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Book Reviews
June 22, 2017
Mrs. G

A Guide for New Moms Who Feel Overwhelmed: Whoa, Baby! by Kelly Rowland

Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book from the publisher to facilitate this review.  As always, all opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.

Whoa, Baby! by Kelly Rowland and Tristan Bickman M.D.

Publisher: Da Capo Lifelong Books
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 192

Synopsis
When global pop star Kelly Rowland became a mom for the first time, giving birth to her son Titan, she felt the most incredible love she had ever experienced. But after spending nine months so focused on the baby growing inside her, she was caught completely off guard by how much she had changed. Like many first-time moms, she was not ready for what had happened to her body and for so many overwhelming new thoughts and emotions. She wondered: Will I Ever Walk Again? Will I Ever Sleep Again? Are My Boobs Always Going to Be Like This? Rowland had questions about everything from postpartum bleeding, skin and hair changes, and dealing with aches and pains to getting back in shape and sex after baby. She also weighed the larger notions about what she wanted out of motherhood and the rest of her life.

In Whoa, Baby! Rowland and Dr. Bickman team up to share this reassuring information with new moms everywhere. Often hilarious and always down-to-earth, Rowland and Dr. Bickman cover every surprising challenge that new moms face.

Reflection
The subtitle of this book pretty much tells it all.  “A guide for new moms who feel overwhelmed and freaked out (and wonder what the #*$& just happened.  Whoa Baby is the book I wish I had by my side before giving birth to my first child. Yeah, I read other pregnancy books, but they only provided answers to the standard questions you find in most books. I love Kelly’s “tell it like it is”, hilarious and blunt advice she provides as she reminisces about her first pregnancy.

First off, some of the descriptions used for each chapter are great and straight to the point: What are these bumps on my butt? (hemorrhoids), So now we’re both wearing diapers? (urinary incontinence), Why didn’t anyone tell me to bring Depends? (postpartum bleeding), Will I ever get my groove back? (Sex after baby). I had these exact same thoughts after becoming a mom the first time around. I was thinking, why didn’t anyone tell me these things?

Next,  my attention was captured with the opening sentence in the introduction. It’s great to know someone else also enjoyed everything about being pregnant! I thoroughly enjoyed both of my pregnancies, but anytime I tell others they look at me like I’m crazy. I was fortunate enough to never experience any sickness or heath scares with either pregnancy just like Kelly.

This read like a chatty narrative and focused mainly on Kelly’s experience, while adding in several useful tidbits of information like recommended natural herbs to increase lactation while breastfeeding.  Kelly’s OB GYN Dr. Tristan Bickman also adds her input and advice throughout the book.

I found this book to be a really fun and honest depiction of what to expect with a new baby. No sensors, just truth. At times, it may feel like Kelly is sitting across from you telling you the good things and the bad things you can expect. Some parts may make you laugh out loud.  Whoa, Baby opens you up to the normalization of what to expect as a first time parent that other people may not warn you about like how loose and floppy your vagina is after childbirth (if you give birth naturally) and how much you’ll bleed.

There were several chapters in this book I wish I would have read prior to having my first child.  For example, I think chapter 14 (Why Can’t I Sit Down without Wincing?) and chapter 18 (What Do I Want Out of Motherhood?) were particularly useful.  I think even if expecting or first-time moms don’t really learn anything new from this book, they will get the encouragement that they aren’t alone and can laugh about their own experience.

The chapters and the overall book are fairly short, allowing you a quick snippet each evening before bed or whenever you take a 10 minute break during your day.  I think the real talk is a perfect balance to the other academic pregnancy books out there that freak you out about all the preparation required for childbirth and parenthood.

Overall I think Whoa, Baby provides much needed guidance for the new mom.  It may even help to put your mind at ease and also let you know that your experiences are normal.

Seen on MovingBabies

Your turn: Are you or someone you know going to be a new mom?  Do you think this book may help them?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews
June 20, 2017
Mrs. G

Professional Crocodile by Giovanna Zoboli (A Book Review)

Professional Crocodile by Giovanna Zoboli, illustrated by Mariachiara Di Giorgio

Publisher: Chronicle Books
Pages: 32
Format: Hardcover
Age Range: 5 – 8 and up
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 3 and up
Release Date: August 1, 2017

Synopsis
Mr. Crocodile loves his job. Every morning he gets up with an alarm. He brushes his teeth. He chooses the right tie to match his outfit, eats a quick slice of toast, and heads off to work on a crowded train. But what exactly is his job? The answer may surprise you! Readers will want to pore over this witty, wordless book again and again, finding new details and fresh stories with every reading.

Reflection
I enjoy wordless picture books just as much as regular picture books. I like how they encourage us to slow down and search the illustrations for meaningful details that sometimes may get overlooked. One way I like to use wordless picture books is to write our own list of words for the book. I jot down different words to describe the setting and each character’s feelings.

Like many wordless books, Professional Crocodile helps spark your imagination. It also features a fantastic story sequence which helps promote creativity. Kids and adults will be held captive by this story and the detailed illustrations – truly! You’ll be dying to know what kind of job this professional crocodile has. Where is he going? Why is he all dressed up? And what in the world is his job?

In the beginning we see the crocodile relaxing in a pond the night before.  The next morning he begins his daily routine of getting ready for work – getting dressed, eating breakfast, etc.  Then he begins his morning commute via the subway.  The ending will surprise you and fill you with delight. You’ll be thinking…”Of course that’s what crocodiles do for a living!”  So cleverly done! I also love the empathy and kindness the crocodile has.  On his way to work he purchases a bouquet of flowers and gives them to a stranger (likely a woman he passes each day on his way to work).  He also buys a loaf of fresh bread to feed to the birds in a nearby park.

Be sure to look for this one when it publishes on August 1, 2017.  We see something new each time we read it…so fun!

Your turn: How do you use wordless picture books when reading with children?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews
June 13, 2017
Mrs. G

I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug! + A Book & Sleeping Bag Giveaway!

Disclosure: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Zonderkidz and an additional copy for a reader giveaway. All opinions are my own.

I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug! by Caroline B. Cooney, illustrated by Tim Warnes

Publisher: Zonderkidz
Pages: 32
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Format: Hardcover

Synopsis
I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug! is a playful and comforting bedtime book that imagines all the wonderful ways a child might give and receive a hug.

Whether it’s a big bear, gasp for air, knock over a chair hug or a wet and drippy, slimy, slippy fish hug, children will giggle their way through all the imaginative examples. Cooney’s sweet and simple rhymes encourage playful interaction between parent and child and ultimately help them wind down before they snuggle into bed and drift off to sleep.

Reflection
I think kisses, hugs and cuddles are all nurturing for the soul – especially at bedtime.  Bedtime is snuggle time at our house.  Each night we read books with our children and spend some time together one on one at the end of the day. Some nights any book will do, but there are those nights when we need an “extra special” book to help you them calm down.

I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug! is an adorable story all about hugging.  It uses different animals and playful text to describe the different types of hugs.  Caroline Cooney’s expressive rhyming and gentle text is paired with Tim Warnes’s colorful illustrations to create a picture book that is perfect for bedtime reading.  I think there is a feeling of calm and relaxation thrown in with a little fun that accompanies the book.  I instinctively start reading it softly, almost to the point of a whisper towards the end. I can’t help hugging my kids a little closer as the Mama and the bear in the book snuggled and cuddled the little boy for the night.

This book helped me to remember that my children are only little for such a short time. Take the time now to snuggle and cuddle with them, because a time will come when they no longer want to.  Spoil your kids with plenty of bear hugs or cat hugs or horse hugs!

The Giveaway!
One (1) lucky winner will receive (See image of the prize pack below):

I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug Book Giveaway

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Caroline B. Cooney was born in New York, grew up in Connecticut, and now lives in South Carolina. Caroline is the author of 90 Young Adult novels in many genres, and her books have sold over fifteen million copies. I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug! is her first picture book. It’s based on a verse she wrote for her own children, Louisa, Sayre and Harold, who are grown now.

LEARN MORE
Buy the book at Barnes & Noble
Follow ZonderKidz on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram
Like Caroline B. Cooney on Facebook
Watch the book trailer here on YouTube!
#BearHugBook

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Book Reviews
May 9, 2017
Mrs. G

My Mummy is Superwoman by Casey Elisha + A Book Giveaway!

My Mummy is Superwoman by Casey Elisha, illustrated by Aliecee Cummings

Publisher: Casey Elisha Books
Format: Paperback
Pages: 28
Age Level: 3 – 6 years old

Synopsis
Aimed at 3-6 year olds, My Mummy is Superwoman shares all the things a young girl loves about her mummy!

A simple story that highlights the admiration daughters have for their mothers, My Mummy is Superwoman is a book little girls will be able to relate to.

Reflection
Moms are the best, aren’t they?  Whether they’re taking care of you when you’re sick, reading bedtime stories, doing the laundry or cheering you on from the sidelines at a dance competition, they’ve always got your back — even when you don’t come home with the first-place trophy. So for all her grace, patience, hard work and most importantly LOVE, be sure to always let your mother know how amazing and special she is – not just on Mother’s Day.

In the book My Mummy is Superwoman a young girl shares all the things she loves about her mommy.  Told in rhyming verse with the little girl as the narrator, it’s a simple story that acknowledges some of the physical traits her mom has as well as some of the things she does to make the daughter feel special.

My mummy is superwoman, she always knows what to do,

If anything goes wrong, it’s mum to the rescue.


Photo Credit: Casey Elisha Books

The illustrations show the mother doing some of the typical things moms are usually known to do like: washing dishes, doing laundry and cleaning up messy spills.  But moms aren’t just all work and no play – this mother daughter duo is also shown having fun together and acting silly.  Simply put, being a good mom (or dad) requires a lot of work.  In a child’s mind, they may very well equate that to being a superhero.

There is also a cute activity section in the back of the book for kids to complete.  The activities are probably more suitable for kids ages 4-6 and up because most of them involve writing prompts like: “My mummy makes me laugh when she…” and “When I become a superwoman, I am going to…”.  It’s also worth mentioning the author of this book is a British author located in London.  Therefore, there are a couple of words that are spelled differently than from what we use in the United States like: mummy (mommy) and favourite (favorite).

It’s clear to see just how much this little girl admires her mother…such a sweet book for mothers and children to enjoy reading together around Mother’s Day or any time of the year.  Order a copy of the book here.

Connect with Casey Elisha on Instagram or her website!

For all inquiries, please contact Casey Elisha directly at: CElishaBooks@gmail.com

The Giveaway!
Casey Elisha Books was kind enough to sponsor this book giveaway for one (1) lucky winner to win a copy of their latest book, My Mummy is Superwoman.  Open only to US residents age 18 and over.  Good Luck!

My Mummy is Superwoman Book Giveaway

Your turn: What does being a superwoman mean to you?  Who are some superwomen you admire?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews
May 9, 2017
Mrs. G

Caring For Your Lion by Tammi Sauer + A Book Giveaway!

Caring For Your Lion by Tammi Sauer, illustrated by Troy Cummings

Publisher: Sterling Children’s Books
Pages: 32
Format: Hardcover
Age Level: 3 and up
Grade Level: Preschool and up

Synopsis
What happens when you expect an itty-bitty kitty . . . but get a lion instead?
It’s kitten delivery day, but—SURPRISE. Congratulations on your new LION! We know you ordered a kitten, but we ran out of those. Fortunately, the big cat comes with instructions—like, try very hard NOT to look like a zebra. Or a gazelle. And give your lion PLENTY of space to play. But soon the feathers and fur start flying and everything’s in chaos. Is there any way a lion could actually be a child’s purr-fect pet?

Reflection
Upon receiving this book, the first thing I noticed was the clever hidden cover underneath the book jacket that looks like the the top of a pizza box.  Apparently, a pizza company called Sergengeti Bros. has been caring for lions since 1925!  Even before reading this book, I knew it was going to be funny just by looking at the pizza toppings selected on the top of the “pizza box”: sausage, pepperoni, gazelle, giraffe, buffalo, zebra and rhino.

Caring For Your Lion is a cute and fun read aloud book for little readers.  It features a little boy who ordered a kitten from a pet delivery service, but receives a lion instead.  They’re practically the same thing – right?  The book is a funny step-by-step how-to guide that instructs little readers how to properly take care of a lion by following 14 “easy” steps.

Step 1. Take a deep breath.  Then carefully open the crate.
Step 2. Locate the enclosed feather.  Keep it handy in case of an emergency.
Step 3. Try very hard NOT to look like a zebra.  Or a gazelle.  Or a bunny.

When the little boy notices he has a picture of a bunny on his t-shirt, he immediately covers it up with the other button up shirt he has on.  My kids crack up whenever we get to this page and the page right after it.

The instructions listed throughout are funny and silly – perfect for the preschool/kindergarten crowd!  Since this book is presented in a step-by-step format, I think the digitally created illustrations are what make this book really come alive. They are so bright, cheerful, detailed and downright silly.  The additional black-and-white diagrams from the manual are shown as well which add even more humor to the story.

Be sure to check this book out with your little readers if you’re looking for a funny story.  Oh, and if you order a kitten, but receive a lion instead – no worries.  You’ll already have this handy manual that tells you exactly what to do!

The Giveaway!
Our friends at Sterling Children’s Books were generous enough to sponsor this giveaway to ONE (1) lucky winner! Enter for your chance to win a copy of Caring For Your Lion by Tammi Sauer.  Open to US and Canadian Residents age 18 and over.  Good Luck!

Caring For Your Lion Book Giveaway!

About the Author
A former teacher and library specialist, Tammi is an active blogger and highly involved in the children’s writer community.  Her local bookstore, Best of Books in Edmond, OK named July 9 Tammi Sauer Day!  Follow her on Twitter or visit her website.

About the Illustrator
Troy Cummings runs his own design studio, and his clients have included Time for Kids, New York Daily News, Random House, and the Cartoon Network.  He has written and/or illustrated several children’s books.  Troy lives in Greencastle, IN.  You can visit his website by clicking here.

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Book Reviews
May 4, 2017
Mrs. G

The Case of the Stinky Stench by Josh Funk + A Book Giveaway!

The Case of the Stinky Stench (Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast) by Josh Funk, illustrated by Brendan Kearney

Publisher: Sterling Children’s Books
Pages: 40
Format: Hardcover
Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 3

Synopsis
There’s a stinky stench in the fridge–and our favorite foodie friends must solve a smelly mystery! Sir French Toast’s nephew, Inspector Croissant, begs him and Lady Pancake for help in finding the source of the foul odor. Could it be the devious Baron von Waffle? A fetid fish lurking in the bottom of Corn Chowder Lake? Featuring the same delectable wordplay and delicious art that won critical raves for Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast–this fun follow-up is an absolutely tasty treat for kids and adults alike!

Reflection
Let’s face it, opening your refrigerator and smelling spoiled food is awful, right?  But sometimes it’s easy to forget what’s in your refrigerator and how long it’s been there until one day you open the door and encounter a very unpleasant smell…ewwww!  When food overstays its welcome, it can eventually fill your fridge with a terrible odor and no one wants that especially not our favorite food detectives Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast.  In The Case of the Stinky Stench they’re on a mission to solve a smelly mystery.

I love the use of rhymes, fun food-related wordplay and the engaging illustrations featured throughout this book.

Back in the kitchen and deep in the fridge,
past Trifle Tower, across Taco Bridge,
on a vacation at Marshmallow Coast,
sat Lady Pancake beside Sir French Toast.

There are also some great vocabulary words for little readers you don’t often see in picture books like: nefarious, devious, knave, vicious, sleuthing, dejected, fermented, fathom, prevail and delectable.  I had to pull out the dictionary to look up the word nefarious…hahaha!

In the end, it’s Inspector Croissant who solves the mystery AND does a good deed for his fellow foodie friend.  My kids and I really enjoyed reading this entertaining and funny mystery.  It’s currently our new favorite breakfast time read aloud book – so fun!  Just make sure you have some food or snacks nearby after reading it in case your kids start asking for something to eat immediately after like mine do!  Want to enter for your chance to win a copy of this book?  See our giveaway listed below.

THE GIVEAWAY!
Our friends at Sterling Children’s Books were generous enough to sponsor this giveaway to ONE (1) lucky winner! Enter for your chance to win a copy of The Case of the Stinky Stench written by Josh Funk.  Open to US and Canadian Residents age 18 and over.  Good Luck!

The Case of the Stinky Stench Book Giveaway

Connect with The Author!
Josh Funk spends his days writing computer code and his free time writing picture book rhymes.  Visit Josh’s website or find him on Twitter.

Connect with the Illustrator!
Brendan Kearney specializes in illustrating children’s books.  He currently lives in the UK.  Visit his website or find him on Twitter.

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Book Reviews
May 4, 2017
Mrs. G

Swimming in the City: Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall

Swimming in the City: Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall

Publisher: Candlewick
Pages: 32
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Available for Sale: May 9, 2017

Synopsis
Jabari is definitely ready to jump off the diving board. He’s finished his swimming lessons and passed his swim test, and he’s a great jumper, so he’s not scared at all. “Looks easy,” says Jabari, watching the other kids take their turns. But when his dad squeezes his hand, Jabari squeezes back. He needs to figure out what kind of special jump to do anyway, and he should probably do some stretches before climbing up onto the diving board. In a sweetly appealing tale of overcoming your fears, newcomer Gaia Cornwall captures a moment between a patient and encouraging father and a determined little boy you can’t help but root for.

Reflection
Little Jabari is definitely ready to jump off the diving board, or so he thinks he is. He passed his swim test and completed his swimming lessons. Now he’s ready to tackle diving into the pool by jumping off the diving board. With a little encouragement and a pep talk from his dad, Jabari overcomes his fear and works up the courage to make a big splash into the pool.

The kids and I really enjoyed reading this book for a few different reasons.  I absolutely LOVE the author decided to showcase the father being with Jabari and his little sister instead of the mother.  We need to see more books like this with Black and Brown fathers bonding with their children doing everyday and normal things.  I also like the fact that Jabari’s father was supportive and didn’t push him to take the big leap – he was patient waited for him to decide he was ready to try jumping off the diving board.

 

I think this story is well formed, easy to follow and has a good overall story line.  The text uses a couple of fun water-related phrases that appeal to little ones like: “splash”, “whoosh” and “down, down down” with cute and lively illustrations to match.  I also like that this book builds a foundation for water safety for children.  Jabari is shown stretching, wearing his safety goggles, and his little sister is wearing appropriate swim gear as well.

With themes of: overcoming fear, courage, family, water safety, positive affirmations, encouragement, patience and determination I think Jabari Jumps is a great book to read during the upcoming summer season.  It can also be read around Father’s Day or anytime of the year.  Don’t miss the fun hidden book cover underneath the book jacket – it’s so cute!  Jabari Jumps publishes May 9, 2017 from Candlewick Press.

Your turn: Are you looking forward to reading this with your little readers?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews
April 29, 2017
Mrs. G

This Is How We Do It by Matt Lamothe (A Book Review)

This Is How We Do It by Matt Lamothe

Publisher: Chronicle Books
Pages: 52
Age Range: 8 – 12 and up
Grade Level: 3 – 7 and up
Available for Sale: May 2, 2017

Synopsis
Follow the real lives of seven kids from Italy, Japan, Iran, India, Peru, Uganda, and Russia for a single day! In Japan Kei plays Freeze Tag, while in Uganda Daphine likes to jump rope. But while the way they play may differ, the shared rhythm of their days—and this one world we all share—unites them. This genuine exchange provides a window into traditions that may be different from our own as well as a mirror reflecting our common experiences. Inspired by his own travels, Matt Lamothe transports readers across the globe and back with this luminous and thoughtful picture book.

Reflection
If you’re a fan of music from the 1990’s, I’m willing to bet the first thing that came to mind when you read the title of this post is the hit Montell Jordan song entitled “This is How We Do It“, am I right?  I was surprised to recently find out Montell Jordan is now a born again Christian and pastor living in the state of Georgia.  Who knew?  Anyway, I digress.  Let’s get on with the book, shall we?

Little readers will love following these seven real life kids from around the world for a single day. The kids are from: Japan, Uganda, Italy, India, Iran, Peru and Russia. You get to find out their names, how old they are, what type of house they live in, how they play, what they typically eat and more.

The author’s note explains how the concept of this book came together. He found seven children from different parts of the world who agreed to share their typical day. He communicated with their families through email and messaging apps to collect photos that he used as references to create all of the illustrations. The author also notes that some of the things the kids do or foods they eat may not necessarily reflect each child in that particular country. I think the idea is to just give readers a general idea of how other children are different or similar to them.

This beautifully designed book easily serves both as a mirror and a window for children. I absolutely love the ending that shows we all have the same night sky reinforcing the fact that we are all indeed connected. And although we may have some differences, ultimately we are all the same. Just gorgeous! Look for this one when it publishes on May 2, 2017.

Your turn: Are you excited to check this book out with your little readers?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews
April 14, 2017
Mrs. G

Book for Children of Incarcerated Parents: Far Apart, Close in Heart

Far Apart, Close in Heart: Being a Family when a Loved One is Incarcerated by Becky Birtha, illustrated by Maja Kastelic

Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Age Range: 4-8 years and up

Synopsis
Looking for a book for children of incarcerated parents?
Children can experience many emotions when a parent is in jail or prison. They may be angry, sad, lonely, or scared. Sometimes friends act differently toward them. Sometimes the children begin acting differently too. In this important book, young readers will learn that even when it feels like nothing can get better again, there are ways they can improve their circumstances. Sending letters, talking to a trusted grown-up about their feelings, and even visiting a parent in jail or prison can help keep a parent close in their hearts. Use this title as a helpful tool to start a conversation with any child in this situation and to remind them they are not alone.

Reflection
As much as social media leads you to believe, life isn’t always a bed of roses. People and pets pass away, innocent children are abused, and parents go to jail or prison. In the United States alone, nearly 2.7 million children have a parent in prison or jail. That’s staggering!

As the number of people in American prisons grows, so too does the number of children affected by their parents’ absence. The book Far Apart, Close in Heart serves many purposes: it shows children with parents in prison that they are not alone, it helps them understand and cope when a parent is incarcerated and teaches other children how to be compassionate toward others who are in this situation. The back matter includes tips for talking to kids about their incarcerated loved ones and provides some suggestions to help them cope.

It features a diverse cast of children of different skin tones and races. The text is not too wordy and is written in a way that makes it easy for children to understand. Recommended for children ages 4-8 and up.

Your turn: Do you know a child who could benefit from this book to help them cope?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews
April 5, 2017
Mrs. G

Wedding Book for Kids: The Ring Bearer by Floyd Cooper

The Ring Bearer by Floyd Cooper

Publisher: Philomel Books
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Grade Level: Preschool – 2
Age Range: 3- 7 years

Synopsis
Jackson’s mama is getting married, and he gets to be the ring bearer. But Jackson is worried . . . What if he trips? Or walks too slowly? Or drops the rings? And what about his new stepsister, Sophie? She’s supposed to be the flower girl, but Jackson’s not sure she’s taking her job as seriously as she should.

In a celebration of blended families, this heartwarming story, stunningly illustrated by the award-winning Floyd Cooper, is a perfect gift for any child who’s nervous to walk down the aisle at a wedding, and shows kids that they can handle life’s big changes.

Reflection
Are you looking for a cute wedding book for kids?

Now that spring is here, wedding season will soon be upon us! Little Jackson isn’t thrilled about the idea of his Mama tying the knot. He’s worried about having to call Bill his dad and sharing his stuff with his soon-to-be stepsister, Sophie. But most of all, he’s nervous about being the ring bearer in the wedding. What if he trips? Or even worse, drops the rings?

wedding book for kids

I enjoyed reading this book with the kids because I love everything about weddings!  As a little girl I never had the chance to be a flower girl in a wedding, so I hope my daughter has the opportunity to one day.  I also would love to see my handsome little guy be a ring bearer in a wedding.  This would definitely be a book we’d read together to help prepare them for their important jobs.

wedding book for kids

Told from the perspective of the ring bearer, this book shows little readers that getting married symbolizes the start of something new. It also shows children how families grow and change and teaches them about responsibility and commitment. I think it’s the perfect book to gift to a little ring bearer or flower girl for an upcoming wedding as it may help them cope with feeling nervous about the wedding or adding new people to their family. A beautiful book with gorgeous illustrations and themes of: family, love, coping with change, blended families, dealing with feelings, being responsible and honoring your commitments.

This post may contain affiliate links and may include items that I received at no cost in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Your turn: Will you consider gifting this book to a little ring bearer or flower girl for an upcoming wedding?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews
April 2, 2017
Mrs. G

A Book of Bridges Here to There and Me To You (A Book Review)

A Book of Bridges Here to There and Me To You by Cheryl Keely, illustrated by Celia Krampien

Publisher: Sleeping Bear Press
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 3

Synopsis
Bridges are some of the most fascinating structures in our landscape, and they come in all forms. From towering suspension bridges to humble stone crossings, this book visits them all in sweet, bouncing text with expository sidebars. But while bridges can be quite grand, this reminds us that their main purpose is bringing people together. This is perfect for budding architects, as well as readers who can relate to having loved ones who live far away.

Reflection
Children are curious and fearless by nature.  They love exploring and observing their environment and the world around them.  You could think of children as being natural born engineers and architects.  A Book of Bridges Here to There and Me To You is a great book to read with your little budding architects and engineers.

This book features a diverse cast of characters exploring several different types of bridges including: wood-covered bridges, stone bridges, drawbridges, suspension bridges, wildlife bridges and more.  The overall text is sparse, but there is additional text on each double-page spread that provides more factual information about the different types of bridges.  For example, did you know Banff National Park in Canada has the most wildlife bridges in the world?  Or that days before the Brooklyn Bridge opened to the public P.T. Barnum led 21 elephants over it to prove it was safe?


Image courtesy of sleepingbearpress.com

The kids and I really enjoy this STEM themed book.  By reading this book children will discover the many ways bridges can bring people and animals together which may spark curiosity in how to construct their own bridges.  I also love the overall message of this book about staying connected and building bridges with people.

But the bridge I like the best isn’t so grand.  It connects me to you and you to me…through the simple holding of hands.

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that in order for younger students to succeed in our 21st-century world they are going to need to have experiences with creativity, engineering, and technology.  I think this simple book, yet detailed book is a great example of the type of books you can read with little readers to provide an early introduction to architecture and engineering.  This book may also help children have a better understanding of how bridges help bring the whole world together.

About the Author
Cheryl Keely became a journalist because she never wanted to stop learning.  Writing picture books combines her love of learning and love of play.  When not writing, she volunteers with her dog as a pet ambassador team with a local pet therapy organization.  She currently lives in Louisville, Kentucky.

About the Illustrator
Celia Krampien grew up near Owen Sound in Ontario, Canada in a house in the woods.  She was inspired by the surrounding wildlife and developed a love of naure and animals.  She currently lives in Oakville, Ontario.

This post may contain affiliate links and may include items that I received at no cost in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Book Reviews
April 2, 2017
Mrs. G

Mrs. McBee Leaves Room 3 (A Book Review)

Mrs. McBee Leaves Room 3 by Gretchen Brandenburg McLellan, illustrated by Grace Zong

Publisher: Peachtree Publishing
Pages: 32
Format: Hardcover
Grade Level: Preschool – 3

Synopsis
Join the children of Room 3 and Mrs. McBee as they find their own ways of helping each other get ready to leave and say goodbye. It’s not just the end of the school year at Mayflower Elementary. It’s time to say goodbye to Mrs. McBee, who is leaving the school. Jamaika, William, and the other kids in Room 3 have to figure out a special way to celebrate their beloved teacher. But everyone has a different idea. How can they arrive at an agreement?

Reflection
It’s never easy to say goodbye to the ones you love, but it’s a lifelong process that will happen many times throughout the course of our lives.  There inevitably comes a time when we must say goodbye to people, things, and routines.  As the school year comes to a close, children will be saying farewell to teachers, friends, and a daily routine they have come to expect.  This fall, my daughter will be transitioning to a new classroom and my son will be moving to a completely different school.  It will be great having them both in the same school, but it will be a period of transition and change for all of us.

The kids in Room 3 at Mayflower Elementary will soon be entering a period of transition too.  The end of the school year is always bittersweet, but it’s even more tough when your beloved teacher decides to leave the school.  Mrs. McBee tells the class she will not be returning after the summer vacation, but she doesn’t say why.  Perhaps she’s retiring or moving to a different school?  Whatever the reason, the kids in Room 3 are sad to see Mrs. McBee go, especially William.

To help clean up the classroom and get it ready for the next school year, Mrs. McBee assigns each child a job.  The kids help organize the books and pack away all of the classroom belongings.  I liked how all of the kids and cooperated worked together as a team in their own way.  The act of deconstructing the classroom is a concrete way to signify that the school year is ending.  Together with Mrs. McBee, the children in Room 3 created the environment and now they have the opportunity to see and be part of it being treated with respect as it is put away.

With a lively and diverse cast of characters, this book highlights themes of: teamwork, coping with change, compassion and feelings.  The illustrations are cute and the text isn’t too lengthy.  My favorite illustration is the adorable cover image where all of the kids are shown embracing Mrs. McBee in a group hug.  This is a great book to read with a classroom of preschool and early-age elementary students, especially if a teacher is leaving at the end of the school year.  It’s also a good book to have discussions about dealing with change and respecting others feelings.

About the Author
Gretchen Brandenberg McLellan is a former reading specialist at Dorothy Fox Elementrary in Camas, Washington.

About the Illustrator
Grace Zong was born in Illinois and moved to Korea when she was seven.  She returned to the United States to study art at the Rhode Island School of Design where she majored in illustrations.  She currently lives in New York and Korea.

This post may contain affiliate links and may include items that I received at no cost in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Your turn: If you’re a teacher, how do you handle end of the year transitions with your students?  Do you do anything special with your class to say goodbye? Feel free to share in the comments.

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