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Gator Gray Gets Away by Heidi Brooks (Book Review)

Join Gator Gray on a whimsical adventure in
Gator Gray Gets Away!

 

This delightful tale follows the mischievous Gator Gray, who loves to crawl and explore, much to the amusement (and occasional exasperation) of his family. With a knack for getting into all sorts of playful trouble—from sneaking under beds to nibbling on bugs—Gray’s antics keep everyone on their toes!

As his family searches for solutions, Gator Gray’s journey takes a surprising turn. Will he ever trade in his crawling for walking? With heartwarming moments and plenty of giggles, this charming story captures the essence of childhood curiosity and the joy of growing up.

Perfect for children aged 3 to 9, Gator Gray Gets Away celebrates the playful spirit of little ones while reminding readers that every step of growth is worth cheering for. With whimsical rhymes and engaging illustrations, this book is sure to become a bedtime favorite for families everywhere!

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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.

 

In the first several months, parents and babies will share many firsts: first smile, first laugh, the first time they roll over, plus many more. Around the 5th month mark, some babies start rocking, and soon after, they begin exploring their environment on all fours. They go from moving at a snail’s pace to zooming around the house, touching everything at eye level, and putting anything in their path into their mouth. They are constantly on the go, and parents reach a new level of tiredness. 

Gator Gray, a lively baby, was always on the move. He could be found under the table, under the bed, or in one location and then mysteriously gone the next. The dad’s exasperated call to his other two sons, “Go and find some glue,” had me chuckling. The text and accompanying illustrations of Gator Gray with his finger up his nose and his toes in his mouth were equally amusing. Parents, if you thought only your child behaved this way, rest assured you are not alone. Gator Gray’s adventures are a mirror image of every energetic child!

When the day came when Gator Gray pushed himself upright, I knew the parents’ days of rest were not quite upon them. Yes, it’s a monumental day when our child takes their first step. However, a child on their feet is quicker and more apt to get into mischief, which spells the end of relaxing while the child is awake. Like the parents in this humous children’s book, we quickly learn the importance of baby-proofing every door cause if a child reaches a doorknob, they will escape. 

I adored reading Gator Gray Gets Away. It read like any day from my children’s first couple of years. I highly recommend sharing this with your children, especially if a new baby is coming. There were a few grammar errors, but the laughs this adorable picture book brought me far outweighed any shortcomings. It’s a must-read for parents! 

Sit back, relax, and read Gator Gray Gets Away. Read fast, though, because if your youngster is like Gator Gary, they won’t sit still long! 

 

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

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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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Milo and the Big Yawn by Milt Lowe (Book Review)

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

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

 

Everyone is different to some degree. Your uniqueness might stem from a physical trait, talent, hobby, skill, life choices, etc. For Milo Crenshaw, nobody could yawn bigger than him.

Have you ever found yourself yawning just because someone near you did? I have, and the people occupying space near Milo couldn’t help but succumb to the need to stretch their faces and deliver one large yawn, too. Some individuals who witnessed Milo’s superpower didn’t just yawn once and go about their day. No, many people yawned and fell asleep like the principal and soccer players.  

You’ve heard the infamous line, “With great power comes great responsibility.” In the case of the two bullies, Milo used his superpower, aka his infectious yawns, to put the brother/bullies asleep. Nice move! His yawns also had a surprising effect on a zoo animal. (Identity withheld on purpose. Read the story to learn more.)

Milo became famous for his superpower. Parents called him, asking if he would use his power to get their kids to sleep at night.

If Milo’s power was present in the real world, he could’ve made a fortune working his sleepy time magic on all the world’s children!

Adult insomniacs would definitely utilize his power to get some much-needed zzzz’s.

I had mixed feelings regarding the illustrations. The zoo animal was cute. Bullies catching some zzz’s was funny. I didn’t care for the long and large round faces of the non-yawning people. Kids will likely find them humorous. On a separate note, I didn’t understand why Milo’s yawns didn’t affect every parent in the group yawn image (17). I would’ve also moved the text fully onto the purple background for easy visibility. Maybe even bump up font size on every page. (I am mentioning these suggestions because I had to enlarge the text on the PDF.)

Milo and the Big Yawn was a cute, funny, quick read that will induce yawns. The perfect time to read this book is at naptime or bedtime.

Amazon’s recommended reading age is 4-9 years.

 

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

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.

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Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf by MJ Murray (Book Review)

Dylan and Emily are back in book #3 of this series. This time, someone took the Camp Leaf trophy. Can they track down the prize in time for the camp games?

Dylan and his little sister, Emily, don’t go anywhere without Dylan’s detective kit. Their trusty dog, Theodore, is always by their sides, ready to lend a helping paw. While the kids are away at camp, the Camp Leaf games trophy goes missing. Together with some old friends and a few new ones, Dylan and Emily set off to track down the trophy.

 

Parents & Educators:

For reluctant readers or newly independent readers, books in this series can be read in any order and are packed full of reading-level appropriate text, interesting content, and fast moving plots. This story includes 20+ illustrations to keep readers engaged.

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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.

 

Every summer, parents send their kids to camp or take their family camping. Whether you pitch a tent, camp out in an RV, or hunker down in a cabin, fun is the object of any camping adventure. Dylan was having none of it. The rain was not letting up for the first three days of his vacation, and the only fun activity he participated in (so far) was roasting marshmallows. Okay, bugs and no Wi-Fi would be terrible, but s’mores for lunch? Count me in! 

Dylan was bummed he hadn’t gone swimming yet, and the camp games hadn’t started yet either. What he needed to scare away his boredom was a mystery, and you don’t have to be Sherlock to deduce that is precisely what occurred. When the rain clouds parted, the campground owner (Mrs. Fan) was ready to get the show on the road. In other words, let the camp games begin! However, the campers would have to put their fun on hold for a little longer because someone nabbed the prize. Mrs. Fan said the games would commence once the trophy was found or returned to the winner’s stand.

With his The Young Sleuths detective kit, Dylan volunteered to lead the investigation. His sister, Emily, offered her services as his helper. And Theodore, the family pet, was along for the ride as a cute distraction. Besides his two sidekicks, Mrs. Fan said her granddaughter Paige would join Dylan to ensure he didn’t upset any campers. As the investigation unfolded, Dylan’s sleuthing team gained another member, making them a team of 4 kids and one adorable dog. They weren’t chasing ghosts like a famous detective team, but they did focus their attention on illuminating objects. It’s a good thing Dylan’s detective kit came with a UV flashlight.

As the mystery plays out, Dylan’s suspect list continues to grow. Can you solve the mystery of who swapped the trophy for a moss-covered rock before Dylan and his helpers? Can you figure out the thief’s motive? Encourage your kids to create their own suspect list and see if they can solve the crime before the culprit confesses.

Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf is a 10-chapter storybook that will hook your young reader until the thief is unveiled. And everyone will say. “Aw,” when the reason behind the theft is disclosed. 

With its diverse cast and sweet resolution, this is a mystery book you’ll want to share with your family or class! 

Bonus Material: There are TWO QR codes. The first redirects you to a newsletter sign-up form where fans get advance notice of free educational resources, subscriber-exclusive print giveaways, and new releases. The second code offers free downloadable ELA/Math book companion resources. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

MJ Murray is a California-based writer whose first book, Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail, is available online wherever books are sold. She is often found with a dog in her lap, even though she tells people she isn’t an animal person.

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Loris Opens Up His Heart: An Emotional Story For Kids (Courage Tales) by Dagmara Sitek (Book Review)

It takes courage to stand up for others. It takes even more to stand up for yourself.

When Loris is placed in a new foster home (again), his foster siblings just can’t make sense of him. He doesn’t play, joke, or laugh, and he certainly has no interest in the town’s charity race. But when things get tough, Loris amazes his newfound family with his hidden courage and resilience!

Join Loris and his newfound family on this journey of self-discovery and acceptance with this relatable children’s book perfect for home or the classroom.

“Loris Opens Up His Heart” by Dagmara Sitek is a testament to the power of empathy and compassion. It models positive interactions and helps kids put themselves in someone else’s shoes. More importantly, it encourages them to help one another through their grief and fears.

Children will learn that even though fears might be scary, facing them can lead to feelings of safety and love.

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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 Let it Be Us (website), there are approximately 400,000 children in foster care in the United States. Fifteen percent live in institutions or group homes—also, 26,000 “age out” of the system each year. Most kids in foster care move from home to home, never knowing stability. Due to childhood trauma that led them to be in the foster care system, it’s common for them to have mental problems and trust issues. In addition to that, when a kid enters the system, they don’t remain in one home but get bounced around from place to place. This causes more trust issues and takes a toll on them mentally, even more so if their foster parents are unkind.  

Loris didn’t have the best home life before living with Cam, Inaya, and their foster mom. Because of this, he closed himself off from everyone. Loris couldn’t accept their kindness. He mentally and physically shut the door on them. Loris displayed behavior that is typical of a lot of kids in his situation. Thankfully, his new family didn’t give up on him. Cam and Inaya tried to include Loris in the charity run, offered to tutor him in math and thanked him when he helped them out of a sticky situation. 

Foster kids are like every other child in the world. They need security, to feel loved, to know they belong, and their family has their back 100%. Loris shared with his siblings about his anger issues: how it can be like hot lava. In time, Loris realized he had found everything he wanted: people who cared about him and would literally and figuratively give him the shirt off their back. 

The book’s synopsis states, “It beautifully illustrates that true bravery and strength can come from the simple act of opening up their hearts.” I absolutely agree with their assessment. Loris’s story is touching and depicts a child’s emotional journey in the system. I recommend sharing Loris’s journey with your foster family and not just telling them but showing your new family member that they are in a safe place and are wanted and loved. 

Amazon’s recommended reading is 5-10 years. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Dagmara Sitek is a Montreal-based mother of two, passionate about teaching children valuable social and emotional life lessons through her beautifully illustrated, and relatable books about children in foster care.

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Dr. Tippie by Nyx Nightshade (Book Review)

With TIPPIE, every day is an “ADVENTURE”. FUNNY and COURAGEOUS, Tippie loves CHALLENGES! With no FEAR in his heart, this adorable donkey is ready to do all he can to make things better.

To receive a FREE, fully narrated book in the kids’ voices, please upload a copy of your receipt/invoice to www.tippie-doo.com. It will stay with you FOREVER.

It’s PLAYTIME!

With excitement, Jackson leaps to the yard and cuts his hoof along the fence. Oh my, I wonder who could help him?

Dr. Tippie knew exactly what needed to be done!

Read more inside…

In this book, Tippie learns that love and support behind actions make people feel better, rather than just the actions themselves. In this kind-hearted story, Tippie helps his brother’s injured foot in the same way a doctor would. Tippie makes Jackson feel better through his silly personality and shows how much he cares about him. The act of helping someone in need is a way to demonstrate your love for them.

You’ll find a colouring book to engage with the story hands-on in each book.

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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.

 

Tippie is like many young kids; every day is a battle to get them to take a bath or shower. They would rather wear a hat or ponytail than run a comb or brush through their disheveled hair. They moan and groan and sometimes run in the opposite direction of the bathroom. Tippie wasn’t thrilled about washing up before heading outside to play. Luckily, Mama let them skip this once. 

When kids play indoors out outside, falls and scrapes will occur. Their knees are often found with bruises or covered with band-aids. Poor Jackson, a sweet donkey, jumped and cut his hoof on a fence. While Mama could have cleaned and bandaged the sore herself, she happily accepted Tippie’s help. Tippie looked absolutely adorable in Mama’s doctor coat and headlamp. It was sweet watching him examine his friend. Tippie used familiar medical instruments your child might be familiar with, such as a stethoscope and tongue dispenser. It was also humorous listening to Jackson question why Tippie looked in his mouth when he had a hurt hoof, not a sore throat. I bet many readers will wonder the same thing! 

Kids love playing pretend, especially doctors. So don’t let the fun end when the story is over. Grab some supplies and let your child doctor you or any of their stuffed friends!

Like with every other book by Nyx, Dr. Tippie will bring lots of smiles and endless laughter! Great storyline. Fantastic illustrations. The combo makes this a book your family will read over and over and over again. It did have minor editing mistakes, but overall, it was a sensational read. 

This book is perfect for beginning readers. It’s also ideal for children three years and older. 

Join Tippie as he tries to lift Jackson’s spirit while doctoring his injured hoof. 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

An authority in the cosmetics industry, Nyx Nightshade is a savvy business leader with over three decades of entrepreneurial experience. As the CEO of a global cosmetics distribution company, Nyx brings a wealth of expertise in corporate leadership and international business. Her talent for cultivating partnerships and spearheading innovative initiatives has been instrumental to her company’s growth and success. With an impressive career spanning over 32 years, Nyx has grown into a role in problem-solving, customer relations, strategic thinking, and passion for the beauty industry that will continue to drive her company forward.

Gifted with innate intuition and healing abilities from a young age, Nyx felt a natural calling to care for and rehabilitate horses. In 2016, she welcomed her first rescue horse, Willow, into her home, marking the beginning of a profound journey. Since then, Nyx’s herd has grown to include two Ponies, one Standardbred, two Thoroughbreds, four charming Donkeys, and one spirited  Miniature Horse. Spending quality time studying their mannerisms and bonding with each animal has fully allowed Nyx to appreciate their distinct personalities and quirks.

Nyx welcomed new residents into her heart when she introduced Tippie, Nala, and Jackson to the existing family. Immediately upon meeting the charismatic Tippie, Nyx recognized his star quality. She dedicated countless hours to ensuring the newcomer’s smooth transition, tenderly cradling Tippie and Nala as she read bedtime tales. Little did Nyx know, she would soon begin crafting bedtime stories starring her beloved creatures. Tippie’s curious personality distinguished him from the other animals. He embodied a free soul, a courageous rebel, unafraid of taking chances. Tippie-Doo doesn’t care who you are. He wants to tell you who he is!

As Nyx observed Tippie’s growth over two years, she could envision the antics and adventures awaiting them. Her mind overflowed with possibilities for bringing their stories to life. She could picture all the silly things he did and what they could do in her mind.

Nyx gladly put her heart and soul into her writing. The Adventures Of Tippie-Doo is a passion project she is excited to share with the world. Just like Tippie, “There’s NOTHING you can’t do!”

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