Title: The Knights Before Christmas Author:Joan Holub Illustrator: Scott Magoon Publication Date: September 8, 2015 Publisher: Macmillan / Henry Holt Pages: 32 Recommended Ages: 4 to 8
Book Description:
‘Twas December 24th, and three brave knights were just settling in
for the night when out on the drawbridge, there arose such a clatter!
The knights try everything to get rid of this unknown invader (Santa
Claus!), a red and white knight with a fleet of dragons . . .
But nothing would stop their white-whiskered foe. No matter their efforts, he just would not go!
This parody of Clement Clarke Moore’s well-known poem ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas is kid-friendly, clever, and just plain silly. Sure to become a holiday classic of a different kind!
I loved Holub's Knights before Christmas a humorous take on Twas the Night Before Christmas. In the classroom it could be used along side of the Traditional version to do a compare / contrast lesson. Yes, I'd recommend this book. It is a fun version that any medieval lover will quickly fall in love with. The illustrations are bright and bold and very eye catching.
Joan Holub is the author of 140+ books for children including the acclaimed picture books Little Red Writing, The Knights Before Christmas, and Mighty Dads, a New York Times bestseller. Joan co-authors (with Suzanne Williams) three series: Goddess Girls (ages 8-12, Greek mythology with a middle school twist), Grimmtastic Girls (for ages 8-12, fairy tale adventure with a middle school twist), and Heroes in Training (ages 6-11, Greek mythology adventure chapter books). Watch for her upcoming chapter book, What Was Woodstock?, and her board book, This Little President, both available in early 2016!
I joined in on the Christmas Ornament Exchange @ SewWeStitch this year. It's time to reveal our goodies. I was sew excited to received my package from Heather @ A Reformed Heath'n. Sew set back and take a few minutes to view my Christmas decorations that I like to display every year as well as show off what I received in the exchange.
2015 National Christmas Tree in Washington, DC
First I thought I'd tribute the National Christmas Tree this year for two reasons. 1.) on the trek to its final destination this tree stopped in my mom's home town where she was among greeter's to sign the truck as it passed through. 2.) my daughter works on Capital Hill so she took the final picture. She said, "This year the view isn't as pretty with Capital in background because of the construction that is going on with the Capital dome", any how it is what it is.
can't wait to see this smiling face get off the airplane
Just a side picture..... daughter that works on Capital Hill can't wait til she gets home. She's been gone 9 months. I know little off track, but indulge a mom. ;P OK, OK I know not what you wanted to see.
The youngest talked me into putting up the 7 foot tree this year. The past 5 years we down-sized to a 4 foot tree. So in honor of the oldest coming home we went for it. Yep, in my kitchen it went. Only place for it. UGH! It is close quarters, but I'm dealing with it because it is only for a short time. Oh, yes another side track. A mom has to be fair and not play favorites.
This one just graduated this week from Nursing school. Already has a LPN job lined up as soon as she can take her state boards in January. RN classes won't start til fall.
Let us not forget the Reason for the Season. If my Lord and Savior had not came so many years ago we wouldn't have Christmas. This is the true meaning of Christmas. Luke 2.
Out side of the Manger Scene this is a family treasure as my husband's Uncle made this. I love this decoration. I know my beautiful butterfly scentsy doesn't go with the theme, but it is what it is.
Here are a few up close pictures of our tree ornaments:
Yep, I still have a Tinker fan that lives at home.
Oh, yes she's an owl lover too. The oldest has taken her ornaments so can't display any of her favorites.
OK now for the reveal of what I got in the ornament exchange.
Mother Daughter Book Reviews is pleased to be coordinating a Book Blast for the middle grade books, based on Arthurian Legend, "Young Knights of the Round Table" and "Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend" by Cheryl Carpinello.
About the Books
Title: Young Knights of the Round Table: The King's Ransom
Author: Cheryl Carpinello
Cover Art: Kaytalin Platt
Publication Date: May, 2012
Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing
Pages: 120
Recommended Ages: 7 to 12
Book Description:
Answer the hero's call to Adventure with the Young Knights of the Round Table on their Quest. Three friends. Three quests. Three mysterious predictions.
In medieval Wales, eleven-year-old Prince Gavin, thirteen-year-old orphan Philip, and fifteen-year-old blacksmith's apprentice Bryan are brought together in friendship by one they call the Wild Man. When an advisor to the king is killed and a jewelled medallion is stolen from the king's treasury, the Wild Man is accused of the theft and murder. Filled with disbelief at the arrest of the Wild Man, the three friends embark upon a knight's quest to save their friend's life. To succeed, the three must confront their fears and insecurities, and one of them will have to disclose the biggest secret of all. Join Gavin, Philip, and Bryan on their quest and share the adventures that await them in the land of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table.
2014 Gold Award Winner for Juvenile Fiction from Global eBook Awards.
2013 EVVY Finalist & EVVY Merit Award for Juvenile/Young Adult, Colorado Independent Publishers Assoc.
2013 Ariana Cover Finalist
2012 Silver Award Recipient for YA Fiction, Children's Literary Classics & CLC's 2012 Seal of Approval
2012 Finalist E-Book Children from USA 2012 Best Book Awards
Book Description:
Finalist Pre-Teen Literature: Dan Poynter's 2011 Global Ebook Awards
At the dawn of Camelot, one young girl is about to take her place beside the greatest king in England's history.
She is a mere child of twelve. But in these medieval days, this is the age when childish things must be put away and greater responsibilities accepted--all in preparation for a betrothal of marriage. For young Lady Guinevere, on the advent of her thirteenth Birth Day, the whole idea is quite unbearable. After all, what could be better than spending her youth playing with her best friend Cedwyn, roaming the grounds around the castle looking for mythical creatures or hunting rabbits? However, the wizard Merlyn--her teacher and friend--knows that destiny has a way of catching up with a person. His arrival sets in motion a series of events that will lead Guinevere to her destiny whether she is ready for it or not.
"Cheryl Carpinello's middle grade adventure novel, featuring a visit from King Arthur and a few of his knights, is a wonderful introduction ~ to King Arthur, and to the lives of knights and others in a castle."
"I do wish the story had been a little longer, but as this book is aimed at a younger reader with a shorter attention span, I can understand why it was not."
"It's a great story about loyalty, friendship and overcoming obstacles."
"This was a delightful rollercoaster of a read, taking us on a journey with each of the characters. There were moments of great sadness, where I felt so wholeheartedly for the characters and their situations."
Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend:
“I read this book to my son and daughter and they both loved it. It was a fast-paced book with a lot of excitement.”
“Will appeal to middle school aged readers, especially girls but boys too, who can relate to the idea of wanting independence yet struggling with the obligations that come with it.”
“Wizards, unicorns, and dragons are a few of the mythical creatures you will encounter in this enchanting book.”
“It is interesting and filled with enough Arthurian legend to keep young readers entertained. The questions at the end are great for comprehension and give the readers a chance to discuss their own take on the story.”
About the Author: Cheryl Carpinello
I am a retired high school English teacher. A devourer of books growing up, my profession introduced me to writings and authors from times long past. Through my studies and teaching, I fell in love with the Ancient and Medieval Worlds. Now, I hope to inspire young readers and those Young-at-Heart to read more through my Quest Books set in these worlds.
Also please visit my other sites: Carpinello's Writing Pages where I interview children's/MG/Tween/YA authors; my home website Beyond Today Educator, and The Quest Books where I've teamed up with Fiona Ingram from South Africa and Wendy Leighton-Porter of Abu Dhabi to enable readers to find our Ancient and Medieval quest books in one place.
Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or $25 PayPal cash prize, winner's choice
Giveaway ends: December 24, 11:59 pm, 2015
Open to: 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 Cheryl Carpinello 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
The holidays are a busy time . . . but life can be even more hectic! In the midst of work, after-school activities, grocery shopping, and business trips, how are parents supposed to find the time to build within their families a lasting foundation of faith?
Focus on the Family wants to step in and give you some tips. Sign up by clicking here for a free e-book called 101 Surefire Ways to Strengthen Your Child's Faith. With creative ideas on weaving faith into everyday conversations, turning family activities into learning opportunities, and having faith-filled holiday celebrations, this book is jam-packed with fun and interesting, easy, faith-building ideas for your family.
Another way to invest in your child's faith is through the Odyssey Adventure Club (OAC). It offers safe and free content for everyone in your family, including an Advent calendar, a broadcast download with tips to create a memorable Christmas, AIO cutouts, and Christmas stocking stuffer cards. Membership to the OAC costs just $9.99 a month — or even less if parents make a six-month or one-year commitment. Enrollment provides more than enough content to keep kids engaged throughout the year:
Access to exclusive content and first looks at books and select Radio Theatre dramas.
On-the-go access to the OAC app for both iOS and Android users.
24/7 streaming access to nearly 800 AIO episodes.
A new, members-only AIO episode every month.
A subscription to Adventures in Odyssey Clubhouse Magazine, and more.
Another fun way to build your child's faith: have a family craft night and use it as a faith-building opportunity! Click the image below for a printable Town of Odyssey cutout set. Bonus points if you listen to an Adventures in Odyssey episode while you put together your town!
Mother Daughter Book Reviews is pleased to be coordinating a Book Blast for "Hestia the Invisible", the newest book in the "Goddess Girls" middle grade series by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams.
About "Hestia the Invisible"
Title: Hestia the Invisible (Goddess Girls #18) Authors:Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams| Publication Date: December 1, 2015 Publisher: Aladdin / Simon & Schuster Pages: 256 Recommended Ages: 7 to 12
Book Description:
Set at Mount Olympus Academy where Zeus is principal, the Goddess Girls series (ages 8-12) puts a middle school spin on Greek mythology. Hestia, the 12-year-old goddess of the hearth, struggles to create a symbol or logo for herself in Crafts-ology class and realizes she wants to make herself more visible. Because most MOA students don’t even seem to notice she’s around!
The Goddess Girls at Mount Olympus Academy—Athena, Persephone, Aphrodite, and Artemis—give ancient Greek myths present-day personality! This deluxe box set includes the first four volumes of the popular series, along with a coordinating charm bracelet, and is ideal for new and old fans alike. Athena the Brain, Persephone the Phony, Aphrodite the Beauty, and Artemis the Brave.
Join Athena, Persephone, Aphrodite, and Artemis as they navigate the halls of Mount Olympus Academy—where friendships and adventures abound! This boxed set comes complete with a rhinestone “G” charm bracelet and includes Athena the Wise, Aphrodite the Diva, Artemis the Loyal, and Medusa the Mean.
Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams are co-authors of three series: "Goddess Girls" (for ages 8-12, Greek mythology with a middle school twist), "Grimmtastic Girls" (for ages 8-12, fairy tale adventure with a middle school twist), and "Heroes in Training" (ages 6-11, Greek mythology adventure chapter books).
Joan Holub is also the author of 140+ books for children including the acclaimed picture books Little Red Writing, The Knights Before Christmas, and the New York Times bestseller Mighty Dads, as well as This Little President, a board book for toddlers (January 2016).
Suzanne Williams is also the author of over 40 books for children. A former elementary school librarian, she lives near Seattle. Her picture book Library Lil(illustrated by Steven Kellogg) won the New Mexico children’s choice award in 2000 and was on several other state award lists. Other series include Fairy Blossoms and Princess Power.
Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or $25 PayPal cash prize, winner's choice
Giveaway ends: December 22, 11:59 pm, 2015
Open to: 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 Joan Holub 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.
Mother Daughter Book Reviews is pleased to be coordinating a Book Blast for the middle grade book, "Lionel's Christmas Adventure: Lionel Learns the True Meaning of Christmas", based on the lovable character, Lionel Snodgrass, created by Paul Hewlett.
Title: Lionel's Christmas Adventure: Lionel learns the true meaning of Christmas Author: Paul R. Hewlett Publication Date: November 10, 2012 Publisher: Independent Pages: 40 Recommended Ages: 5 to 10 Book Description:
Have you ever wanted something you couldn't have? Meet Lionel, a loveable bully-magnet who desperately wants a new sled and will do anything to get it.This fun Christmas book follows Lionel from Larrystown to the North Pole. His magical Three-Toed-Potbellied Walbaun foot is back and is as unpredictable as ever. Whether Lionel's sledding, ice skating, or in a life-sized gingerbread village, it takes him on some grand adventures. Filled with great Christmas imagery, this book is perfect for young readers and family story time.
The Buzz About the Book
"I loved reading about Lionel and his adventure. And I love a good Christmas story. I got both in this one amazing book! " ~ Susan S., Amazon
"Lionel's Christmas Adventure is a classic, reminds me of Charlie Brown in fact it would be super cute as a cartoon for kids during the holidays. Must Read!" ~ Lovely Reader, Amazon
"A great story for children with a sprinkling of magic... A book that will encourage children to think about what is really valuable in life. ~ Diane, Amazon
"The story is a great read, not just for the holiday, but all year as well." ~ Mysunshine510, Amazon
"Lionel’s character and thoughts are perfect for teaching younger ones the true spirit of the holidays, and ways that we as community members can give back to others and it doesn’t cost us anything but some time and kindness. Join Lionel in spreading some Christmas cheer!" ~ Charlie A., Amazon
About the Author: Paul R. Hewlett
Paul R. Hewlett is the author of the Lionel’s Grand Adventure series. Lionel Goes to Camp is the third book in the series. In addition to writing the Lionel’s Grand Adventure books, Paul does freelance writing and co-authors a children’s/middle grade/young adult blog called Sher A. Hart: Written Art. You can learn more about Paul at paulrhewlett.weebly.com
Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or $25 PayPal cash prize, winner's choice
Giveaway ends: December 18, 11:59 pm, 2015 Open to: 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 Paul Hewlett 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.
Mother Daughter Book Reviews is pleased to be coordinating a Book Blast for the fun-filled picture book, "Goo and Spot in the Do Not Wiggle Riddle" by Elsa Takaoka. Grab a copy of "Goo and Spot in the Do Not Wiggle Riddle" and "Goo and Spot in the Great Zoo Escape for FREE, December 8 and 9, 2015.
About the Book
Title: Goo and Spot in the Do Not Wiggle Riddle
Author: Elsa Takaoka
Illustrator: Catherine Toennisson
Publication Date: February, 2014
Publisher: Independent
Pages: 38
Ages: 3 to 8
Book Description: 4.4 out of 5 stars with over 100 customer reviews. Two time #1 Amazon Best Seller in Manners. Illustratated by former DreamWorks Big Idea storyboardist Catherine Toennisson.
Funny, silly and sweet, Goo and Spot teaches the importance of good listening skills. This amusing riddle educates without sounding like lessons and lectures. Instead, it has a fun and imaginative style. This book about Goo and Spot’s amazing and colorful adventures will definitely hit a child’s funny bone, with a valuable lesson learned along the way!
A *NEW* "Goo and Spot" Book Coming Soon!!
The Buzz About the Book
"How cute and clever was this book. It was like Dr. Seuss has found a friend." ~ Grafixsus, Amazon
"This would be the perfect book to read to a group of wriggly kindergartners. " ~ Anon, Anon, Amazon
"Both the text and the illustrations are rich and dynamic and evoke in both adults and children alike a desire to interact with the text and the images both creatively and consistently." ~ Margot V., Amazon
"The story makes my sons giggle with glee and they gave me a big hug at the ending. Thumbs up!" ~ Torres, Amazon
"The words come to life to young readers through the bright and fresh artwork making this a wonderful rhyming book that kids will want to read over and over!" ~ April M., Amazon
About the Author: Elsa Takaoka
Budding author Elsa Takaoka puts her pen to paper and creates a fun and heart-warming story. Spinning words with natural creativity, Elsa discovered her love of language at a very early age. She then pursued a career in Speech Language Pathology and English as a Second Language until the birth of her first daughter. Reading to her own little girls sparked her whimsical journey through children’s literature. Her dream to write and publish a picture book was achieved with Goo and Spot and The Do Not Wiggle Riddle, the first in the Goo and Spot book series.
Currently, Elsa lives in Fukuoka, Japan with her sources of inspiration- her loving husband and their two adorable little girls.
Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or $25 PayPal cash prize, winner's choice
Giveaway ends: December 20, 11:59 pm, 2015
Open to: 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 Elsa Takaoka 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.
Joan Holub is the author of 140+ books for children including the acclaimed picture books Little Red Writing, The Knights Before Christmas, and Mighty Dads, a New York Times bestseller. Joan co-authors (with Suzanne Williams) three series: Goddess Girls (ages 8-12, Greek mythology with a middle school twist), Grimmtastic Girls (for ages 8-12, fairy tale adventure with a middle school twist), and Heroes in Training (ages 6-11, Greek mythology adventure chapter books). Watch for her upcoming chapter book, What Was Woodstock?, and her board book, This Little President, both available in early 2016!
