attempts to prove why the judges should select him as the winner! Does he win the coveted prize? Read the play and find out!

While I enjoyed reading the play, certain scenes would only be fully appreciated if acted out on stage or screen. I’m not sure how the two versions of the storming of the castle would play out on a stage, but I would love a theatre company to give it a go. I would even watch a cartoon, live-action TV show, or cinema version. I’m not picky; someone, please make this happen!

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤
 
 
 
 
 

Meet the Author

W.T. Kosmos is a humorist author and playwright whose works include the award-winning Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools, the Maya and Waggers series, and The Golden One. W.T. Kosmos is the wry alter ego (pen name) of a life-long educator.

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Amazon Author Page Link

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

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March 22, 2024 · 7:00 am

Silhouette of the Sun by Avery Davis (Book Spotlight)

Honorable Mention-The New York Book Festival

This is the story of three strong and determined women, weathering love and loss in the pursuit of independence. Constance is an entomologist and single mother providing for her Anna at a time when providing was prominently done by men. Anna is an artist who must choose between cancer treatment or completing her pregnancy. Paige is Anna’s daughter who is guided in her dreams to fulfill her potential of curing cancer by listening to the whisperings of her mother and grandmother. Drew is the man who ties them all together.

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D (Amazon) 5 stars: “This is an excellent first novel that tackles deeply complex themes. Well placed twists and turns reveal character growth and triumph that will stay with me for some time.”

Megan (Amazon) 5 stars: “This book was beautifully written. The author’s attention for detail is phenomenal. The rich descriptions of her scenes transports the reader. The characters in the book are splendidly developed and your attachment to them will keep you entranced in the book until the end. A great read from start to finish!”

Kindle Customer (Amazon) 4 stars: “This complex story of three women’s lives, told through their eyes, kept me wondering how their lives would relate. Initially, I felt frustrated that more wasn’t revealed about the first character. As the book progressed, however, the author reveals the three characters’ relationships in a very interesting way. The important influences each one had on their daughter’s, granddaughter’s and great-granddaughter’s life was intricately woven throughout the story. At times heartbreaking, this book explores many past and present women’s challenges and delves into a future where important ethical decisions need to be made. It’s ending is inspiring and gratifying.”

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Meet the Author

 

Avery Davis graduated in Environmental Law. She lives half of the year in Cordova, Alaska as a fisherman’s wife and the other half drying off in the deserts of Utah. She is the mother of three, who love a good bedtime story.

Reedsy Author Link
Amazon Author Page Link

 

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March 20, 2024 · 7:00 am

Sunflowers Rise in a Midnight Sky by Avery Davis (Book Review)

Sunflower Rise in a Midnight Sky is a whimsical picture book which explores a fantastical world where the stuff of dreams becomes reality. Visit a place where purple cows graze beneath marshmallow clouds, where moon-tulips glisten beneath copper-penny stars, and diamond spiders spin snowflakes amid polka-dot roses. Sweet, lyrical verse and dreamy, full-color illustrations will entrance even the busiest of minds, making Sun Flowers Rise in a Midnight Sky a storytime favorite kids will ask for again and again.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.  I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

What if what you dreamt at night could come true? That’s the premise behind this lovely, whimsical children’s book. Page after page, we witness a dreamer’s imagination coming alive in vivid detail thanks to the brilliant illustrations by Tang Wei. There’s purple grass turning a cow purple as they grazed. An airplane that’s landed on marshmallow clouds. Hyenas being entertained by Comedian Cool Cat as the feline maintains extraordinary balance while standing on one foot as it plays the violin. Then there’s the world’s largest lollipop that vanishes after a billion licks. Readers will also see fireflies glowing brightly in the belly of an animal and seahorses riding in the boat. 

There were many wonderful and colorful pages, but my favorite dream moment featured straws perched inside strawberries, waiting for slippers to stop by and quench their thirst. Even though I am deathly afraid of spiders, I spent several minutes admiring the diamond spider that spun shimmery snowflakes. It was gorgeous! 

These images and more were not conventional, nor were the text placements. I loved how the words went uphill, downhill, and arched across the page. This feature will delight readers. They’ll enjoy following the text. 

Sunflowers Rise in a Midnight is an explosion of color that will dazzle readers old and young. There is so much to see; you’ll discover something new every time you open the book. I would advise including it in your bedroom routine! 

Amazon’s recommended reading age is 3-18, but the artistry will mesmerize birth through two. Older children will also love the drawings and be open to extension activities surrounding the book’s theme: make your bedtime dreams come true. 

Share Avery Davis’s story with your child or class. Ask if anyone has a dream to share. Please encourage them to bring their dream alive using any art medium. 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score:  ❤❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Avery Davis graduated in Environmental Law. She lives half of the year in Cordova, Alaska as a fisherman’s wife and the other half drying off in the deserts of Utah. She is the mother of three, who love a good bedtime story.

Reedsy Author Link

Amazon Author Page Link

 

 

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