Book Review: Kibble Talk by Cynthia Port

Kibble Talk by Cynthia Port is a children's chapter book about nine-year-old Tawny who just cannot turn down a dare or crazy plan. Because of this weakness she gags down a piece of dog kibble. afterwards she can hear and talk to dogs. This includes her enormous Great Dane named Dinky, who fondest wish is to be a tiny lap dog. Tawny promises to help him become one. Tawny soon finds out what it means to make, and keep, a promise to a friend. while she does her best to help Dinky, her parents begin to question her sanity and her best friend Jenny becomes her worst enemy. Can Tawny keep her own thoughts straight and still manage make things right in her family, get her best friend back, and figure out how to handle such a special gift.

Kibble Talk is the first book in the Kibble Talk series. It is funny, sweet, and fast moving. I loved the character of Tawny, who is adventurous and willing to try anything once. She is also willing to put her own friendships and social standing on the line to keep a promise and her ability a secret. I really liked that while tawny was not a perfect kid, and had all the fears of looking foolish that are pretty much universal, she still stood out as a smart and unique character. I also loved the concept of the book, and its execution. talking to animals is not a new idea, but the way it was done here and the humor involved just made the story great fun to read. I love forward to seeing what kind of trouble Tawny and Dinky find themselves in as the series continues.

I would recommend Kibble Talk to readers around 7 to 12 years old. I think it is also well suited for reading aloud in a classroom or as a family. Animal lovers, readers that enjoy a good laugh, and those just getting into reading for fun will all enjoy the story. just keep an eye on any pet food in the house, because I can imagine that some enthusiastic readers might be tempted to give it a try in hopes of being able to hear your animals like Tawny. Kibble Talk: Dog Gone Dinky, book 2 in the series, should be available by the end of February, 2014.

Book Review: Kitty Hawk And The Curse Of The Yukon Gold by Iain Reading

Kitty Hawk And The Curse Of The Yukon Gold is the first book in a young adult series by Iain Reading. This adventure mystery story is part travel guide, part history lesson, and plenty of action and adventure. Kitty Hawk is an intrepid teenage pilot with her own De Havilland Beaver seaplane and a love of nature. After leaving the western Canadian fishing village of Tofino to spend the summer in Alaska studying humpback whales Kitty finds herself caught up in an unforgettable adventure involving stolen gold, devious criminals, ghostly shipwrecks, and bone-chilling curses. Wonderful bits of history about the Klondike Gold Rush as well as reference to literary greats from the area leave readers with a feeling like they have learned a great deal while enjoying Kitty's perilous adventure.

Kitty Hawk And The Curse Of The Yukon Gold is a young adult novel that is dense in information, but is too full of wonder to make the reader feel bogged down. I feel like I finished the book with a better appreciation for the wilds of Alaska and the history of the area. The author beautifully describes the whales and geological points of interest of the region, as well as the literary and historical importance of some of those landmarks. I found myself intrigued and eager to research certain things more as soon as I was able to put the book down.

Kitty is an independent girl, but one that has earned the trust of her family rather than having that trust feel artificial or because of neglect. I did occasionally find myself distracted by Kitty's conversations with herself- but I should not have been bothered by it because it is a habit I share with her. Again, her connection with the 'kidnappers' bothered me a little at first, like in many novels characters seem to trust and converse a little too easily,. but I think it all resolved nicely within a few pages and I felt better about it very quickly. I think Kitty will be a great role model for many readers- not because of the adventures and risks that she takes, but because of her trust in her abilities and awareness of the important thinks around her.

I would highly recommend Kitty Hawk And The Curse Of The Yukon Gold to young adult, and advanced middle grade, readers as well as adults that enjoy a read that is full of adventure but is also a very intelligent read. I love learning something while I embark on grand adventures with the characters, and I find myself looking forward to reading about Kitty's next adventures in  Kitty Hawk and the Hunt for Hemingway's Ghost and then, Kitty Hawk and the Icelandic Intrigue.

It's Multicultural Children’s Book Day!

Happy Multicultural Children’s Book Day!
Celebrating Diversity in Children’s Literature 

Children’s reading and play advocates Valarie Budayr from Jump Into a Book and Mia Wenjen from Pragmatic Mom teamed up to create an ambitious (and much needed) national event.  On January 27th, Jump into a Book and Pragmatic Mom will be presenting the first ever Multicultural Children’s Book Day as a way of celebrating diversity in children’s books.For more information on the day please explore the website for the day here.

For my part in this wonderful event I offer my review of Diego's Dragon, Book One: Spirits of the Sun by Kevin Gerard and Jennifer Fong, which I received from Crying Cougar Press.
The book is an urban fantasy for middle grade and young adult readers written by Kevin Gerard and illustrated by Jennifer Fong. Eleven-year-old Diego Ramirez wins a district-wide writing contest for sixth graders. When an author visits his school to award his prize, Diego Ramirez has no idea how much his life is about to change. Author Nathan Sullivan visits his school and hands Diego his prize; a handsome, glistening black dragon statue, and shakes his hand and leaves him to his friends. After hearing the name Magnifico spoken aloud by family and friends and some unusual happenings, Diego gives the name to his new dragon. He did not know just how fitting the name was. Magnifico is the leader of the Sol Dragones, dragons that live within the magical fires of the sun. Nathan Sullivan is the earth's connection to the mysterious creatures and it was his task to find Magnifico's guide. As Magnifico comes to life he becomes quite mischievous, playing tricks on Diego to embarrass him while helping him discover his destiny. In a climactic journey, Diego frees his people and suffers a terrible loss by guiding Magnifico to their goal.
See my full review of the book here.

The hosts and co-creators of Multicultural Children’s Book Day.

Valarie Budayr of Jump Into a Book is a best-selling children’s author of The Fox Diaries: The Year the Foxes Came to our Garden and The Ultimate Guide To Charlie and The Chocolate Factory. She is passionate about making kid’s books come alive and is proud to be a play and reading advocate. Valarie’s mission is to inspire children,families, and communities, to experience and create our world together while having fun.


Mia Wenjen from Pragmatic Mom is a Harvard grad with a love  of children’s books (picture books through YA) and sneaking in teachable moments in art, science, math, foreign language and language arts. Mia is passionate about getting kids excited about reading and helping parents ensure that their child is successful at school.


Our Wonderful Sponsors!
Wisdom Tales Press:
Wisdom Tales Press is a children’s book imprint of World Wisdom for the purpose of sharing the wisdom and beauty of cultures around the world with young readers and their families. Visit Wisdom Tales Books.





Chronicle Books:
One of the most admired and respected publishing companies in the U.S., Chronicle Books was founded in 1967 and over the years has developed a reputation for award-winning, innovative books. Recognized as one of the 50 best small companies to work for in the U.S. (and the only independent publisher to receive this award), the company continues to challenge conventional publishing wisdom, setting trends in both subject and format, maintaining a list that includes illustrated titles in design, art, architecture, photography, food, lifestyle and pop culture, as well as much-admired books for children and ancillary products through its gift division. Chronicle Books’ objective is to create and distribute exceptional publishing that’s instantly recognizable for its spirit, creativity, and value. For more information about Chronicle Books, visit www.chroniclekids.com


Lee & Low Books:
An award-winning children’s book publisher focusing on diversity. Our books are about everyone, for everyone. LEE & LOW BOOKS is a children’s book publisher focusing on diversity. Our award-winning multicultural books are about everyone, for everyone. Our goal is to meet the need for stories that all children can identify with and enjoy. We publish picture books, middle grade, and YA titles, including bilingual books under our CBP imprint and science fiction and fantasy under our Tu Books imprint.

Author Susan Fayad
Susan Daniel Fayad, author of My Grandfather’s Masbaha was written as a tribute to her father to honor him in the eyes of her children. Fayad wrote the book to highlight Lebanese culture while emphasizing a universal theme of appreciation and counting your blessings. You can connect with Susan on Twitter (@grandadmasbaha ) or Facebook.

Book Review: Diego's Dragon, Book One: Spirits of the Sun by Kevin Gerard and Jennifer Fong

I am glad to be able to post this review thanks to Crying Cougar Press and in conjunction with  Multicultural Children's Book Day!

Children’s reading and play advocates Valarie Budayr from Jump Into a Book and Mia Wenjen from Pragmatic Mom teamed up to create an ambitious (and much needed) national event. On January 27th, Jump into a Book and Pragmatic Mom will be presenting the first ever Multicultural Children’s Book Day as a way of celebrating diversity in children’s books.For more information on the day please explore the website for the day here.

Diego's Dragon, Book One: Spirits of the Sun is an urban fantasy for middle grade and young adult readers written by Kevin Gerard and illustrated by Jennifer Fong. Eleven-year-old Diego Ramirez wins a district-wide writing contest for sixth graders. When an author visits his school to award his prize, Diego Ramirez has no idea how much his life is about to change. Author Nathan Sullivan visits his school and hands Diego his prize; a black dragon statue, shakes his hand and leaves him to his friends. After hearing the name Magnifico spoken aloud by family and friends, Diego gives the name to his new dragon. He did not know just how fitting the name was. Magnifico is the leader of the Sol Dragones, dragons that live within the magical fires of the sun. Nathan Sullivan is the earth's connection to the mysterious creatures and it was his task to find Magnifico's guide. As Magnifico comes to life he plays tricks on Diego to embarrass him while helping him discover his destiny. In a climactic journey, Diego frees his people and suffers a terrible loss by guiding Magnifico to their goal.

Diego's Dragon has a great concept, and for the most part a great execution. Diego is a great character and very true to life. He has the problems of all twelve-year-olds, looking to find his place at home and in school as he faces an age of transition. He has a brother facing difficulties, but supportive parents, and a loving extended family. His friends and the girl he has a crush on play their parts perfectly, but they never seem to be stock characters. I particularly like that the climax of the story does not play out the way I expected, which is always a nice surprise.  I only had a couple small things that cause me not to give this book a full five stars. The first few scenes jumped around in time order a little, I understand the reasons or doing this and sometimes it works, but for some reason I just did not like it here.

My only other distraction while reading has to do with one of the major things I loved about the book. It was wonderful seeing a Latino main character, which is shockingly uncommon in fantasy literature even today. I know a bit of conversational Spanish, mainly from life experience and children's television, however I am far from fluent. I also have a bit of Italian and tons of Latin under my belt, and for the most part I knew the words, particularly from context- but every so often I did not know what a word meant. Thankfully this never happened when the exact translation was plot important, but I was occasionally distracted by my own lacking. It just encouraged me to do a little more work on my language skills, because I definitely want to read the next two books in the series.

I would recommend Diego's Dragon to every reader that likes fantasy, adventure, coming of age stories, and dragons. Do not be discouraged by my language barrier- even with my fallibilities I highly enjoyed the story and do not think I missed anything important. The story is exciting and something new and different that will appeal to many readers. Reluctant readers and avid fantasy readers alike should be able to enjoy the story.

Just

For more information on the series check out the website: http://www.diegosdragon.com/

MCCBD Sponsors!

Wisdom Tales Press:

Wisdom Tales Press is a children’s book imprint of World Wisdom for the purpose of sharing the wisdom and beauty of cultures around the world with young readers and their families. Visit Wisdom Tales Books.

Chronicle Books:

One of the most admired and respected publishing companies in the U.S., Chronicle Books was founded in 1967 and over the years has developed a reputation for award-winning, innovative books. Recognized as one of the 50 best small companies to work for in the U.S.  (and the only independent publisher to receive this award), the company continues to challenge conventional publishing wisdom, setting trends in both subject and format, maintaining a list that includes illustrated titles in design, art, architecture, photography, food, lifestyle and pop culture, as well as much-admired books for children and ancillary products through its gift division. Chronicle Books’ objective is to create and distribute exceptional publishing that’s instantly recognizable for its spirit, creativity, and value. For more information about Chronicle Books, visit www.chroniclekids.com

Lee & Low Books:

An award-winning children’s book publisher focusing on diversity. Our books are about everyone, for everyone. LEE & LOW BOOKS is a children’s book publisher focusing on diversity. Our award-winning multicultural books are about everyone, for everyone. Our goal is to meet the need for stories that all children can identify with and enjoy. We publish picture books, middle grade, and YA titles, including bilingual books under our CBP imprint and science fiction and fantasy under our Tu Books imprint.

Author Susan Fayad
Susan Daniel Fayad, author of My Grandfather’s Masbaha was written as a tribute to her father to honor him in the eyes of her children. Fayad wrote the book to highlight Lebanese culture while emphasizing a universal theme of appreciation and counting your blessings. You can connect with Susan on Twitter (@grandadmasbaha ) or Facebook.

Book Review: Four Week Filthy Fest by P.A. Kernan

Four Week Filth Fest by P.A. Kernan is a children's chapter book that might hit home for many kids. Andy Baker is a forth grader that has always been a bit of a loner. He wanders from the outskirts of one crowd to another and typically does not say something unless he absolutely means it. One day Andy surprises everyone, including himself, when he makes a bold statement. He vows to refrain from baths, showers, and all ways to clean himself for four weeks. This is quickly dubbed the Four Week Filth Fest. Andy gains some friends and has some people vowing to make him fail. In the end Andy will make a big splash at camp, teach him something about friendship and himself, and provide an ending to the Four Week Filth Fest that will surprise everyone.

Four Week Filth Fest is a story most kids can relate to. Like most people, Andy is a little different. However, Andy does not seem to mind very much that he is a bit of an outsider. However, when his schoolyard challenge takes on a life of its own Andy faces the questions about being true to himself, keeping his word, and figuring out who his real friends are. None of these questions are those unique to Andy's situation. At some point we have all wondered just WHY someone is suddenly a friend- if it is a real friendship or something born of mischief or malice. Andy's insecurities are ones that most of us can relate to because of that. I liked that people, on both sides of the matter, seem to come out of the woodwork to voice their stance. I find that this happens in real life too, with people only noticing someone after a big thing or a unique position bring them to their attention. I liked Andy, and his family, are people and as characters. I thought many of his fellow students were well fleshed out and real to me as well.

I would recommend Four Week Filth Fest to middle grade readers and anyone that has felt like they have been wandering around the outskirts of a group like Andy. Since I think most everyone has been there, that means just about everyone. This is a coming of age story with humor, honest, and insight into not only finding ones place, but in being true to yourself.

Early Book Review: Legend of the Highland Dragon by Isabel Cooper

Legend of the Highland Dragon by Isabel Cooper is a paranormal, historical romance which is currently schedule for release by Sourcebooks on December 3 2013 (however it was originally published in January of 2013). Mina Seymour is a smart independent woman in 1894 London. Despite coming from meager beginnings she has become the secretary for a famous scholar. When her concern for her employer brings to to an acquaintances door she had no idea that she was about to encounter much more than a Scottish gentleman. Stephen MacAlasdair is the heir of a prestigious but secretive family. When an old enemy brings trouble to his door he strives to protect those around him, including Mina's employee with who he had worked with in the past. Circumstances make Stephan and Mina allies as they try to thwart a dangerous enemy. Mina discovers a world she never new existed, and Stephen opening up and sharing secrets that he never planed on sharing. Can the unlikely pair defeat the enemy, and can they find a way to make their attraction kindle into something much stronger?

Legend of the Highland Dragon is a book that shook me out of a reading slump. Sometimes I try to read so much, so fast, in order to keep this blog regularly updated that I stop ENJOYING the reading- which is a crime! This book brought me back from that place and had me turning pages and looking forward to reading more. Stephen was a great  alpha male. The elemental nature of his dragon combined with his powerful but thoughtful man aspect made him very appealing. I liked that Mina was a strong, hardworking woman. While not ashamed for her past, she worked to remover her accent in order to move forward and earn a honest wage. However, she has no animosity towards those unable to break the cycle of poverty and still spends significant time and thought for her family. I really liked the strength that Mina displayed throughout the story.

I highly recommend Legend of the Highland Dragon and think it was a a great take on dragons and the historical period. I liked the melding of historical and paranormal, and the strong female characters. Readers that particularly enjoy strong female characters, historical romance, and paranormal romance will all find something here to make them smile.  I hope that the story continues, and we get to see Stephen's brother find love as well. I have hope that Cooper will not disappoint me there. I really enjoyed the writing style and will be checking out her previous books as soon as I get a chance.

Book Review: Recess Rules by Jill Vialet

Recess Rules by Jill Vialet is a middle grade novel about the importance of play, and being willing to take the biggest and most important risk of all, caring. After losing her parents at the age of 8, life hasn't been the same for Cassie Murphy. Now a fifth grader, Cassie and her three friends, Zee, Toni and Bryant, are trying to make the best of things but all the fun has been sucked out of recess. Between fewer students on the blacktop and Marcus Mackey’s need to bully, Cassie and her crew are about to give up on their beloved recess. The friends get help from an unexpected place, an “angel-on-probation” named Clarence is sent to earth to help them fix recess. The plan is just starting when the Superintendent plans to eliminate recess altogether. Cassie and her friends are devastated, but they realize they have just one shot to convince the Superintendent that recess is important. Clarence helps Cassie learns to care enough to try to change things for the better.

Recess Rules is a story that can speak to parents, teachers, and children. Cassie is a girl that has learned about loss the hard way, and has trouble letting go and caring about much. She does not want to bother anyone, not even her Aunt who is caring for her after the loss of her parents. Her friends and winning are among the few things left that she really cares about. Clarence is an angel with similar lessons to learn, and they teach each other as the story unfolds. I really liked the dynamics of the friends' personalities and their interactions with the adults in their lives. While occasionally an adult is a little goofy or might seem mean in the story, they do not fall into the trap of being one dimensional or the typical problem adults within the story. Even the bully, Marcus, and his mother are well fleshed out and show some depth and growth in the story. The games introduced in the story were a fantastic element, and might be just the draw for a young reader that enjoys teaching (or winning) games on the playground. I will admit to skimming some of the game explanations within the story, but I will keep the book handy for when my kids and their cousins get together and need some cool games to play outside.

I would recommend Recess Rules to middle grade readers that like playing games, realistic fiction, and stories about coming into your own. The characters are very real, with flaws and good qualities in each, and a situation that I would not doubt is happening on some level at a school right now. There is a detailed playbook included at the end of the book, giving every detail you might need to teach others to play the games used in the story.

Meet the author:
Jill Vialet is the CEO and founder of Playworks.  Jill has won a number of awards for her work with Playworks, including the Ashoka Fellowship, the Forbes 30 Leading Social Entrepreneurs, the James Irvine Award and the Women's Sports Foundation's 40 for 40.  Jill grew up in Washington, DC where she played in epic games of Capture the Flag as a child. She now lives in Oakland, California with her family. Recess Rules is her first book. For more information on Jill and Recess Rules please visit her website here.

Giveaway and Book Review: The Last Enchanter by Laurisa White Reyes

There are two giveaways in connection with this blog tour, one for a pretty medallion and one for a much much bigger prize. Author Laurisa White Reyes is giving away a brand new 16 GB NOOK HD!  Details on how to enter both giveaways can be found at the end of this post.

The Last Enchanter by Laurisa White Reyes is the sequel to The Rock of Ivanore. Months have passed since Marcus and Kelvin completed their quest to find the Rock of Ivanore. Kelvin is living as royalty in Dokur, and Marcus is studying magic with Zyll. When Fredric is murdered and Kelvin becomes king, Zyll and Marcus head for Dokur in hopes of protecting Kelvin from meeting the same fate, though it quickly becomes apparent that none of them are safe, and Marcus has had disturbing visions of Zyll's death. With the help of his old friends Clovis and Bryn, joined by new friend Lael, a feisty girl in search of her mother, Marcus uncovers a powerful secret that will change the course of his life forever.

The Last Enchanter is a fabulous follow up to The Rock of Ivanore. Marcus is still a little immature, but growing in character and power. Kelvin is struggling in trusting in the people that have always surrounded his grandfather- which puts him and the entire kingdom in danger. The band of friends even when separated are solid characters, and include new members this time around. I loved the inclusion of Lael, although several of the twists involving her were ones that I predicted from the moment of her introduction. There were plenty of surprises, and lots of action to keep readers turning pages. My only frustration with Lael and Marcus was the reinforcement of the idea that boys and girls treat each other badly because they secretly like them. I do not want my son or daughter to think they should treat the ones they like badly, or accept others treating them that way as normal or a good thing. However, that was more of an after thought after completing the book than something that bothered me while reading. The journey in search of answers, and a way to save the entire kingdom from ruin, is just as clever and exciting as the first book. As a whole the story left me eager to see just where this group will wind up next.

The Last Enchanter is a book that I would recommend to all readers that love a good fantasy novel, but I do recommend reading The Rock of Ivanore first since it sets up the need for the sequel and offers readers a better understanding of the characters and politics. I cannot wait to see more from the author, and hopefully with these characters.

Now It Is Giveaway Time!

If you would like a change to win a gryphon medallion,a replica of the one worn by a character in The Last Enchanter simply comment on this post. I will pick a random entrant on November 8 2013 and notify the winner.

Laurisa White Reyes, author of THE LAST ENCHANTER, 

is giving away a brand new 

16 GB NOOK HD!!!  

There are many ways to win:

1) Take a pic of you and your copy of THE LAST ENCHANTER - post it on the web (Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr, a website, etc.) and email the link to:  laurisawhitereyes(at)yahoo(dot)com

2)  Follow Laurisa's blog and/or Facebook page

3) Tweet about this giveaway

4) Leave a comment below

The winner will be chosen at random via Rafflecopter. 

To enter the giveaway, fill out the form below. 

U.S. residents only, please.  

This giveaway will end on November 8th. 

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review: Tiy and the Prince of Egypt by Debbie Dee

Tiy and the Prince of Egypt by Debbie Dee is a historical fiction book for middle grade and young adult readers. Tiy a twelve year old growing up in Egypt. She has pale hair, which she covers with a wig, and freckle prone skin which she ties to hide in order to stay unnoticed. One day her desire to stay in the shadows is dashed when she rescues the prince from a sandstorm. Her reward is to attend the school in the palace with the other children of advisers and the royal family. She becomes fast friends with Prince Amenhotep and his sister, but faces jealousy and suspicion from most. Amenhotep and Tiy grow continually closer, but when he becomes Pharaoh their friendship might have to fade. Will Tiy and Amenhotep be able to find their way into the future together or will doubt, war, and emotions rise up to be more than the pair can stand?

Tiy and the Prince of Egypt is a well researched historical novel which includes information at the end of the story letting all readers know what real history inspired the tale and where the author was creating new characters and stories. I loved the character of Tiy. She was full of the self doubt and worry that most of us carry inside, particularly when they are different. However, she did not let her fears about herself affect the was she protected those close to her- particularly Amenhotep. Meanwhile, he just wanted the frank relationship that Tiy offered. Even though she was a little awed to be with royalty she never hesitated to save his life, take on a challenge, or exchange teasing barbs with him. This honest friendship is something they both needed, and I think readers of all ages can be a little envious of. The secondary characters were not flat, and even when they seemed to fit the stereotype of villain or hanger-on, managed to be complete and multi layered characters. I really enjoyed  the pacing and the combination of action and solid relationship development. The complete story, from Tiy and Amenhotep as children through standing tall as a famous and remarkable ruling pair, was wonderfully told.

I would recommend  Tiy and the Prince of Egypt to readers that enjoy historical fiction, tales of Egypt, coming of age stories, rags to riches tales, and stories that explore friendship and relationships. While I think that middle grade readers will enjoy the story the most, I think that young adults through adults can also find something to enjoy here.

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Tiy and the Prince of Egypt by Debbie Dee 

Giveaway ends October 31, 2013. 

See the giveaway details at Goodreads. 

Enter to win

About the Author:

Debbie Dee recently moved to southern Idaho with her husband and three children where she is learning how to be a country girl in her favorite pair of blue heels. She adores fairy tales and happy endings, but secretly crushes on the bad guy now and then. 

As a dedicated musician who practices way too much, she never expected writing would sweep her off her feet until she jotted down a scene from a daydream, which turned into two scenes, which turned into a messy house and her first novel. Since then she hasn’t been able to let a day go by without writing. 

In addition to writing, she plays the piano, harp, violin, and gets in frequent fights with her cello. She loves to read and play board games - when she is winning. 


Debbie is the author of young adult novels, The Last Witch and The Underground.For more information check out her website: http://www.debbiedee.com/

Early Book Review: I'm the Scariest Thing in the Jungle by David G. Derrick Jr.

I'm the Scariest Thing in the Jungle! is a picturebook written and illustrated by David G. Derrick Jr. It is scheduled for release on October 8 2013. In India, the Bengal tiger is the king of the land while the giant saltwater crocodile is the king of the water. When the kids of these two fearsome beasts meet they compete to see who is really the scariest thing in the jungle. In their back and forth they discover just who rules their home.

I'm the Scariest Thing in the Jungle! is a fun story about two young animals playing 'Anything You Can Scare, I Can Scare Better!'. The tiger cub and little crocodile exchange witty words and compare their skills. They are truly well-matched adversaries, and their competition is great fun to witness. Of course, my favorite part is when a shadow looms and they discover who really rules their worlds.

I highly recommend I'm the Scariest Thing in the Jungle! for school, home, and library collections. The story is fun and engaging while sneaking in a bit of education about life in the jungles of India.The illustrations are cute and bold, perfectly matching the humor and adventure of the story.

For more information on the author, and his previous books, check out his website : www.davederrick.com

Book Review: The Classroom Student Council Smackdown! by Robin Mellom

The Classroom; Student Council Smackdown! written by Robin Mellom, with illustrations by Stephen Gilpin, is a wonderful follow up to The Classroom: The Epic Documentary of a Not-Yet-Epic Kid.  We are returned the the halls of Westside Middle School and the worry prone Trevor, slightly neurotic Libby, and the slew of secondary characters that we met in the first book. Libby Gardner and Cindy Applegate have gone head to head in elections for class president for as long as they can remember, and seventh grade is no different. But the pressures of this campaign are more heavily felt and might be cause for some extreme actions. Meanwhile Trevor is still trying to understand what makes a person cool and maintain the coolness he gained by standing up to a bully all while still being a good friend to Libby. There are major speed-bumps for all those concerned, and through the documentary film crew and student diary entries we are witness to it all.

The Classroom; Student Council Smackdown! brings readers deep into the world of middle school struggles to be popular and school politics. Trevor, Libby, and the rest are all still struggling to find their place in a world with new rules and expectations. I found the concerns and thoughts of the middle school students to be realistic and honest for the most part. There seemed to be some exaggeration- but that is part of fiction and what makes a good story. The struggles of being in middle school were also realistic, it is a tough age since you are no longer really a child but neither a teen, I dread my own kids hitting the tween era. I really felt the interaction with the bully and the advice of Molly that the real definition of being cool is not caring about weather others think you are cool. I find that to be advice people of all ages would do good to remember and put into action. If children, and adults, spent more time following that advice and just concentrate on being themselves we could all be happier.

The Classroom; Student Council Smackdown! is an honest and entertaining look at middle school, and I book I honestly enjoyed reading. I would recommend it to those that read the first book, and readers that enjoy reasonably realistic fiction about the middle school years. I loved the continuing story of middle school adventure and drama for characters that I feel like I have come to know, and look forward to whatever might come next for this unique cast of characters in the future. I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a far review.

Book Review: Blind Sight Through the Eyes of Aniela Dawson by Eliabeth Hawthorne

Blind Sight Through the Eyes of Aniela Dawson by Eliabeth Hawthorne tells the story of Aniela, the youngest member of the Edaion royal family. Magic lives on the island, and brings new people with the promise of gits to the island every year. Just as Aniela's family drama begins, Leocardo and Odette are drawn to the island and Odette begins to draw. The drawing are widely varied in their subjects and styles, and made even more amazing by the fact that Odette is blind. Leo and Aniela struggle to discover the meaning of the drawing and protect Odette from the dangerous effect her gift has on her body. While Aniela and Leo might disagree on the exact nature of Odette's gift, the both agree that they want to keep her safe. Aniela's obligations weigh on her, but in her quest to help Odette she might do something she has never had the courage to do before, defy her family.

Blind Sight was a book that I read with no expectations. I was approached by the author to read and review, so I read the blurb which obviously caught my eye. I was intrigued by the premise, and the idea that we could see the story through two sets of eyes, in two separate books, rather than having alternating chapters or other common conventions that might achieve this result. I was thrilled with the world and the characters. Aniela is trapped by her family, by her status, but still strives to do good things. This is not to improve her image, but rather because she wants to use what sway and funds she has to improve the lives of others. Leo and Odette are equally interesting characters, not just flat characters holding a place until something interesting can happen near them.

I highly recommend Blind Sight Through the Eyes of Aniela Dawson for readers that like seeing a story from two perspectives, and those that simply enjoy a fantastic read. The book offers readers family drama, a coming of age story, mystery, magic, and some romance for good measure. I also recommend picking up Leo's side of the story in Blind Sight Through the Eyes of Leocardo Reyes by  Ermisenda Alvarez . Again, I sincerely hope that other books set in Edaion follow soon, because there are many characters whom I would like to read more about.

This post is part of the Blind Sight Blog Tour. Blind Sight is an urban fantasy novel written in two volumes, each telling the story through a different character's perspective.

Book Review: Blind Sight Through the Eyes of Leocardo Reyes

Blind Sight Through the Eyes of Leocardo Reyes Ermisenda Alvarez opens with Leocardo and his blind sister Odette in Spain. The pair find themselves unintended immigrant to the island of Edaion, where Odette begins having seizures and produces drawings that are a sign of her magical gift that the island has given her. Leo is in search of answers, about the island, how to help his sister, and what his gift might be. Aniela is a princess on the island, and becomes friends with Odette. She is in search for answers to help Odette too, and while she comes to different conclusions that Leo, she only wants to help the siblings and perhaps get a little closer to Leo in the process.

Blind Sight Through the Eyes of Leocardo Reyes was an enthralling read, and one I wish I had read earlier. The island of Edaion is a well crafted world of magic, and some politics as well. Leo is transported to the island with Odette after her very first drawing episode, which is strange enough, but Odette is blind. I liked that Odette was a fiercely independent teen, including the angst and worries that come with a normal teen and the adjustment that comes from trying to find her place in a new school and home. Leo seems to feel like he holds the responsibility for everything, and needs to make everything perfect for his sister, which would be impossible even under normal circumstances. He wants to escape the island and the magic it imparts, but fails every attempt as well as in most attempts to gain information about the island and his sister's well being. The complications of his job, relationships, and his own doubts all fall to the wayside when Odette disappears and her life might be on the line.

I highly recommend Blind Sight Through the Eyes of Leocardo Reyes for readers looking to get lost in a book that is a little bit different than everything else. There is mystery, magic, family, and a smidgen of romance all thrown together into a pot of reading goodness. I also recommend following it up with Aniela's side of the story in "Blind Sight Through the Eyes of Aniela Dawson" by Eliabeth Hawthorne. I hope other books set in Edaion follow soon, because there are many characters whom I would like to read more about.


This post is part of the Blind Sight Blog Tour. Blind Sight is an urban fantasy novel written in two volumes, each telling the story through a different character's perspective.

Book Review: Freedom Road by T.M. Sounders

Freedom Road by T.M. Sounders is a book about eighteen year-old Samantha Becker. Her solace and reason for getting up every morning since the age of eight has been music, more precisely the guitar. With an alcoholic mother and controlling but somehow distant father, Sam dreams of escape to Julliard and studying classic guitar. However, when her father's insistence that Sam work for his bank, and an 'accident' threatens Sam's ability to even play guitar she loses confidence and digs in deeper behind her emotional walls. Just as she is about to give up on everything, two unexpected people work to break through the walls and force her to evaluate her life and dreams; including her family, band-mates, and adjustment to her injury and its effects on her long term goals. Can Sam break through and be the person she always wanted to be, or will she collapse to the will of others and lose herself in the process.

Freedom Road was a phenomenal, but far from emotionally easy, read. Sam has a horrible home life and feels abandoned by everyone that she have cared for her. The band she plays with are her friends by default, and are far from the most supportive bunch. When her father 'slips' and causes an injury that would change Sam's life forever she needs to readjust how she thinks about everything, including herself. I felt her despair from the very first page, and  found myself cringing or holding back tears in sympathy on several occasions. I liked that even though I had guessed the big twist in the story early on, and had a feeling on how certain parts of the book would resolve, the journey never ceased to be moving and interesting.

I would recommend Freedom Road for young adults and adults, particularly those that like coming of age stories or can relate to any of the crises that Sam faces. Younger readers facing troubled homes or trying to overcome an injury that blocks a life goal could also benefit from this book. There is nothing other than the tough problems Sam is facing that makes me hesitate in recommending for middle school age students. The story is hard to read emotionally, but it is completely worth the ride.

**FINALIST, USA Book Awards, Young Adult Fiction, 2012**
**FINALIST, Next Generation Indie Awards, Young Adult Fiction, 2013**
**Second Place/Quarter-Finalist in the YA category of the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Awards**

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Amazon Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009AFQ7N0

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Author Bio

T.M. Souders was born in Johnstown, PA and grew up in the suburbs outside of Pittsburgh.  She graduated in 2004, from Youngstown State University, with a degree in Psychology and minor in Women’s Studies.  She is the author of bestselling women’s fiction novel, Waiting on Hope, as well as the novelette Dashing Through The Snow, and the three-time, award-winning YA novel, Freedom Road. She is the founder of The Serious Reader, a site dedicated to connecting with readers one book at a time. She currently lives in rural Ohio with her husband and children.

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This review is part of T.M. Sounders blog tour. For more information about the author and other stops on the blog tour check out her website; http://www.tmsouders.com/.

Early Book Review: Flirting Under the Full Moon by Ashlyn Chase

 I have an advanced reader copy of this, and would love to pass it on to an interested reader! Come Monday March 25 I will pick a random commenter and mail them my copy! A special thanks to LM, a fellow librarian that passed the galley onto me because she was not going to have time to read and review it!

Flirting Under the Full Moon by Ashlyn Chase is the first book in the Flirting with Fangs Trilogy. The book opens with Brandee Hanson being dumped via text message. Before long this waitress that wants to be a photographer catches sight of a bar regular, known as One Night Nick. She would love to get a little closer to him, but not if that means it only lasts for one night. Little does Brandee know that she works in a paranormal bar, and that Nick is a werewolf. At least until she catches his shifting on film and a hailstorm of trouble from a kidnapping investigation and the Council that enforces paranormal rules surrounds them. Can the pair survive everything coming their way, and will they be able to carve out a happy ever after?

Flirting Under the Full Moon is a paranormal romance with a good sense of humor. It was a fun, quick read that made me smile a few times. I did have some moments when I felt like I should have already known some characters, apparently some are main players in the Strange Neighbors series, which I have not read. While Brandee and Nick both seemed to be intellegent and fun characters, I was annoyed at how easily and unquestioning Brandee was about the relationship. Yes, the pair casually knew each other from the bar, but I thought the leap from flirting in the bar to committed relationship was a little too fast, particularly in light of how often Brandee's abandonment issues are brought up. I know that the 'mate' or 'beloved' thing is often used in paranormal romance, but I much prefer it when the otherwise intelligent heroine questions her sanity, safety, and future a little bit more than Brandee does.

I did like the additional layer of mystery and action in regards to the cases Nick works on, but often felt like they where more of  a distraction or bonus to distract from the shallowness of the actual romance. I also liked the inclusion of Mother Nature and the added complication of the Council. It made the entire story more intense and left me wondering where the larger story arc might go from where Flirting Under the Full Moon leaves off.

While Flirting Under the Full Moon is not the best paranormal romance that I have read (I have read many, many of them) it was still a fun read that went very quick. If you enjoy a contemporary paranormal romance with some humor and some action or mystery then you are likely to enjoy the read.

Book Review: My Very UnFairy Tale Life by Anna Staniszewski

My Very UnFairy Tale Life is the first book in a series for children and tweens by Anna Staniszewski.  Jenny is an adventurer, she travels to enchanted kingdoms and solves the problems of the creatures that live there. A red headed gnome named Anthony is her guide, and her eccentric aunt with more knowledge of animals than children is her guardian since her parent's disappearance. To make things even worse, her friends seem to have forgotten all about her. With all this chaos in her life, Jenny just wants to go back to having a normal life, But when talking frogs come seeking her help against an evil sorcerer how can she say no?

Jenny is a strong, capable girl facing self doubt and a challenging situation. I liked her spunk and witticisms that seem to be her main strength when dealing with big problems. She tries to make the right decision most of the time, but occasionally makes choices that he thinks are in her own best interest instead. She quickly learns the value of doing the right thing, how to face her fears, and her own importance and value to the world. While the just into the story with Jenny already as an established adventurer made me feel like I might have started at book two, the story itself was solid and kept me interested. I also know that a prequel is available, and plan to read it shortly to see how the story all began.

I recommend My Very UnFairy Tale Life to children around 7 years old through tweens. Jenny is a character that most girls can relate to. I think that the book can entertain with the action and humor while still imparting a lesson about having faith in yourself and doing the right thing even when it is more difficult.

Book Review: The Choosing by Jeremy Lallo

The Choosing by Jeremy Lallo  is the first book in a fantasy series called Blood and Brotherhood.  Seth and Garret are twins setting out on a required journey, a trip to ceremony that will decide the next five years of their life.Garret knows that he wants to be chosen to fight for the country, but Seth is torn since he would much rather help others than fight anyone. They are joined by a young healer on his way to the Choosing as well. Before long they are joined by another and Seth quickly falls in love. Their journey is dangerous, and the destination holds mystery and fear as they move forward toward their future.

The Choosing has everything that makes the start of a great fantasy series. There are gods, warring factions, a love story, mysterious or tragic origins for at least one major character, and world building that is both complete and entertaining. I really enjoyed the larger back story about the origin of man and the sources of the gods power. I have seen similar ideas before, but not expressed in the same way. I enjoyed the dynamics of the relationship between Seth and Garret, particularly their acceptance and intelligent use of their differences. The characters are each solidly built and consistent in their actions and choices. Their first companion, Ashton, is equally well built and constant. His gifts and thoughtful ways are exactly the foil the two other boys needed to round out their travel party.

Now on to the one thing that bothered me through out this book. As soon as the boys ran across Sara and she joined the group, I found myself skimming sections. She is not a terrible character. She has a sad story and has a great memory, which makes her very intelligent and a wonderful asset to the group. However, Seth and Sara seem to fall instantly in love and spend much of the rest of the book brooding or making out. I appreciated Seth's honor, and Sara's connection of physical contact with love, but it just got to be a bit much. There was no more than an instant connection, gratitude, and a urge to protect that bound them together rather than a well built relationship. That bothered me, as did the pages and pages of the pair 'exploring' each other and testing the limits of how far they could go without actually having sex and the 'fighting of urges'. It is not that I am a prude or do not enjoy a good love scene, as you can tell from the other books I have reviewed here, but it was simply not necessary to move the story forward, and I think the tale would have done better without most (if not all) of that aspect of the story. The pair falling in love is fine, but I would rather they form a real relationship rather than just thinking of each other as guardian and angel as they fool around. Wow, that was quite the tirade for me.

With all that said, I enjoyed the larger story line of The Choosing and still will recommend it to older teens and adults. If it had not been for the physical aspects of the relationship between Seth and Sara I would have recommended it to middle school students and older. I really did enjoy the world, and for the most part, the characters. I will be looking at the next installment of the Blood and Brotherhood Saga, which is titled The Chosen and will likely continue on as long as my enjoyment of the large story arch is greater than my annoyance with the 'romance'.

Book Review: Love Under Cover by Jessica Brody

Love Under Cover by Jessica Brody is the story of Jennifer Hunter, a woman that has spent the last two years of her life as a woman hired to test men's faithfulness to their wife or girlfriend. But, when she finds love herself, Jen gives up her undercover lifestyle and works behind the scenes rather than on the front lines of fidelity testing. Can a former fidelity inspector tear herself away from her old calling for the sake of the perfect guy, or is the temptation to conduct love under cover just too strong? When her boyfriend Jamie popped the question Jen finds herself questioning weather she is marriage material. Jen needs to face her lifelong issues with commitment and trust, while managing a business that focuses on failing relationships. One decision could change everything, for better or for worse.

Love Under Cover is a novel about recognizing and facing your own issues, and about being true not only to others but to yourself. While it is the sequel to The Fidelity Files, where I must assume Jennifer met Jamie and went from fidelity inspector to the owner of the Hawthorne Agency, those of us that missed the first book and quickly get into the swing of things. I felt like I knew Jen and her friends from the moment they entered the scene in Love Under Cover. The characters were all very well done, and they felt extremely real. I think that with a history like Jen's, and the business she is in, feeds the paranoia and distrust that some of the characters seem steeped in. It was a little overwhelming at times, but admittedly helped to build the drama. Reading the book was intriguing, and sometimes a  little painful since I found myself cringing when certain choices were made, because I simply knew that the fall out was not going to be pretty.

I recommend Love Under Cover to readers that enjoyed the first book, The Fidelity Files.I think many fans of chick lit and contemporary fiction that deals with facing your past, present, and future and how your issues and decisions impact each of them. The ending seemed a little weak, but left me wondering if there would be more to the story in later books, and if the rumors of a television series might be true because of the wiggle room that it left for whatever might happen next.

Review: Anything for You (Coming Home #2.5) by Jessica Scott

Anything for You is a short story by Jessica Scott that revisits Shane Garrison and Jen St. James from Because of You, the first book in the Coming Home series. In this story we become reacquainted with Sergeant First Class Shane Garrison, who is making serious strides in recovering from the wounds he received while deployed. the love of his life, and nurse, Jen St. James is still recovering from the scare of possibly losing him before having a real chance to have a relationship, and her own brush with death, is ready to have a family and continue moving forward. however, the possibility of losing Jen scares Shane more than he can express. His fears for the future might cause more problems than any of the scars the pair wear.

I loved, loved, loved Because of You. Loved it! Now that I have gotten that clear, I need to tell you how excited I was when I received an email from Jessica Scott offering me a copy of Anything for You. The mere idea of revisiting Shane and Jen had me smiling before I even started reading. Anything for You begins with Shane and Jen really settling in to living together, and the routines that come with the idea of permanent cohabitation. Then, the discussions about the future get Shane a little concerned. he is terrified that the children Jen desperately wants to have will put her life at risk. However, being a alpha male and uncomfortable about fear and weakness his communication skills fail and leads to conflict. This is truly a story about facing your fears and moving forward with life, regardless of how scare it might be. It was nice to see a love story continue on past the initial 'happy ever after'.

I highly recommend Anything for You to all fans of Jessica Scott and Because of You. Oh, and if you like contemporary romance, particularly ones that accurately portray military life, and have not read Because of You, go read it. Seriously, go get it now, place a hold at the library, run to a book store, or pay Amazon a visit. Honestly, you'll thank me later.

Book Review: Secrets Clad in Light by Kyra Gregory

Secrets Clad in Light by Kyra Gregory is a novel that is hard to categorize for me. The initial blurb for the book says that it takes place in 1888 London, but as you read the story it could be happening in the future, and alternate world, or anyplace that can include poverty, abuse, and a sewer system. Henry is a man that risks everything to save the life of a younger man that seems to have attempted suicide by slitting his own throat. Henry is trouble by the choice, not knowing if he is condemning the other to a miserable existence, but does everything he can to save the life. Slowly, details about the pair, and the mysterious woman that helps them. The book offers emotional struggles, some mystery, and a slow reveal of information.

Secrets Clad in Light was a book that left me with mixed feelings. The reveal of information was slow, which was both good and bad. I liked the feel that while the book was written to have taken place in historic London, there was a feel that this could happen anywhere, anytime. Oppression and abuse can be present where ever people live. Henry is the main character, and the one we know most, and least, about. We know that he was some sort of employee or servant, that he loves Seth, and that he wants to help and protect others. The younger man he saved, Seth, suffered some abuse and has a long road of recovery ahead of him. There is a mysterious woman that aids them, and the majority of the story is about her effect on Henry and the discovery about her past. The emotional struggles Henry faces, worrying about everyone else's well being, and how they feel about him, is a common thread through the book.

Secrets Clad in Light is a unique book that could speak to many readers. I picked it up a few times before I read it through to the end. The story is vague enough in some details that I wondered a few times if I missed something in the world building, but it is also detailed enough on Henry's emotions and thought process that it could really capture some readers. Readers that like to be immersed in the setting might want to skip this book, but readers that are more interested in the moment rather that the setting would enjoy the book.