How the Candy Cane Got Its Stripes by Kevin Brougher

 

From the award-winning team that brought you, "Reindolphins", comes : "How the Candy Cane Got Its Stripes".

Santa has grown tired of a his one-color candy cane. But, what design should he put on it? He doesn't know so, he chooses to have a North Pole art contest and everyone... wanted to win.

The candy cane, for many years,
was white like winter snow.
But, one year dear old Santa said,
"Plain white has got to go!"

So, open up and start to read
and by the end you'll see
why stripes are put on candy canes
and how it came to be!

Available on Amazon

(affiliate link)

30 years of teaching proved rewarding, challenging and heartbreaking at times. There is only so much a teacher can do when you see over 150 students a day. Still, it was a place for inspiration, creative outlet, and humor.

I was fortunate enough to start out in the elementary grades - progress to middle school - then spend some years at the high school level. Fortunate, because it gave me a much clearer picture of the progression of skills, than just reading about it.

Even during my student teaching days, I was intrigued with finding ways to get kids thinking and learning in a fun way. Of course, FUN can be an ambiguous term. But still, I was on the constant look out and constant dwelling on what could hook them just a little bit more and make them THINK just a little bit longer.

What I noticed, too, was that there were activities that were done in school that were good but, would not be replicated or done at home. And, there were some fun activities that were done at home that just didn't quite have enough content or thinking skills involvement that would allow for it to be justified in the classroom. What was MISSING were activities - games - books that families would enjoy enough to play and use together with OUT it being an "assignment" but teachers could use in the classroom.

I eventually went on to start Missing Piece Press, LLC. A publishing company that would publish those types of works. Over the years I have encouraged MANY to create these types of works. Besides books and games that got people THINKING, I also enjoyed writing verse. It probably not only stemmed from inspiration from my mom but, from learning how to play guitar and writing songs in college and later writing songs for the classroom.

I am MOST fortunate and SO blessed to have two wonderful, beautiful and talented daughters. One, happens to now be a graphic design illustrator and illustrated a story that I had written for the girls during my early years of teaching - Reindolphins. She is currently working on illustrating another one of my stories - we are both VERY excited about it.

Thank you SO much for your interest and any support.

More information on my games can be found at: MissingPiecePress.com or KevinBrougher.com

Follow author Kevin Brougher at : https://www.facebook.com/KevinsBooksandGames

I was compensated via Fiverr for sharing this post. I only share those books that I feel will be of interest to my readers.

Even If by Regina Breshears DVM

 

A mother's love for her children is unbreakable. Accidents may happen, but nothing can get in the way of her care and concern for her littles.

Read along to see how a mother's love conquers all. Even if some mistakes and messes are made along the way, there will always be that one special person ready to put the broken pieces back in place.

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link)

The Princess Who Became a Pirate by Anicca Sommer

  

The Princess Who Became A Pirate is a charming read aloud story that is destined to become a family favorite and all around classic. Taken from Norse mythology, join scores of new readers as they cheer on the princess who became a pirate.

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link)

Visit Anicca Sommer's website and get a free coloring book!

Anicca Sommer is excited to debut her first children's book as a
self-published author. This has been a dream of hers for as long
as she can remember. She lives in Ohio with her son and her
beloved corgi.

For her entire career, Anicca has worked in the non-profit field and
social service field and has been honored to serve the community
but writing has always been a passion of hers. She has experience
as a blogger and affiliate marketer for over 14 years but she always
dreamed of writing and now she is ecstatic that she gets to write fun,
imaginative, entertaining and educational books for young readers
and readers of all ages!

Anicca Sommer is the author of:

The Princess Who Became A Pirate: a fun and inspiring re-telling of
an old Norse Legend. She loves the characters so much she
would love to do a series just with them and she hopes you will love them
too. She has many other ideas in the works... so stay tuned!

To find fun activities, freebies and keep up to date with Anicca Sommer
please visit www.aniccasommer.com

Follow her Amazon author page: https://amzn.to/36L6WcV

Find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aniccasommer/

Find her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AniccaSommer 

I was compensated via Fiverr for sharing this post. I only share those posts that I feel will be of interest to my readers.

The Story Pirates Prize Package #Giveaway 2 Winners! Ends 12/14

Songs and stories make the world go 'round, especially when we're at home more. Check out this awesome collection and then enter to be one of two winners in the giveaway!

Sponsored By: Sugar Mountain PR

Hosted By: Love, Mrs. Mommy

2 WINNERS Will Receive: 

A Story Pirates Prize Package!

Includes: 3 Albums, 1 EP, 1 Book,
and a 2 Month Creator Club Membership ($66 TRV)! 

(affiliate links included)

3 Albums

Nothing Is Impossible 

Backstroke Raptor 

Cats Sit on You 

1 Digital EP 

Story Pirates Very Merry Made-Up Holidays, Vol. 1 

1 Book
Quest for the Crystal Crown 

This giveaway bundle has everything to connect the young creators in your life with The Story Pirates! The bundle includes all three Story Pirates albums, an upcoming "made-up holidays" EP, their most recent middle grade reader, and a 2-month membership in the Story Pirates Creator Club. 

About the Story Pirates 

The Story Pirates believe that kids are creative geniuses. All of them. This nationally renowned group of top comedians, musicians, best-selling authors and incredible teachers have 15 years of experience creating content that celebrates the imaginations of kids. Winner of the 2020 iHeartRadio award for Best Kids and Family Podcast, The Story Pirates Podcast is one of the top three kids and family podcasts in the world. Downloaded over 20 million times and featuring songs and sketches based on stories written by kids, their special guests include top talent like Billy Eichner, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Dax Shepard, Bowen Yang, Claire Danes, John Oliver, and Lake Bell. The Pirates have released three critically acclaimed middle-grade books with Penguin Random House and two award winning albums, all based on ideas from kids around the world. The Creator Club, their new subscription service, features activities, live streamed classes, a daily radio show, and videos to entertain and encourage creativity for kids at home. 

About Sugar Mountain

Sugar Mountain PR is a public relations agency specializing in 

award-winning music and other media for children.

Open To US and must be 18+ to enter

Giveaway Dates ~ 11/14 9:00AM EST through 12/13 11:59PM EST

Entry-Form

Disclosure: Love, Mrs. Mommy and all participating bloggers are not held responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill their prize obligations. This giveaway is in no way endorsed or sponsored by Facebook or any other social media site. The winners will be randomly drawn by Giveaway Tools and will be notified by email. Winners have 48 hours to reply before a replacement winner will be drawn. If you would like to participate in an event like this please contact LoveMrsMommy (at) gmail (dot) com.

Different Like Me by Joy Harris-Bird

 

Different Like Me is full of adventure as the children are on a quest to find out their purpose from a magical mirror. While on their journey, they discover that the mirror only reflects the beauty of who they already are!

Available on Amazon

(affiliate link)

Signed copies available on my website

https://www.joyharrisbird.com

About the author:

Joy Harris-Bird is the author of the book, “Different Like Me”. She is a creative writer, entrepreneur and independent blogger. She loves to write stories that inspire others! Mrs. Harris-Bird is a firm believer in kindness and treating everyone with dignity and respect. She understands that everyone was created for a purpose and has a story.

“The world would be a boring place if we were all the same!”

Facebook
https://m.facebook.com/imjoyharrisbird

Instagram
https://instagram.com/imjoyharrisbird?igshid=31s6mz7biovw

Twitter
https://www.Twitter.com/imjoyharrisbird

I was compensated via Fiverr for sharing this post. I only share those books that I feel will be of interest to my readers.

"Freeway" Finds a Home! by Gary and Judy Stoefen

 

Meet "Freeway", a rescue cat that was found on the side of a busy, dangerous freeway. A compassionate lady rescues Freeway and gladly welcomes him into her "forever home". A ready-made family of six felines is also there to welcome him. Written in first-person cat, this book has really great color photos of his newly-found family. This is fun book for all ages!

Available as ebook or in paperback here!

Take a peek inside:

About Gary and Judy Stoefen

We are avid cat-lovers and have always had cats since childhood. We currently have six adopted cats in our home and affectionately refer them as “our kids”. One of our adopted cats was found alongside a freeway in Los Angeles. The book we wrote is centered around this cat aptly named, “Freeway”.

We emphasize cat adoption as a great alternative in giving cats a “forever home”. The book was written for all cat lovers of all ages! We encourage our readers to adopt cats and provide loving, warm “forever homes”!

Orange Snow by Dale S. Rogers #OSBlitz

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Just look at this cover! Doesn't it elicit absolute joy and happiness for the season? It even makes me excited for fall, and I'm not a fan of cold weather! (Though I love the colors.) Also fall in love with the sneak peek inside, which you can find below, and then order your own copy to share with young ones in your life. Plus there's a great giveaway at the end!

Orange Snow

By Dale S. Rogers

Illustrated by Valentina Esposito

Children's Picture Book

Hardcover, 32 Pages

October 1, 2020 by Summers Island Press

Lucy likes to imagine things.

That's what she was doing, one windy autumn day, waiting for Mom to pick her up from school. She was thinking how wonderful it would be if snow was... orange! And how fun it would be to play in. Just for pretend.

But do you ever wish pretend could be real?

Advanced Reviews

Perhaps inspired by the catchy tune, "The Best Things in Life are Free," Southern writer Dale Rogers has demonstrated that finding joy in what may, at first appear to be the most mundane gifts of nature--often taken for granted, have the power to make us realize and truly treasure their priceless impact on our well being. - Dottie Ashley, former play critic and freelance writer

A delightful, whimsical tale of how a child's imagination can become a reality. - James Sitton

(Amazon affiliate link.)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Excerpt

About the Author

A South Carolina native, Dale currently lives in North Carolina with her husband and three cats. With several family members involved in writing, Dale soon found herself drifting in that direction, eventually joining her high school newspaper staff. Continuing her interest in writing after graduating from Anderson College and the University of South Carolina, she penned articles and stories, as well as poetry, eventually starting a novel. Since then, she has written several novels, both for teens and adults. She also loves music and dance, and has participated in several musicals and even one movie.

Website | Facebook | Twitter 

Blitz Giveaway


One winner will receive a fall bag, fall notecard set, an ebook of Orange Snow, and a $15 Starbucks gift card (US only)

Ends October 5, 2020

ENTER HERE

Orbitland: A Story of Acceptance, Love, and Equality by Laverne Ndopu

 

The characters in the story want change, freedom and not live in fear, not having enough resources or struggling hard to survive. With guidance of the creator of the universe and the communities working together, Kawhi sees a vision of long overdue true acceptance, love and equality. A new beginning of equity for all in Orbitland has now occurred. The circle of life is complete.

Take a peek inside:

Book Links:

Amazon US * Amazon CA * Indigo CA

(affiliate link included)

About the author:

Laverne Ndopu is 12 year old Canadian, seventh grader who is passionate about writing and storytelling. The story of Orbitland was because of a vision that she received from a high place and she was motivated to write the story of Acceptance, Love and Equality.

I was compensated via Fiverr for sharing this post. I only share those books that I feel are of interest to my readers.

Review of How Old Is Grandma? by Antoinette Simmonds

 

Welcome to the book blast tour for How Old Is Grandma? by Antoinette Simmonds. How many times have you heard that question from young children? I'm sharing my thoughts on this book and you can follow the tour for even more. Remember to let the author know your thoughts and questions. And best of luck entering the giveaway!

A humorous family mystery about a Grandma's big secret! Kendall and Kayson love going to visit their grandparents and their Grandma's birthday means CAKE, but how many candles to put on it? As the story unfolds, and misunderstandings abound, inquisitive Kendall is surprised to find out more than he bargained for. “How Old is Grandma?” joyfully illustrates the interactions amongst a loving African American family; children, parents, and grandparents and the learning experiences they share. Warm story-telling with a humor and charm that illustrates an understanding of the funniness and peace of mind that is so commonly found in children. The first in a series of books written for children ages 4 and up.

Take a look!

Buy Links

Amazon * BN

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Having worked with children in this age group for so many years, I am no stranger to the persistent questions of age and those common misconceptions of how old adults really are. It's amusing to hear their thoughts. And young Kendall in this book is no different.

He is determined to find out just how old his grandmother actually is. But along the way, he gets distracted by having fun with his young grandmother. I got a kick out of reading through their interactions, because my grandmother were a lot older. So I had a different experience with mine growing up. We always had a lot of fun, but definitely did not play soccer together!

And the end of the book touches on how grandmothers are all different, which I appreciated for those kids who are inevitably going to compare their grandmothers to the one in this book.

The illustrations are what really made this book for me. The characters felt familiar, like I was a part of their family. You could also really feel the affection and love between all of them. I appreciate the care that went into crafting each one of these pictures, that tell more of the story than the words do.

It looks like this is the beginning of a new series of picture books. I will keep my eyes open for more installments.

Thank you to the author and Goddess Fish for providing me with a requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Antoinette Simmonds has more than 25 years’ experience as a teacher. She is an Adjunct Professor at two community colleges and has worked in the past as a teacher of software and a high school business teacher. She holds a BA in Business Education and a master’s degree in Instructional Technology.

As an African American woman, mother of 3, and grandmother of 3, over the years she has found fun, joy and shared experiences sharing books with children. Now as a grandmother and an emerging voice in writing, her goal is to produce a memorable series of humorous family-oriented stories featuring people of color to share, “Teaching is my passion and I am thankful that I am sharing my joy and passing it forward.”

Website: http://nanasbookshelf.com/

Blog: http://nanasbookshelf.com/contact/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AntoinetteSimmondsAuthor/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/antoinettesimmondsauthor

Antoinette Simmonds will be awarding a $25 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Darling Hedgehog Goes Down a Foxhole by Auralee Arkinsly

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Darling Hedgehog: Goes Down a Foxhole

By Auralee Arkinsly

Children's Chapter Book

Paperback & ebook, 44 Pages

August 8, 2019 by Capture Books

Darling Hedgehog goes on an adventure to look for her parents who dropped out of sight. 

Darling Hedgehog learns about the animal nature of things in high humor and carefree, cute, and winning episodes. Learn about opposites, homophones, and similes as two animals in nature roll into fantasy land. For children 4-8 or preschool and kindergarten, as a read-to-me picture book, and first grade and second grade as a chapter book.

Darling and Miss Fox come to life as Darling introduces herself to the strange animal who is Miss Fox. Miss Fox gives her gifts so that Darling is distracted from her mission. The two animals look for things to do together in fantastical attempts to be friendly. When Darling enters Miss Fox's kitchen, she realizes that by nature, not all strangers are good for you. Will Darling save the day when it's already dinner time?

Pictures similar to Charlotte's Web and the Mercy Watson series are characterized and painted in full-color, though the pages are set up like a chapter book.

This book helps to train children in natural wisdom, analysis, and discernment. It helps to balance the teachings of acceptance of everyone and friendliness to all. There may be good purposes for everyone to exist under heaven, yet all purposes may not be good for a child. So, beware, and flee from crafty foxes especially when they are holding your parents in the pantry.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

About the Author

Auralee Arkinsly writes in good humor about serious subjects because kids of all ages can learn a lot from laughing. Since opposites exist, she believes children can learn to identify the nature of things and get out of a risky situation. "Good Laughter sparks the mind." She reckons if she can save some from the bumps and bruises, then she has done a good day's work.

Goodreads | Amazon

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a $25 Amazon eGift Card
Open internationally to those who can receive the gift card through one of Amazon's branches
Ends September 2, 2020

ENTER HERE

What a Prickly Pear by Tina Mowrey

Children's Picture Book

Date Published: August 25, 2020

Publisher: Clearfork

Roxy and Stumpy, two clever raccoons, are known for their dumpster diving abilities. Most mornings, their bellies are full and sleep comes easy. Until one day, they aren't so lucky. Tired and hungry, Roxy and Stumpy meet a handful of unique animal friends who eat prickly pear cactus. Yes, that's right - CACTUS! Join the raccoons as they decide whether or not this spiny food is worth the trouble.

Purchase Links

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Publisher

 

About the Author

A transplant from Massachusetts, Tina lives in Austin, TX, where she was introduced to the prickly pear cactus! Having been a singer/songwriter for years, Tina decided to put pen to paper and try her hand at picture book writing. It was much harder than expected, but she loves it. When she isn’t writing picture books, Tina spends her time working as an 8th grade language arts teacher and keeping up with her family of 4 humans & 5 pets!

 

Contact Links

Twitter:@tmowtx

Instagram: tina.mowrey

 

Join the Kickstarter Campaign for Bentley the Hippo's New Book!

Do you remember Bentley the Hippo? He was featured on Andi's Kids Books a few months ago. Click on the book cover below if you need a refresher:

Now this award-winning children's book has a new installment in the series coming out very soon. And you can be involved in the Kickstarter campaign to fund it. You can also choose rewards for participating! It kicked off today, July 30, and there is an early bird special for those who get in early. Check it out on Kickstarter here!

Here is a sneak peek at the new book:

In this story, Bentley and his friends meet children with all kinds of challenges, physical, emotional, and psychological. Julia sits in a hospital room awaiting treatment and wants to give up. Bentley finds a way to cheer her up, encourage her to believe she can do it, and to never give up.

How does Kickstarter work?

What can you do on launch day?

Thank you for your support!

I was compensated via Fiverr for sharing this post. I only share those books that I feel will be of interest to my readers.

The Magical Red Rocking Chair by Pamela Brabham

Flying high to the Stars, Mars, and Moon... “The Magical Red Rocking Chair,” is getting ready to fly! As it takes you on a “Magical Rocket Ride.”This fun and playful Children’s Picture Book will captivate every child’s imagination. The whimsical rhythmic rhythm, beautiful illustrations, and magical colors will be the perfect anytime story. Come join in on this adventure with a boy named Rhett, his dog Macy, and all of his new friends.

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link)

Find more of Pam's books on Amazon

Meet Kelsey Lee, author of The Tiger Like Me

Author Kelsey Lee's new picture book The Tiger Like Me is a story of independence and empowerment. Take a moment to get to know her and her book a little bit better. Follow the tour for even more and let her know what you think along the way! And of course, there's a great giveaway at the end.

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

Describe your book in one sentence or fewer than 25 words.

The Tiger Like Me is an adorable tale about an adventurous girl. Abhi embraces her uniqueness while meeting many new friends along the way.

To which character did you relate the most?

Abhi’s character has many similar personality traits to mine. I am a curious spirit with the desire for adventure continuously present. As a child, I felt different but didn’t embrace those feelings as acceptingly as Abhi. Abhi’s character is a blend of who I was and who I wanted to be. Her confidence and bravery are empowering, and I hope she inspires others to love who they are.

What was one of your favorite scenes?

I love the scene when Abhi and Tanzeer are playing with the jungle animals. Excerpt, "I play in the jungle with all of its creatures. We're one and the same, except for our features." It is fun, but it also holds one of my favorite messages; everyone is different, yet we're the same, meaning we are all human. We are here on this planet trying to live the best life we can and how that looks may be different, but that's the beauty of our individuality. We're all on a unique life path, but we are also walking at the same time. I hope kids and adults can use this as a reminder or lesson in empathy and inclusivity.

What is something readers may be surprised to learn about you?

Abhi’s name comes from the ancient language of Sanskrit. According to Swami Vivekananda, the meaning of the word Abhi, which appears in the Vedanta, one of the schools of Hindu philosophy, is “fearless.” A fitting name for a courageous girl such as Abhi.

Tanzeer, the tiger, also has an appropriate name for his demeanor as Tanzeer means delicate, and he is as sweet and soft as a teddy bear.

This is the story of Abhi, a brave young girl who dares to be different. As she follows the call of her adventurous spirit, she encounters inspiring creatures of the jungle who remind her to face her fears, recognize the beauty of the present moment, and walk the path less travelled.

Read an excerpt:

Day by day we use our voice, not only for noise but for speaking our choice.

Night by night, we move through fear; we know this is how to pioneer. Beyond our worry, the way shines clear, and the thoughts that limit us, soon disappear.

We are all diverse, yet one and the same. No matter the challenge, break the chain. Shine like a star to be who you are.

Raise your voice with vigour, to see your potential grow bigger. This is your gift, so be as you are. If you forget your way, then look to the stars.

In the darkness of night, shoot for the moon. Always remember, the light returns soon.

BUY LINKS

Amazon * Barnes & Noble *  Indigo/Chapters

Kelsey Lee is a writer and adventurer who lives in Calgary, Alberta. With a diverse background from business owner to yoga teacher, most often, you can find her writing, working with children, and exploring all that nature has to offer. Kelsey finds daily inspiration to value child-like curiosity and empathy through her two children, and her work in Equine Therapy. As a free-spirited child herself, Kelsey has always believed that anyone could achieve their wildest dreams, no matter how far-reaching. She passionately encourages self-empowerment and self-esteem, as The Tiger Like Me, aims to support the reader in honouring their individuality to be courageously unique, and playfully curious.


Website: http://kelseyleeauthor.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelseyleeauthor/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kelsey-Lee-Author-103153121229617/

Kelsey Lee will be awarding a $20 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. 

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

3 Friends Celebrate: Ali, Kelly, and Ben by M Maktari

3 Friends from different faiths come together when it’s time to celebrate one another’s important day. Respect and understanding of different faiths and culture is very important. No matter what you believe in, we can all be friends.

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link)

I was compensated via Fiverr for sharing this book. I only share those books that I feel will be of interest to my readers.