Thursday, December 29, 2016

A GREYHOUND, A GROUNDHOG by Emily Jenkins / Blog Tour: Book Review


Written by: Emily Jenkins
Illustrated by: Chris Appelhans
Published by: Penguin-Random House / Schwartz & Wade Books
To Be Released on: January 3rd, 2017
Ages: 3 & up
Purchase from: Penguin-Random House | Amazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
Rating: 4 Owlets - We Enjoyed It!
A copy of this book was received from the publisher in exchange for my honest review 

From a heavyweight author-and-illustrator duo comes a delicious tongue twister of a picture book that features a little round greyhound and a little round groundhog. With very spare, incredibly lively language, this is an entertaining read-aloud, with two amazing—and oh-so-adorable—characters at its heart.
 
When a greyhound meets a groundhog, wordplay and crazy antics ensue. The two animals, much like kids, work themselves into a frenzy as they whirl around and around one another. (Around, round hound. Around, groundhog!) The pace picks up (Around and around and astound and astound!), until they ultimately wear themselves out. 


Really cute story complimented with simply adorable illustrations. A tongue twister with repetitive words, and rhyming, makes for a fun, read aloud and a lot of giggles.

When a greyhound meets a groundhog, they form a fast friendship. This unlikely pair has a fun filled day playing together, and discovering new things. This is a book we really enjoyed. 

Tuesday, December 27, 2016

Disney's MOANA and SING / Movie Reviews


Two must see movies during this Winter Break. Disney's MOANA and Illumination's SING. We absolutely loved both movies, and for similar reasons. Not only are these fantastic family friendly movies, each movie has powerful message. There's humor, strong/wonderful characters, and messages that will resonate with movie goers of all ages. Not to mention the awesome animation, the songs, and the cast in both movies is fantastic. Definitely add these movies to your lists of family activists. *more detailed reviews coming soon* Both of these movies get 5 stars from us!

Editing- We also saw Trolls this holiday season. That movie got 3/5 stars from us. My daughter liked it better than I did, but she didn't love it like she did Moana and Sing. More coming on that movie was well. 

Monday, December 26, 2016

A BOY CALLED CHRISTMAS by Matt Haig / Book Review #MMGM


By: Matt Haig
Illustrated by: Chris Mould 
Published by: Knopf
Released on: November 1st, 2016
Ages: 8 & up
Purchase from: Amazon | B&N | The Book Depository 
Add it to Goodreads
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review

Before there was Santa Claus, there was a young boy who believed in the impossible. . . . Lemony Snicket meets Elf in this warmhearted Christmas caper.

Eleven-year-old Nikolas—nicknamed “Christmas”—has received only one toy in his life: a doll carved out of a turnip. But he’s happy with his turnip doll, because it came from his parents, who love him. Then one day his father goes missing, and Nikolas must travel to the North Pole to save him.

Along the way, Nikolas befriends a surly reindeer, bests a troublesome troll, and discovers a hidden world of enchantment in the frozen village of Elfhelm. But the elves of Elfhelm have troubles of their own: Christmas spirit and goodwill are at an all-time low, and Nikolas may be the only person who can fix things—if only he can reach his father before it’s too late. . . .

Sparkling with wit and warmth, A Boy Called Christmas is a cheeky new Christmas classic-in-the-making from acclaimed author Matt Haig and illustrator Chris Mould.


This is a read fans of all ages will enjoy. With it's Lemony Snicket feel, Haig has created something that is unforgettable. 
There's humor, plenty of adventure, magic, trolls, elves, Blitzen, a mouse, a few not so nice characters, and an unforgettable character who will have you cheering him the entire story. 

The story of A Boy Called Christmas isn't the Santa you're excepting. No, this is the story of a boy who's been mis-treated, but never loses his kindness, his hope, and his will to do good. These attributes not only stay with him all through out his life. It's part of what makes him St. Nick, aka Santa Claus. They also save his life, and that is what this story is about. 

This story is about a boy who discovers his inner strength, finds his home, and discovers his own destiny. He realizes he's more determined and courageous than he ever imagined when he sets off to find his dad. Along the way he meets Blitzen, runs into a bit of trouble with trolls, and then there are the not too friendly elves. Nothing is as you think it is in this story, but the story's ending is just as it should be. 

Haig's writing is brilliant. His story's narration immediately pulls you in, and makes you feel like the story is being told just for you. It's like a Christmas secret, only this is one secret you want everyone to read. He has created a story that is not only for kids, but for kids at heart. Haig really gets his middle grade audience. I love the humor that is just right for both kids, and adults. This is a great story to read out loud. 

This is definitely a new Christmas classic that will be enjoyed for generations to come! Whether you read during the holiday season or a later time in the year, this is a book I'd recommend picking up. 

Favorite Quotes:

"An impossibility is just a possibility you don't understand yet."

"Where there is magic, there is always a way."

"If you keep on climbing a mountain, you will eventually reach the top. That's the thing with mountains. However big they are, there is always a top."

"There IS magic in this world." 

Please note that there are a few things within the story that may be hard for some readers. There's mistreatment towards Nikolas, a father who lets down his son because of his bad choices, and a reindeer who may not always be the sweetest reindeer you'd envision.

Sunday, December 25, 2016

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

Wishing y'all a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful Holiday Season! 
Thank you for being apart of our blog this year, and sharing our love of reading. 

Friday, December 23, 2016

Elena of Avalor: FELIZ NAVIDAD: A ROYAL CHRISTMAS / Book Review


By: Tom Rogers
Illustrated by: Mike Wall
Published by: Disney Press
Released on: September 13th, 2016
Ages: 4 & up
Purchase from: DisneyAmazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
Rating: 4 Owlets - We Enjoyed It
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review 

Elena decides to host one big Navidad celebration in the park so everyone can celebrate together. But each community is trying to prove that their traditions are the best. Can Elena help her subjects see what the holidays are really about?


Based on the Elena of Avalor episode, "Navidad", this book is a fantastic Christmas story. Princess Elena knows that gifts aren't what make the holiday season special, it's being with family and friends, and doing nice things for others. When things don't go as planned for the towns people, she's the example the people of her kingdom need. She reminds them about the importance of the holiday season. With bright, colorful illustrations, this is a wonderful book to have, especially for young Disney Princess fans who have already seen the episode. We love Princess Elena. We really enjoyed this read and it's message.


Thursday, December 22, 2016

LITTLE BABYMOUSE and the Christmas Cupcakes by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm / Book Review



By: Jennifer L. Holm & Matthew Holm
Published by: Random House
Released on: October 4th, 2016
Ages: 3 & up
Purchase from: Penguin/Random House | Amazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
Rating: 3 Owlets 
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review 

Graphic-novel darling Babymouse makes her picture-book debut in a Christmas story . . . all about cupcakes! (Typical.)
 
Thank goodness Babymouse ate all of the Christmas cookies her mom made for Santa. Now she can make him something he really wants—CUPCAKES! But wait . . . what’s that rumbling in the other room? OH NO! A DRAGON!!!!! Can Sir Babymouse defeat her fiery foe and save Christmas?! Or at least save a cupcake or two? Maybe not. . . .

Jennifer and Matthew Holm bring us Babymouse’s very first full-color adventure! With signature Babymouse humor, comic book–style panels, and oodles of pink-frosted cupcakes, new readers and devoted fans alike will find plenty to love.


There's no stopping BabyMouse once she puts her mind to doing something. When BabyMouse wants to make cupcakes for Santa, she does. Filled with humor, wild imagination and mishap, fans of the original graphic novel series will love seeing BabyMouse in her new picture book debut. The illustrations are great graphic novel pictures for young kids. This is definitely a fun Christmas read. 

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

FROZEN: A POP-UP ADVENTURE by Matthew Reinhart / Book Review


Story by: Disney
Artwork by: Matthew Reinhart 
Published by: Disney 
Released on: October 4th, 2016
Ages: 12 & up
Purchase from: DisneyAmazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
Rating: 5 Owlets - We Loved It
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review

Featuring nearly 20 pop-ups from the New York Times best-selling author, artist, and pop-up master, Matthew Reinhart, this breathtaking work of art revisits the enduring story of Frozen.


Elsa and Anna's remarkable adventure lives on in a 
magnificent display of paper engineering and artistic devotion. Frozen Pop-Up is a vibrant tribute to these beloved characters and teaches readers of all ages to let it go.


Featuring the Frozen story, illustrations, Matthew Reinhart's stunning Frozen pop-ups make this a must have for fans of FROZEN. 


This is one of the most beautiful pop-up books we've had the chance to read. Each page not only features a beautiful main pop-up, there are also other pop-ups/pull outs featured under the pieces that tell the Frozen story. That will make more sense when you see the pages in person. I think it's safe to say that we loved the entire book! Each piece of this story is absolutely beautiful. This is definitely a book worth owning! 



** While this is a great for fans of all ages to look at it, it's definitely not a book for young readers to look at by themselves, as the pop-ups can easily be torn. 

FROZEN: Northern Lights Adventure Notebook by: Elsa, Anna and Kristoff / Book Review


By: Jessica Julius and Becky Matheson
Illustrated by: Disney Storybook Art Team
Published by: Disney Press
Released on: November 1st, 2016
Ages: 6 & up 
Rating: 5 Owlets - We Loved It
Purchase from: Amazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review

A book written by Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff, who take turns documenting their action-packed journey to the Northern Lights. The guide features full-color journal entries and doodles created by your favorite characters, plus a double-sided pull-out poster!


This book is perfect for fans who want to join Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf and their friends on their new adventure to see the Northern Lights. It's full of fun, adventure, and friends working together.

Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf and their friends are back in a brand new adventure. Featuring journal entries, and illustrations from each of the friends, this journal/book chronicles the friends on their brand new adventure to find the Northern Lights. Filled with the same humor, and heartwarming moments you'd except from the Frozen Friends, this is a book worth picking up! With it's collection of journal entries, and illustrations, this scrapbook/journal feel will be a great read even for the most reluctant reader. 
This is a book we loved, and we'd highly recommend picking it up! 

"A true adventure is full of surprises." 


Have you seen Disney's newest Lego adventure? While this book doesn't feature Frozen Lego characters, this book is the perfect companion to that feature. This book will make a great gift this holiday season. 


A WARM WINTER by Feridun Oral / Book Review


Written & Illustrated by: Feridun Oral 
Published by: Minedition 
Released on: October 1st, 2016
Ages: 3 & up
Rating: 4 Owlets - We Really Enjoyed It
Purchase from: Amazon | B&N
A copy of this book was provided from the publisher in exchange for my honest review

One cold winter morning Little Mouse ventures out in search of enough firewood to heat his nest. But when he tries to drag his pile home, he realizes everything he’s gathered is much too heavy for him. Maybe his friends can help out, but they’d better hurry, because there’s a blizzard on the way. If they can find a way to work together and keep each other safe, maybe they can all have the warm winter they've been hoping for. 

This beautifully illustrated picture book shows the power of friendship, persistence–and a little luck–to make our dreams come true. This is a winter story that will warm your heart.

What's better than kicking off the Winter Solstice than reading a book that has winter, snow, woodland animals, and friendship. A WARM WINTER is about woodland animal friends working together to help Little Mouse get his firewood home. When an excepted snowstorm hits, things don't go as planned. If they continue to work together, they'll stay warm and safe through the blinding snow storm. With it's great illustrations, wonderful message about friendship, this is the perfect story to read on a cold winter's day. 

Happy Winter Solstice


Happy Winter Solstice! 

Today I'll be celebrating the first day of Winter by featuring three books that are just perfect for winer reading. Check out my reviews later today for:


Have a wonderful WINTER! 

Tuesday, December 20, 2016

BEFORE YOU by Rebecca Doughty / Blog Tour: Book Review / Author Q&A #picturebookparade


Written and Illustrated by: Rebecca Doughty
Published by: HMH Kids
To Be Released on: December 27th, 2016
Ages: 3 & up
Purchase from: HMH Kids | Amazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review

Through simple, yet lively text and whimsical illustration, the love from parent to child, or friend to friend, is celebrated. The perfect gift for a loved one and fans of perennial favorites like I Like You and Guess How Much I Love You.


Simple rhyming phases, and childlike illustrations, make for an easy to read picture book. 


This book is about how someone feels until that special person comes into their life, and makes it complete. Doughty uses simple phrases pre-school age children can understand. Pairing those phrases with rhyming, make for a quick, easy read that will hold even the shortest attention spans. The illustrations have a childlike look and feel to them, which may appeal to young readers. I think this book would make a great board book for toddlers, vs being in picture book form.


Phasing examples:


Prior to the special person coming to the the story, 


"I was a bowl without a fish. | A birthday cake without a wish."


After that special person is introduced to the story,


"I had a cup, you brought the tea. | I had a boat, you brought the sea." 


While we thought the concept of the story was good, overall we didn't enjoy this picture book as much as we have the vast number of other picture books we've read this year. 

AUTHOR INTERVIEW 



If you weren't an author or illustrator what would you do for a living? 
I’d be an acrobat.

What is the first book you remember loving as a child?
Boats Finds a House by Mary Chalmers.

The best thing about my job is ______ 
Wearing pajamas.

What's your favorite word? 
Yes.

If you could have any super power what would it be? 
To bring universal happiness.

What's the best snack to eat while reading a good book? 
Lobster.

Picture books are important because _____ 
They have superpowers.

An ice cream sundae is not complete without _____ 
Tums.


*Interview questions provided by the publisher 


Don't miss the fun! Be sure to HMH Kids's Picture Book Parade. You can follow along via the social media hashtag - #PictureBookParade 

Friday, December 16, 2016

THE DOLL PEOPLE'S CHRISTMAS by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin / Book Review


By: Ann M. Martin & Laura Godwin
Illustrated by: Brett Helquist
Published by: Disney Hyperion
Released on: September 3rd, 2016
Series: The Doll People
Ages: 3 & up
Rating: 3 Owlets - It's A Good Read
Purchase from: Disney | Amazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review

Christmas is Annabelle Doll's favorite time of year. But when her favorite tree topper breaks and the doll family is moved downstairs with the rather unfriendly cat, will a different tradition ruin everything? Or will the Christmas spirit be enough to helming Annabelle realize all she needs for a truly perfect holiday is to share it with her family? 

Wonderful illustrations, and a great message about friendship, and what the Christmas season is all about. Fans of the middle grade, The Doll People series, will enjoy seeing their favorite characters brought to life with Brett Helquist's illustrations. 

A cute Christmas story, The Doll People's Christmas has all the same characters from the series middle grade readers have come to love. When something happens, and Annabelle and her family and friends are moved from their beloved home, Annabelle learns that Christmas is more than the decorations, gifts, and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. We enjoyed our first introduction to The Doll People, though I did feel like something was missing towards to the end of the story. However, this is a good story for kids, and one older fans of The Doll People may enjoy. 

*Please note, that this book is a Christmas picture book featuring the characters from The Doll People book series, and is targeted for younger readers, and not the targeted age for the original middle grade series. 

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

NORTH POLE NINJAS - Mission: Christmas! by Tyler Knott Gregson & Sarah Lindon / Book Review #NorthPoleNinjas

*Gift set is pictured: the book, North Pole Ninja and random acts of kindness cards

By: Tyler Knott Gregson & Sarah Lindon 
Illustrated by: Piper Thibodeau
Published by: Penguin
Released on:
Ages: All
Rating: 5 Owlets - This Is A Must Have!
Purchase from: PublisherAmazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review

East meets North in North Pole Ninjas, a yuletide call-to-arms to save the spirit of Christmas.


You may not know that Santa has a team of special elves, selected for their ability to help carry out top-secret missions that are all about helping, giving, caring, and listening. Anyone who receives this box is called upon to help carry out those top secret missions with a bit of stealth and an open heart. The gorgeously illustrated picture book retells the ancient legend the North Pole Ninjas use for new recruits. After reading the book, readers are given their own Ninja missions to carry out: 50 special tasks packed in a special envelope. Complete with a plush and huggable “sensei” to guide Ninjas on their journey, this is the perfect antidote to worrying about whether you’ve been naughty or nice.


Who needs an Elf on the Shelf when you could have a Christmas Ninja helping you spread Christmas cheer by doing good deeds, and random acts of kindness for others. Not that the Elf on the Shelf is bad. We had one, and now we have a Christmas Ninja who loves to do good deeds with us. 


Everyone knows about the elves who work in Santa's workshop, but did you know there's a secret group of Elves who's sole responsibility is to do secret acts of kindness? They're called the North Pole Ninjas, and these elves spend all of Christmas giving. They LOVE Christmas Day. They use their Christmas spirit to do good deeds for others. They love it when others help them to. That's where the reader of this book comes in. 


The North Pole Ninjas tell the reader of this book everything they need to know to become a member of their secret team. Even Santa knows they're on it. Like a Ninja, you have to try and do some of your acts of kindness in secret, so no one knows. From giving clothes you don't wear and toys you don't play with to charity, to solving a neighbor's snow, to buying food to those in need and the list goes on, and on. 
I absolutely LOVE the message of this book. 

This gift set comes with your own Christmas Ninja, so you can take him with you as you do your good deeds. It also comes with numbered cards, 50 in all, full of ideas of random acts of kindness you can do. You put them in the envelope, and on Christmas you open it up and see all the good things you did for others. The kid friendly random acts of kindness cards are great for kids and families to do together. 


Some of the cards include ideas like: 


* Bring a bag of groceries to your local food bank

* Make and deliver cookies to someone
* Write a letter to someone, telling them exactly why you love them
* Sit and visit with a new friend
* Give your teachers a gift 
* Help a sibling out with their homework 
* Make an award for each member of your family (best smile, best hugger etc) & tell each person you made the award for what they mean to you
* Make 5 wishes for 5 people o the first five stars you see tonight
* Get ready for bed without being told to
* Help your parents make breakfast for the family

What I love about this book, is that it promotes doing random acts of kindness for others. It spreads Christmas cheer and encourage kids to do the same. This book is what the Christmas/Holiday season is all about. Doing nice things for others.  It is our favorite book this Christmas season, and it's one we'll be reading, and participating in for many years to come. It's a great addition to the Christmas Random of Acts of Kindness tradition we already do. I HIGHLY recommend picking up this book!


Tuesday, December 13, 2016

THE NUTCRACKER Illustrated by: Valeria Docampo / Book Review


Illustrated by: Valeria Docamp
Based on: The New York City Ballet production of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker 
Published by: Little Simon
Released on: November 15th, 2016
Ages: 4 & up
Rating: 5 Owlets - We Loved It
Purchase from: Simon & SchusterAmazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads

The New York City Ballet presents a classic ballet tale for a modern ballet lover with George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, a holiday favorite.

The New York City Ballet is known for showcasing classic stories of the ballet with their trademark stylish and modern sensibility. For the first time, this beloved holiday story is told based on George Balanchine’s quintessential production. The storyline of this gorgeous picture book mimics the choreography of the famous ballet and the illustrations are inspired by the backdrops and scenery from the actual production.

The New York City Ballet’s production of the Nutcracker is considered to be “the” leading production in the world. A holiday tradition for many families, now readers who can’t travel to New York will be able to experience this colorful celebratory story. A must-have for every aspiring ballerina’s library and a holiday tradition for every family’s bookshelf.


Based on the NYC ballet production of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker, this beautifully illustrated picture book is the play brought to life on page. Not only does it tell the story of The Nutcracker play, there is also fun facts on the play and the history of this particular play featured in the back of the book. 
I've always wanted to The Nutcracker performance by the NYC Ballet, and this book is the next best thing to that. This is a timeless treasure worth picking up this holiday season. I can see this book being read Christmas season after Christmas. We absolutely loved reading this and recommend picking it up!


THE NUTCRACKER by Jack and Holman Wang / Book Review


By: Jack and Holman Wang
Published by: Chronicle Books
Released on: September 6th, 2016
Series: Cozy Classics
Ages: 2 & up
Rating: 4 Owlets
Purchase from: Amazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
A copy of this book was provided from the publisher in exchange for my honest review

In E. T. A. Hoffmann's The Nutcracker, marvel at Maria's favorite gift, cheer as she defeats the Mouse King, and journey to the magical Land of Sweets. It's a festive first words primer for your literary little one!


Cuddle up with a classic! Teach your child simple words, concepts and stories and an appreciation of the classics! In each book, twelve adorable needle-felted scenes and twelve child-friendly words capture the essence of a beloved masterpiece. 


Jack and Holman Wang bring to life E. T. A. Hoffman's classic Christmas story, The Nutcrackerwith their signature needle felted scenes. Featuring twelve needle felted scenes, each image captures the timeless story with beautiful imagery that even the youngest of readers will enjoy looking at. Accompanied on the opposite page of each picture, is one bolded word that helps bring the story to life. Words such as gift, sleep, mouse, go, snow, love, and more. This book is perfect for little hands, and short attention spans. This board book retelling of The Nutcracker is worth picking up this holiday season.


Monday, December 12, 2016

LAUGH-Out-LOUD CHRISTMAS JOKES For Kids by Rob Elliott / Book Review


By: Rob Elliott
Published by: Harper Children's Books
Released on: September 20th, 2016
Series: Laugh Out Loud Jokes For Kids
Ages: 6-10
Rating: 4 Owlets
Purchase from: Harper Collins | Amazon 
Add it to Goodreads

The first-ever Christmas collection from the #1 bestselling series LAUGH-OUT-LOUD JOKES FOR KIDS! A perfect stocking stuffer, this modern classic is chock-full of brand-new seasonal jokes perfect for caroling, holiday parties and decking the halls together-merriness guaranteed. 

This is a great, kid friendly, laugh out loud joke book. Perfect for the Christmas season, this book is one that kids of all ages will enjoy. From traditional jokes, to knock-knock jokes, there's a Christmas joke (or two) for everyone to enjoy in this book. 

A few examples of the jokes in this books:

Q: Where does Santa keep his money?
A: In a snowbank

Q: Why don't lobsters give presents?
A: Because they're shellfish

Q: Why was Santa upset?
A: He had low elf-esteem

Knock, Knock.
  Who's there?

Roach.
  Roach who?

I roach you a Christmas letter to wish you a Merry Christmas!

Friday, December 9, 2016

STAR WARS ABC - 3PO: A Galactic Basic Edition by Calliope Glass and Caitlin Kennedy / Book Review


By: Calliope Glass & Caitlin Kennedy
Illustrated by: Katie Cook
Published by: Disney / Lucas Film Press
Released on: June 14th, 2016
Ages: 3 & up
Rating: 5 Owlets - We Loved It
Purchase fromAmazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review

Experience the ABC's like never before
With galactic friends who are hardly a bore.
From Akbar to Zeb, this nice little primer
Will teach you and make you an excellent rhymer.
So, Padawans, prepare, get ready, get set
To learn the ways of the Force--and the alphabet!

It's never too early to introduce your young reader to Star Wars. This new edition in the Galactic Basic Edition from Disney/Lucas Film Press, is perfect for not only teaching them their ABC's, but about Star Wars in the process. Great, kid friendly illustrations, and rhyming make this a book one that kids of all ages will enjoy. Even Star Wars fans who are kids at heart, and already know their ABC's will enjoy this book From Ewoks to Stormtroopers, Kylo, to Princess Leia, learning the ABC's with 3PO will be an out of this world adventure! We loved this book, and recommend picking it up.




Wednesday, December 7, 2016

DC SUPER HEROES ON THE GO! / Book Review


By: Julie Merberg
Published by: Downtown Book Works
Released on: October 26th, 2016
Ages: 2 & up
Rating: 4 Owlets 
Purchase from: The PublisherAmazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
A copy of this book was provided from the publisher in exchange for my honest review

Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and their friends illustrate how super heroes--and regular people--get from place to place!

This latest addition to Downtown Bookworks' bestselling DC Super Heroes concept board book series uses DC's classic art and beloved characters to illustrate modes of transportation. Whether they're flying on their own, or in an Invisible Jet, running faster than the speed of sound, or zipping around in a Batmobile, super heroes make getting around both fast and fun!


This interactive board book is not only a great introduction to the DC super heroes, it interacts with toddlers. Each set of pages showcases what each superhero is able to do, and asks readers if they're able to do the same thing. Whether they're running, flying, jumping, climbing, swinging, swimming, or riding around in a vehicle, the DC Super Heroes are always on the move. No matter their form of movement, they want to know if readers can do the same. For example, Aquaman and Meira dive and swim, and they ask readers if they know how to swim. Batgirl and Batman swing, and they want to know if readers know how to swing. This is a boardbook that will definitely keep the interest of young readers, and makes a great read out loud. 

Monday, December 5, 2016

OLIVIA LOVES OWL by David McPhail / Book Review


Written and Illustrated by: David McPhail
Published by: Abrams 
Released on: August 30th, 2016
Ages: 2 & up
Rating: 5 Owlets - We Loved It
Purchase fromAmazon | B&N
Add it to Goodreads
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review

A companion to Ben Loves Bear, Bella Loves Bunny, and Peter Loves Penguin, Olivia Loves Owl features a little girl and her beloved stuffed owl. Olivia and Owl pick apples and frolic through piles of colorful leaves. After enjoying a perfect fall day, they go inside to wish upon a star and hoot at the moon. The youngest readers will relate to the loving bond between a child and her favorite stuffed animal and how this sweet friendship makes each day special.

An adorable story about friendship, and imagination. Olivia loves her stuffed animal Owl. Owl loves her. They go everywhere together. From playing toys together, to playing outside, and jumping into a pile of leaves, to reading bedtime stories together, they are inseparable. 


Olivia Loves Owl is an adorable story about friendship and imagination. Simple text, and adorable illustrations, make it a great story for toddlers and young readers. We really enjoyed reading this book. 


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 ~