The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt by Riel Nason

When you're a quilt instead of a sheet, being a ghost is hard! 

Ghosts are supposed to be sheets, light as air and able to whirl and twirl and float and soar. But the little ghost who is a quilt can't whirl or twirl at all, and when he flies, he gets very hot.

He doesn't know why he's a quilt. His parents are both sheets, and so are all of his friends. (His great-grandmother was a lace curtain, but that doesn't really help cheer him up.) He feels sad and left out when his friends are zooming around and he can't keep up.

But one Halloween, everything changes. The little ghost who was a quilt has an experience that no other ghost could have, an experience that only happens because he's a quilt . . . and he realizes that it's OK to be different.

Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2025

by Tundra Books

5/5 stars

The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt is one of those picture books that sticks with you -  soft, sweet, and totally adorable. The idea of a ghost made from a cozy quilt instead of a classic sheet is unique, and the story is all about learning to love what makes you different.

Even 25 years later, it still feels fresh and comforting. The illustrations are warm and whimsical and the message is timeless. It’s the kind of book you read as a kid and want to pass down — like a favorite blanket that never gets old.

Perfect for snuggly storytimes or just a feel-good read. Happy anniversary, little ghost! 👻💛

My thanks to Tundra Books for a digital arc in exchange for a honest review.

The Greatest Gift by Kallie George

Mona the mouse has finally found a place to call home, the cozy Heartwood Hotel, where she works as a maid and sleeps snuggled up in a room with her best friend. Following the festive St. Slumber celebration, most of the guests have settled in to hibernate, and the staff is looking forward to a relaxing winter. But disruptions abound, from a difficult duchess to a mysterious midnight snacker. As the snow stacks higher, Mona will have to gather friends both old and new to keep the peace, finding help in some of the most unexpected places.

The second book in the enchanting Heartwood Hotel series, The Greatest Gift will warm your heart with its endearing characters and exquisite illustrations.

Hardcover, 176 pages

Published July 3, 2017 

by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

4/5 stars

Book 2 in the Heartwood Hotel Series is a story for young readers. It is wonderfully illustrated and features a heartwarming story.

From the point of view of Mona, the mouse, she has finally settled in to a place that she calls home. Winter has come and most of the guests have settled in to hibernate. The rest of the staff are looking forward to a relaxing couple of months. But of course that all changes when a difficult customer, a snowstorm and other adventures take over.

The Greatest Gift is a story of friendship, working together and finding support in unexpected places. This series has four books in it, I hope to review the remaining 2 before years end

This book was part of my 2024 reading off my shelf challenge

The Hiding Place: a Graphic Novel by Corrie ten Boom

It's World War II.

Darkness has fallen over the world as the Nazis spread fear and hatred.

No one feels safe.

But on a quiet city corner in Holland one woman fights against injustice and darkness. In her quiet watchmaking shop, Corrie ten Boom and her close-knit family risk their lives to hide hundreds of Jews and others hunted by the Nazis in a secret hiding place they built into the old building.

Until one day when Corrie and her family are betrayed. They're captured and sent in cattle cars to the notorious Nazi concentration camps to die. Yet even in that darkest of places, Corrie still fights.

This is her true story, now a graphic novel.

Hardcover, 240 pages

Published April 9, 2024

 by Chosen Books

5/5 stars

I don’t read a lot of graphic novels, but I jumped when this became available at the library.

I already know the story of Corrie Ten Boom, her sister Betsy and the watchmaking shop.  But I was intrigued to see how this story would work since it's target audience is children. There are some mature things that take place and I was curious.

The illustrations were nicely done, the layout of the house along with the hiding places was illustrated with accuracy.  The story stayed true to history with sensitivity without shying away from what took place.  

I think it’s a story that all ages should read, to know what took place in the Netherlands during the war. A story that will open up opportunities for discussions.

Coming in at 240 pages it is condensed from the original but doesn’t shy away from the true events. A book I recommend for all ages.

The Skull: A Tyrolean Folktale by Jon Klassen

Caldecott Medalist and New York Times best-selling author-illustrator Jon Klassen delivers a deliciously macabre treat for folktale fans.

Jon Klassen's signature wry humor takes a turn for the ghostly in this thrilling retelling of a traditional Tyrolean folktale. In a big abandoned house, on a barren hill, lives a skull. A brave girl named Otilla has escaped from terrible danger and run away, and when she finds herself lost in the dark forest, the lonely house beckons. Her host, the skull, is afraid of something too, something that comes every night. Can brave Otilla save them both? Steeped in shadows and threaded with subtle wit—with rich, monochromatic artwork and an illuminating author’s note— The Skull is as empowering as it is mysterious and foreboding.

Hardcover, 112 pages

Published July 11, 2023

 by Candlewick

4/5 stars

The Skull is a retelling of an old folktale, also called The Skull. There are great author notes at the end which gives Klassen's motivation and how he began his journey to write this book. It was in Alaska where he first read the story, The Skull and try as I might I cannot find the original version. 

The Skull is a story of a girl who runs away from home and makes a friend in an unlikely place and honestly an unlikely friend, a skull. What follows is a story of a girl finding her strength, while facing danger and finds refuge in a huge but lonely house in the dark woods.

One might think this would be a scary story for children, but it’s not. The illustrations throughout this book are many and breathe life into the story. This was an impulse purchase for me and a fun read.

This book was part of my 2023 reading off my shelf challenge and it’s book number 49.

Scary Fairy in Wicked Wood by Jana Bauer

Have you ever met a fairy that romps about, disturbs the peace, corrupts the young and swears? 

Watch out, here comes Scary Fairy!

 Banished by her grandmother after breaking one of her beloved china teacups, she decides to search for pastures new, landing at the whim of Southern Wind in Wicked Wood. Wicked Wood is only occasionally wicked, but full of delightful animals with strong characters. 

Living in Wicked Wood are motherly Owl, and thoughtful Bear, grumpy Hedgehog, highly-strung Squirrel, poetic Salamander and many others. 

The animals of Wicked Wood have no idea how dramatically the stubborn, brave and crafty Scary fairy will change their lives.

DIgital copy, 106 pages

Published April 19th, 2022

by Kind Word Publishing

 Caroline Thaw (Illustrator)

 David Limon (Translator)

3.5/5 stars

This was a digital read for me, on my tiny screen the illustrations were lovely so I imagine that a print copy would really nice.  The colors are subtle enough to showcase the characteristics of this forect critter group.

Given the title Scary Fairy in Wicked Wood sets the stage for a little bit of a darker story with some mean spirited animals.  The story progresses in chapter form with a variety of characters and events. It's perfect for a chapter a night bedtime story.  

Scary Fairy is a whimsical story, funny at times and also might appeal to an older audience because of

Review: Winnie's Great War by Lindsay Mattick, Josh Greenhut, Sophie Blackall (Illustrations)

A wartime adventure unfolds through the eyes of the world’s most beloved Bear. 

The story of the real bear that inspired Winnie-the-Pooh has been capturing readers’ imaginations since the publication of the Caldecott Medal award-winning picture book, Finding Winnie.

But there was so much left to be told – not just about Winnie, but about the great world events she witnessed. Now, the creative team behind the bestselling picture book has reunited to bring you Winnie’s Great War.

In a triumphant blending of deeply researched history and magnificent imagination, we follow our irrepressible Bear on her journey -- from her infancy in the woods of Ontario, to her unlikely friendship with Captain Harry Colebourn and her time as the mascot of the Second Canadian Infantry Brigade, to her experiences in wartime London before she met Christopher Robin Milne.

Told in beautifully crafted language and infused with Sophie Blackall’s irresistible renderings of an endearing bear, the book is also woven through with actual entries from Captain Harry Colebourn’s wartime diaries. The result is a one-of-kind exploration of the realities of war, the meaning of courage, and the indelible power of friendship, all told through the historic adventures of one extraordinary bear.

Hardcover, 244 pages

Published September 18th, 2018

by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

****

Winnie’s Great War is the story of Winnie the Pooh told by the great great grandson of Lt Harry Colebourn, the man who found a lone bear cub.

In the middle of the Woods was a tree, and at the bottom of the tree was a hole, and out of the hole poked a big black pad of a nose, which sniffed the air to see whether anyone was around.

Beginning in Winnipeg, traveling across Canada to England this is an endearing story of the famous bear beloved by many. I’ll confess to not knowing his story - weird right!?

I loved the illustrations throughout this book as well as actual photos and other historical facts. Winnie had a voice here as well as other animals which were a nice touch, though a little confusing as to who was speaking at times, but not enough to ruin my enjoyment of this little gem. 

A great little book, perfect for bedtime storytime for all ages.

My copy from personal library and part of my ‘reading off my shelf challenge’

Review: Escape From the Tower (The Royal Rabbits of London #2) by Santa Montefiore, Simon Sebag Montefiore

‘Packed with fun, fantasy and the sort of adventure guaranteed to have sticky little fingers hungrily turning the pages’ The Mail on Sunday

 Life is an adventure. Anything in the world is possible – by will and by luck, with a moist carrot, a wet nose and a slice of mad courage!

 Little Shylo Tawny-Tail is proud to call himself one of the Royal Rabbits of London, a secret order who live under Buckingham Palace and fight evil across the world. But high up in London’s famous skyscraper, the Shard, the horrible Ratzis are plotting to cause chaos during a visit from the President of the United States. And when the Grand Burrow is attacked and Shylo is kidnapped, it looks as though they might just manage it! Can Shylo escape in time to save the day?

The Hobbit meets Fantastic Mr Fox meets Watership Down in this bestselling series from Santa Montefiore and Simon Sebag Montefiore, which proves even the smallest rabbit can be the biggest hero. Featuring illustrations throughout by award-winning illustrator Kate Hindley.

PRAISE FOR THE ROYAL RABBITS OF LONDON: ‘The Royal Rabbits of London is sweet, funny and beautifully illustrated' The Times ‘Enchanting….Kate Hindley’s illustrations are a treat’ The Lady

Hardcover, 224 pages

Published September 21st 2017

by Simon Schuster Children's UK

****

"Life is an adventure and anything in the world is possible - by will and by luck, a moist carrot, a wet nose and a slice of mad courage."

It was through searching for more Santa Mortefiore books that I discovered this series for middle grade and younger (even older). 

Call this a short and sweet review.  Perfect for the targeted audience with adventure and suspense.  The illustrations were great connecting the reader and characters.  You are stronger than you think, courageous when you don't feel like it.  Yea not just a good story but good morals for little ones.

click on cover for my 'short and sweet' review

Review: Falcon Wild by Terry Lynn Johnson

 "I back up as Cooper did and then sprint toward the edge. Just as I'm about to launch myself across the crevice, a hot wave of nausea grips me. I stumble at the last second. My leap is not enough to propel me to the other side. I reach for the edge.

 And miss." 

 Thirteen-year-old Karma is lost in the backcountry of Montana with her falcon, Stark, and a runaway boy named Cooper. She's desperate to find help for her dad and brother after they find themselves in a terrible accident on a back road.

 Karma wouldn't be in this mess if her parents hadn't insisted on returning Stark to the bird's original owner. Life at her father's bird sanctuary--and Karma's dreams of becoming an apprentice falconer--will never be the same now that she has to give Stark back. Lost in the wild, her bond with the tamed falcon only grows stronger. All the while, Cooper gets his own lessons on how to trust in newfound friendship.

 Both Karma's and Cooper's mettle is tested by mountain terrain, wild animals, severe weather, injury, and their own waning hope as this edge-of-your-seat adventure story vividly portrays the special bonds that can form between humans and animals.

 Hardcover, 176 pages 

Published September 19th 2017 

by Charlesbridge
*****

I used to use the excuse that I read middle grade and children's book to see what would appeal to my boys and as time went by for the grandkids.  But the plain truth is that I love these books and I don't read nearly enough of them.  Now mind you I do have boundaries, not being a fan of fantasy or sci-fi, I am always on the lookout for adventure type story's, ones that feature the great outdoors and coming of age themes.  So when I discovered Canadian author Terry Lynn Johnson I knew I'd hit gold.

Beginning with Ice Dogs and Dogsled Dreams I have been avidly waiting for more great stories.  Imagine my shock in discovering Falcon Wild months after it's release. (I read this last fall and realized I never posted my review).  One of the things that stands out for me is the author's love of nature, it shines through in her writing.  With Falcon Wild it wasn't just about a couple of kids lost in the wilderness, I was given a glimpse of the beauty and harshness of the environment.  The feelings of hope and hopelessness,  respect and appreciation of animals and nature shine through.  Karma and Copper are challenged on many levels and I enjoyed reading about it.  The lessons on falconry were fun and educational.

Terry Lynn Johnson has a wonderful blog that highlight not just her books but where she draws inspiration.  Check it out at TerryLynnJohnson.com

My print copy from personal library.

Review: Heartwood Hotel, Book 1 A True Home by Kallie George, Stephanie Graegin (Illustrations)

When Mona the Mouse stumbles across the wondrous world of the Heartwood Hotel in the middle of a storm, she desperately hopes they'll let her stay. As it turns out, Mona is precisely the maid they need at the grandest hotel in Fernwood Forest, where animals come from far and wide for safety, luxury, and comfort. But the Heartwood Hotel is not all acorn souffl and soft moss-lined beds. Danger lurks, and as it approaches, Mona finds that this hotel is more than a warm place to spend the night. It might also be a home.

This delightfully enticing start of a new chapter book series tells a tale of friendship, courage, and community, with exquisite black-and-white illustrations throughout.

Paperback, 176 pages 

Published July 3rd 2017 

by Disney-Hyperion

****

Heartwood Hotel, with the secret entrance hidden in a tree, a place of refuge for lost creatures of the wilderness, those that are easy prey for larger beasts of the woods. What an absolutely delightful little story, it reminded me of The Wind in the Willows and Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nim.

With the storm raging Mona accidentally stumbles upon this little place of refuge and gets more than she bargained. With a wonderful cast of characters from the animal kingdom this is a story of friendship, courage and compassion. There is danger and adventure here but toned down for the targeted age.

With lovely penciled drawings scattered throughout I suggest either a print copy or reading in a tablet (sorry but a kindle won't do it justice).

Thanks to Disney Book Group for an ARC

Praise for the Magical Animal Adoption Agency series

 "[This] gentle tale of magic and self-reliance will entertain confident new independent readers. Clover's sweet story is a good next step for lovers of the Magic Tree House." -Kirkus Reviews 

"Readers will be envious of the world of magic that Clover becomes ensconced in and eager to read future installments." -Publishers Weekly

 "[A] charming story, delicately written, with a winning heroine. . . [and] a conclusion that will satisfy young readers." -Booklist Online

 "Graduates of sparkly chapter-book series will be right at home and looking for the next installment posthaste." -Kirkus Reviews

 "[T]he gentle but intrepid Clover continues to charm." -Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (less)

Review: The Blue Hour by Isabelle Simler

A lovely and tranquil celebration of nature The sun has set, the day has ended, but the night hasn't quite arrived yet. This magical twilight is known as the blue hour. Everything in nature sky, water, flowers, birds, foxes comes together in a symphony of blue to celebrate the merging of night and day.

With its soothing text and radiant artwork, this elegant picture book displays the majesty of nature and reminds readers that beauty is fleeting but also worth savoring."

Hardcover Expected publication: February 20th 2017 

by Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
****

This is a very blue book, as the sunsets the world turns blue.  There are wonderful illustrations here, bright, realistic and sure to keep the attention of readers.  With a wonderful array of unique animals and plants showing this wonderful planet.  The map at the end finished this book off nicely depicting each critter and where they live.

The Blue House is a perfect bedtime story while at the same time great for older children introducing them to different, colorful and animals they might not be familiar with.

Thanks to the publisher via Netgalley for an advanced copy.

Review: Helen Thayer's Arctic Adventure: A Woman and a Dog Walk to the North Pole by Sally Isaacs, Iva Sasheva (Illustrations)

This picture book tells the thrilling story of a woman from New Zealand who walked alone from Canada all the way to the magnetic North Pole; well, alone except for Charlie, the best and most protective dog on the globe.

 Hardcover Published January 1st 2016 by Capstone Press

source: ebook via netgalley

****

Helen Thayer's Arctic Adventure is exactly what the title says.  What makes this book so special, not only is it based on a true story but the messages it conveys.  Helen is 50 years old when she started this trek.  At first wanting to be alone she was talked into taking a Canadian Inuit Husky with her, she named him Charlie.  This adventure was something that she took seriously and trained hard for.  She planned and prepared.  Enduring polar bears and the weather they stuck together and overcame what nature put in their path. They didn't give up but persevered.

The illustrations were wonderful, depicting the barren land with its snow and hollowing winds.  Very easy to feel the elements.  The colorful pages are what brings this book to life, I would recommend reading on a colored tablet or the print copy.

This story is direct and to the point, it is perfect for the targeted age (middle grade).  I loved its message - that no matter your age/gender you can follow you dreams, by working hard, planning and being prepared your can do anything.

Thank you to Netgalley for bringing this book to my attention,  the author herself has penned a more in depth story of this 'adventure' called Polar Dreams and sits nestled on my tbr pile.

Review: Thérèse Makes a Tapestry by Alexandra S.D. Hinrichs, Renée Graef (Illustrator)

Step back in time to seventeenth-century Paris with Thérèse, a talented young girl who lives and works at the Gobelins Manufactory, where Europe’s greatest artisans make tapestries and luxury objects for King Louis XIV.

Even though girls are not trained on the great looms there, Thérèse practices on a small one at home and dreams of becoming a royal weaver someday. This charming story follows Thérèse as she carries out an ambitious plan with the help of family, friends, and the artisans of the Gobelins.

The intricate craft of tapestry weaving is illuminated, and surprises await Thérèse, her parents and brothers, and even the king himself.

Children’s book author Alexandra S. D.Hinrichs here breathes vivid life into a delightful tale full of fun twists and an appealing cast of characters. Original paintings by award-winning artist Renée Graef playfully illustrate the book, as well as the many steps involved in the creation of the famous Gobelins tapestries, from dying wool and making silver thread, to painting and copying the elaborate designs, to the delicate art of weaving. Thérèse’s fictional adventures are inspired by real people, the actual Gobelins Manufactory, and a beautiful tapestry that hangs today in the J. Paul Getty Museum.

Hardcover, 40 pages 

Expected publication: March 8th 2016 by Getty Publications

ARC from Getty Publications via Netgally

****

This is a delightful story of a young girl with ambition and drive.  Thérèse is a fictional character though the Gobelins Manufactory is real, as is King Louis XIV of France.

Thérèse isn't trained to weave but wanting to make something special for her father she undertakes a huge project.  I loved her drive and the way she worked out how to make it happen.  The book does a great job of explaining what is involved in weaving and the process of making a tapestry.

Though I read this on my iPad to appreciate the illustrations the hardcover would be the way to go.  The full page vivid pictures really brings this story to life.

The historical notes and glossary are a nice finishing touch, not just entertaining but educational as well.  Thank you to Getty Publications for an arc for review purposes.

Review: Inspector Dewey by Kristen Heimerl, illustrated by Irene Bofill ​

My name is Dewey--Inspector Dewey.

I live in the big green house on Hampshire Avenue with my family: Thumper, Lily, and Anna. I am the Big Cat—responsible for keeping everyone safe and in order. I do this quite well, in spite of the fact that managing my family is like, well, herding cats!

Mostly our life is peaceful. But one night it wasn’t. That was the night the bad guy showed up on our block. Of course, I knew exactly how to outsmart the outlaw, but—miserable mullet!—would Anna and the police understand my instructions?

To find out how the adventure ended, you’ll have to read my book. But I’ll give you a hint: there’s a reason I’m called Inspector Dewey.

Fifty percent of the profits from the sale of this book will fund veterinary care for pets whose families are in financial need, so that the animals can remain in their homes and out of the shelter system.

Category:  Children's Fiction,  32 pages Genre:  Mystery Publisher:  Orange Frazer Press Release date:  September 2015 

paperback - from author (thank you)

*****

This is a delightful  book, sure to tickle any child's imagination.  As you can see from the cover above, Inspector Dewey is an interesting cat.  He lives with 2 friends, Lily and Thumper as well as a human friend Anna.  When awoken in the middle of the night by unusual noises Dewey dawns his inspector cap. 

This book is written for the young reader and also makes a pretty good book to read (over and over) to younger ones as well.

The illustrations are bright, colorful enhancing the story perfectly.  The font side is just right with just enough words on each page without feeling crowded or overwhelming.

The authors love of animals is evident with 50% of the proceeds going to pet care for owners in need of financial assistance.

BECAUSE PETS BELONG WITH THEIR PEOPLE™

To learn more, visit threenorwegians.com

Buy the book:   Amazon  ~  Barnes and Noble

Marketing Officer, Strategy Expert, Innovator and Brand Builder, Kristen’s business career spans 20+ years serving the biggest brands in industry and the biggest hearts of start-ups and entrepreneurs. Kristen revels in bringing compelling products and services to life and helping leaders and individuals with big dreams realize their big goals.

Kristen’s life joys include her 2+ year obsession creating the most beautiful self-published picture book possible, the breathtaking forests and lakes of her Minnesota birthplace, the family that really does love her no matter what, and her three magnificent Norwegian Forest Cats who together, with Kristen, helped catch the bad guy on their block that inspired her upcoming book (stake out and high speed chase included!)

She holds a master of science in eCommerce from Carnegie Mellon University, an MBA from the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management, and a BA from the University of St. Thomas. As the great transformer in her life, Kristen supports others’ education and literacy as an adjunct professor of business and strategy and, more recently, through her children’s book, Inspector Dewey (Available September 2015).

Kristen’s site for her work “Inspector Dewey” will be premiering on May 31st, 2015. In addition, you can read more about Kristen’s work at threenorwegians.com, also live on May 31st.

Connect with Kristen:   Website  ~   Facebook Author  ~   Facebook Inspector Dewey  

Aug 31 - Library of Clean Reads - review / giveaway

Aug 31 - Christy's Cozy Corners - review / giveaway

Aug 31 - Tragically Dull Adventures of an Almost Librarian - review

Sept 1 -  View from the Birdhouse - review / giveaway

Sept 2 -  A Mama's Corner of the World - review / giveaway

Sept 3 -  The Cheshire Cat's Looking Glass - review / giveaway

Sept 4 -  Bound 4 Escape - review / giveaway

Sept 7 - Tales of the Marvelous - review / guest post

Sept 8 - #redhead.with.book - review / giveaway

Sept 9 - Roughseasinthemed - review / author interview / giveaway

Sept 10 - Collecting Moments - review / author interview

Sept 11 - A Splendid Messy Life - review / giveaway

Sept 14 - Kimber Leigh Writes - review / giveaway

Sept 15 - Book Loving Hippo - review / guest post / giveaway

Sept 16 - Bookworm for Kids - review / giveaway

Sept 17 - Tea and a Book - review / author interview

Sept 18 - Thoughts in Progress - review / guest post / giveaway

Sept 21 - Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers - review / giveaway

Sept 22 - Experiencing Parenthood - review

Sept 23 - Working Mommy Journal - review / giveaway

Sept 24 - Mochas, Mysteries and Meows - review / author interview / giveaway

Sept 25 - Create With Joy - review / giveaway

Sept 25 - JBronder Book Reviews - review / guest post

Sept 26 - Writers and Authors - review

Sept 28 - One Frugal Girl - review / author interview / giveaway

Sept 29 -  Just One More Chapter - review

Sept 30 - Jessica Cassidy - review / author interview / giveaway

Oct 1 - Mrs. Mommy Booknerd's Book Reviews - review

Oct 1 - The Pen and Muse Book Reviews - review / author interview / giveaway

Oct 2 - Jorie Loves a Story - review / guest post

Oct 2 - Books, Movies, Reviews. Oh my! - review

Aoleon The Martian Girl - The Luminess of Mars by Brent LeVasseur

Science Fiction Saga - Aoleon The Martian Girl - The Luminess of Mars

Aoléon and Gilbert receive a special mission from PAX, a wanted criminal and leader of the Martian resistance movement to investigate the Luminon of Mars, who he suspects is planning an invasion of Earth to steal its milk cows. Gilbert has an encounter with the Luminess (the mate of the Luminon) and discovers something strange about her during a procession, and the duo are chased by the Royal Paladin Guard.

At Aoléon’s home, Gilbert meets Aoléon’s family, her sister Una, mother Phobos and father Deimos as well as her overzealous pet Zoot. He is also introduced to Bizwat, a covert operator and Procyon Commando, who uses his Saturn Pizza delivery job as a cover.

Gilbert then gets to visit the Martian Space Academy (Aoléon’s school) where he encounters Aoléon’s nemesis, Charm Lepton and her friend Quarkina, as well as receiving a history lesson on the Martian people by Plutarch Xenocrates. After class, Gilbert and Aoléon get to train in zero-G and Gilbert is treated to a Psi-ball match between Martian Space Academy and Martian Science Academy.
 

Kindle Edition, 114 pages

Published February 23rd 2015 by Aoléon Press

ebook provided as part of this tour

****

The 2nd of 5 parts to this the story of Aoleon and Gilbert.  Again as with the first book, Aoleon the Martian Girl, this is a nice illustrated story.  The colors are vivid and bright, totally capturing the essence of this story. It is great to put faces to names and places, this fits the bill nicely.

Continuing where book one left off, Aoleon and Gilbert head off to school and social events.  Even though their backgrounds are worlds apart there are things that are quite similar.  Bulling, pizza and petty jealously (to name just a few) are encountered here, but because there are more books in this series this book seems to be preparing the way for more exciting adventures with this pair.  I like both Aoleon and Gilbert with different personalities together they bring this story to life.

I am reading my ebook on iPad to take advantage of the color pictures, this I highly recommend or read on your computer.  Definitely not a stand alone story, they should be read in sequence to get full enjoyment.


Mr. LeVasseur enjoys crafting good stories based on lovable characters designed to translate well to multiple media formats such as books, games, movies, and toys. He lives in New York when he is not commuting between Southern California and Olympus Mons, Mars. His hobbies include writing, 3D animation, musical composition, and intergalactic space travel. He also enjoys various sports such as skiing, running, and exospheric skydiving.


Connect with Brent:   Website  ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook  ~  Aoléon: The Martian Girl

 

Kika the Upside-Down Girl by Jessica Tudos (Review/Interview/Giveaway)

Kika always seems to accomplish things differently than others and tends to get into trouble for it. She reminds us that choosing to be different is more than okay, and finding others to join in her upside down adventures makes her heart feel huge - especially when it involves somersaults, vaults, flips and kips! Join Kika, a girl who loves living upside down in a right side up world, on her unique journey to a fliptastic world! Kika reminds us that choosing to be different is more than okay, and finding others to join in her upside down adventures feels fliptastic - especially when it involves somersaults, vaults, flips and kips in the Gymnastics Emporium!

 

Hardcover, 1st

Published September 14th 2014

I read this book to my 4 year old grandson, Seth.  We both enjoyed it, he giggled loving the antics of Kika.  Kika is a confident child who knows what she wants and isn't afraid or embarrassed to let it be known.  I love that with this book, it shows that if you have a dream to go for it.

This is a well crafted book, the front cover is very eye catching and the illustrations throughout the book are bright, cheerful and at times witty. 

This story flows nicely, the pictures matching the story perfectly with font size just right.  A great book that will appeal to boys and girls alike, but I imagine the young gymnasts out there will really enjoy it.

The author, Jessica Tudos is here today to also talk about this lovely book.

Why was it important to write Kika The Upside-Down Girl? 

As an Olympic gymnast who spent 10,000+ hours upside down, I feel Kika The Upside Down Girl is a platform from which to engage, inspire, and entertain kids as they explore what it means to be themselves no matter what others think, specially when it’s a bit upside down in a right side up world! 

Who has been the biggest influence on your writing?

I’d have to say the biggest influence on my writing has been my son. It was while I was reading to him that I realized there were no picture books out there about gymnasts. I really started to believe I could so something about it and I kept thinking about his reaction to an actual book. As much as the story is based on my own experiences “finding” gymnastics, it is my son who made me think about the words and meaning – I want him to feel proud of his mom’s book!

Where does book writing fit into your life?

As an experiential educator, motivational speaker, mom and partner, I do a balancing act everyday to keep everything organized and moving forward. I love my lists and flexible work schedule which allows me to focus more on certain tasks when need be. When I’m working on Kika the Upside-Down Girl, I work at night after my son is asleep and in the pauses of the day. As long as things engaging and moving forward, I feel successful and satisfied.

If people could remember one thing about Kika, what would it be?

I’d like people to remember how hard it is to really be yourself and stick to your guns. Kika loves living upside down despite the pressure she feels to be right side up, like everyone else. We all feel a version of this in life, and I’d like people who meet Kika to feel empowered to stay the course and be confident and courageous in the face of the pressure to conform. When one follows their true path, it is so worth it!

Do you have any tips for families who struggle to maintain healthy, active lifestyles?

Find the things that work with YOUR family – whether it is playing soccer in the backyard, flying a kite in the park, raking leaves, dancing in tutus in the living room – it doesn’t matter what you do, but that you actually do it. Let the kids decide what they want to do to help their bodies move and grow (I give options, seems to help a lot!). I always try to balance scheduled classes with some spontaneous “we’re going outside to see what we can do” play.

What are your fondest memories from the Olympics?

Marching out into the Olympic stadium wearing my official uniform and realizing that I was actually participating in the Olympic Games, the same ones I had watched on TV years ago, was really was a dream come true. Day two of the competition where I got a 9.7 for my uneven bars routine was a highlight, as was trading pins, I deserved a gold medal for my pin trading!

What would surprise people most about you?

Hardest question so far – I am a pretty open book! Perhaps it’s that I have been a single mom by choice during these first four years of my son’s life. Approaching 40, I realized that coupledom motherhood was not in the cards so I had a choice to make. So happy to have made this choice, as Sebastian is a true joy and an adventure and a half! Interestingly, I have now met a wonderful partner and we are creating a life together so you never know how life will go… perhaps my family story is a bit backwards, but being an upside down girl, I can’t really be too surprised!

Where to buy the book:

 Amazon    Chapters-Indigo    Barnes & Noble

Olympic gymnast turned author, motivational speaker and experiential educator Jessica Tudos (JessicaTudos.com) is on a mission to empower kids, youth and adults to develop the confidence and resiliency required to lead active, healthy and creative lives. In organizations around the world, Jessica empowers audiences through engaging stories, insights & reflections drawn from her upside down life, including her Olympic gymnastics adventures. Jessica is a sought after speaker, facilitator and professor in experiential education, physical literacy, leadership & elite sports.

Connect with Jessica:  Website  ~   Twitter  ~   Facebook

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