Monday, July 30, 2012

Book Reviews Self Published Children's Books

I've recently had the chance to review a couple self published children's books that I wanted to spotlight here on Mundie Moms.

Written by: Armin Vit
Illustrated by: Bryony Gomez-Palacio
Published by: UnderConsideration LLC
Source: book from publisher to review
4 stars: We Really Enjoyed It
Purchase: HERE

This is a fun, personalized, creative book for young kids. It's one that allows you to create a character based on your child. By choosing the name, hair, skin, and favorite color, the creators behind this wonderful book are able to match your child with the layout of their story. My daughter was thrilled to see her name in a book, and couldn't get over the fact we were reading a story about her. 

From being apart of the Circus, to diving into the deep ocean blue, to exploring outer-space, this book is packed full of adventure and fun. It's one that kids ages 2-6 will absolutely enjoy when they are read a book with their name in it and see their character in each scene. Here's an example from one of the scenes from the book:
Each book is hand crafted and made here in Austin, TX! To learn more about this book or to customize a book for your child, grandchild, godchild, niece, nephew etc, visit The Adventures of YOU and I site here


*not actual cover, image from author's site*

Illustrated by: Phil Ashworth
Published by: self published
Released on: February 3rd, 2012
Source: book from author to review, signed, donating to local elementary school
Ages: 9 & up
Purchase from: Amazon 

When I was first approached to review Andrew's debut book, my first response was to say no. Not, because I didn't want to review the book, but because I've been swamped this year with reading/reviews, and life in general. Something stopped me from saying no, and that was Andrew's mission. Per his email to me, and I'm only quoting part of it, which you can also read about on his website. Being a teacher and writer, Andrew published a collection of illustrated poetry and turned into this book with the hopes of donating as many copies as possible to a variety of children's places- schools, hospitals, libraries, shelters etc. To the date of his email to me he had given away 1,900 copies already. How could I say no to that? This signed copy will also make it's way in a stack of books I've gathered and will be sent to a library that's being established for poor children who have no books. I know, sad isn't it. 

So let me tell you, this book is great. It read a little like the classic fairy tale book I had when I was younger. Some poems I got and enjoyed, others I didn't really care of, and some were down right hilarious. The illustrations match each poem perfectly! There's a little something for everyone in this book, and it's one I'd recommend to those who love collections of poems. 

Friday, July 27, 2012

Book Review: Ring Force by Brian Brown

Illustrated by: Nathan Love
Released on: 7/17/12
Ages: 8 & up
Source: book from publisher to review
4 stars: I Enjoyed It!
Purchase from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Series: RingForce

When you believe in your dream … all is possible.



That was the message on the poster hanging on Booker’s bedroom wall—the poster of the greatest boxer of all time, Olympic gold medalist Muhammad Ali.

Booker dreamed of being an Olympian too. He was fast. Really fast. Sometimes he could even outrun the elevated train as it roared by on the platform outside his apartment building.

But little did he know when that freakish snowstorm hit Brooklyn one sunny spring day, his incredible speed would lead him to a destiny greater than he ever could have imagined: a chance to join an elite force fighting for the hopes and dreams of the whole entire world. -quoted from NBC Publishing's site

An engaging, fun read to get your kids ready for the Olympics, RINGFORCE is an exciting new book that kids of all ages will enjoy. This book isn't just about the adventure of 5 young kids who are thrown into a mission to keep the Olympic torch going, and to save the world, it also sends kids an extremely powerful, and positive message about the importance of "Following Your Dreams". I loved the author Brian Brown's experience with working a vast number of Olympic events played a big role in his ability to capture his readers attention, and teach them about Olympics, and as well as giving his readers a positive story line that will uplift and motive them.

RINGFORCE follows the story of a young kid named Booker. That's not his real name, but a nick name he earned from the time he was little, because of his ability to run incredibly fast. Booker's a kid who's strong and brave, and someone who's still reeling from the death of his dad. In trying to cope with the way things are now, he often refers back to the influence his father had on him. He not only instilled in him the pride that comes from his Latino heritage, but he encouraged to learn about the men and women who never gave up on their dreams, and made history in the various Olympics. His dad taught him to believe in himself and in the power of hard work. He also made sure his son understood the importance of "When You Believe In Your Dream... All Is Possible". A message that rang true throughout this fast paced, entertaining read.  

One of my favorite parts of this book is when Booker finds himself among some greats on Mt Olympus. There, he and four other kids from each of the countries that the Olympic rings represent, are coached along with kids from each of the 209 countries who send delegates to the Olympics. It's Booker and his 4 new friends who learn and have only begun to understand the importance of their roles in this new world, and how they will help in saving the world. The fact the this book takes place in both the real world, and in a make believe/historical place make it all the more intriguing. It's truly a fantastic blend excitement, action, and that pride that comes from watching (or in this case reading), about anything and everything related to the Olympics. I highly recommend picking this book up! I'm looking forward to reading more from Brian Brown. 

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Book Review: Whatever After Fairest of All by Sarah Mlynowski

Published by: Scholastic
Released on: May 2012
Source: ARC from publisher at ALA
Ages: 8 & up
4 stars: I Enjoyed It!
Purchase from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Series: Book 1, Whatever After Series

A fresh, modern spin on a classic fairy tale--from bestselling author Sarah Mlynowski! Mirror, mirror, on the basement wall . . . Once upon a time my brother and I were normal kids. The next minute? The mirror in our basement slurped us up and magically transported us inside Snow White's fairy tale. I know it sounds crazy, but it's true. But hey -- we're heroes! We stopped Snow White from eating the poisoned apple. Hooray! Or not. If Snow White doesn't die, she won't get to meet her prince. And then she won't get her happy ending. Oops. Now it's up to us to: Avoid getting poisoned- Sneak into a castle- Fix Snow White's story. And then, fingers crossed, find our way home. -quoted from Goodreads

A fun spin on a beloved classic, Sarah Mlynowski takes what I loved about Snow White and gives this adventure a hilarious, modern day spin. 

What if you had a magical mirror and it transported you into your favorite fairy tale, only not everything happens how you remembered it? That's exactly what happens to Abby and her younger brother Jonah. Only they don't end up in the Disney version of Snow White. When they're pulled through the magic mirror that lies in their basement, it some how puts them in the middle of Snow White's story. Their being doesn't just alter the way story is told, it could change the way it all ends. 

Don't worry, it doesn't change everything. This story still includes an evil Queen who's set on killing Snow White, a talking mirror, a Prince, and a Huntsman. There's also 7 dwarfs, but they're not Happy, Doc, Grumpy, Sneezy, Sleepy, Dopey and Bashful. These 7 dwarfs a little different, but they non the less will do whatever they can to help Snow White. And the Prince? That's just say this charming fellow gets a little help in this story as well.

This is a fairy tale mix up fans of all ages can enjoy. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in Sarah's new MG series, Whatever After. 


Monday, July 23, 2012

Marvelous Middle Grade Monday: (Book Reviews) Heirs of Prophecy / Tools of Prophecy by Michael A. Rothman



Published by: M&S Publishing
Released on: April 3rd, 2012
Source: book from author/publisher to review/blog tour
Ages: 10 & up
3 Stars: It's A Good Read
Purchase from:  Amazon | IndieBound | Barnes & Noble
View the book trailer HERE

The Riverton family had been enjoying a simple summer vacation when, through a fluke of nature, they found themselves in a strange new land. The Riverton brothers quickly realize that in this world, they have gained unusual powers. Powers that their parents fear will attract the attention of Azazel himself - the merciless wizard who brutally controls this world.

The two brothers soon learn that an ancient prophecy has finally been initiated by their arrival in Trimoria. As the heirs of this prophecy, they are destined to lead the armies of men, dwarves, elves, and even a misfit ogre against the prophesied demon horde.Only one thing stands in their way. The evil wizard who has learned of their presence, and has sent assassins to wipe them from existence. -quoted from Goodreads

Fans of fantasy will enjoy this new series from Michael Rothman. Packed with adventure, plenty of fantasy elements, and an age appropriate romance, readers of all ages will enjoy this new magical journey into a land unlike any other.

For the Riverton family, a fun summer vacation to AZ sounded like the perfect retreat from their beautiful home in the Pacific Northwest. Little did they know their trip would forever change their lives, as they are transported to a magical land unlike anything they ever imagined. It's here upon their arrival in a land full of magic, mythical beings, and danger do they learn their boys's arrivals had long been foretold in an ancient prophecy. In fulfilling their destiny, Aaron and Ryan both inherit strong magical abilities. In land where those who possess magic are banned/killed, both boys learn to grow up fast and quickly learn how to harness their new found abilities.

I really enjoyed the fantasy element of this book, and the adventure this family goes on. While this story follows the brothers, I liked that the story focused on the family and their new friends. I love that strong family bond that the Riverton's have, and how they're all in this together. The boys themselves are fun characters to read about, and I liked how they both embrace their difference, as well and learn to work together. Another think I liked about this book is the fact this story spans the course of two years, leading up into the second book in this series. There's also a cast of lively characters whom I enjoyed meeting as well.

What I had a hard time with is the story's pacing, and the length of the book. Don't get me wrong, I love a big book, but I feel that any book, whether it's fantasy, adventure, romance etc. is over 200 pages it needs to keep a good pace in order for the reader me to stay engaged with the story line. This book being 369 pages lost my interest a few times. There were times I felt the pacing was very slow, and other times I felt there were a few too many overly descriptive scenes that took me out of the story, vs keeping me hooked with it. I appreciated what the author was trying to do, but for me personally it didn't hook me enough to love the story, though overall I felt like it was still a good read.

If you're looking for a good, clean cut fantasy loaded with adventure, a close knit family, magic and a touch of romance I'd recommend picking this book up.


Published by: M&S Publishing
Released on: August 1st, 2012
Source: book from author/publisher to review/blog tour
Ages: 10 & up
3 Stars: It's A Good Read
Pre-Order from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

The TOOLS OF PROPHECY is the second volume in an epic saga which describes a prophecy that has placed the Riverton brothers in the lead roles of a struggle to save their world from being overrun by unspeakable horrors. This destiny requires that they face off with the demons that nearly destroyed their world over five centuries ago.

In the first book, the population of wizards had been practically eradicated by the former tyrant. The Rivertons are now charged with creating an Academy of Magic, recruiting qualified students, and furthering their own training with secrets that have long been held by the reclusive elves.

Despite their youth, a mysterious spirit has engaged them in an epic struggle to gain mastery of their newfound skills, help raise and train two armies, and stay alive long enough for their final showdown with destiny.

The only things that stand in their way are the assassins hired to destroy them and the Demon Lord’s minion who holds a personal grudge and intends to witness the young boys’ deaths -quoted from Goodreads

Picking up right where Heirs of Prophecy left off, Michael Rothman whisks readers right back into the Riverton's brother's world of magic, danger, suspense and adventure. Much of what I enjoyed with book one rings true with book two. The brothers are older teens, a bit more mature and very skilled in the ways of their new home, and in harnessing their unique powers. They're still young and still have a lot to learn, but I liked seeing how much they're grown and continue to grow and learn as the series continues. I love it when a series picks up right where the previous book leaves off, and cuts right to the chase with what's going on. Michael does a fabulous job at recapping some of the first book's events,  and does so without spending doing so. It just enough to re-engage the reader incase they've forgotten what has happened previously.

In book one, more time was spent setting up the world, explaining the prophecy, and introducing the reader to the wide range of characters. In this book, more time was spent on the story itself, and I liked how the two books compliment each other in their progression in the over all story line. I also liked the direction this story goes in. It's a little bit darker, as there's more danger, and a lot more at stake with the epic battle that's about to take place. I liked seeing how each character has grown and continues to mature as this storyline goes on. The adults all change is ways I would except them to and the younger characters have all grown in ways I hoped they would. There's not one character in this book I enjoy over the other, as they each have important roles in telling this story. Normally I gravitate to one character, but with this series I've enjoyed reading about each of them, both good and bad. The other thing I liked was the romance that continues to grow. It's a little more mature, but still very much still a clean cut and age appropriate one.

Like Heirs of Prophecy, there were times the pacing and length of this book made it hard for met to stay invested with the storyline the entire time, but overall I liked the direction of the story and what takes place. There's plenty of action, a few twists, and some evil plots that are revealed that made this story an exciting one. Along with the action, there's a few new characters who get introduced into the series. With a cast full of wizards, elves, dragons, wolves, humans and more, this story's over all good vs evil battle just got a lot more exciting. Like book 1, if you're looking for a clean cut story that is full of fantasy, magic and adventure, I'd recommend picking this series up. 




Don't miss my blog tour stop with Michael! You can read his guest post and enter the fabulous blog tour giveaway here.

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Book Review: The Sinister Sweetness of Splendid Academy by Nikki Loftin

Published by: Razorbill
To Be Released on: August 21st, 2012
Source: borrowed ARC from friend
3 stars: A Good Read
Pre-Order from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble


A deliciously spooky middle-grade debut that's Coraline meets Hansel and Gretel

Lorelei is bowled over by Splendid Academy--Principal Trapp encourages the students to run in the hallways, the classrooms are stocked with candy dishes, and the cafeteria serves lavish meals featuring all Lorelei's favorite foods. But the more time she spends at school, the more suspicious she becomes. Why are her classmates growing so chubby? And why do the teachers seem so sinister?

It's up to Lorelei and her new friend Andrew to figure out what secret this supposedly splendid school is hiding. What they discover chills their bones--and might even pick them clean!
Mix one part magic, one part mystery, and just a dash of Grimm, and you've got the recipe for a cozy-creepy read that kids will gobble up like candy. -quoted from Goodreads


The Sinister Sweetness of Splendid Academy is a good, dark middle grade read with a fabulous mix of fairy tales and folklore, The Sinister Sweetness of Splendid Academy takes readers on an unforgettable adventure, and introduces them to a world that's just as enticing as the one Hansel and Gretel are in. This story is a little darker than some of your average MG books, but it's still none the less one that some children will enjoy reading. One of the things I liked about this book is the way in which author Nikki Loftin was able to tackle some tougher subject middle grade and adult readers can relate to, while still giving her story a fun, paranormal twists to it. I really admire an author who's able to mix both realistic emotions and circumstances with those of make believe, and make it realistic. 

I love a good fairy tale retelling, and Nikki's story is one that gives an interesting spin to a beloved classic. She takes things one step further by setting her story at the delicious Splendid Academy. Here the students are given all sorts of delicious foods and treats, and never want to stop eating. Something sinister is definitely going on and it takes a lot of will power for young Lorelei and her friend Andrew to get to the bottom of all that's going on. From blue sand to the delicious food served during the mandatory meal times at the school, something isn't adding up, and the truth might be harder to digest than they thought. Splendid Academy isn't sweet, and something dark and evil is happening behind this school's walls, but just what that is, is hard for the students to pinpoint.

Despite the engaging writing, and enchanting world building, I had a hard time connecting with the main character, Lorelei. I sympathized with all the emotions she's still dealing with after losing her mom, and now dealing with a wicked stepmother who's the opposite of lovable. I felt bad for her and at the same time, I sat here and cheered her on with all she's trying to deal with, over come and get answers to. In the end there was just something I couldn't connect with, with her and I can't even pin point exactly what that is. I felt a little more drawn to hear partner in crime Andrew, than I did with her. Andrew's one of those kids who can't help but root for!

Even though the characters are usually a big deal to me in the storyline, Nikki's clean cut writing, authentic fairy tale spin, and well written paranormal elements made this a good read for me. And I give her huge kudos for tackling tough issues that kids deal with on a daily bases, and will relate to in this book. I like that Nikki was able to incorporate issues kids in the book's targeted age group will understand like emotional issues, over eating, peer pressure, bullying, family problems/concerns and being overweight. Some of the darker tones in this book might be a little much for younger MG readers, but I think this is book older MG readers will really enjoy.

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Blog Tour/ Book Review: Goddess Girls, The Girl Games: Super Special by Joan Holub & Suzanne Williams


Released on: July 10th, 2012
Ages: 8-10
Source: book from authors to review
5 stars: I Loved It!
Purchase from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Series: The Goddess Girls book #10

The first-ever standalone superspecial in the Goddess Girls series—let the games begin!Athena, Medusa, Artemis, and Persephone are sick and tired of being left out of the annual boys-only Olympic Games. Their solution? The Girl Games! But as the Goddess Girls work to make their dream into a reality, they come up against plenty of chaos and competition. Told in alternating points of view, this superspecial is packed with Olympic spirit!

Just in time for the Summer Olympics in London, fans of The Goddess Girls will love diving into this special summer hit!

What could be more exciting to the Goddess Girls series than a book that focuses on Olympic style games for the girls. Though this new release is a stand alone, fans of this series will be sure to enjoy every moment of this exciting story line. Told from alternating points of views, this story stays true to everything I have loved about this series and introduces some new characters and fun twists. This story also introduces fans to the lovable Adonis, the adorable little kitten seen on the cover of the book.

Being a huge fan of the Olympics, I love that this storyline focuses on the Olympics, girl style. The girls have come up their own creative games complete with pink sand to jump into and beanbag animal hand offs in the rely races vs the batons. Honestly I wouldn't have expected that any other way. Of course not everything will always go as planned, and with more than just the girls at Mount Olympus Academy competing, there's more than just winning at stake. Don't worry fans, the boys are all present in the story as well. What would the games be without a little help from them.

One of the things I enjoyed the most about The Girl Games is the story telling. Not many authors can pull off telling a story for multiple character points of views, but Joan and Suzanne have done a superb job doing so. They not only allow their fans to get to know their characters more, but they make it fun, and easy for readers to distinguish between each narrator. Whether we're following Artemis as she's trying to do it all to get everything ready for the Games, or Aphrodite and her newly found kitten, Adonis, Persephone, Artemis and Aphrodite all learn a few lessons about friendships and some friendly competition.

True to the Goddess Girls style, there's also plenty of sweet romances, lessons learned about friendships, and a lesson or two learned about some "friendly" competition. Goddess Girls: The Girl Games, Super Special is a book I HIGHLY recommend picking up. It's one that can easily be read as a stand alone, as much it's a book the fans of this series will love. As I've said with each of these books, I HIGHLY recommend this series for young readers!

Rise of the Guardians: Movie Trailer

Rise of the Guardians is an awesome MUST HAVE middle grade series by beloved children's author, William Joyce. This fall, Dreamworks Animation is bringing his imaginative world to life with their movie: Rise of the Guardians. Check out the trailers below (one of which I posted previously on the blog), and you'll see why my kids and I have already got this release date marked on our calendar and are planning on hitting theaters on it's release day.



And check out the second trailer for the movie:



This start studded cast includes the voice talents of:

Jack Frost- Chris Pine
North- Alec Baldwin
Bunnymund- Hugh Jackman
Tooth Fairy- Isla Fisher
Pitch- Jude Law

This movie is set to be released on November 21st, 2012

You can find out more here:


Facebook: http://on.fb.me/JTOa3g
iPhone/iPad App: http://bit.ly/Mlpv9C

Monday, July 16, 2012

Heirs of Prophecy Blog Tour: Guest Post & Giveaway


Today I'm thrilled to be kicking off the Heirs of Prophecy blog tour, hosted by Kismet, with a guest post from author Michael Rothman and a fabulous giveaway! First, let me tell you a little bit about Michael's book, Heir of Prophecy, which is also book 1 in the series:


The Riverton family had been enjoying a simple summer vacation when, through a fluke of nature, they found themselves in a strange new land.

The Riverton brothers quickly realize that in this world, they have gained unusual powers. Powers that their parents fear will attract the attention of Azazel himself - the merciless wizard who brutally controls this world.

The two brothers soon learn that an ancient prophecy has finally been initiated by their arrival in Trimoria. As the heirs of this prophecy, they are destined to lead the armies of men, dwarves, elves, and even a misfit ogre against the prophesied demon horde.

Only one thing stands in their way.

The evil wizard who has learned of their presence, and has sent assassins to wipe them from existence.


Purchase from: Goodreads | Amazon | IndieBound | B&N
View the book trailer HERE

********

Heroes vs Villains- Which one is more fun to write and why?

What can I say, I am partial to villains in a story, but I think being a villain is oftentimes a misunderstood thing. 

For instance, if I told you that a man came out of nowhere and violently attacked somebody right in front of you, immediately ran away – leaving that person lying on the ground injured or possibly worse. That person might be thought of as a villain, right?

What if I told you that this person who attacked had learned his victim had threatened his family and was planning on killing them, so when he attacked the victim, he was truly just trying to protect his family.  So now the label of villain can be a bit harder to place on him, right? Maybe the victim was the real villain?

What if I told you that this person who attacked the stranger had gained information that was wrong, and the victim was really completely innocent? Well, the poor victim is clearly not a villain, but the attacker “thought” he was doing a good thing. The label of villain becomes kind of muddy.

Sometimes being a villain is a matter of perspective. Most good villains do not believe they are doing evil, even though most others might believe that they are.

In the stories I have written, of course we have both people we might label as “good” and others as “bad”. As an author, the challenge is to keep the character’s motivation distinct and believable from the perspective of the character. 

I’ve found that I enjoy writing the villain roles because at the end of each novel, I lead you down a path that oftentimes makes you question the opinions that you had formed of some of the characters. Somewhat like my prior example of the person attacking a stranger, with my villain in HEIRS OF PROPHECY, Azazel – you certainly are hit in the face with the prologue and can immediately form an opinion of what he is like. A deliciously unpleasant character with unknown motivations, and someone that others cower in fear from. By the end of the story, you might find yourself wondering a bit more about that character, and you definitely realize that not all things are ever as they seem.

I suppose that is what I enjoy about writing. It allows you to reel out a storyline that someone follows, and if you do things correctly, you allow for the reader to immerse themselves in the myriad of ups and downs that are wholly unexpected and provide for the entertainment that readers oftentimes clamor for.

*******

Book II in the Prophecies series




The TOOLS OF PROPHECY is the second volume in an epic saga which describes a prophecy that has placed the Riverton brothers in the lead roles of a struggle to save their world from being overrun by unspeakable horrors. This destiny requires that they face off with the demons that nearly destroyed their world over five centuries ago.

In the first book, the population of wizards had been practically eradicated by the former tyrant. The Rivertons are now charged with creating an Academy of Magic, recruiting qualified students, and furthering their own training with secrets that have long been held by the reclusive elves.

Despite their youth, a mysterious spirit has engaged them in an epic struggle to gain mastery of their newfound skills, help raise and train two armies, and stay alive long enough for their final showdown with destiny.

The only things that stand in their way are the assassins hired to destroy them and the Demon Lord’s minion who holds a personal grudge and intends to witness the young boys’ deaths.



About the Author Website  | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook


I am an Army brat and the first person in my family to be born in the United States. This heavily influenced my youth by instilling a love of reading and a burning curiosity about the world and all of the things within it. As an adult, my love of travel allowed me to explore many unimaginable locations. I participated in many adventures and documented them in what will be a series of books, the first of which you have just read.Some might put these books in the Fantasy genre, and I never had issues with this label. After all, the adventures were, without any doubt in my mind, fantastic. I simply quibble with the label of "Fiction" that some might put on these tales. These tales should be viewed as historical records, more along the lines of a documentary.I've learned one thing over the years. Magic is real. Keep exploring, and you too will find your magic.- Mike Rothman

The Giveaway:



Through out the duration of the Heirs of Prophecy blog tour, Michael is giving away 1 Kindle to one lucky blog tour follower! This giveaway is open to residents of the US & Canada only. To enter, please fill out the form below (which will be also be featured on each of the participating blogs).

a Rafflecopter giveaway 


Be sure to follow the rest of the tour via Kismet's Heirs of Prophecy Tour Page.


Don't miss my reviews for Heirs of Prophecy and it's sequel, Tools of Prophecy here.
I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~