Tag Archives: flowers

Where is Love? by Annie Caboose (Book Review)

While walking in the garden one day, Annie, a curious little ant from Hillsville, meets a single poppy flower called Love. They become instant friends, sharing stories, laughing and talking for hours on end. Then one autumn day Annie goes to visit Love, but Love is not there. Remembering the rhyme that Love told her, she sets off on an adventure to find Love.

Love is with you every day.
Love is never far away.
Go search, go find and then you’ll see
All the places Love can be.

But don’t forget to look within
For often, that’s where Love begins.

May Annie’s story inspire anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved being, to look and perhaps still find them within their lives and within themselves.

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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 witness death on TV shows and movies, but you’re never really prepared for the emotions accompanying it until you’re in the thick of it. Everyone handles the loss of a friend or loved one differently, kids especially. Where is Love? is a touching book reminding us that the ones we miss are never truly gone; they will always remain in our hearts and memories. A lovely message that can bring a great deal of comfort.

Annie is just one of many ants that call Hillsville, a mound of dirt behind Fanny’s Flower Farm, home. James Dakay, the illustrator, did a lovely job creating the underground world. The ants wore human attire as they engaged in activities we’ve all seen or done, such as groups of ants playing basketball and hopscotch while another hung wet clothes up on a clothesline. The illustrations are vibrant and detailed, with each ant having its own unique features and expressions. Though the Queen ant looks lovely in her royal cape and crown, Annie was quite the fashionista in her bright yellow straw cap and matching shirt.

Annie didn’t spend all her days or nights inside the mound; on weekends, she went aboveground to explore and enjoy the summer breeze. During one excursion, Annie met a poppy named Love. Love was a beautiful orange-petaled flower with soft features nestled in the flower’s seed pod. Love and Annie became quick friends. They laughed together, played games, and told tall tales. Love shared a sweet little rhyme with her new friend:

Love is with you every day.

Love is never far away.

Go search, go find and then you’ll see

All the places Love can be.

 

Each time Annie went to meet up with her fragrant friend, she noticed Poppy was losing her beautiful orange petals. It was heartbreaking to watch her wither away. Sadly, young kids and adults will face a similar situation with a friend, family member, or beloved pet. It’s an emotional time, especially when their physical body is no longer here. Annie realized the significance of Poppy’s rhyme. It’s a comforting reminder that our loved ones will remain in our hearts and live on through our memories, and that love is always present, even when we can’t see it.

I recommend reading Annie Caboose’s moving story with your child, especially if they have lost someone recently or are facing circumstances that mirror Annie’s situation: watching someone slowly fade away. Where is Love? is technically a picture book aimed at young viewers, but Love’s sweet rhyme and the story’s overall theme can also resonate with adults.

 

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

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Meet the Author

Annie, a.k.a. the Caboose, is the youngest of nine children. Her loving mother read her lots of children’s stories, including some she wrote herself. Inspired by her mom, Annie wrote her first book, Where is Love? She resides on a lake in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, fascinated by the many birds that live there too.

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Queen of the Mountain by TAK Erzinger (Book Review)

What if you lost someone very important to you and didn’t have anyone around you who understood your feelings?

One summer, a sad woman arrives in a tiny village. A little girl in the village recognizes her sadness.

In this gentle and loving story, a carefree farm girl strikes up an unusual friendship with an interesting foreigner.

Soon they both realize they have a lot in common, even though they have very different lives.

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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.

 

Grief can impact us emotionally, physically, and mentally. It can put a strain on our bodies as well as relationships. Just as grief affects us differently, how we handle the loss differs as well. Some people might isolate themselves as they work to process their loss, while others seek professional guidance. Some people might seek solace through family and friends. Others might need to get away or visit a place that makes them feel connected to the individual(s) they are missing. Recently, the Countess of Kent’s husband, Prince Albert, passed away, so she traveled to a small village to feel closer to her beloved. The countess spends her days staring at the beautiful and picturesque landscape. Sometimes, a local child (Vicky) would observe the older woman resting on the hillside; other times, Vicky would watch the Countess of Kent paint for hours.

Vicky and the countess shared more than the love of the gorgeous scenery surrounding the village. Like the countess, Vicky lost someone close to her: her mother. One day, Vicky left a bouquet for the sad lady at the inn. The darling girl’s thoughtful gesture will touch readers, especially when we learn the flowers came from her mother’s garden and how they reminded the countess of the roses in her locket, a gift from her late husband.

Grief can tear people apart, but it can also draw people together. Sometimes, a bond can form between the unlikeliest people, as with the farm girl and the older woman. As the story progresses, it takes an unexpected turn; the countess shocks Vicky with a surprise revelation, leading to hurt feelings. However, readers won’t have to wait long for apologies to be accepted and bonds reform. It was a beautiful and touching ending.

If you or someone you know is grieving, I strongly recommend sharing this touching story with them. It might serve as a comforting companion in their journey of healing. And, above all else, let them know they are not alone in their grief.

There were some clarity or design issues in the artwork, but I did like the paint-like quality of the work.

My suggested reading age is 2-8 years.

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤1/2
(rounded to 4 stars on Amazon and Goodreads)

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Meet the Author

TAK Erzinger is an award-winning poet. Her collection At the Foot of the Mountain (Floricanto Press 2021) won the University of Indianapolis Etching Press, Whirling Prize 2021 for best nature poetry book. Erzinger is an American/Swiss poet and artist with a Colombian background.

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Mordokai Searches for Strawberries by Lamar Golden and Liana Golden (Book Review)

Mordokai and Friends go searching for strawberries in the wilderness of Planet Venesha and encounter danger during their search.

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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.

 

Mordokai is back; this time, he’s searching for strawberries on his home planet, Venesha. Venesha is a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, from the purple mountains and lush green countryside to the colorful variety of trees and flowers. The animals and people inhabiting the wonderland are bursting with color and possess unique physical and magical traits. 

Mordokai discovered that his hair would change color depending on his mood and, over time, developed telepathic powers. Mordokai could also sense danger, which would be handy in any world. 

We all have food cravings, and Mordokai’s mind and stomach are hungering for wild strawberries. Since the journey to his desired fruit is dangerous, he’s requested three friends to come along: Naiya, Shia, and Ketab. Anytime you go on a trip, it’s good practice to pack the essentials! Making a checklist helps! Before the group set off, they reviewed what each had brought. Rope. Snacks. Emergency blanket. Water tablets for purifying water. Tools. First aid ointment. I initially thought each item might prove invaluable at some point in their journey; my gut instinct was wrong. The group’s list opens doors for discussing what else kids think the travelers should’ve brought or what they take with them on a camping trip, a hike, or a vacation. 

The four friends faced dense vegetation, buzzing insects, and bizarre-looking animals. The three-eyed, multi-colored mountain lion is one of them! Luckily, the lion turned tail and ran off. 

Naiya, Shia, Ketab, and Mordokai’s adventurous trip ended with them sharing multiple sacks of sweet, ripe strawberries among the villagers. Mordokai was wise and planted some berries in his garden for a future fruit pie. 

Mordokai Searches For Strawberries teaches children several valuable lessons. First, avoid wild animals. If you should stumble upon one, follow Mordokai’s example: be loud and back away slowly. Second, be supportive of your friends and help me if you can. Third, while sharing is caring, always ask an adult for permission to share food. I don’t know if food allergies exist on Venesha, but they do on Earth. Fourth, make sure you have all your supplies before heading on a trip. 

While the story was sweet, I wish we could’ve seen Mordokai’s power in play. His coloring-changing hair is supposed to alert him to danger, yet it didn’t when the group encountered the lion. It was a significant missed opportunity. 

Mordokai Searches For Strawberries was an okay read. The illustrations were top-notch, but the story needed to include what made the characters special: their unique magical powers. I still recommend the story to children 4-10, but I suggest Mordokai’s next adventure show us his powers at work. 

 

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

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Meet the Authors

Lamar:  I am a Navy Veteran who has traveled the world, met wonderful people and have enjoyed the culture, diversity and cuisines from around the world. I enjoy making up stories with my daughter to pass time and love to smoke ribs, brisket and any other meat or fish that I think would taste good.

I love hunting and fishing and believe in passing on lessons learned down to the younger generation. My motto is reach for the stars and see where it takes you.

 

Liana:  Second grade student who enjoys playing with friends, going to KidZania & Disneyland, learning at school and spending time with my mom and dad.  I love the zoo, learning about nature which my dad alw

 

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Dear Darwin by Jime Wimmer (Book Review)

Dear Darwin does love a good cup of tea while writing in his journals. One night, a late knock at his door catches Darwin by surprise. Soon he will begin his adventure across his beautiful island home, Muridae Isle.

Dear Darwin is an illustrated children’s book about a quiet, gentleman mouse who loves tea, flowers and mountain adventures…this is a book for fans of classic tales and hand drawn illustrations.

Written, Illustrated and Designed by Jime Wimmer with Wimmer Studios and self published through a successful Kickstarter Campaign combined with Darwin’s Tea.

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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.

 

Meet Darwin, a hardworking little mouse who has a thirst for adventure and a thirst for tea. In the intro, we learn that his favorite tea blend uses vanilla, which comes from a distinct exotic place he visits only once a year. But after the adventure concludes, his tastebuds might favor lavender over vanilla. 

Darwin enjoys picking berries, picking flowers to spruce up his home, and sketching wildflowers. While most people would put flowers in a vase for decoration, Darwin has another use, particularly violets. Darwin likes to put them on his biscuits and cookies to make them appear more festive. If you’ve watched any cooking show, you’ve seen chefs adding a pop of color with edible flowers. It can make a dish or dessert go from ordinary to extraordinary. 

Darwin’s friends knew of his appreciation for flowers. One night, as Darwin was sitting at his writing desk, his good pal Elderon delivered a letter explaining that they saw the most beautiful lavender fields during one of their flights. They’ve drawn a map leading Darwin to its location. Much like the adorable mouse, kids might wonder what color lavender is. What is it good for? Readers will find out both answers as they listen to the story unfold. 

As Darwin sets off on his grand adventure, he bumps into Squirrel Newton, who has no helpful information regarding lavender. Still, he does advise who the mouse should talk to and gives him a parting gift: acorns, a squirrel’s favorite snack. The cute illustrations keep coming along as Darwin heads to the pier. Darwin’s passport was adorable, and I loved the crane’s hat and pocket watch. But the real showstopper was Darwin’s mode of transportation, the Windboat. Imagine a hot air balloon with a glider attached to its base. Very creative and beautifully drawn. 

When Darwin’s aircraft lands on Muridae Isle, the real adventure begins. He has to avoid poisonous mushrooms while crossing Webcap Creek and gain permission to pass through the Lunar Silk Forest. How and to whom grants his request will stay a secret until YOU read the story! 

Darwin’s travels take him to the Highlands, where he meets a very large animal (no spoilers). Lucky for the mouse, this creature’s dinner preference lies with snow rabbits. Darwin was also fortunate that this animal gave him a landmark to look for that would lead him to Lavender Valley.

Darwin’s journey was long, and his body grew weary with each step, but it was worth it in the end, reinforcing the famous quote, “Good things come to those who wait.” The fields gave off a lovely aroma, delighting the mouse’s senses. Darwin was thrilled to see lavender matched his favorite violets, too. 

After you read the story, ask your child or class if they have a favorite flower, color, sweet treat, snack, or drink. Teachers can make this a “get to know me” project. Another learning project would be to ask your child or students to list the landmarks in the order the mouse traveled or create their own map and legend focusing on their city or state. 

I was impressed the writer also did the illustrations. That’s not something I see every day. Darwin looked dapper in his long-sleeved white shirt, green vest, and round glasses. I loved his writing desk and how the illustrator chose a quill for the mouse’s writing instrument—very fancy! Darwin’s bookshelf was a beauty, too. I loved the addition of a sliding ladder, a feature all home or public libraries should possess. I had mixed feelings on the map, though. I would’ve liked the symbols to be a different color or even liven up the map with one or more colors. It was too dark and drab, a stark contrast to the other illustrations. I also would’ve eliminated the highlight on the compass. It didn’t elevate the image. It made my eyes focus on it instead of the compass direction. 

I enjoyed reading about Darwin’s journey to Lavender Valley. I recommend sharing it with children three years and up. 

 

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

Visit Wimmer Studios for Order Information

 

 

Meet the Author

I’m a passionate Illustrator and Storyteller. I am also a full time ​Professor at The Savannah College of Art and Design. My MFA is in Illustration and I have a BS in Art Education. I share an art studio with my husband, Mike Wimmer here in Savannah, GA.

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Finding Figgins by Shayna Leib (Book Review)

Figgins is a lonely stuffed animal who feels forgotten by his human friend, Julian. Figgins has a rich, secret life unbeknownst to Julian in which he is a professor, a painter and scuba diver. But when Figgins goes missing, Julian has to venture beyond his comfort zone into an unusual magical world. By retracing Figgins’ steps Julian finds out just who Figgins really is, with a little help from Mrs. Zebrasky’s cats who know all that goes on in their neighborhood.

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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.

 

Unless a child is looking for a book featuring a movie or cartoon character, they’ll scan the covers and select a book that captures their eyes. That means designers must create a cover with bold text, written uniquely, and bright colors. Adding a bit of silliness to the design helps, too. The cover for Finding Figgins checks all three boxes. The hedge-shaped lettering was fun, creative, and definitely unique. The kitties were adorable and funny, especially the scuba diver. It took me a minute to notice the gingerbread cookie holding tight to a leaf. How quickly will others spot the cookie? 

The spectacular illustrations did not stop with the cover; every page spotlighted astounding artistry. Kids will get a kick out of the mouse squeezing hot sauce on a taco, the orange-striped cat chillin’ on the beach under a huge umbrella, and the flying penguins. Those are a small fraction of images that’ll delight readers. There are MANY more! 

As you can see, I was impressed with the artwork; the storyline DID NOT disappoint either. When Julian was a baby, he was gifted a stuffed bear named Figgins. For many years, they were inseparable— best friends. But, much like real children, Julian grew up, and his interests shifted. Figgins decided not to wait for Julian to find time for him, so the bear went out to make his own fun. When the child discovered Figgins had been gone far longer than usual, he went to look for him. Julian saw wondrous things on his adventure: orchards full of colorful crayons, enormous mice, flowers that towered over the boy, talking jack-o-lanterns, and a sugary house that Hansel and Gretel would love to sink their teeth into, etc. Through each stop, Julian learned interesting facts about his friend, Figgins. The revelations prompted Julian to reevaluate his priorities and to make time for his friend. 

Finding Figgins is an adventurous tale centering around a bond formed between a child and their best friend, a stuffed bear. It teaches children to appreciate their friends and make time for them. It was a delightful, adventurous read featuring a unique storyline and outstanding artwork. 

Amazon’s recommended reading age is 3-10 years.

 

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

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Meet the Author

Shayna Leib is a multi-media artist who has worked in glass, metal, and ceramic for 30 years. Her work has traveled the globe from the Middle East to Europe and America, and is found in numerous museums, public venues, and worldwide private collections. Having taught glassblowing, sculpture, and drawing at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Cal Poly University, she is returning to her 2-dimensional roots with her first book, Finding Figgins which celebrates her affection for the magical, colorful and feline.

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