Sweet T and the North Wind Book Review Blitz

Title: Sweet T and the North Wind
Author: Cat Michaels
Illustrator: Irene Jahns
Publication Date: October 28, 2013
Publisher: Independent
Pages: 36
Recommended Ages: 5 to 10


Summary:  Last time a powerful North Wind blew across the lakes, strange things happened. And the winter when Tara turns ten years old, the North Wind blows sharp and the lakes freeze solid by Thanksgiving. Old-timers from the village warn everyone to take care. Tara, or Sweet T as Grandma calls her, is tired of being cooped up indoors on this coldest winter day, and she tries to make the best of the situation. But when Tara makes a wish that is dearest to her heart, T’s ordinary afternoon leads to an hour of magic that takes her on a journey of discovery and a ride she’ll never forget. This gentle story of a family across the generations weaves enough magic and whimsy to interest children. It also subtly raises the real-life issue of aging. “Sweet T” entertains while opening the door for children to discuss, in an age-appropriate way, the illness of a beloved family member.

This is a nice adventure story with a twist of fantasy as Tara's scooter attempts to take her back to wonderful times with her family.  I would recommend it for probably 3-5 graders.  A beautiful story to help build new readers confidence in chapter books.  It isn't a long story with long chapters.  It is short and sweet and will take you on a delightful fun adventure.  I definitely enjoyed the imagination ride into Tara's memory.  Couldn't ask for a more delightful winter time read.  

The Buzz About the Book

“This children’s book is lovely to read and the artwork is gorgeous. I’m looking forward to more books from this author.” ~ 5 Star Review, Shirley, Amazon

“Sweet T and the North Wind by Cat Michaels is an adventurous story with whimsy and magic that enchant. The author tickles the creative and imaginative thoughts of young readers.  The illustrations are beautiful and bright, and they both enhance the story and breathe life into the characters and the scenes.” ~ Mamta Madhavan, Readers’ Favorite

“This is a wonderful story! Writing and illustrations are very nice! I bought two copies, one for myself and one for my class. I’m working with 5th graders and we’re practicing writing our own stories and I’ll be using this book to encourage them to keep writing.” ~ 5 Star Review, Pati, Amazon

About the Author: Cat Michaels

CAT MICHAELS is a writer, small-space gardener, choral singer, and digital dabbler who started writing stories in fourth grade and hasn’t stopped since.

She spins tales of everyday life, with a twist of magic or mayhem, that open young minds to new ways of looking at the world.  With more than two decades helping students from kindergarten to college overcome the challenges of learning disabilities and Asperger’s syndrome, Cat’s books encourage students to use their imagination and problem-solving skills as they enjoy reading.

Watercolor artist Irene A. Jahns illustrates Cat’s Sweet T Tales.  This series of chapter books for early readers follows the adventures of three sisters.  Book 1, Sweet T and the North Wind, is available in print and will debut as an e-book in winter 2014.  Book 2, Finding Fuzzy, a You-Decide Tale of a Lost Friend, where children write or draw the story’s ending, earned second place honors in the Purple Dragonfly Book Award.

Website | Pinterest | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Google+

About the Illustrator: Irene Jahns

IRENE JAHNS grew up in a family of artists and formalized her skills with a degree in art and M.S. in human learning and human development, University of North Carolina-Charlotte.  She has been a working/exhibiting artist as well as an art educator for many years.  Irene was an organizational development instructor as a management consultant in the business world for twelve years before returning to art instruction as the head of graphic design for a community college.


an ecopy of this book was provided in exchange for my honest review by....