Tag Archives: elementary

August 16, 2024 · 7:00 am

Children’s Book Author Showcase – Milt Lowe (Spotlighting 4 books!)

Hippos are famous for fighting and biting. But Kuno the hippo is unique. He refuses to fight even though he always gets teased.

“The Hippo Who Hated To Fight” is the sweet, fun, inspiring story of a hippo brave enough to be himself. Kuno leaves his family and friends to search for the love, kindness, and acceptance he is missing.

Colorful and creatively illustrated and written for kids ages 4-9, it teaches them fun facts about hippos and elephants and that it’s cool to be different-you just need to find your herd.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

Click HERE to read my review on Amazon!

Click HERE to read my review on Reedsy!

Buy now at Amazon.com!

 

 

Fartasaurus is a young T-Rex dinosaur who has to leave his loving family for one year— according to dinosaur tribal law—because of his constant, embarrassing farting. (He even farted out the candles on his birthday cake!) 

Sent to live in a deep, dark forest,  the fun-loving farting dinosaur meets a wild and wacky group of other dinosaur misfits that bond over their uniqueness and discovers the value of friendship.

Amazon Purchase Link

Click HERE to read my review on Amazon!

Click HERE to read my review on this site (8/9/24)!

 

 

 

Ants are usually a little boring. They’re hard workers but do the same thing all the time and follow the Queen’s rules. But not My ANT MARY.

My ANT Mary is the story of a fiercely independent ant who marches to her own drummer. When the Queen Ant demands that Mary conform and act like every other ant, Mary realizes she needs to leave to find where she truly belongs. She sets out on an amazing world adventure and discovers she’s happiest in a surprising place.

Colorful and creatively illustrated and written for kids ages 4-9, it teaches the value of independence and finding your own path to happiness.

Ingramspark.com

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

In Milo and the Big Yawn, Milo Crenshaw is a mischievous boy with the annoying ability to make everyone yawn.

In other words, Milo is a bit of a brat.

He loves tormenting his sisters, teachers, classmates, police officers, and everyone else he sees. That is, until one day when Milo discovers the joy of being a hero instead. He learns that using his talent to deal with bullies and scary lions and helping kids and parents is a lot more fun and rewarding. Impossible to read without yawning in appreciation of the story, this humorous book makes the perfect bedtime reading.

Ingramspark.com

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

A former copywriter at top New York City advertising agencies, Milt Lowe has won over 60 major awards -including Gold and Silver Lions at the TV Cannes Film Festival – and has written humor pieces for The New York Daily News and Advertising Age. Milt has written four children’s books so far.

Website Link

Amazon Author Page Link

 

 

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August 9, 2024 · 7:00 am

Fartasaurus by Milt Lowe (Book Review)

Fartasaurus is a young T-Rex dinosaur who has to leave his loving family for one year— according to dinosaur tribal law—because of his constant, embarrassing farting. (He even farted out the candles on his birthday cake!) 

Sent to live in a deep, dark forest,  the fun-loving farting dinosaur meets a wild and wacky group of other dinosaur misfits that bond over their uniqueness and discovers the value of friendship.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Farting is a normal part of our digestion system. It reduces belly pain from bloating. It can help alert patients and doctors of possible underlying health conditions. Whether you toot soft or loud or squeak out a silent but deadly fat, most of us agree that letting one rip usually leads to laughter. Well, unless you are a dinosaur that lived 200 million years ago. Dinos back then had a strong reaction to Fartasaurus breaking wind all the time, and it was not laughing out loud.

When you have a birthday cake, you normally blow out the candles with air coming from your mouth. Fartasaurus chose to blow them out with his rear end. Yes, readers, he broke wind and the gust of air extinguished his two birthday candles. I found this disgustingly funny! Kids will too! Unfortunately, the tribal leaders didn’t find Fartasaurus’s gassy booty funny in the slightest bit. As punishment for being an “embarrassment,” he was banished to the Forest of the Unwanted for one year. Poor T-Rex! Poor parents! All smiles will vanish when you see the three T-Rex faces’ sad looks. Heartbreaking!

As Fartasuiarus enters the Forest of the Unwanted, he’s met by other “misfits.” Their names coincide with their embarrassing acts. Without spilling the beans about every uniquely named prehistoric animal, I will disclose ONE—a small taste of the hilarity that awaits you.


“And once a day, Roarasaurus let out a roar that caused giant rocks to fall down a huge mountain and frighten all the dinosaurs, many of them running into one another and looking even sillier.”


As you read the above passage, I hope you envisioned two dinosaurs colliding as a triceratops roars close by, as that is the illustration that accompanies it.

They say that time flies when you are having fun. I think Fartarsaurus would agree. Once he befriended another dino in the forest, time zoomed by, and before he knew it, he was walking out of the Forest of the Unwanted. (Name withheld to avoid spoilers.)

 

Do you think farts are funny?

Do you like dinosaurs?

If you answered yes, then you’ll love Fartasaurus. I sure did!

The story idea was different and very funny. I enjoyed most of the illustrations, but I noticed some images looked off. For example, the brown dinosaur on the “best friends forever” page looked strange. The eyes seemed off. Also, the triceratops drawings needed to be more consistent. On the roaring panel, he had points on the edges of their frill, but they wre absent on the exit the forest page.

All in all, this was a very nice, short read. Perfect for dino fans and, of course, those who think farts are hilarious.

Amazon’s recommended age is 4-9 hours.

 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

A former copywriter at top New York City advertising agencies, Milt Lowe has won over 60 major awards -including Gold and Silver Lions at the TV Cannes Film Festival – and has written humor pieces for The New York Daily News and Advertising Age. Milt has written four children’s books so far.

Website Link

Amazon Author Page Link

 

 

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August 2, 2024 · 7:00 am

The Hippo Who Hated To Fight by Milt Lowe (Book Review)

Hippos are famous for fighting and biting. But Kuno the hippo is unique. He refuses to fight even though he always gets teased.

“The Hippo Who Hated To Fight” is the sweet, fun, inspiring story of a hippo brave enough to be himself. Kuno leaves his family and friends to search for the love, kindness, and acceptance he is missing.

Colorful and creatively illustrated and written for kids ages 4-9, it teaches them fun facts about hippos and elephants and that it’s cool to be different-you just need to find your herd.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

An old saying states, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” One glimpse at the cover, mainly the hippo’s expressive eyes, and you know he is a troubled soul.

The author hit the nail on the head when they chose the title, The Hippo Who Hated To Fight. From day one, Kuno had no desire to bite and fight, which was very common hippo behavior. Since he didn’t participate in “normal” animal behavior, Kuno was teased mercilessly by his four older brothers. Kuno reacted to his siblings’ continuous mocking in the same manner a human would: they felt like they didn’t fit in, that no one loved or even liked them. 

Kuno left the toxic atmosphere, needing time to “figure things out.” It’s during this time of self-reflection that readers learn fascinating information about hippopotamuses. Where do most hippos live? How long can they hold their breath? Can they swim? Are they slow or fast walkers? How much do they typically weigh? As Kuno contemplates what he wants to do with his life, he almost runs into Zema, a 12,000-pound elephant. As the duo chat, readers discover how hearty an elephant’s appetite is, what they munch on, and who’s faster: an elephant or a hippopotamus. We also learn how elephants cool off, which is an illustration children will find funny. 

Readers of all ages will be touched by the heartwarming story of Kuno and Zema. It’s a tale that beautifully illustrates the importance of kindness, respect, and acceptance, regardless of our differences. 

If we want our children to grow up as kind individuals who lift others up instead of tearing them down, we must model these acts when they are young. I recommend sharing this lovely, heartfelt story with your family. 

I agree with Amazon’s recommended reading age of 4-9 years. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

A former copywriter at top New York City advertising agencies, Milt Lowe has won over 60 major awards -including Gold and Silver Lions at the TV Cannes Film Festival – and has written humor pieces for The New York Daily News and Advertising Age. Milt has written four children’s books so far.

Website Link

Reedsy Author Link

Amazon Author Page Link

 

 

 

 

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February 1, 2024 · 7:00 am

The Sunny Day Squad: The Quest for the Caringstone by Michael Panzner (Book Review)

Making the world a brighter place
 
Join The Sunny Day Squad – Ollie the monkey, Poppy the puppy, Daisy the rabbit, and Ted the horse – on a heroic journey from Gaggle Grove to find the fabled Caringstone, a magical gem that can make the saddest child smile. Using their unique talents, the four friends work together to overcome obstacles, solve problems, and spread joy. This heartwarming tale celebrates the power of friendship, bravery, and perseverance – a perfect story for bedtime…or anytime!
 

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Under the sun of Gaggle Grove lives four close friends known as The Sunny Day Squad. Ollie the monkey, Poppy the puppy, Daisy the rabbit, and Ted the horse each possess a trait that will aid them in their adventure: assisting Captain Bravebutter in locating a remarkable gem that can make even the saddest child smile. The gem is better known as the Caringstone. 

During their important mission, Ollie the monkey swings branch to branch, leading the group through the forest. Music got a llama up and moving thanks to Daisy the rabbit’s musical talents. Poppy the puppy’s sweet disposition and Ollie’s monkeying around charmed three beavers into helping them cross a stream. 

Ted the horse’s ingenuity made climbing a cliff a breeze. 

Ted’s words rang true that day: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” Captain Bravebutter also spoke the truth when he said they found the Caringstone because they showed bravery, clearness, teamwork, and determination. 

As the four friends reflected on the day, they acknowledged they only succeeded because they were there for each other. Plus, they made the most of their talents. I agree. When people cooperate, listen to one another, and work as a team, they’ll be stronger for it. These are great lessons to teach young children. 

I recommend sharing The Sunny Day Squad: The Quest for the Caringstone with children 3-8 years. The story teaches valuable lessons, and the illustrations are adorable as well. While every image had its charm, I particularly loved the smiling flowers and Ted, the glasses-wearing horse. So, very, very cute!

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Michael Panzner is a long-time freelance writer who’s always been a child at heart. Inspired by the countless stories he’s shared with his children and grandchildren, Michael crafts tales designed to entertain, spark the imagination, and instill values like kindness, courage, empathy and perseverance. Having lived and worked in various locales, including the U.S. Northeast, North Carolina, and London, England, Michael now resides in Tampa, Florida, with his wife, Catherine, and their loyal dog, Geoffrey.

For more about me, please visit michaelpanzner.com.

Amazon Author Page Link
Instagram Link
Facebook Link
X Link

 

 

Polly Mooney is a freelance illustrator based in the UK, with a BA (Hons) and MA in Illustration and Animation. Creating mostly digital art on her iPad, she enjoys bringing adorable characters, especially cute animals, to life.
 
Online, she shares her artistic journey through her YouTube channel, “Pollygone Illustration,” and extends her creativity to real-world products she designs, illustrates, and sells on her website.
 
 

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January 8, 2024 · 7:00 am

The Taekwonderoos: Rescue at Rattling Ridge by Michael Panzner (Book Review)

Come Join the Adventure!

Hop into an action-packed adventure with George, Brianna and Jackson, kangaroo friends who are masters of taekwondo. When they spot a frightened joey trapped at the top of treacherous Rattling Ridge, the three Taekwonderoos spring into action, using their kicking, jumping and spinning skills to navigate cliffs, boulders and ravines on a daring rescue mission. This thrilling tale of bravery celebrates how courage, quick-thinking, and teamwork can overcome any challenge.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art whose practice is well-known to improve a student’s posture, flexibility, balance, and stamina. Besides the physical benefits, it also improves mental health by increasing self-esteem, confidence, and self-discipline. It also enhances a person’s focus, which is important when delivering strikes and kicks. Taekwondo also teaches compassion, courage, and kindness, qualities that George, Brianna, and Jackson needed when they raced off to help a kangaroo in distress.

When the trio discovered the joey (young kangaroo) afraid, alone, and helpless on the cliff, the friends banded together to save the youngster from danger. They relied on their individual strengths and assisted each other to complete a job. George’s sharp mind enabled him to plan out their mission. Jackson’s fast-moving paws and precision kicks made constructing a ladder out of vines and branches look easy-peasy. The rocks were no match for Brianna’s impeccable reflexes. All three of them worked as a team, kicking, spinning, and chopping their way into a beautiful, sturdy bridge that could transport them safely over the ravine.

The death-defying rescue mission at Rattling Ridge in Australia reminded the trio that they could overcome challenges by working together. They stressed that bravery and quick thinking are crucial when facing danger. They also mentioned how discipline, focus, and determination are powerful allies. More importantly, the three kangaroos gained a new respect for one another.

The Taekwonderoos: Rescue at Rattling Ridge is an action-packed children’s book that teaches readers the importance of teamwork, helping others, utilizing your strengths, and summoning courage when tackling any challenge. In addition to that, it also has phenomenal illustrations that will impress and delight readers, young and old.

I recommend the story for preschoolers and up. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Michael Panzner is a long-time freelance writer who’s always been a child at heart. Inspired by the countless stories he’s shared with his children and grandchildren, Michael crafts tales designed to entertain, spark the imagination, and instill values like kindness, courage, empathy and perseverance. Having lived and worked in various locales, including the U.S. Northeast, North Carolina, and London, England, Michael now resides in Tampa, Florida, with his wife, Catherine, and their loyal dog, Geoffrey.

For more about me, please visit michaelpanzner.com.

Amazon Author Page Link
Instagram Link
Facebook Link
X Link

 

Illustrator
 
Lora Look is an illustrator with a master’s degree in fine art. She has dedicated 12 years of training (art school, college, university) to having the skills necessary to create beautiful illustrations and achieve the best results for her authors. When she draws, she imagines children with family or friends flipping through the pages of a book, looking at the pictures, and immersing themselves in the magical world of colors and words. She hopes she makes the world a better place.

 

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