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black history
January 27, 2018
Mrs. G

Mahalia Jackson: Walking With Kings and Queens (A Book Review)

Mahalia Jackson: Walking With Kings and Queens by Nina Nolan, illustrated by John Holyfield

Publisher: Harper Collins
Age Range: 4 – 8
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Pages: 32
Format: Hardcover

Synopsis
Even as a young girl, Mahalia Jackson loved gospel music. Life was difficult for Mahalia growing up, but singing gospel always lifted her spirits and made her feel special. She soon realized that her powerful voice stirred everyone around her, and she wanted to share that with the world. Although she was met with hardships along the way, Mahalia never gave up on her dreams. Mahalia’s extraordinary journey eventually took her to the historic March on Washington, where she sang to thousands and inspired them to find their own voices.

Reflection
Born in 1911, legendary gospel singer Mahalia Jackson grew up living in a “shotgun shack” so close to the train tracks. Whenever trains passed by her house would shake so much. In fourth grade, Mahalia had to leave school to care for her baby cousins.  Then in the eighth grade she dropped out of school again and took on odd jobs to earn money.  Despite facing many hardships throughout her life, Mahalia still persisted and went on to become one of the best Black female gospel singers of all time until her death in 1972 from heart failure and diabetes complications.

She held onto the words her aunt Bell used to tell her: “One day you’ll walk with kings and queens.” This is such a beautifully written and illustrated picture book for kids who want to learn more about Mahalia Jackson’s life. Perfect for Common Core and kids ages 4-8 and up as it’s not too wordy.

The kids and I enjoyed learning more about Mahalia Jackson from her childhood to adulthood.  This book inspired me to go back and listen to some of Jackson’s popular gospel songs – what a beautiful voice she had!  Check this one out for Black History Month, Women’s History Month or anytime of the year.

Your turn: Have you read this book with your little readers yet?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews
January 27, 2018
Mrs. G

Multicultural Children’s Book Day: Jasmine Toguchi, Mochi Queen (A Book Review)

Jasmine Toguchi, Mochi Queen by Debbi Michiko Florence, illustrated by Elizabet Vukovic

Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Format: Paperback
Pages: 128
Age Range: 6 – 9 years
Grade Level: 1 – 4

Synopsis
Eight-year-old Jasmine Toguchi is a flamingo fan, tree climber, and top-notch mess-maker!

She’s also tired of her big sister, Sophie, always getting to do things first. For once, Jasmine wishes SHE could do something before Sophie―something special, something different. The New Year approaches, and as the Toguchi family gathers in Los Angeles to celebrate, Jasmine is jealous that her sister gets to help roll mochi balls by hand with the women. Her mom says that Jasmine is still too young to join in, so she hatches a plan to help the men pound the mochi rice instead. Surely her sister has never done THAT before.

But pounding mochi is traditionally reserved for boys. And the mochi hammer is heavier than it looks. Can Jasmine build her case and her mochi-making muscles in time for New Year’s Day?

Reflection

Thank you to author Debbi Michiko Florence for sending me this book to review for Multicultural Children’s Book Day!

Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2017 (1/27/18) is in its 5th year and was founded by Valarie Budayr from Jump Into A Book and Mia Wenjen from PragmaticMom. Their mission is to raise awareness of the ongoing need to include kids’ books that celebrate diversity in home and school bookshelves while also working diligently to get more of these types of books into the hands of young readers, parents and educators.

What an adorable character Jasmine Toguchi is!  She’s a smart and spunky Japanese-American third grader with a fun personality.  I think it’s so great for Japanese children to be able to use the books in this chapter series as mirrors into their own culture.  Other children, like mine, will enjoy using these books as windows to learn a few things about the Japanese culture like how to make mochi.  Mochi is a sticky rice treat that is made into different shapes.  There is a recipe included in the back of the book if you want to try and make it on your own.  We haven’t tried it yet, but I’m so tempted to have our own mochi making party at home or with some friends for a play date!


We enjoyed reading this chapter book aloud at bedtime over the course of two weeks.  The chapters were just long enough to help us squeeze in about 10 – 15 minutes (on average) of read aloud time per chapter.  I think the book is great for early readers (age 7 – 8) to read independently on their own, maybe with a little help from an adult when needed.  It was interesting to learn about some Japanese traditions and to see how Jasmine added her own updated twist to them.  The black and white illustrations were also an added bonus and helped to bring some of the text to life.


This book has themes of: gender biases, family, traditions, sibling rivalry and food.  Definitely one to check out if you’re looking for a fun chapter series for early readers.

More Information About Multicultural Children’s Book Day

Current Sponsors: MCBD 2018 is honored to have some amazing Sponsors on board.

2018 MCBD Medallion Sponsors

HONORARY: Children’s Book Council, Junior Library Guild

PLATINUM: Scholastic Book Clubs

GOLD: Audrey Press, Candlewick Press, Loving Lion Books, Second Story Press, Star Bright Books, Worldwide Buddies

SILVER:Capstone Publishing, Author Charlotte Riggle, Child’s Play USA, KidLit TV, Pack-n-Go Girls, Plum Street Press

BRONZE: Barefoot Books, Carole P. Roman, Charlesbridge Publishing, Dr. Crystal Bowe, Gokul! World, Green Kids Club, Gwen Jackson, Jacqueline Woodson, Juan J. Guerra, Language Lizard, Lee & Low Books, RhymeTime Storybooks, Sanya Whittaker Gragg, TimTimTom Books, WaterBrook & Multnomah, Wisdom Tales Press

2018 Author Sponsors

Honorary Author Sponsors: Author/Illustrator Aram Kim and Author/Illustrator Juana Medina

Author Janet Balletta, Author Susan Bernardo,  Author Carmen Bernier-Grand, Author Tasheba Berry-McLaren and Space2Launch, Bollywood Groove Books, Author Anne Broyles,  Author Kathleen Burkinshaw, Author Eugenia Chu, Author Lesa Cline-Ransome, Author Medeia Cohan and Shade 7 Publishing, Desi Babies, Author Dani Dixon and Tumble Creek Press, Author Judy Dodge Cummings, Author D.G. Driver, Author Nicole Fenner and Sister Girl Publishing, Debbi Michiko Florence, Author Josh Funk, Author Maria Gianferrari, Author Daphnie Glenn, Globe Smart Kids, Author Kimberly Gordon Biddle, Author Quentin Holmes, Author Esther Iverem, Jennifer Joseph: Alphabet Oddities, Author Kizzie Jones, Author Faith L Justice , Author P.J. LaRue and MysticPrincesses.com, Author Karen Leggett Abouraya, Author Sylvia Liu, Author Sherri Maret, Author Melissa Martin Ph.D., Author Lesli Mitchell, Pinky Mukhi and We Are One, Author Miranda Paul, Author Carlotta Penn, Real Dads Read, Greg Ransom, Author Sandra L. Richards, RealMVPKids Author Andrea Scott, Alva Sachs and Three Wishes Publishing, Shelly Bean the Sports Queen,  Author Sarah Stevenson, Author Gayle H. Swift Author Elsa Takaoka, Author Christine Taylor-Butler, Nicholette Thomas and  MFL Publishing  Author Andrea Y. Wang, Author Jane Whittingham  Author Natasha Yim

We’d like to also give a shout-out to MCBD’s impressive CoHost Team who not only hosts the book review link-up on celebration day, but who also works tirelessly to spread the word of this event. View our CoHosts HERE.

TWITTER PARTY Sponsored by Scholastic Book Clubs: MCBD’s super-popular (and crazy-fun) annual Twitter Party will be held 1/27/18 at 9:00pm EST.

Join the conversation and win one of 12-5 book bundles and one Grand Prize Book Bundle (12 books) that will be given away at the party! http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/twitter-party-great-conversations-fun-prizes-chance-readyourworld-1-27-18/

Free Multicultural Books for Teachers: http://bit.ly/1kGZrta

Free Empathy Classroom Kit for Homeschoolers, Organizations, Librarians and Educators: http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/teacher-classroom-empathy-kit/

Hashtag: Don’t forget to connect with us on social media and be sure and look for/use our official hashtag #ReadYourWorld.

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Book Reviews
January 23, 2018
Mrs. G

Multicultural Children’s Book Day: No Kimchi for Me! (A Book Review)

No Kimchi for Me! by Aram Kim

Publisher: Holiday House
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 40
Age Range: 3-7
Grade Level: Preschool – 2

Synopsis
Yoomi hates stinky, spicy kimchi―the pickled cabbage condiment served at Korean meals. So her brothers call her a baby and refuse to play with her.

Yoomi is determined to eat kimchi. She tries to disguise it by eating it on a cookie, on pizza, and in ice cream. But that doesn’t work. Then Grandma shows Yoomi how to make kimchi pancakes. This story about family, food, and a six-year-old “coming of age” has universal themes, and at the same time celebrates Korean culture. A kimchi pancake recipe and other back matter are included.

Reflection
Thank you to Holiday House for sending me this book to review for Multicultural Children’s Book Day!

Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2017 (1/27/18) is in its 5th year and was founded by Valarie Budayr from Jump Into A Book and Mia Wenjen from PragmaticMom. Their mission is to raise awareness of the ongoing need to include kids’ books that celebrate diversity in home and school bookshelves while also working diligently to get more of these types of books into the hands of young readers, parents and educators.

Do your children have any food aversions? When both of my kids were babies they ate practically anything I made for them. Now as they’ve gotten older, they have become somewhat fussy about eating certain foods. My son tends to be particular picky about the texture and look of some meats.  But aren’t we all a little picky sometimes?  Besides, isn’t it normal for children to be fussy eaters anyway? It’s a way of exploring their environment and asserting their independence.  Little Yoomi illustrates this point very well in the book No Kimchi for Me!

The kids and I really enjoyed this cute story!  I especially liked the clever grandmother for finding a creative way to expand Yoomi’s culinary horizons by making a kimchi pancake.  All it took was a little exploring in the kitchen.  Is Yoomi cured of thinking kimchi is too stinky or spicy?  Not by a long shot.  But she is feeling braver about eating it and she’s proud of herself for having conquered something new and proving to her brothers she’s a big girl.  A simple recipe for making kimchi pancakes is included in the back matter.

Pair this book with another one of our favorite Asian food-themed picture books Bee-Bim-Bop by Linda Sue Park for a fun story time session.

What is Kimchi?
Kimchi is a traditional korean dish made of fermented vegetables and seasonings.  It’s considered to be one of the world’s healthiest foods.  Kimchi is often eaten as a condiment or side dish and is also used as an ingredient in stew, soup and fried rice.

More Information About Multicultural Children’s Book Day

Current Sponsors: MCBD 2018 is honored to have some amazing Sponsors on board.

2018 MCBD Medallion Sponsors

HONORARY: Children’s Book Council, Junior Library Guild

PLATINUM: Scholastic Book Clubs

GOLD: Audrey Press, Candlewick Press, Loving Lion Books, Second Story Press, Star Bright Books, Worldwide Buddies

SILVER:Capstone Publishing, Author Charlotte Riggle, Child’s Play USA, KidLit TV, Pack-n-Go Girls, Plum Street Press

BRONZE: Barefoot Books, Carole P. Roman, Charlesbridge Publishing, Dr. Crystal Bowe, Gokul! World, Green Kids Club, Gwen Jackson, Jacqueline Woodson, Juan J. Guerra, Language Lizard, Lee & Low Books, RhymeTime Storybooks, Sanya Whittaker Gragg, TimTimTom Books, WaterBrook & Multnomah, Wisdom Tales Press

2018 Author Sponsors

Honorary Author Sponsors: Author/Illustrator Aram Kim and Author/Illustrator Juana Medina

Author Janet Balletta, Author Susan Bernardo,  Author Carmen Bernier-Grand, Author Tasheba Berry-McLaren and Space2Launch, Bollywood Groove Books, Author Anne Broyles,  Author Kathleen Burkinshaw, Author Eugenia Chu, Author Lesa Cline-Ransome, Author Medeia Cohan and Shade 7 Publishing, Desi Babies, Author Dani Dixon and Tumble Creek Press, Author Judy Dodge Cummings, Author D.G. Driver, Author Nicole Fenner and Sister Girl Publishing, Debbi Michiko Florence, Author Josh Funk, Author Maria Gianferrari, Author Daphnie Glenn, Globe Smart Kids, Author Kimberly Gordon Biddle, Author Quentin Holmes, Author Esther Iverem, Jennifer Joseph: Alphabet Oddities, Author Kizzie Jones, Author Faith L Justice , Author P.J. LaRue and MysticPrincesses.com, Author Karen Leggett Abouraya, Author Sylvia Liu, Author Sherri Maret, Author Melissa Martin Ph.D., Author Lesli Mitchell, Pinky Mukhi and We Are One, Author Miranda Paul, Author Carlotta Penn, Real Dads Read, Greg Ransom, Author Sandra L. Richards, RealMVPKids Author Andrea Scott, Alva Sachs and Three Wishes Publishing, Shelly Bean the Sports Queen,  Author Sarah Stevenson, Author Gayle H. Swift Author Elsa Takaoka, Author Christine Taylor-Butler, Nicholette Thomas and  MFL Publishing  Author Andrea Y. Wang, Author Jane Whittingham  Author Natasha Yim

We’d like to also give a shout-out to MCBD’s impressive CoHost Team who not only hosts the book review link-up on celebration day, but who also works tirelessly to spread the word of this event. View our CoHosts HERE.

TWITTER PARTY Sponsored by Scholastic Book Clubs: MCBD’s super-popular (and crazy-fun) annual Twitter Party will be held 1/27/18 at 9:00pm EST.

Join the conversation and win one of 12-5 book bundles and one Grand Prize Book Bundle (12 books) that will be given away at the party! http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/twitter-party-great-conversations-fun-prizes-chance-readyourworld-1-27-18/

Free Multicultural Books for Teachers: http://bit.ly/1kGZrta

Free Empathy Classroom Kit for Homeschoolers, Organizations, Librarians and Educators: http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/teacher-classroom-empathy-kit/

Hashtag: Don’t forget to connect with us on social media and be sure and look for/use our official hashtag #ReadYourWorld.

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black history
January 23, 2018
Mrs. G

Multicultural Children’s Book Day: Before She Was Harriet (A Book Review)

Before She Was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James E. Ransome

Publisher: Holiday House
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Age Range: 4-7
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 2

Synopsis
We know her today as Harriet Tubman, but in her lifetime she was called by many names. As General Tubman she was a Union spy. As Moses she led hundreds to freedom on the Underground Railroad. As Minty she was a slave whose spirit could not be broken. An evocative poem and opulent watercolors come together to honor a woman of humble origins whose courage and compassion make her larger than life.

Reflection
I’m thrilled to be reviewing this book as a co-host for Multicultural Children’s Book Day!  Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2017 (1/27/18) is in its 5th year and was founded by Valarie Budayr from Jump Into A Book and Mia Wenjen from PragmaticMom. Their mission is to raise awareness of the ongoing need to include kids’ books that celebrate diversity in home and school bookshelves while also working diligently to get more of these types of books into the hands of young readers, parents and educators.

Before She Was Harriet is written in beautiful, verse-like poetic text. The text is accompanied by gorgeous and very detailed watercolor illustrations that help bring each word to life. With the turn of each page, readers are introduced to a new role that Tubman had during her lifetime: suffragist, general, union spy, nurse, aunt and underground railroad conductor. Harriet Tubman was born a slave, her parents named her Araminta “Minty” Ross. She changed her name in 1849 when she escaped.

I love that the author chose to tell Harriet’s story in reverse chronological order from her later days as an older woman to her earliest days as a young slave girl.  The book ends in the most poignant way possible with Harriet riding on the train as a free woman.  What an honor it must have been to be able to ride on the train freely after all she went through during her days as the leader of the Underground Railroad.  It was so powerful for me to see everything in her life come full circle.

While this book doesn’t include an author’s note, a timeline, or any additional biographical information about Harriet Tubman, it is a beautiful tribute and brief introduction to her life.  I think this poetry book would inspire readers to want to learn more about Tubman.

Before She Was Harriet challenged me to fill my life with the brilliant history of a woman who has made her own choices just like Harriet did.  I’m inspired to slowly begin to slowly peel back the layers of my own life until the very core of my being is revealed.  As I get older it’s become clear that each pivotal point in my life often requires changes for growth to continue. Thanks to Harriet Tubman for reminding me to elevate my consciousness, and embrace a new sense of freedom to find my place in this challenging world.  Thank you for helping me to discover my power just as you did.  I can now pass along these messages and this beautiful book to my own children.

Check this one out for your home or school library.  Perfect for reading during Black History Month, Women’s History Month or any time of the year.  Recommended for ages 4-7 and up.

More Information About Multicultural Children’s Book Day

Current Sponsors: MCBD 2018 is honored to have some amazing Sponsors on board.

2018 MCBD Medallion Sponsors

HONORARY: Children’s Book Council, Junior Library Guild

PLATINUM: Scholastic Book Clubs

GOLD: Audrey Press, Candlewick Press, Loving Lion Books, Second Story Press, Star Bright Books, Worldwide Buddies

SILVER:Capstone Publishing, Author Charlotte Riggle, Child’s Play USA, KidLit TV, Pack-n-Go Girls, Plum Street Press

BRONZE: Barefoot Books, Carole P. Roman, Charlesbridge Publishing, Dr. Crystal Bowe, Gokul! World, Green Kids Club, Gwen Jackson, Jacqueline Woodson, Juan J. Guerra, Language Lizard, Lee & Low Books, RhymeTime Storybooks, Sanya Whittaker Gragg, TimTimTom Books, WaterBrook & Multnomah, Wisdom Tales Press

2018 Author Sponsors

Honorary Author Sponsors: Author/Illustrator Aram Kim and Author/Illustrator Juana Medina

Author Janet Balletta, Author Susan Bernardo,  Author Carmen Bernier-Grand, Author Tasheba Berry-McLaren and Space2Launch, Bollywood Groove Books, Author Anne Broyles,  Author Kathleen Burkinshaw, Author Eugenia Chu, Author Lesa Cline-Ransome, Author Medeia Cohan and Shade 7 Publishing, Desi Babies, Author Dani Dixon and Tumble Creek Press, Author Judy Dodge Cummings, Author D.G. Driver, Author Nicole Fenner and Sister Girl Publishing, Debbi Michiko Florence, Author Josh Funk, Author Maria Gianferrari, Author Daphnie Glenn, Globe Smart Kids, Author Kimberly Gordon Biddle, Author Quentin Holmes, Author Esther Iverem, Jennifer Joseph: Alphabet Oddities, Author Kizzie Jones, Author Faith L Justice , Author P.J. LaRue and MysticPrincesses.com, Author Karen Leggett Abouraya, Author Sylvia Liu, Author Sherri Maret, Author Melissa Martin Ph.D., Author Lesli Mitchell, Pinky Mukhi and We Are One, Author Miranda Paul, Author Carlotta Penn, Real Dads Read, Greg Ransom, Author Sandra L. Richards, RealMVPKids Author Andrea Scott, Alva Sachs and Three Wishes Publishing, Shelly Bean the Sports Queen,  Author Sarah Stevenson, Author Gayle H. Swift Author Elsa Takaoka, Author Christine Taylor-Butler, Nicholette Thomas and  MFL Publishing  Author Andrea Y. Wang, Author Jane Whittingham  Author Natasha Yim

We’d like to also give a shout-out to MCBD’s impressive CoHost Team who not only hosts the book review link-up on celebration day, but who also works tirelessly to spread the word of this event. View our CoHosts HERE.

TWITTER PARTY Sponsored by Scholastic Book Clubs: MCBD’s super-popular (and crazy-fun) annual Twitter Party will be held 1/27/18 at 9:00pm EST.

Join the conversation and win one of 12-5 book bundles and one Grand Prize Book Bundle (12 books) that will be given away at the party! http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/twitter-party-great-conversations-fun-prizes-chance-readyourworld-1-27-18/

Free Multicultural Books for Teachers: http://bit.ly/1kGZrta

Free Empathy Classroom Kit for Homeschoolers, Organizations, Librarians and Educators: http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/teacher-classroom-empathy-kit/

Hashtag: Don’t forget to connect with us on social media and be sure and look for/use our official hashtag #ReadYourWorld.

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children's books
January 21, 2018
Mrs. G

It’s Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2018!


I’m thrilled to be supporting the upcoming Multicultural Children’s Book Day as one of this year’s co-hosts!  

Multicultural Children’s Book Day (1/27/18) is in its 5th year and was founded by Valarie Budayr from Jump Into A Book and Mia Wenjen from PragmaticMom. Their mission is to raise awareness of the ongoing need to include kids’ books that celebrate diversity in home and school bookshelves while also working diligently to get more of these types of books into the hands of young readers, parents and educators.

This year I had the pleasure of reviewing three fantastic books which was a real treat!

The best part about Multicultural Children’s Book Day is anyone from anywhere in the world can be a part of the celebration!  There will be a TWITTER PARTY Sponsored by Scholastic Book Clubs: MCBD’s super-popular (and crazy-fun) annual Twitter Party it be held 1/27/18 at 9:00pm.

Join the conversation on Twitter and win one of 12-5 book bundles and one Grand Prize Book Bundle (12 books) that will be given away at the party! http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/twitter-party-great-conversations-fun-prizes-chance-readyourworld-1-27-18/

There is also a chance to receive Free Multicultural Books for Teachers: http://bit.ly/1kGZrta

And… a Free Empathy Classroom Kit for Homeschoolers, Organizations, Librarians and Educators: http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/teacher-classroom-empathy-kit/

As you can see, there will be something for just about everyone.  So be sure to take advantage of everything this mega literacy event has to offer!

Connect with MCCBD!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MulticulturalChildrensBookDay
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MCChildsBookDay
Official Hashtag: #ReadYourWorld

Your turn: How will you be celebrating Multicultural Children’s Book Day with your little readers? Feel free share in the comments.

Link up your MCCBD blog post review here!

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black history
January 18, 2018
Mrs. G

Trailblazer: The Story of Ballerina Raven Wilkinson (A Book Review)

Trailblazer: The Story of Ballerina Raven Wilkinson by Leda Schubert, illustrated by Theodore Taylor III

Publisher: Little Bee Books
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 40
Age Range: 6 – 9
Grade Level: Preschool – 3

Synopsis
This beautiful picture book tells the little-known story of Raven Wilkinson, the first African American woman to dance for a major classical ballet company and an inspiration to Misty Copeland.

Reflection

Raven Wilkinson was born on February 2, 1935, in New York City. From the time she was a little girl, all she wanted to do was dance. On Raven’s ninth birthday, her uncle gifted her with ballet lessons, and she completely fell in love with dance. While she was a student at Columbia University, Raven auditioned for the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo and was finally accepted on her third try, even after being told she couldn’t dance with them because of her skin color.

When she started touring with her troupe in the United States in 1955, Raven encountered much racism in the South, but the applause, alongside the opportunity to dance, made all the hardship worth it. Several years later she would dance for royalty with the Dutch National Ballet and regularly performed with the New York City Opera until she was fifty.

After reading this book, it’s easy to see that Raven Wilkinson was far more than simply a dancer. She was a trailblazer and role model for so many young dancers through the ages, including Misty Copeland.  During her lifetime she was faced with racism, she came face to face with members of the Ku Klux Klan, and she was denied several prominent roles.  Through it all, she persisted and never gave up on her dreams of becoming the first African American woman to dance for a major classical ballet company.

This book is an example of why it’s so important to tell these stories again and again — so they can reach a wider audience. Younger children of today are likely to be more familiar with Misty Copeland so they won’t know about people like Raven Wilkinson unless they are taught.  As parents, caregivers and educators, it’s up to us to read stories like this with children to educate them and show them how far we’ve come.  This nonfiction story is sure to inspire countless little brown and black girls to start wearing tutus and practicing their plies so they too can be the next trailblazer like Raven Wilkinson.

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

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children's books
January 9, 2018
Mrs. G

Fairy Mom and Me by Sophie Kinsella + A Giveaway!

Fairy Mom and Me by Sophie Kinsella, illustrated by Marta Kissi

Ella Brook can’t wait to grow up, because one day she will become a fairy and have her own sparkly wings and a teacher on Fairy Tube, just like her mom! Until then, Ella has to learn by watching her mom in action. But sometimes spells go wrong, and Ella’s mom can never seem to remember the right magic codes on her Computawand. A lot of the time, it’s up to Ella to come to the rescue. Does she have what it takes to be a fairy one day? Or will there be more glitches than glitter? (Ages 7 – 10)

FAIRY MOM AND ME is filled with ultimate wish-fulfillment, tech-savvy humor, and modern flair. Fans of Sophie Kinsella’s sparkling humor will love her first-ever series for young readers! Complete with black-and-white illustrations throughout and discussion questions and family activities in the back, this is the perfect shareable story for kids and parents.

About the Author

SOPHIE KINSELLA is the author of the bestselling Shopaholic series, as well as the novels Can You Keep a Secret?, The Undomestic Goddess, Remember Me?, Twenties Girl, I’ve Got Your Number, Wedding Night, and Finding Audrey. She lives in England. Visit her website at sophiekinsella.co.uk or find her on Instagram at @sophiekinsellawriter and Twitter at @KinsellaSophie.

About the Illustrator
MARTA KISSI is a freelance illustrator living and working in London. She studied illustration and animation at Kingston University and completed her MA at the Royal College of Art. She now works on various children book projects as well as covers and editorial pieces for both children and adults.

The Giveaway!
One lucky winner (US residents only) will receive a copy of the newly released book Fairy Mom and Me.  Good luck!

Fairy Mom and Me Book Giveaway

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Book Reviews
December 22, 2017
Mrs. G

If You Look Up to the Sky by Angela Dalton (A Book Review)

If You Look Up to the Sky by Angela Dalton, illustrated by Margarita Sikorskaia

Publisher: Beaver’s Pond Press
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 24
Age Range: 5 – 6
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 1
Available for purchase on Amazon: Order Here!

Synopsis
There are times when a full moon will guide you, a storm will excite you, and a big, blue sky will inspire you to believe anything is possible. These are a few of the many gifts we receive from the sky and universe when life feels scary and confusing.

Told by a grandmother to her grandchild, If You Look Up to the Sky is about the power of everlasting love and the ways the sky connects us through good times and bad. It offers a child comfort in knowing that you never need to be afraid… if you look up to the sky.

Reflection
I love clear black night skies.  On such a night I am often elated, and if I stop and just look up I am humbled in wonder at the vastness and beauty of the universe. Looking up at the sky helps me to remember that me and my problems are both infinitesimally small and conversely, that I am a piece of an amazing and vast universe.

Don’t these stars look like they pop off the page?  AMAZING!

Just like the ocean, I adore the sky. It’s as if it’s constantly trying to teach me to remain calm whatever the situation may be. That’s the same overall message I took away from this book.

It’s the story of a young girl getting wisdom from her grandmother. Her grandmother teaches her to look to the sky when she’s feeling lost, afraid or sad. Despite having some stormy and gloomy days, the sky always remains content and at peace. If we just look up, the sky teaches us so much about life.

I want to be lying in this field right now on a warm, sunny day, don’t you?  Gorgeous!

This book blew me away, truly! Not only are the words beautifully written, the illustrations are outstanding!  If You Look Up to the Sky is definitely my new favorite bedtime book to read with my kids. It’s the perfect book to snuggle up and read with your kids to remind them just how special and loved they are. Great for grandparents to read with their grandchildren too…a gem!

Your turn: Do you look up to the sky when you’re feeling lost, afraid or unsure about something?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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children's books
December 21, 2017
Mrs. G

KidLitPicks: 17 Counting Books for Kids


10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1… We are fast-approaching the season of the countdown. Children are getting more and more excited counting down the days, lighting candles, opening advent calendars of all shapes and sizes—my family will be having a book-a-day for our advent season. Parents are getting more and more frantic to get organised as the days disappear. It’s the time of year that everyone practices counting.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10… A study several years ago by researchers from the Institute of Education in London found that children who receive bedtime stories from their parents as infants perform better in vocabulary and spelling but also in math. Reading supports numeracy. Books are full of numbers and images for counting.

A special thanks to Kim from BookBairn for our November @kidlitpicks theme!

Counting with Barefoot Critters, by Teagan White

“Each rhyming verse leads on to the next. 1 through to 12 and a sweet goodnight.” — Summer from @readingisourthing

I Know Numbers!, by Taro Gomi

“If you have a little learner that’s getting digit-curious, check this book out.” — Katie from @afriendlyaffair

365 Penguins, by Jean-Luc Fromental and Joëlle Jolivet

“As with all the best learning opportunities, it’s done in such a clever way that children will barely notice that they are learning.” — Claire from @alittlebookhabit

Eight Jolly Reindeer, by Ilanit Oliver and Jacqueline Rogers

“Young readers will love counting down from eight to one in this adorable board book featuring Santa’s famous reindeer! .” — Leah from @astoryaday

10, 9, 8 … Owls Up Late!: A Countdown to Bedtime, by Georgiana Deutsch and‎ Ekaterina Trukhan

“It is engaging for little ones –– with peep-through cut-outs and cheeky little owls to count as well as repetitive text that they will soon be able to join in with reading the story.” —  Kim from @bookbairn

Numerical Street, by Antonia Pesenti and Hilary Bell

“It’s quintessentially Australian and nostalgic through the architecture and details in the story, such as the myna birds throughout and the lamingtons/caramel slice/jam rolls and custard tarts at the bakery.” — De from @books_and_babycinos

Roar by Stuart Lynch

“I couldn’t resist the cute little dinos in this board book that introduces little ones to counting from 1-5.” — Carissa from @bookskidslove_


One Leaf, Two Leaves, Count with Me!, by John Micklos Jr. and Clive McFarland

“Fun fall counting book!” — Arielle from @childrensbooksgalore

Joey Counts to Ten, by Sally Morgan“Not just a counting book, this picture book can be used to discuss concepts of time of day, weather, sounds and sights.” — Rossa from @curiouslittlepeople

One Minute, by Somin Ahn “Young children counting down seconds and minutes will come to understand how relative time can be.” — Rossa from @curiouslittlepeople

Grandma’s Tiny House: A Counting Story!, by JaNay Brown-Wood and Priscilla Burris

“This counting and rhyming book is by far the cutest thing I’ve seen all day!.” — Charnaie from @hereweeread


Read my book review here.

Cats Night Out, by Jon Klassen

“Dance through the night with some fabulous felines whose numbers increase two at a time.” — Wendy from @homegrownreader


William’s Winter Nap, by Linda Ashman and Chuck Groenink

“This bedtime tale and it’s kind cast of characters is sure warm your winter chilled heart.” — Heather from @kidlitbookbits

One Family, by George Shannon and Blanca Gomez

“This book works on so many levels: it’s a simple counting story, a little bit of seek and find, and (my favorite!) a lovely introduction to and celebration of diversity in families.” — Anna from @kidlitcrafts

Let’s Count Kisses, by Karen Hull“This is a gentle bedtime story incorporating a lift-the-flap design, Australian animals and counting from 1 to 10.” — Shannon from @ohcreativeday

One Big Turkey, by Anne Vittur Kennedy

“It’s simple and sweet rhyming text gets children counting everything they have to be thankful for, including food, friends, and full bellies!” — Michelle from @the.book.report

And one more for good luck!

How Many Legs?, by Kes Gray and Jim Field

“The book introduces us to a myriad of crazy critters turning up to a party with a varying number of legs and asks us “How many legs?”.” — Fiona from @fee_loves

Your turn: What are some of your favorite counting books for children?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews
December 20, 2017
Mrs. G

Beyond the Book: Shoe Tying Activity & Craft For Kids

We partnered with Disney Books to bring you this fun and easy shoe tying activity for kids.

Using the potty.  Riding a bike without training wheels.  Getting yourself dressed.  Tying your own shoelaces.  Conquering any of these tasks are considered to be childhood milestones that truly set kids apart as “big kids”.  Am I right?

But shoe tying is not necessarily easy to learn or teach, especially with kids under the age of 6.  Developmentally speaking, children are typically capable of independently lacing up and tying their shoes all by themselves by 6 1/2 years of age.  Prior to that age, there is a progression of skills that build up to conquering the ultimate task–shoe tying.  Despite knowing this information, I decided to start introducing the kids to the concept of tying their shoes a little early.  It’s never too soon to start, right?

Before we began our craft activity, we read the latest book in the Elephant and Piggie Like Reading! series by Mo Willems, It’s Shoe Time! by Bryan Collier.  It’s such a cute story about a little African-American girl in search for the perfect pair of shoes.  The book provides a great overall message to kids about individuality and daring to be different.  Who says your socks, shoes or shoelaces always have to match?

I was pleasantly surprised to see this book featured a little Brown girl and her dad!  The kids were thrilled to see Elephant, Piggie and even Pigeon appear in the book.  The Elephant & Piggie Like Reading! series introduces readers to new authors and characters through Mo Willems’ beloved characters.  What a fun surprise!  This book was also great for reinforcing concepts like the matching pairs and the difference between your left foot and right foot.

To make the shoes, I simply printed a free shoe template and glued it to a piece of cardboard for reinforcement.  After the kids colored and decorated their cardboard shoes, it was time to practice tying the laces.  My 4 year-old son had a little bit of a harder time trying to grasp the concept than my 5 year-old daughter.  She’s a tenacious little girl and I have no doubt she’ll get it down after practicing more times and when she’s developmentally ready.

Since my kids seem to retain information better when there’s a catchy rhyme or song to go along with it, we practiced saying this rhyme during our practice sessions:

Bunny ears, Bunny ears, playing by a tree.
Criss-crossed the tree, trying to catch me.
Bunny ears, Bunny ears, jumped into the hole,
Popped out the other side beautiful and bold.

If you’re looking for some help teaching your child to tie his or her laces, I hope you found this activity to be helpful.  And if you’re looking for a fun shoe themed-book to read check out It’s Shoe Time!

Have you already taught your children to tie their laces? What worked for you?

************

Book Featured
It’s Shoe Time! by Bryan Collier (from the Elephant & Piggie Like Reading! series from Mo Willems)

Released November 7th, 2017

Recommended for ages 6-8

About the Book

Tie your laces. Zip your zippers. And tap your toes. It’s…SHOE TIME!

This lyrical beginning-reader by multi award-winning artist Bryan Collier turns the closet on its heel and redefines what it means to be a pair. Beautifully rendered art paired with rich, rhyming dialog creates a powerful reading experience.

Connect With Disney Books!

Visit the Official Website

Follow Disney-Hyperion on Twitter

Check out Disney Books on Facebook and Instagram

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black history
December 2, 2017
Mrs. G

50 Inspirational Bedtime Stories: 50 Amazing Black People Who Changed the World (A Book Review)

50 Inspirational Bedtime Stories: 50 Amazing Black People Who Changed the World by L.A. Amber

Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing
Format: Paperback
Pages: 120
Grade Level: 3-4 and up

Synopsis
Children looking for inspiration will surely find it here. This fun and inspiring collection of influential stories provides fifty illustrated examples of strong, independent role models, all of whom had a profound impact on the world. Personal aspirations from today’s youth are also interspersed throughout the book, so that each story has its own life lesson alongside a positive message. It’s never too soon to start making a difference, and these stories are exhilarating examples of power in action to make for ideal motivation.

Reflection
This gorgeous and colorful book contains 50 short one-page inspirational bedtime stories to share with little readers. It highlights the achievements and stories of fifty notable Black women and men from the 18th century to present day.  There are people like: President Barack Obama, Ida B. Wells, Beyonce Knowles, Michael Jordan, Dr. Patricia Bath, Bob Marley, Nelson Mandela, Bessie Coleman, and more.  It’s perfect for daily reading aloud at bedtime for fifty straight nights in a row!  Each short story takes about 5- 10 minutes to read depending on how fast you read.

Children (and adults) will enjoy reading about political activists, artists, musicians, scientists, athletes, business people, inventors and more. Each individual featured overcame adversities and changed the world for the better in some way. The back matter contains several positive affirmations to say aloud which are great for helping to boost self-esteem.  This book is an amazing and informative resource for Black History Month or anytime of the year!  It’s available to order on Amazon and on the Bedtime Inspirational website.

Your turn: Have you read this book with your little readers yet?  If so, which stories did you enjoy reading the most?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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black history
December 2, 2017
Mrs. G

Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotten by Laura Veirs (A Book Review)

Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotten by Laura Veirs, illustrated by Tatyana Fazlalizadeh

Publisher: Chronicle Books
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 40
Age Range: 5 – 8
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 3

Synopsis
Elizabeth Cotten was only a little girl when she picked up a guitar for the first time. It wasn’t hers (it was her big brother’s), and it wasn’t strung right for her (she was left-handed). But she flipped that guitar upside down and backwards and taught herself how to play it anyway. By age eleven, she’d written “Freight Train,” one of the most famous folk songs of the twentieth century. And by the end of her life, people everywhere—from the sunny beaches of California to the rolling hills of England—knew her music.

Reflection
Prior to reading this book, I had never heard of Elizabeth Cotten before.  Born near Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 1893, Grammy Award Winner Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten (born Elizabeth Nevills) was an African-American blues guitarist who invented “cotten picking.” At age 11, she picked up her brother Claude’s guitar and picked the strings with the instrument upside down and backwards (because she was left-handed), and kept the sound in perfect pitch.  It’s no surprise though since she was constantly surrounded by music and she came from a musical family.

Soon after her first encounter with the guitar her brother moved out to go find a job, taking his guitar with him.  But little Libba didn’t let that stop her.  She was determined to work odd jobs and earn enough money to buy her own guitar.  That’s how much she loved music – it was in her bones.  She wrote her own songs like her most popular one “Freight Train” before she was even thirteen years old.

But soon, Libba would have to go to work for a living as a maid. Times were tough in the 1900’s in the segregated South especially for poor Black females like her.  So Libba put down the guitar and put her musical days behind her.  As the years went on, she married and had children, not returning to the guitar again until she was 60 years old.

Years later, while working as a maid for the Seeger family, who were musicians, Libba started playing the guitar again and the Seeger family recorded her music at home.  The Seeger family truly believed in her talent and helped spread the word about her music.  Libba played shows with big names like Muddy Waters and performed at prestigious cathedrals in London and Rome.  She played until she was well into her 80’s. In 1984, she finally got her big break and won the Grammy Award for “Best Ethnic or Traditional Recording”.  Libba spent her last days in Syracuse, New York until she died in 1987.  Fans of her music might be inspired to visit the park called “Libba Cotten Grove” in Syracuse, New York which still exists today.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this picture book biography and learning about the life of Elizabeth Cotten.  I am inspired by her skills, talent and determination at such a young age.  The story is not only informative, but the plot is very engaging and it flows well.  The gorgeous graphite illustrations and color palette complement the time period of the book so well.  I truly felt like I stepped back in time to the country South in the 1900s.

It was so interesting to see how Libba’s musical life came full circle.  From her early days of sneaking into her brother’s room to play his guitar to winning a Grammy award.  How serendipitous of her to eventually become a live in maid working for such a musical family like the Seegers!  It’s clear Libba’s musical genius deserved to shine in the spotlight even if her career didn’t take off until well into her adulthood.

The back matter includes an author’s note and links to different websites, videos, interviews and recordings of Elizabeth Cotten’s music and her story.  I’d recommend this book for music lovers of all ages who want to learn about a lesser-known African-American female who made a huge impact on the music world.  This would also be a great book to read during Black History Month or Women’s History Month.

Your turn: Have you ever heard of Elizabeth Cotten and shared her story with your little readers?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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