Just in time for the New Year
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Wednesday, December 31, 2014
GINNIE WEST ADVENTURES Book Review Blitz
About the Books
Book 1: The Secret Sisters Club
Title: The Secret Sisters Club (Ginnie West Adventures, Book 1) Author: Monique Bucheger
Illustrator: Mikey Brooks
Publication Date: March 18, 2012
Publisher: True West Publishing
Pages: 238
Recommended Ages: 8 to 13
Book Summary: Twelve-year-old BFFs want to be sisters. Tillie’s divorced mom plus Ginnie’s widowed dad could equal a lifetime of round-the-clock girl talk. Too bad Dad vowed to never marry again. Ginnie and Tillie come up with the perfect mission to change his mind: ‘Operation Secret Sisters.’
Before long, Ginnie suspects Tillie has turned ‘Operation Secret Sisters’ into a scam called ‘Operation Steal My Dad.’ Things get more complicated when Ginnie stumbles across her dead mom’s hidden journals. Ginnie can finally get to know the mother she doesn’t remember and Dad doesn’t talk about … until Dad takes the journals away.
Book 2: Trouble Blows West
Title: Trouble Blows West (Ginnie West Adventures, Book 2) Author: Monique Bucheger
Illustrator: Mikey Brooks
Publication Date: April 13, 2012
Publisher: True West Publishing
Pages: 234
Recommended Ages: 8 to 13
Book Summary: Putting her body in motion before her brain is in gear creates a mountain of problems for 12 year-old Ginnie West. Ginnie is certain that defending her twin brother from the biggest bully in sixth grade was the right thing to do, but she soon finds out she couldn’t be more wrong.
Bullies don’t like being embarrassed by girls at school—especially when they are being abused at home. When Ginnie figures out Pierce’s awful secret, she switches gears and decides to be his ally, because he won’t let her be his friend.
If you want a book that deals with real life problems then Trouble Blows West it the book for you. The author writes this realistc fiction with tweenies in mind and their problems they face...bullying is the theme of this middle schoolers chapter book. The characters will find their way into your heart as the story unfolds. There's always mounds of adventure to unfold where Ginnie West is concerned. Don't get blown away by all the trouble Ginnie gets into.
Book 3: Simply West of Heaven
Title: Simply West of Heaven (Ginnie West Adventures, Book 3) Author: Monique Bucheger
Illustrator: Mikey Brooks
Publication Date: January 1, 2013
Publisher: True West Publishing
Pages: 288
Recommended Ages: 8 to 13
Book Summary: Twelve-year-old BFFs are matchmaking geniuses. They schemed to get Ginnie’s widowed dad to fall in love with Tillie’s divorced mom. Then Ginnie stumbled upon her late mom’s journals, making life totally awesome sauce … until her dad confiscated the journals.
Ginnie is counting on Tillie’s help to make Dad change his mind, but Tillie’s not sure the ghost of Ginnie’s mom will make a good addition to their new family tree. When a blast from the past shows up and makes Tillie go nutburgers, Ginnie is torn between helping her BFF and having her questions answered.
Book 4: Being West is Best
Title: Being West is Best (Ginnie West Adventures, Book 4) Author: Monique Bucheger
Illustrator: Mikey Brooks
Publication Date: April 19, 2014
Publisher: True West Publishing |
Pages: 350
Recommended Ages: 8 to 13
Book Summary: Twelve-year-old BFFs, Ginnie West and Tillie Taylor, are matchmaking geniuses. Together, they maneuvered Ginnie’s widower-dad into proposing to Tillie’s divorcee-mom. Sweet! Certain they are well on their way to sisterhood, each girl is floored when Tillie’s lousy-excuse-for-a-birth-father puts in an appearance after a six year absence. Too bad “lousy dad repellant” doesn’t come in a can.
Even though Tillie’s dad has sobered up and is determined to make amends, Tillie would rather he just disappear again. If he stays, “Operation: Secret Sisters” may need to be renamed “Operation: Not Gonna Happen.”
Amazon | Print Books Signed by Author
About the Author: Monique Bucheger
When
Monique Bucheger isn’t writing, you can find her playing taxi driver to
one or more of her 12 children, plotting her next novel, scrapbooking,
or being the “Mamarazzi” at any number of child-oriented events. Even
though she realizes there will never be enough hours in any given day,
Monique tries very hard to enjoy the journey that is her life. She
shares it with a terrific husband, her dozen children, sons-in-law, and
adorable grandchildren, cats, and many real and imaginary friends. She
is the author of the Ginnie West Adventures series, picture book, Popcorn, and plans to write plenty more.Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Google+ | Goodreads
About the Illustrator: Mikey Brooks
Mikey Brooks is an author/illustrator that specializes in children’s art. His picture books include the best-selling ABC Adventures: Magical Creatures, Trouble with Bernie and Bean’s Dragons. He is the illustrator of several picture books such as Popcorn by Monique Bucheger, Bongo Flo by Carolyn Quist, and Lucius and the Christmas Star by Jim Long. He is the author of The Gates of Atlantis: Battle for Acropolis, The Stone of Valhalla the best-selling middle-grade series The Dream Keeper Chronicles. You can find more about him and his books at: www.insidemikeysworld.comA copy of books 1&2 were provided in exchange for my honest review by.....
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Billy and Monster's Golden Christmas Book Review Blitz
Title: Billy and Monster’s Golden Christmas
Author: David Chuka
Illustrator: Renato Capasso
Publication Date: November 25, 2014
Publisher: Pen-n-a-Pad Publishing
Recommended Age: 3 to 8
Discover what new adventures Billy and Monster get up to in the latest episode in this exciting series.
It’s almost Christmas and Billy’s looking forward to his present from Uncle Leland from England. On Christmas day, Billy isn’t too excited when Uncle Leland gives him a golden pen but gives Cousin Bob a big monster truck. How could Uncle Leland do this to him? Billy’s not a happy bunny and his ingratitude makes Uncle Leland sad and his Dad mad. A game of hide and seeks plunges Billy into a world filled with snow, happy monsters and houses made of chocolate.
You will love reading this story to your loved ones as they get to learn the most important thing about this special holiday season. Expect funny illustrations, laugh out loud moments and touching moments in this funny book for kids.
Amazon | Goodreads
Billy is magicly transported into a land where he learns a lesson that we all need to learn in life. Sometimes teaching children to be grateful for a gift is a hard lesson to learn. What better way than teaching it than with reading a book and using it as a conversation starter. Billy and the Monster's Golden Christmas is an excellent book. A story that will be asked for year after year. The illustrations are bright and colorful; very eye catching.
He’s gone on to write more books including the popular ‘Billy and Monster‘ series, a funny set of books about a little boy and his Monster who get into all sorts of funny situations and learn about moderation, friendship, self control, bravery etc. Young children can relate to Billy and you’ll love sharing his adventures with your children, grandchildren and loved ones.
As a father himself, he has parents at heart when he writes. He recognizes that bedtime has to be one of the best parts of the day for parents and grandparents as it gives them the opportunity to bond with their little ones. He believes you’ll enjoy sharing his stories with your loved ones at bedtime.
In David Chuka’s books, you can stay rest assured that quality and captivating images will always complement the story to ensure your loved ones are spell-bound as you read to them. Beginner readers will also enjoy discovering new words as they read his books.
He would like to keep you updated on what he’s working on and any giveaways he currenty has on offer. Please subscribe to his newsletter at www.davidchuka.com and you’ll get a FREE Coloring and Activity book for your loved ones.
Make sure to watch the video trailers for his most popular books on this Amazon Page and you’ll get a little taste of why his books have garnered more than 300 glowing reviews.
He has so many stories to tell and can’t wait to share them with you and your loved ones.
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads
Google+ | Pinterest | Amazon Author Page
an ecopy of this book was provided in exchange for my honest review by....
Monday, December 29, 2014
Mrs. D’s New Books Blast
About Book 1
Title: Runaway Clothes Author: Mrs. D
Publication Date: May 1, 2014
Publisher: Dog Ear Publishing
Number of pages: 44
Recommended age: 6 to 10
Summary: An enlightening story about a little girl named Nika who didn't want to take care of her clothes and toys. One hazy morning when Nika opened her closet, she discovered that it was empty. Her clothes had disappeared! What had happened to her shirts and pants? Where did her favorite dresses, coats, and socks go? Why did they leave her with just her pajamas on this misty morning? Will they come back? Taking a closer look at her room, Nika starts thinking about her attitude toward her clothes and toys. "How easy it is to lose something you love so much." She learns an important lesson at the end of this story. Watch your children have a blast reading this story while learning valuable lessons.
This is a cute fable. The author is using this story to persude young readers to take care of the things that they have. This is a very improtant attitude children need to learn. Some children take for granted their toys and clothes and think it doesn't matter how they are treated. It is like the clothes and toys come to life in this magical tale. The illustrations are bright and colorful. A beautiful book for good conversation. Excellent teaching tool.
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Goodreads
Book Preview
About Book 2
Title: The Royal Palm Author: Mrs. D
Publication Date: October 21, 2014
Publisher: Dog Ear Publishing
Number of pages: 40
Recommended age: 6 to 10
Summary: A thought-provoking tale of the journey of a royal palm born on a tiny island surrounded by mysterious waters. This tender story explores the world of someone wrapped up in herself. Protected by her cousins, the short plain palms, the royal palm grew up beautiful, but very self-centered. Dreaming about life outside the island, she did not bother with her friends, who lived as one big family. Immersed in her own beauty, she only cared for herself, until one day a hurricane struck the tiny island. Then the royal plam discovered the true meaning of family and real friendship. Inspiring story with valuable lessons to be learned and shared.
This is a great teaching tool. Great for using as a conversation starter on friendship, being selfish, working together and other themes could go alonge with this tale. Wonderful lessons for all children to learn and what better way than through reading books. The author makes you feel as though you are right there on the beach with the palm trees feeling the wind and the sun and the huracane. The tale is whimsical.
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Goodreads
Book Preview
The Buzz
Runaway Clothes: "Runaway Clothes by Mrs. D is full of delightful imagery. The words flow in such a fanciful way that children are sure to be immediately engaged and pulled into the story. Its endearing quality teaches young ones the importance of taking care of their valued belongings in such a way that they will not realize they are learning a lesson in the proper care of one's possessions. Excellently executed!" ~ 5 Star Review, HopefulSerenity, Amazon
Runaway Clothes: "Runaway Clothes is a whimsical and charming tale that educates children on the importance of taking care of their belongings... The delightful illustrations add to the enjoyment of the story... I highly recommend picking up Runaway Clothes." ~ 5 Star Review, Stacie T. BeachBoundBooks, Amazon
The Royal Palm: "As is the case with Mrs D's other books, the language is lyrical and colorful... Mrs. D effectively employs the techniques of alliteration, personification and analogy to communicate her message... Mrs D addresses many of the difficult issues children face in dealing with their peers in a whimsical, charming tale. Highly recommended." ~ 5 Star Review, Barbara M., Amazon
The Royal Palm: "A meaningful children's book by a fantastic writer Mrs. D! An unforgettable story that provides life lessons for our children! Mrs. D. is a very talented storyteller who knows how to convey magic into each of her stories. So far her magical books, full of delightful illustrations, never disappointed my children or I. " ~ 5 Star Review, Olga G., Amazon
Olga D’Agostino (aka Mrs. D.), an award-winning children’s author, was born in western Ukraine. She lived in the historical city of Lviv, where she studied business in Lviv Business College. In 1992 she immigrated to the United States with her two small daughters and for years worked in her own business. In 2011 she began her career as a writer, focusing on writing children’s books that have meaning and provide valuable lessons. Two of her children’s books, The Trees Have Hearts and Good Morning, World, won Mom’s Choice Awards in 2013, and three are winners in the 2014 Readers’ Favorite contest. She is a member of SCBWI and speaks a few languages fluently. She lives in the famous town of Smithville, N.J., with her husband Patrick and a meticulous old cat named Nyda.
Published children's books by Mrs. D. include Carlo the Mouse on Vacation, The Trees Have Hearts, The City Kittens and the Old House Cat, Good Morning, World!, Runaway Clothes, The Royal Palm, The Little Girl Praying on the Hill (short story) and Carlo the Mouse, Book 1: Too Many Rules for One Little Mouse.
The full series of Carlo the Mouse and her new books The Mysterious Life Inside a Closet, That Is How Things Are (two connected stories: The Autumn Wind and The Kitten and the Sparrow), and her new book, The Cat Who Wonders, by Itself, and three rhyming stories in Who Is Most Important in the Fridge? will be published in the near future. Her books are available in print on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and as e-books for most popular e-devices.
She is presently working on her first novel, The Chinese Princess, and a short story, “A Taste of Bread.” For updates on Mrs. D.’s books, please visit her website: www.mrsdbooks.net.
Website | Author Blog | Twitter | Facebook
Goodreads | Amazon Author Page
* $50 Book Blast Giveaway *
Contest ends: January 9, 11:59 pm, 2015
Open: Internationally
How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. The winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If a winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Mrs. D and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions - feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
an ecopy of these books were provided in exchange for my honest review by....
Saturday, December 27, 2014
Iesodo- The Way to Jesus- JOY
JOY DVD SYNOPSIS (Yay-Sa-Doe) is a wise white dove whose
name means “The Way of Jesus.” He and his feathered friends bring your favorite
New Testament stories to life in a whole new way including this special
re-imagining of the Nativity story. Let your heart take flight and tweet along
to holiday carols and all-new songs!
Festivities are in full swing as the
flock prepares to celebrate Iesodo's birthday! The Cypress Tree is decked out
with holly berries and excitement is in the air. Everyone gathers as Rocky
shares the incredible story of Iesodo's birth.
Take a peak at the trailer:
Iesodo: Joy is a sweet dvd with a beautiful Christmas theme - Jesus bringing joy to the world. However, it is a dvd that your children will enjoy all year long not just at Christmastime. The animation and music are beautifully done and very eye catching. Children of all ages will love the bird characters. This movie and other Iesodo with families of our church and one Grandpa with a grand daughter 1 year old said, "She loved the Iesodo dvds they are some of her favorites." Awesome christian message and very well done for all ages.
About the Iesodo series:
Iesodo (YAY-sa-doe) is a wise white dove whose name means "The Way of Jesus". He and his feathered friends bring your favorite New Testament stories to life in a whole new way. Iesodo (pronounced Yay-Sa-Doe) and his friends live in the Holy Land, in a beautiful Cypress Tree on the shores of a vast Lake (or as we know it, the Sea of Galilee). These birds are an unlikely group of friends, and though they have their differences, they have one thing in common: since they met Iesodo, their lives have never been the same. Now they’re out to spread his message of hope to the entire bird world!
Learn more about the Iesodo DVDs at http://iesodo.com/
*I was given a complimentary copy of this DVD for my review. All opinions are my own.*
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Last minute fudge recipe: quick and easy
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Servings: 20-30
About This Recipe
"Paula Deen is a wonderful cook. She makes down home comfort food. Everything she makes is mouth watering. This fudge is very good and easy to make!"
Ingredients
1 2/3 cups white sugar
2/3 cup evaporated milk
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (6 ounce) packages milk chocolate chips
16 large marshmallows
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup chopped nuts
Direction
1.Combine sugar, milk, butter and salt in a medium sized saucepan. Bring to a boil, cook 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
2.Add in chocolate chips; cook until melted.
3.Remove from heat; stir in marshmallows, vanilla and nuts. Mix well.
4.Pour into a 8-inch pan.
Cool cut into squares.
Swept Away by Laura V. Hilton and Cindy Loven
Sara doesn’t think she wants love. But her grandmother has other plans.
Sara Jane Morgan is trying to balance teaching with caring for her ailing, stubborn grandmother. When school lets out for the summer, the plans are for Grandma to teach Sara Jane to quilt as they finish up the Appalachian Ballad quilt Grandma started as a teenager. But things don’t always go as planned.
Andrew Stevenson is hiding from his past—and his future. He works as a handyman to pay the bills, but his heart is as an artisan, designing homemade brooms. When Sara Jane’s grandmother hires him to renovate her home, sparks fly between Drew and his new employer’s granddaughter.
Still, it doesn’t take Sara Jane long to see Drew isn’t what he seems. Questions arise, and she starts researching him online. What she discovers could change her life—and her heart—forever.
A copy of this book was provided for in exchange for my review by...
Friday, December 12, 2014
The Magic of Friendship Book Blast
Title: The Magic of Friendship
Authors: Subhash Kommuru & Sujata Kommuru |
Publication Date: August 25, 2014
Publisher: Kommuru Books
Pages: 42
Recommended Ages: 3 to 8
Book Description: A flock of migrating geese stumble upon Tadoba, the land of the fierce tiger Babbar who does not tolerate anyone in his area. Will Babbar show any mercy? Can he change? Will the geese make it to safety? This is a story about change -- a transformation that comes with the magic of friendship. Personality may not change, but nature can surely change. This story will shows the value of friendship and how that can change a person, particularly one who is lonely and never really had the gift of laughter.
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads
The Buzz About the Book
"Committed to introducing Indian culture into children’s literature, Kommuru has set The Magic of Friendship in the heart India amid an imagined Tadoba Forest, which is not that farfetched from the real Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve near Maharashtra, India. Including other aspects of the country, such as the banyan tree — its national tree, and Kojagiri, an Indian term loosely related to a celebration, Kommuru’s story opens opportunities for children to learn and ask questions about another part of the world. Closing with a great moral that children will easily be able to figure out, The Magic of Friendship, is not just a fascinating read. Wonderfully written with aptly complementing illustrations, it is also a welcomed addition to children’s literature." ~ Pacific Book Review
"I really enjoyed this story. I thought it expressed how friendship changes people and makes their lives better very well. The art is cute and explanatory without the story as well."~ Phaedra S., Amazon
"When it comes to stories about friendship, children's picture book literature is replete with tales of boys and girls who form mutually beneficial relationships; but The Magic of Friendship aims for something more and stands above most others in pairing vivid, colorful animal drawings with a narrative that at first seems predictable, but offers some satisfying differences...the real value of friendship and its world-changing potentials in this winning, feel-good story perfect for read-aloud or young picture book readers." ~ D. Donovan, eBook Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
"This is a really cute book that teaches that things are not always what they seem. The book is well illustrated and one that kids can easily relate to. This book is appropriate all the way up to 3rd grade reading level. My first grader was able to read it easily!" ~ Bonnie R., Amazon
"A story that will certainly put a smile on your face while teaching the importance of friendship." ~ Brenda C., Amazon
About the Authors: Subhash & Sujata Kommuru
Subhash and Sujata Kommuru hail from India. They migrated to the United States along with their memories of childhood and youth. Now that they are parents, just like every immigrant they crave to introduce their child to the culture and values of their upbringing. Yet it is challenging to teach something while you are in the midst of adjusting to a different culture yourself.
Subhash and Sujata both work in different disciplines and have different styles and backgrounds, but it is the upbringing of their son that brings them on the same page. That exact place where they meet is captured and reflected in their stories, where Subhash can express in words, and Sujata can illustrate them beautifully. Where he puts it in black and white, she adds color to it. You get the idea!
These stories are their attempt to share a glimpse of their childhood days with their son. He is their inspiration to write short stories that have meaning to them and provide teaching in some shape or form.
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Google+ | Goodreads
* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *
Contest ends: January 8, 11:59 pm, 2014
Open: Internationally
How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Subhash Kommuru and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
an ecopy of this book was proviced in exchange for my honest review by....
The Adventures of Sir Buddy and Mr. Pupples: The Rescue by Richard McEwan
Sir Buddy and Mr. Pupples is a cute story about a dog that gets seperated from his family; therefore he becomes a stray. Sir Buddy's owner finds him and takes him in. This is a very adorable book. I love the big eyes of Mr. Pupples. Many themes can be brought out while reading this book. love, friendship, encouragement just to name a few. This book was written with young children in mind good range for this book is: 3-7 years old. 8-9 year olds will even enjoy reading the book by themselves. Visit here to learn more about this book.
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