Tag Archives: feelings

December 11, 2023 · 7:00 am

The Unique Little Bear by Debi K Fraser (Book Review)

Seeing the joy in being completely unique.

“Why is their growl so loud, and scary and strong?

But mine is so quiet – is my growl wrong?”

 

Little Bear is beginning to notice that he is different from the other bears, and he has decided to ask mummy bear why.

Using engaging rhyme and endearing illustrations, The Unique Little Bear takes the reader on a gentle discovery and celebration of the uniqueness of every individual, and encourages us all to do the same.

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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.

 

According to the Oxford Dictionary, the meaning of unique is “being the only one of its kind; very special or unusual.” Merriam-Webster lists unique as “being without a like or equal.” Whether it’s your fashion choices, personality, hairstyle, special skill, body shape, birthmark, or so on, we all possess something that makes us stand out from everyone else. Makes us … unique.

Little bear noticed he didn’t look exactly like the other bears. His fur was golden-red instead of brown. His growl didn’t reach the same depths and volume as other bears. Even his paws weren’t as mighty as theirs. Being “different” bothered the small animal, much like it does for many of us. We want to fit in, sometimes meaning we try to act or look like others. 

Every day, humans are mocked, teased, shunned, or made feel less than because of something deemed strange. That causes negative feelings about ourselves, squashes our self-esteem, and can cause people to isolate themselves from gatherings or friendships. This adorable children’s book helps children understand that we all have characteristics or skills that set us apart from one another. We should never be embarrassed, sad, or ashamed about what’s different about ourselves but, instead, love and embrace what makes us special. 

Mummy bear said it best when she tried to comfort her son with the fact we are all different from our eyes to our ears, from our fur to our feet. Substitute hair for feet, and that applies to humans. 

I loved everything about this book. The illustrations were spectacular. I was thrilled to see the animals were shaded in unorthodox colors, making each one unique and staying on target with the general theme of the story. And promoting positive body image and self-love is always a plus in my book! 

Share The Unique Little Bear with your children and teach them to love themselves from head to toe, inside and out. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

My love of stories and the characters that inhabit them has been with me forever. As a child I could often be found with a plate of cucumber sandwiches and a pile of books about dragons, witches and magical adventures. Stories are brewing in my head constantly. 

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

Happy Holidays

 

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December 7, 2023 · 7:00 am

A Wallop of Worries by Alyssa Hurley (Book Review)

Take a deep breath

and remember to say:

“All will be well,

and I am okay.”

It’s no secret that children experience anxiety and stress, just like grown-ups do. The only difference is that adults know what they’re feeling, and they often have the self-care techniques to cope. It’s time to give kids the same tools – and that’s precisely what Alyssa Caparaso Hurley provides in A Wallop of Worries.

This book teaches children a slew of techniques, from sensory mindfulness to positive thinking to words of affirmation, to help them through tough times. All the self-care tips and uplifting mantras come in easy-to-remember rhymes, so kids will have no trouble repeating them when they feel overwhelmed. In the end, young readers will realize they can work with their minds to let go of the wallop of worries they feel – and get back to being their happy, de-stressed selves once 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.

 

Fear. Anxiety. Worry. Stress. Sadness. These emotions are not limited to adults; children face them as well, and they, like grown-ups, might have difficulty coping with them. 

Alyssa Hurley has created a magnificent story that offers children helpful phrases and tips that can turn negative feelings into positive ones. When a kid is consumed with worry over everything that needs to be done, the writer encourages them to say, “It will get better, do one thing at a time. I can’t get to the top, without having to climb.” 

Meeting new people and going to new places can also be overwhelming to some people. Again, the author advises on what can get you through this nerve-racking time. Whether you need a mental pep talk or an activity suggestion to redirect your thoughts, you’ll find it here in this beautifully illustrated and written storybook. Even though A Wallop of Worries’ target audience is young kids, I foresee many adults benefiting from its contents. The mental pick-me-ups and the reminders to enjoy the little things in life can pertain to readers of all ages. 

Life can be hectic and can affect us mentally. We are all bogged down with work: day job, school, or both. Then, we all experience positive and negative feelings surrounding the day’s events. If you need help dealing with your feelings, this book is for you! If you notice your child is overwhelmed but has trouble expressing their emotions, share this book with them. This calming, reassuring, resourceful children’s book would be perfect for any home, school, or therapist’s office. 

Self-care is important. I recommend sharing A Wallop of Worries with your child(ren). Practice the uplighting rhymes. Focus on your positive attributes. What makes you proud! Do something fun, like enjoying a cup of hot cocoa and a good book. This good book! 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Alyssa Caparaso Hurley has been walloped by worries for as long as she can remember. Apprehensions aside, she’s intrepidly travelled the world. She happily lives with her family in Connecticut and is always looking forward to the next adventure.

Reedsy Link

 

 

 

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November 13, 2023 · 7:00 am

90 Days of Gratitude: For a Healthier and Happier Mind by Jessica Lunn (Book Review)

A quick and easy tool to transform your life— stress less, feel healthier, and most importantly, be happier!

-We all fall prey at some point to the negative aspects of life, affecting our mood, sleep, self-esteem, and relationships, without even realizing it. You have the power to step outside a cycle of negativity and into a world of mental peace and freedom.

-From the “big things” to the “little things,” practicing gratitude on a daily basis is linked to less stress, anxiety, depression, and even helps with recovery from addiction and other mental illnesses!

Improve your overall happiness and mental well-being in just 5-10 minutes a day with this simple yet effective journal. You do not have to spend a lot of time writing or keeping an in-depth diary to reap the benefits!

You’ll be grateful you did it!

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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.

 

We live in a world where it’s easy to let the troubles, the conflicts, and the negativity weigh us down. Negativity can affect our health mentally, physically, emotionally, socially, and psychologically. Just as a negative environment impacts our lives, so does a positive one. Positive affirmations help motivate people, encourage positive life changes, and boost self-esteem. Those who practice positive affirmation may experience fewer negative thoughts and a better response to stress, leading to a happier and healthier life.

We are asked to reflect on the day in 90 Days of Gratitude for a Healthier and Happier Life. Name “5 Things I am Grateful for Today,” give “3 Positive Affirmations,” and rate “How I am Feeling Today” on a scale from 1 star up to five. Besides those three staple questions, each day includes one bonus question, such as writing down something unique about myself or something I am excited about. There are seven bonus questions in total, which are repeated in every weekly cycle. 

After the seven days, it’s time for the weekly check-in, where participants list the highlights, challenges, accomplishments, and goals/what they’re looking forward to in the next week. The writer encourages you to take 5-10 minutes out of your day, jot down what parts of the day you are grateful for, and keep the positive thoughts flowing, as this will improve your mental health and, I bet, your overall health as well! 

According to Take2Minutes, “Journaling helps you process your emotions and learn more about yourself.” They also state, “Studies have shown that a journaling practice can significantly lower symptoms of depression and anxiety.” This journal is a valuable resource for those dealing with internal struggles, whether its addiction, mental health issues, or everyday stresses of life. I encourage you to take five minutes out of your day and write down positive aspects. As the author states, it can be something small. Just focus on what made your day a little brighter. 

Read the weekly inspirational quotes because they may give you the courage to face the day with a smile. I’ll leave you with the wise words of Winston Churchill, “The pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty.”

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Jessica bachelor’s degree in nursing and has worked most of her career in the emergency department. During her time as a nurse, she has noticed a lack of education on mental illness and eating disorders and uses this as a catalyst to reduce the mental health stigma through education and awareness.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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August 4, 2023 · 7:00 am

Monsters Need Breaks Too! by Stacie Green (Book Review)

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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.

 

Children will always be afraid of monsters, whether they lurk in the shadows, the wilderness, or in the waters. Stacie Green (author and illustrator) presents a different side to “monsters.” She shows kids they have nothing to fear with the mythical, fictional, or supernatural beings in the storybook. Well, except for the Kraken, it seemed to sink ships for no reason at all. 

The “monsters” in the whimsical tale had feelings, just like you and me. For instance, the ghost worked hard to make their house the creepiest on the block, and they get upset when children trespass on it. It only scared away the neighboring children because they thought it was rude the children were coming onto their property uninvited. Little do the kids know, the ghost would rather listen to music than spend the night saying, “Boo.” Oh, and Poor Lock Ness Monster; it doesn’t want to dive deep into the water’s muddy floor. It has to, though, because they fear being discovered by humans. At least Nessie can wash the harrowing day away with a warm bath filled with bubbles and rubber duckies. 

Monsters Need Breaks Too! features seven “monsters” children won’t be so scared of once they read the book. They’ll realize that these “monsters” have feelings and struggle to deal with them. They also come to understand the importance of taking time for themselves and doing something that makes them happy. Children will laugh when the swamp monsters take a dance break or when Bigfoot stops for tea. Even the illustration of the Kraken will make kids smile! 

Monsters Need Breaks Too! is a fun, inventive story with humorous illustrations. I must acknowledge some editing mistakes, but they didn’t dampen the flow of the story. Amazon’s recommended age is four and older. That is the ideal age for children to embrace, and not fear, the monsters in the book. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Stacie Green, an illustrator living in Durham, North Carolina, is known for her whimsical and playful designs. Combining fabric patterns she designed with mediums like watercolor, colored pencil, oil pastel, and digital art, she creates colorful and fun illustrations that bring joy and laughter.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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January 3, 2023 · 7:00 am

Blank Canvas by J.M. Jackson (Book Review)

Keagan paints his canvas daily by being thoughtful, loving and kindhearted. Every day is new with challenges and adventures, clouds and sunshine. No matter what the day brings, Keagan paints his strokes on his blank canvas. Whether it’s a good or bad day, Keagan remembers that every action he takes must still reflect the little boy from inside. When his day is over, and he looks at the paint strokes on his blank canvas, Keagan is proud no matter what his mood is that day. He knows that today will become yesterday in hopes of tomorrow… and that there are no redoes for today so each action and paint stroke must count. Hopeful and vibrant, come join Keagan as he paints his blank canvas!

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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.

 

Each day begins with a blank canvas. Our actions, words, and attitudes affect the final day’s image. Was it a joyous day? Was it terrible? Did you do something nice for others? Did you wake up in an excellent or sour mood? How you wake up can set the tone for the day, so try to be like Keagan and start the day with a positive outlook, ready for whatever adventure awaits you. 

As I was reading Blank Canvas, I was in awe of the beautiful illustrations by Marina Saumell. Each image resembled a painting and tied in perfectly with the book’s theme. I loved that when a color name was mentioned through text, it was written in its shade. Another good design choice! 

Blank Canvas shows it’s not always easy to keep your chin and stay positive. Yes, some moments are filled with rainbows, but others are filled with dark clouds. I was impressed by how Keagan kept his smile while handling the bullies. We didn’t see the result of that conversation, so I would discuss with your child or class what you think happened next. You can also discuss what to do when talking nicely doesn’t calm a situation. 

Keagan is a good role model for children. He helps others in need. He picks up trash. He shares his food with friends. (If your child’s school is like mine, there is no food sharing due to potential allergies. However, it was a nice gesture.)

Keagan also shows young children that not every will be sunshine and smiles, and that’s okay. In these dark times, it’s still important to be friendly and helpful and realize that tomorrow is a new day and the start of a new canvas. 

I recommend child therapists share Blank Canvas with their young clients. I think it can help them open up about their feelings. Parents, I encourage you to share this story with your child. Everyone has sad days, and this book shows readers that even though today wasn’t the best, a new day is just around the corner. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

J.M. Jackson inspired by three beautiful grandchildren each with such different personalities. Being able to see the world through their eyes convinced me to start writing about their adventures. At 58 years old this new adventure is filled with excitement and tons of fun.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

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