Tag Archives: siblings

Tippie & Nala’s Cleaning Day by Nyx Nightshade (Book Review)

With TIPPIE, everything is always an “ADVENTURE.”
He’s a funny little DONKEY that LOVES to make you LAUGH. You never know what he will THINK of next!
While MAMA is shopping, Tippie and Nala decide to clean the house for her.
Well… you can IMAGINE how that worked out!

Read more inside…

This adventure finds Tippie in a terrible mess while helping Nala clean the house for their mother. By not asking for help, Tippie causes more problems.

This book teaches the importance of teamwork. If you are uncertain about what to do, ask for help rather than handling things alone.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 


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

 

Children are not typically excited to clean up. They would rather eat a plate of Brussels sprouts than tidy up. Parents try every trick to motivate their kids to clean their bedrooms or playroom. They sing clean-up songs, give them a star on a chore chart, or reward them with a toy or treat for a job well done. 

As children grow up, their allowance might revolve around the amount of chores they do or the time spent doing them. They might have a must-have item in mind, like a video game or skateboard. Tippie and Nala have decided to tackle household chores. They weren’t saving up for a cool toy. Nala hopes the thoughtful act will make their Mama happy, and she’ll reward them with extra carrots at dinnertime. 

The two friends didn’t have great success doing chores last time; the house was messier than before they started. Swearing they be more careful this time, Tippie and Nala divided the duties and got to work. Despite good intentions, things quickly went south. Readers will laugh at the bubbles in the laundry room and feathers raining down in the bedroom. 

Anger and raised voices are two common reactions to stepping into a mess, especially one of this magnitude. Tippie cried when being yelled at, and so would many other people in the same situation.. While becoming angry is easy, saying sorry is notKids need to understand that words have power: those said in anger and those asking for forgiveness. Nala apologized for yelling, an important moment in the story.

Readers also saw Nala and Tippie learn the importance of teamwork. As the duo tackled the messes, Tippie’s tears were replaced with laughter. When Mama came home, she thanked them for the effort and didn’t yell about the mess. She was proud they tried, which is the important part. 

Messes will happen in life. Things will break. Tempers will want to rise. This story reminds kids (and adults) that getting angry solves nothing; it only makes matters worse. Instead, take a breath. Problem solve a solution. Own up to a mistake and be willing to work as a team to fix what’s broken.

Humorous illustrations. Important lessons learned. This is a must-read for children three years and older. 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤1/2
Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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!”

 

Let’s Connect:

Reedsy Author Link
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Tippie-Doo Mama Always Has The Last Laugh by Nyx Nightshade (Book Review)

With TIPPIE, everything is always an “ADVENTURE.”
He’s a funny little DONKEY that LOVES playing TRICKS and is
always very CURIOUS.
Tippie and Daisy try to play a trick on MAMA this time, but…. things don’t go quite as planned!
Read more inside…

Based on a true story.

In The Adventures Of Tippie-Doo, a silly little donkey discovers the world around him. This is a true story about mischievous donkeys who like to play tricks on their mama.

Sharing and thinking of others are key life lessons taught in the book.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Tippie (Tippie-Doo) and her siblings are mischievous donkeys who love to play tricks on their (human) mom. Tippie-Doo Mama Always Has The Last Laugh is a true account of the one instance when Tippie’s prank didn’t go as planned. 

Carrots are a favorite snack item for donkeys, so when Daisy-Doo and Tippie-Doo saw Mama carrying a bag of carrots, they had the same idea: get the bag and hide the loot! Tippie-Doo’s mental blueprint plan reminded me of classic Looney Tune cartoons. The drawn-out plan looks sound, but you know it’s doomed to fail at some point. And when it does, you’ll be laughing!

Readers will giggle as Daisy-Doo zooms across the pen, a lunch bag dangling from her mouth, as their Mama chases after them. They might also snicker watching the human and donkey play tug of war with the sandwich. I bet readers will pick a side in the food battle: Team Donkey or Team Mama! Whichever side they choose to win, young listeners might be shocked to discover it was all for naught. While Daisy and Tippie were playing a trick on their Mama, behind-the-scene trickery was also happening to them. Before reading the conclusion, ask your child or class who they believe nabbed the carrots from Daisy and Tippie. 

Through comedic text and imagery, Tippie-Doo Mama Always Has The Last Laugh teaches children that not everyone loves being tricked, and sometimes, a trick can backfire on you. It also stresses the importance of sharing and having patience. 

Pictures, storyline, plot, and resolution: Every aspect blended and complimented each other quite nicely. However, the last line didn’t read like a finale to a story. I read it over multiple times, and it still felt off. I wanted the donkeys to say “I love you” back. Other than that, I found no issues with the laugh-out-loud book and highly recommend you to share it with your own trickster.

Amazon’s recommended reading age is 4-10 years. 

 

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!”

 

Let’s Connect:

Reedsy Author Link
Instagram Link
Amazon Author Page Link
Facebook Link
TikTok Link
Twitter/X Link
Pinterest Link
YouTube Channel
LinkedIn Link

 

Leave a Comment

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The Daring Brothers: An Epic Adventure by Dr. Charan Surisetty (Book Review)


The Daring Brothers: An Epic Adventure is a heart-pumping tale of two brothers, Jack and Alex, who leave their mundane lives behind to pursue their dreams of adventure and fame. As they set out to conquer a treacherous mountain and uncover its long-lost treasures, the brothers face countless obstacles and challenges that test their courage and strength. Along the way, they meet talking animals and encounter breathtaking wonders that push them to their limits. With every step, the brothers prove that they are made of sterner stuff and are unafraid to take risks to achieve their goals. This epic adventure will capture the imagination of young readers and inspire them to chase their dreams with unbridled determination.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

The Daring Brothers: An Epic Adventure is an exciting tale of courage and determination, perfect for young adventure seekers!

Jack and Alex long for adventure, fame, and fortune. Every day, they look up at the peak, towering over the village, and dream about climbing it. One day, they decided to make their dream a reality. They gathered up supplies and set off.

They knew their journey would pose challenges but were ready to face whatever came their way. They climbed steep cliffs and icy slopes. They battled harsh winds and frigid temps. With each step, they grew stronger. They persevered. 

Jack and Alex reached a point, a plateau that took their breath away. As they traveled on, the wonders didn’t cease. They met animals that shared stories and spoke of dangers ahead. Still, they were determined to fulfill their quest. 

When they met the guardian, their strength was truly tested. I was highly impressed with all the drawings in the story, but the guardian image was spectacular. It has movement and flow. You could see every crease in the creature’s skin. Its eyes were so real you almost expected them to glow in the dark. I applaud the artist’s skill. I also applaud Dr. Charan Surisetty for creating an adventure story that young readers will be captivated by. 

Children will cheer the boys on as they set off on their journey. They’ll be fascinated by the large animals they come across. And, of course, they’ll be on the edge of their seats when Jack and Alex face off with the unnatural beast. Parents will love every moment of the story and the message at its conclusion: “Adventure awaits those who see it, and courage follows those who embrace it.” 

Beasts come in all forms. The Daring Brothers: An Epic Adventure inspires children to find the courage to overcome obstacles, defeat their beasts. Remember, you are mightier than you think!

I agree with Amazon’s recommended reading of six to twelve years. 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Charan Surisetty: children’s book author capturing the bond between siblings. Inspired by my boys, my characters embark on fun adventures and learn life lessons. Join us on this journey of discovery and imagination! Check out my books on Amazon.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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Finding Common Ground: A Story of Brotherly Friendship: Growing up together, even when growing apart by Dr. Charan Surisetty (Book Review)


Finding Common Ground is a heartwarming and relatable story about the unbreakable bond between two brothers, Alex and Max. As they grow up, they discover that despite their differences, they always find common ground and stand strong together through the ups and downs of life. This beautifully illustrated book is a celebration of sibling love, and a reminder of the joy and comfort that comes from having a lifelong friend and supporter. With engaging storytelling and a touching message, this is a book that both children and parents will cherish.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Finding Common Ground is a heartwarming and relatable story about the unbreakable bond between two brothers. Alex and Max discover that despite their differences, they always find common ground and stand strong together through the ups and downs of life. 

As the brothers age, their interests begin to divide them. Space forms between them, literally and figuratively. They still love each other, but they lose their connection along the way. Instead of laughing with one another, they yell at each other. Fights brew, temps flare, and harsh words are spoken. Friends behave like enemies. 

Finding Common Ground focuses on siblings’ bond, but this story could’ve applied to any form of relationship. As people age, their interests change. Their viewpoints change as well. Most of us have said things in the heat of the moment that we regret. Alex and Max demonstrate that what’s broken can be fixed. Talk calmly. Listen. Apologize for mistakes. Learn from your mistakes. It won’t be easy, but a shattered relationship can be fixed if both parties are willing to try. 

I adored watching the brothers make up and sharing their interests with one another. Through storytelling, children learn to have an open mind regarding new experiences. It shows two brothers being there for one another during the most important moments of their life and helping each other through tough situations. Life will get hard, but they know (deep down) they can always count on the other to be by their side. 

As a mother, I teach my children to cherish their family and friends. I tell them to be apologetic when they’ve done wrong and accept a heartfelt apology in return. Again, this picture book is centered around two brothers, but the lessons conveyed pertain to any relationship. 

Amazon’s recommended reading age is 6-12. I would also recommend this book to four- and five-year-olds. They could follow the story and understand the beautiful message. The story was lovely, and so were the illustrations! 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Charan Surisetty: children’s book author capturing the bond between siblings. Inspired by my boys, my characters embark on fun adventures and learn life lessons. Join us on this journey of discovery and imagination! Check out my books on Amazon.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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Grandma’s Kitchen by Tricia Gardella (Book Review)

 

 


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

 

Most grandchildren share a similar memory of working alongside a grandparent in the kitchen. In Grandma’s Kitchen by Tricia Gardella, Grandma’s oldest granddaughter had been quite the helper during past canning seasons, but now it’s time to include her little sister, Monica. The older sister is reluctant to have Monica join them. She believes her baby sister is too little. Oh boy, Monica proved her older sister wrong!

Through beautiful illustrations, we watch the two young girls and their grandmother pick a few buckets of tomatoes from the garden. We watch them separate them into two piles and learn the reasoning behind the step. After the sorting, it’s time to prepare the tomatoes for their new home: glass jars. You can expect to get a little messy whether you are canning tomatoes whole or making jars of tomato sauce. My advice, goggles! I’m sure Monica will ask for a pair before next year’s canning season. While the process is messy and hard work, it can be loads of fun too. For instance, my kids find turning the crank fun and love watching the crushed tomatoes ooze out at the end. The sisters in the educational picture book did as well! 

Grandma makes the whole process an exciting event. She is calm and patient with them, allows them to taste the fruit of their labor (tomato juice), and even finds the energy to dance a jig. Wow, their grandmother has more energy than me. 

The fabulous thing about canning is that you don’t need a humungous kitchen. All you need is a garden item(s) to can (purchase or grow your own), cans (glass jars), and a few kitchen staples, such as pots, strainers, and pantry items. Grandma’s are optional, but an adult is necessary due to potential hazards to little hands: hot stove and boiling water. 

With grandma’s guidance, children will learn how to can tomatoes: picking, sorting, seasoning, cooking the fruit, washing, and storing the cans. This book will encourage children to try canning fruit and other items.  

I recommend this story to 4 years of age and older. 

 

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

 
 
 
Meet the Author

Tricia’s books are influenced by ranch, animals and family life. She has tried it all, and almost mastered some: canning, cooking, knitting, fiber arts, rug-making, gardening. She has a BA in Ancient History and lots of grand children, giving her much food for thought. She lives in California.
 
 
 
 

 

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