Review of Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

 

In an exuberant picture book, a glimpse of costumed mermaids leaves one boy flooded with wonder and ready to dazzle the world.

While riding the subway home from the pool with his abuela one day, Julián notices three women spectacularly dressed up. Their hair billows in brilliant hues, their dresses end in fishtails, and their joy fills the train car. When Julián gets home, daydreaming of the magic he’s seen, all he can think about is dressing up just like the ladies in his own fabulous mermaid costume: a butter-yellow curtain for his tail, the fronds of a potted fern for his headdress. But what will Abuela think about the mess he makes — and even more importantly, what will she think about how Julián sees himself? Mesmerizing and full of heart, Jessica Love’s author-illustrator debut is a jubilant picture of self-love and a radiant celebration of individuality.

Available on Amazon

(affiliate links included)

**My thoughts**

This book is beautiful. It's so full of imagination and creativity. Julian loves mermaids and is ecstatic when he and his abuela run into some women dressed as mermaids when they are out and about. He is inspired to create his own costume from things around the house. The best part is, his abuela completely embraces his creativity, contributing to his costume and then taking him on an adventure to visit some other mermaids.

This is the way that it should be. We should embrace the dreams of our children and harness those creative imaginations. Let them be who they are. 

The pictures are beautiful and help to tell more of the story. You don't need a lot of words to narrate it. Instead, they can invite conversation if it is wanted. They also capture body love and awareness, finding the beauty in all types as you see all of the other characters.

I had heard about this book before, particularly because some small-minded people think it needs to be banned. I want to add this one to my physical book collection and am excited to see that Julian has some more adventures! I look forward to reading them.

Review of The ABCs of Black History by Rio Cortez, illustrated by Lauren Semmer

 

In this New York Times Bestseller, B is for Beautiful, Brave, and Bright! And for a Book that takes a Bold journey through the alphabet of Black history and culture. ​

Letter by letter, The ABCs of Black History celebrates a story that spans continents and centuries, triumph and heartbreak, creativity and joy.

It’s a story of big ideas––P is for Power, S is for Science and Soul. Of significant moments––G is for Great Migration. Of iconic figures––H is for Zora Neale Hurston, X is for Malcom X. It’s an ABC book like no other, and a story of hope and love.

In addition to rhyming text, the book includes back matter with information on the events, places, and people mentioned in the poem, from Mae Jemison to W. E. B. Du Bois, Fannie Lou Hamer to Sam Cooke, and the Little Rock Nine to DJ Kool Herc.

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Black history is our history. Period. And too often, a lot of it has been purposely hidden in an effort to try to erase it. I love learning about history, so I've been enjoying learning more about Black history through a variety of means. I do this for personal growth, but to also improve myself as an educator. This is a great one to use with children ages 5 and up.

With your younger children, enjoy the vibrantly colored pictures and rhyming verse as poet Rio Cortez takes us through Black history and culture. As you're reading it, you're going to recognize how much of it is actually also a part of your own life.

With children who are a little older, you can dig more into the lives of the various historical figures and events that are depicted in the story. The beginning of the book offers some great resources. The back of the book goes into a bit more detail about each the people, events, and terms associated with each letter of the alphabet. That index is a great way to look up which topics pique your interest at the moment. You'll come back to it again and again. It even inspires me to dig more deeply into some historical events.

Not every topic is going to be comfortable to dive into. But without a bit of discomfort, growth and change cannot happen. And like it or not, this IS history. These topics ARE relevant right now. So approach them with children at their level to help them also learn and grow, and not just in February for Black History Month.

I noticed that this duo has also created a book for Women's history, and I can't wait to dive into that one as well!

Review of Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison

 

A New York Times Bestseller and tie-in to Academy-Award Winning Short Film "Hair Love"

"I love that Hair Love is highlighting the relationship between a Black father and daughter. Matthew leads the ranks of new creatives who are telling unique stories of the Black experience. We need this."
- Jordan Peele, Actor & Filmmaker

It's up to Daddy to give his daughter an extra-special hair style in this ode to self-confidence and the love between fathers and daughters, from Academy-Award winning director and former NFL wide receiver Matthew A. Cherry and New York Times bestselling illustrator Vashti Harrison.

Zuri's hair has a mind of its own. It kinks, coils, and curls every which way. Zuri knows it's beautiful. When Daddy steps in to style it for an extra special occasion, he has a lot to learn. But he LOVES his Zuri, and he'll do anything to make her -- and her hair -- happy.

Tender and empowering, Hair Love is an ode to loving your natural hair -- and a celebration of daddies and daughters everywhere. A perfect gift for special occasions including Father’s Day, birthdays, baby showers, and more!

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Hair Love is probably one of my favorite picture books to have come out in the last several years. It's based on the Academy Award-winning film short of the same name. In the film, Zuri is determined to have her hair look absolutely perfect for a very special day: her mom is coming home following cancer treatment. She tries to do it herself, following a very special someone's video instructions online. It's too much of a struggle, so her father gives in and helps her do it. 

I defy anyone to not cry watching that film.

The book is a little bit lighter, but just as moving. Zuri shows off different hairstyles that she has worn in the past and talks about how they make her feel. But on this special day, Zuri needs her hair to be absolutely perfect. Daddy offers to help, but of course has a few struggles along the way. And then, perfection, just in time for Mom to come back home.

I still get emotional reading this and was even before I finally got around to watching the film. 

It's acknowledging feeling good in the natural hair you're in. It's about the bond between father and daughter. It's about appreciation and love for a mother. The little girls in my classrooms look at this book and like to compare their own hairstyles to the ones Daddy tries. They see themselves in the book, which is so important. 

Some schools have banned this book. While I have read their supposed reasons behind doing so, I simply do not understand them. This book is absolutely beautiful and belongs on all the bookshelves.

Review of Only the Best: The Exceptional Life and Fashion of Ann Lowe by Kate Messner, Margaret E. Powell, illustrated by Erin K. Robinson

 

An inspiring picture book biography of the amazing Anne Lowe, the first nationally-known African American fashion designer!

A careful snip, a delicate fold.
Fabric the color of new petals.
Skirts that flare like upside-down blossoms.
A garden bursts into bloom!

There is no "good enough."
For Ann, only the best will do.

Award-winning author Kate Messner, costume historian Margaret E. Powell, and fashion designer and illustrator Erin Robinson tell the powerful story of the ground-breaking Ann Lowe, who grew up in a small Alabama dress shop and became the first nationally-known African American fashion designer. Sought after by millionaires and movie stars, her designs walked the red carpet and graced the wedding of Senator John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier.

At a time when the world around her thought African Americans deserved no more than second-class treatment, Ann expects no less of herself, and no less FOR herself, than the BEST.

THE FIRST, FAMED BLACK FASHION DESIGNER: Although she faced many hardships, Anne's spirit, talent, and belief in herself always shone through. This story provides an empowering, real-life role model for young girls—and especially Black girls—to relate to and see themselves in, at an age when building self-confidence is more important than ever!

ENCOURAGES CREATIVITY AND PERSERVERENCE: Full of interesting details about how Anne came up with her designs, and how she always forged ahead in spite of setbacks, this true story will captivate aspiring artists and young creative thinkers alike.

SURE OF HER OWN WORTH: This book makes a perfect gift for anyone looking to celebrate, empower, and inspire the women in their lives—whether daughters, granddaughters, nieces, cousins, or friends. Ann Lowe stands as a testament to the power of knowing we're both capable of and deserve ONLY THE BEST.

BEAUTIFUL, IMMERSIVE PROSE: Wonderful, vivacious writing by award-winning author Kate Messner and expert historian Margaret E. Powell brings Anne's pride in herself and her work to life in rich detail!

Perfect for:

• Parents, grandparents, and caregivers
• Teachers and librarians
• Readers who loved Little Leaders and Parker Looks Up
• The vast #WeNeedDiverseBooks community
• Anyone seeking books about Black excellence, female empowerment, or Black history
• Gift-givers looking for a beautiful, inspirational book for the girls (or women) in their lives

Available on Amazon

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

I came across this title in a February Black History Month listing of children's books. I was fascinated by this story of Ann Lowe. I am not very into fashion, but still like to learn about influential people in history. I was especially fascinated by the fact that she created Jacqueline Bouvier's dress for her wedding to John F. Kennedy. And when you look at the painstaking way she created all of those individual decorations, you cannot help but be blown away. I don't know how she did it all and so quickly!

Ann's tenacity and drive are inspiring, even to this middle-aged woman. I would love to recapture some of that drive and passion in my own life. I can see children being inspired by her story, wanting to become fashion designers in their own right. You could use this book for Black History Month or Women's History Month. Of course, I am a fan of learning about both of these topics on a year-round basis. 

You'll be able to touch on American history and oppression, as it talks about how Ann created designs, but her employers would take all of the credit. She had to sit by herself in a room while taking classes, because no other Black woman had ever been at that school before. Ann serves as inspiration for standing up for yourself, such as when she is at first denied entrance into the senator's home via the front door. She serves as inspiration for regrouping and pushing through tough times, like when a flood ruined several pieces right before the wedding. And those who are interested in art can take a deeper dive into her creations as well as the stunning illustrations by Erin K. Robinson. In a time of mostly computer-generated art flooding the children's book world, it's refreshing to see original, painstaking work using a variety of media.

I would recommend this for kindergarten and older. And as always, have conversations with the children as they are reading it.

Review of Little Blue Truck Makes a Friend: A Friendship Book for Kids by Alice Schertle & Jill McElmurry

 

Welcome a new friend to the farm with the #1 New York Times bestselling Little Blue Truck!

Beep! Beep! Have you heard the news? There is someone new on the farm!

All the animals are curious and cautious about the newcomer—what will he be like? Does he neigh like a horse or oink like a pig? Does he have fur or feathers? Does he swim? Does he fly?

Luckily, Blue knows just the thing to help his friends, old and new, feel at home!

Buy on Amazon

(affiliate link included)

***My thoughts***

I randomly stumbled upon this book on Kindle Unlimited, and I'm glad I did. I have read it a couple of times now, and like it more and more each time. It's probably because this is the time of year when we have a lot of new children joining our program. Luckily, the kids we have right now are extremely welcoming and friendly to new students. But this book is a great reminder to give new people a chance, even if at first they seem to be different.

This would also be a fun book to include in a unit about farms and animals, as they travel across the farm and make all of their sounds. It's definitely a fun one to read out loud with its rhymes.

I also love the illustrations, because they are more old school. I'm not a huge fan of the newer computer-generated art. These look like they were done by hand and make me nostalgic for my childhood, visiting the family farms.

I'm definitely going to be visiting the other books in the series now.

Rocketship Ride by Franco D'Auria

 

The best way to travel at a young age is to use your imagination! Take a sneak peek inside this picture book of two brothers doing just that and then follow the tour for even more from Franco D'Aurio's Rocketship Ride. Best of luck entering the great giveaway!

Review of Dancing With Trees and Waving With Leaves by S.M. Jackson

 

Dancing With Trees and Waving With Leaves by S.M. Jackson is a sweet new picture book. Take a peek inside and read my thoughts. Follow the tour for even more. And then best of luck entering the giveaway!

$76 National Geographic Kids Hop Into Spring Book Prize Pack Giveaway! Ends 5/27

 

Springtime means time for new things, so of course that has to include books! It's time for yet another Nat Geo Kids book giveaway. These are some great titles again! Check them out! Purchase extras for friends and family. Best of luck entering the giveaway!

Review of Hoppin' Hankaroo by Janet Earnest Jenkins

 

 
Join Kathy and Hankaroo on their trip to the zoo where they meet some silly animals and make a new friend who is the funniest bird they've ever seen! Appropriate for ages 0-6 years, Hoppin' Hankaroo is a rhyming book, which makes it easier for little ones to remember the words. The illustrations are done in crayon as if a child colored them. A great learning tool and fun story, your child will want to read this humorous picture book again and again!

Goodreads * Kindle * Paperback * Hardcover

(affiliate links included)

**My thoughts**

This is a cute story about a little girl going to the zoo with her dog to see all of the animals and have some adventures. There's a bit of a mix of what you would actually expect to see at the zoo and then some playful imaginary happenings. All of it is told in rhyme, which is actually fun to read out loud. The end of the story hints at future titles continuing the adventures of Kathy with a K.

As described in the book blurb, the illustrations are done in crayon and look like an older child has drawn them. I am personally not a fan of this style of illustration, but I know it speaks to some readers. I think this is the kind of book that could inspire children to create their own books and made-up adventures. I get the impression it was created because of a child's idea. Kudos to this grandmother for fulfilling that dream!

I received a requested review copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.



  
About the author:

Janet lives in Bonneau, SC and is the grandmother of five. She loves creating stories and writing fun poetry for early readers. Her stories keep the young imagination entertained and tickle the funny bone.

Review of Angry Octopus Color Me Happy Color Me Calm by Lori Lite

 

Angry Octopus Color Me Happy, Color Me Calm is a light-hearted, self-help, mindful coloring book designed to guide 4-11-year-olds and their parents, teachers, or counselors through simple everyday techniques that can be used to control anger, reduce stress, and increase happiness. This interactive coloring book is filled with simple strategies to self-soothe, manage anger, and improve emotional intelligence. Children are empowered to manage their BIG feelings while coloring 76 illustrations. Each mindful page motivates children to express themselves peacefully without having a tantrum, meltdown, or outburst.

Angry Octopus is a kid-friendly character that children around the world relate to. He made his television debut on ABC’s Shark Tank.

Goodreads * Paperback

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts*

I have been a fan of Lori Lite's books for a long time now. I am absolutely delighted that there is a coloring book to go with Angry Octopus. It leads the reader and artist through affirmations and words of hope to help you cope with the stress in your life. And while it does feature the characters from one of Lori's children's books, you don't absolutely have to read the book to be able to follow the words in this coloring book. And I can guarantee that adults would benefit from these words and the process of coloring at least as much as children would. I know for me, I'm not a huge fan of those meticulous fine-point coloring books that are often marketed to adults. I want larger areas to color because I find that to be more relaxing. I'm all over this book! I'd love to see even more!

I received a requested review copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

About the author:

Lori Lite is a mom, parenting stress expert and author. Lori has created an award-winning line of books, CDs, and lesson plans designed to help children, teens, and parents decrease stress, lower anxiety, and control anger. Her sought-after practical tips provide parents with real-time solutions. Lori shares her own experiences as a stressed-out mom in an honest and accessible way. Her personal parenting challenges with getting her children to sleep were the catalyst for her stories. She has the unique ability of communicating how to integrate stress management techniques and self-esteem building activities into your family’s life. You can read more about Lori on her website at https://stressfreekids.com or on her Wikipedia page at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lori_Lite

Review of Angry Octopus (A Relaxation Story) by Lori Lite

  

The Angry Octopus story featured on ABC's Shark Tank, teaches children relaxation techniques for controlling anger and negative emotions. It helps kids to calm down and lower stress and anxiety levels by focusing awareness on various muscle groups to create a complete resting of the mind and body. Muscular relaxation can lower anxiety levels and be used to decrease pain.

These effective stress and anger management techniques are woven into this award-winning story. Your child will learn the technique as they read the story.

Children relate to the angry octopus in this beautifully illustrated book as the sea child shows him how to manage his anger, remain calm and see things more clearly. This engaging story quiets the mind and relaxes the body so your child can let go of anger and fall asleep peacefully.

Angry Octopus is one of four stories featured on the Indigo Ocean Dreams audiobook and is available in several formats. The Spanish version of El Pulpo Enojado (ISBN: 9781937985011) and Angry Octopus Color Me Happy, Color Me Calm (ISBN: 9781937985332) compliment this story.

Goodreads * Amazon

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Once upon a time when I was teaching preschool and kindergarten, Lori Lite's books were a staple in my classroom. My students were in love with the stories and illustrations and found benefits in the lessons contained within. Lori Lite was a forerunner in the social-emotional children's book realm, well before they became so popular. I recently revisited Angry Octopus and still love it. 

I like the description of the octopus getting angry and squirting out dark ink so that he can't see what is going on around him. That's a great metaphor for what it's like when you get angry. 

And then there is the beautiful sea child who teaches the octopus how to lie back and find relaxation to let go of the anger. It's a technique that therapists teach us to use, where you tense up a part of your body and then breathe it loose again, one little part at a time from your head to your toes. You can act this out while reading the story - even as an adult - and feel the anger and tension start to slip away. I know I try to use these techniques for myself. And the kids in my class would often act this book out and practiced when they were feeling angry or out of sorts. 

It is also a great book to have at home. The whole series is fantastic.

I received a requested review copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

About the author:

Lori Lite is a mom, parenting stress expert and an author. Lori has created an award-winning line of books, CDs, and lesson plans designed to help children, teens, and parents decrease stress, lower anxiety, and control anger. Her sought-after practical tips provide parents with real-time solutions. Lori shares her own experiences as a stressed-out mom in an honest and accessible way. Her personal parenting challenges with getting her children to sleep were the catalyst for her stories. She has the unique ability of communicating how to integrate stress management techniques and self-esteem building activities into your family’s life. You can read more about Lori on her website at https://stressfreekids.com or on her Wikipedia page at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lori_Lite

Review of Penelope and Jack, Together Apart by Professor Stork and Uncle Inkwell

  

Penelope and Jack, Together Apart is a children's book that takes place in the time of covid during social distancing, mask wearing and all of the uncertainty that comes along with it. It is also a beautiful story about friendship and kindness that teaches children to see the good and positive in the different situations they may face in life. It is fun and empowering and reminds us we can still smile behind our masks. It also explores the power of family and how sticking by one another helps us achieve our dreams. With a little bit of love and ingenuity coronavirus doesn't stand a chance!

Reading Penelope and Jack, Together Apart is the perfect way for parents and children to have a positive experience sharing their feelings about facing tough times and seeing the inevitable light at the end of the tunnel. While social distancing on the 147th floor of his family's 'above the clouds' apartment, Jack develops a close friendship with Penelope, who lives in the building across the street. Cleverly communicating across the empty space between their balconies, Jack and Penelope launch a friendship in the most unlikely of scenarios. With a little help from their families, human connection and kindness prevail. Together Apart reminds us that even in challenging times there is no stopping a child's ingenuity and love. Parents will be reminded of the spark of optimism and joy we all felt as children. Now is the perfect time to share these feelings.

Goodreads * Amazon

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

I love this story! It's a fun story of friendship that also throws in a bit of nostalgia. Sure, it takes place during the time of COVID when we were all home and quarantining. But it also reminded me of my own childhood and my grandmother teaching me about talking through cans and string, making paper airplanes, and playing shadow puppets and games. So I think it could spark some interesting generational conversations. And eventually it will be a sort of historical fiction book as we all look back on these crazy times.

And a special shout out to the illustrator for creating some adorable characters! I could just feel their excitement and friendship popping off of the pages. 

I received a requested review copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

About the author:

Professor Stork is on a mission to write and publish books that help children build and nurture self-worth, creativity, compassion, leadership skills, and a sense of purpose. He believes that children are the catalyst for positive change and that reading is a way for them to begin the journey leading to a fulfilling, purposeful life.

Parents and educators can help support their children by introducing them to books with positive messages. You can read more about Professor Stork by vising his website at www.professorstork.com

Review of Toby, Toby, Worry Free by Lucinda Grapenthin, PhD

  

When Toby is faced with learning to ride his bike so he can play with his friends, he begins to worry and worry and worry.

"What if I fall?" "What if other kids laugh at me?" "What if I can't ride my bike?!"

Mommy pauses, attuning to his behavior. She accepts his emotions and calmly engages with him, encouraging his discovery of positive steps to solve this dilemma.

Toby learns a better way to manage his feelings by using his can do thoughts. Now, he can have fun!

Goodreads * Hardcover * Paperback * Kindle

(affiliate links included)

**My thoughts**

I can vividly remember feeling the same was as Toby when I was a child. All of the other children had learned to ride their bikes well before I did because I didn't have a good place to learn how to ride. I was afraid of what they would think of me and would try to find ways to avoid riding. I like the description of how Toby gets all tangled and tense with his anxiety. I think children will be able to relate to that.

There has been a push lately to teach children positive affirmations and a "can do" attitude, which is what they try so hard to do with Toby learning how to ride his bike. Children reading this are going to have the chance to review this concept and try to apply it to their own life in whatever is worrying them.

Just as important as helping children remember their "can do" attitude is how this book teaches parents and caregivers a productive way to work with children who are feeling a lot of anxiety. You'll notice that Toby's parents acknowledge how he is feeling. Instead of telling him to not worry, they instead focus on what TO DO to lessen his anxiety. You wouldn't think that makes a big difference, but it truly does. You'll also notice that his mom scaffolds him to riding independently. This means she breaks down the task of riding his bike long distances into several smaller steps that he can more easily manage and lets him master those smaller ones before moving on to the next one. This is also really important when helping children work through anxiety and mastering new skills.

And finally, at the end, the author provides more information for parents who are dealing with challenging behavior in their child via the PAUSE Approach.

This one would work in the classroom to read as a group, but would be more beneficial in a one-on-one setting, I think. Read it over and over again while helping a child work through whatever the difficult situation is.

I received a requested copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

About the author:

Lucinda Taylor Grapenthin, PhD, is a Licensed Psychologist in private practice and Assistant Professor at Brenau University, also serving as Clinic Director for the Brenau Center for Counseling and Psychological Services and Director of the Brenau University Play Therapy Training Institute. Dr. Grapenthin has over 20 years’ experience working with children and families as the founder of the Family and Child Development Center. She also presents at academic conferences and professional institutions on topics related to mental health disorders, such as trauma and attachment, as well as play therapy and parenting.

Dr. Cindy lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband, Richard, and golden retriever, Currier. Their adult children, Alex, Kristi, and Trevor, float in and out of their home, adding delightful chaos.

Review of Can I Play With My Food? by Ali Manning

  

Can I Play with my Food? is an early-reader picture book that explores food and science through the eyes of two sisters. Nema and Lexi let their imaginations run wild as they discover where food comes from and how a simple experiment can shape their dreams.

This story shows children that playing with food can be fun, but it also highlights the importance of acceptance. While others might think a disability like Down’s Syndrome is a hindrance, Nema and Lexi show us that the ingredients of compassion, acceptance, and love make anything possible.

Book Links

Goodreads * Kindle * Paperback * Hardcover

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

You can tell that this book was a labor of love by the author. She shares her artistic talent and also gives a lovely tribute to her sister who has Down syndrome through the character of Lexi. I appreciate the introduction to where food comes from. A lot of children don't realize that food comes from somewhere else before it makes it to the store. This part of the book lays a foundation for further exploration and discovery.

Then the book gets into a bit of science. There truly are dozens of experiments that you can do with food to learn a lot about scientific concepts. The "lava lamp" is a classic fun one. I wish there would have been an addendum to the book that laid out how to actually do it at home. But again, this does lay another foundation for further exploration.

And then in the third part of the book, the girls bake cookies with their mom and learn that baking is another form of science - a fun and tasty one! I don't think a lot of adults realize that baking is actually chemistry. So again, another fun introduction. Again, I think it would have been fun to have an addendum with a favorite cookie recipe using the ingredients listed.

It's a book that works in multple areas of the classroom and can be used over and over when working on these different concepts. It is also one that would be fun to read at home. Again, I think it lays a foundation for all kinds of exploration with food and can be tailored to fit the interests of the kids. I do think it would have been better as a series, though, with each book focusing on each part as described above. Then the author could have fleshed out each concept some more and it would have flowed better overall. Still worth adding to a collection, though!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher upon my request. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

BIO:

Ali Manning is a food scientist and the owner of Umami Food Consulting. With over ten years in the food industry, she utilizes her passion for food, science, and community to help food entrepreneurs. Ali is also the founder of Food Science 4 Kids, a program that teaches grade-school children STEM-related topics. Aside from her day-to-day businesses, she’s an all-around creative that loves to skate, travel, eat and enjoy life with her husband, Brian Manning. Find out more about Ali at ali-manning.com

Website: https://ali-manning.com
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3HuFMYq

Angry Octopus Color Me Happy, Color Me Calm Coloring Book by Lori Lite

 

Angry Octopus Color Me Happy, Color Me Calm is a light-hearted, self-help, mindful coloring book designed to guide 4-11-year-olds and their parents, teachers, or counselors through simple everyday techniques that can be used to control anger, reduce stress, and increase happiness. This interactive coloring book is filled with simple strategies to self-soothe, manage anger, and improve emotional intelligence. Children are empowered to manage their BIG feelings while coloring 76 illustrations. Each mindful page motivates children to express themselves peacefully without having a tantrum, meltdown, or outburst.

Angry Octopus is a kid-friendly character that children around the world relate to. He made his television debut on ABC’s Shark Tank.

Goodreads * Paperback

(affiliate link included)

About the author:

Lori Lite is a mom, parenting stress expert and author. Lori has created an award-winning line of books, CDs, and lesson plans designed to help children, teens, and parents decrease stress, lower anxiety, and control anger. Her sought-after practical tips provide parents with real-time solutions. Lori shares her own experiences as a stressed-out mom in an honest and accessible way. Her personal parenting challenges with getting her children to sleep were the catalyst for her stories. She has the unique ability of communicating how to integrate stress management techniques and self-esteem building activities into your family’s life. You can read more about Lori on her website at https://stressfreekids.com or on her Wikipedia page at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lori_Lite

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

Hoppin' Hankaroo by Janet Earnest Jenkins

 
Join Kathy and Hankaroo on their trip to the zoo where they meet some silly animals and make a new friend who is the funniest bird they've ever seen! Appropriate for ages 0-6 years, Hoppin' Hankaroo is a rhyming book, which makes it easier for little ones to remember the words. The illustrations are done in crayon as if a child colored them. A great learning tool and fun story, your child will want to read this humorous picture book again and again!

Goodreads * Kindle * Paperback * Hardcover

(affiliate links included)

  
About the author:

Janet lives in Bonneau, SC and is the grandmother of five. She loves creating stories and writing fun poetry for early readers. Her stories keep the young imagination entertained and tickle the funny bone.

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

Angry Octopus (A Relaxation Story) by Lori Lite

 

The Angry Octopus story featured on ABC's Shark Tank, teaches children relaxation techniques for controlling anger and negative emotions. It helps kids to calm down and lower stress and anxiety levels by focusing awareness on various muscle groups to create a complete resting of the mind and body. Muscular relaxation can lower anxiety levels and be used to decrease pain.

These effective stress and anger management techniques are woven into this award-winning story. Your child will learn the technique as they read the story.

Children relate to the angry octopus in this beautifully illustrated book as the sea child shows him how to manage his anger, remain calm and see things more clearly. This engaging story quiets the mind and relaxes the body so your child can let go of anger and fall asleep peacefully.

Angry Octopus is one of four stories featured on the Indigo Ocean Dreams audiobook and is available in several formats. The Spanish version of El Pulpo Enojado (ISBN: 9781937985011) and Angry Octopus Color Me Happy, Color Me Calm (ISBN: 9781937985332) compliment this story.

Goodreads * Amazon

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About the author:

Lori Lite is a mom, parenting stress expert and an author. Lori has created an award-winning line of books, CDs, and lesson plans designed to help children, teens, and parents decrease stress, lower anxiety, and control anger. Her sought-after practical tips provide parents with real-time solutions. Lori shares her own experiences as a stressed-out mom in an honest and accessible way. Her personal parenting challenges with getting her children to sleep were the catalyst for her stories. She has the unique ability of communicating how to integrate stress management techniques and self-esteem building activities into your family’s life. You can read more about Lori on her website at https://stressfreekids.com or on her Wikipedia page at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lori_Lite

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

Penelope and Jack, Together Apart by Uncle Inkwell and Professor Stork

 

Penelope and Jack, Together Apart is a children's book that takes place in the time of covid during social distancing, mask wearing and all of the uncertainty that comes along with it. It is also a beautiful story about friendship and kindness that teaches children to see the good and positive in the different situations they may face in life. It is fun and empowering and reminds us we can still smile behind our masks. It also explores the power of family and how sticking by one another helps us achieve our dreams. With a little bit of love and ingenuity coronavirus doesn't stand a chance!

Reading Penelope and Jack, Together Apart is the perfect way for parents and children to have a positive experience sharing their feelings about facing tough times and seeing the inevitable light at the end of the tunnel. While social distancing on the 147th floor of his family's 'above the clouds' apartment, Jack develops a close friendship with Penelope, who lives in the building across the street. Cleverly communicating across the empty space between their balconies, Jack and Penelope launch a friendship in the most unlikely of scenarios. With a little help from their families, human connection and kindness prevail. Together Apart reminds us that even in challenging times there is no stopping a child's ingenuity and love. Parents will be reminded of the spark of optimism and joy we all felt as children. Now is the perfect time to share these feelings.

Goodreads * Amazon

(affiliate link included)

About the author:

Professor Stork is on a mission to write and publish books that help children build and nurture self-worth, creativity, compassion, leadership skills, and a sense of purpose. He believes that children are the catalyst for positive change and that reading is a way for them to begin the journey leading to a fulfilling, purposeful life.

Parents and educators can help support their children by introducing them to books with positive messages. You can read more about Professor Stork by vising his website at www.professorstork.com

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

Mr. Shipman's Kindergarten Chronicles 123 by Terance Shipman, illustrated by Milan Ristic

 We love Mr. Shipman's books here at Andi's Kids Books. And now he's back with the sixth installment in his very popular series. Check out 1 2 3!

Review of Family Fun at the Lake by Katelyn Prendergast

 

This sweet new picture book from Katelyn Prendergast may make you nostalgic for your own childhood or inspire an idea for your own family! Find out more about Family Fun at the Lake and let Katelyn know your thoughts in the comments section. Follow the tour for more! And best of luck in the giveaway