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Sassy Brit (97 KP) rated My Very First Story Time: Cinderella in Books

Jun 6, 2019

Cinderella: Fairy Tale with picture glossary and an activity (My Very First Story Time) by Pat-a-Cake, Rachel Elliot, Tim Budgen is a retelling of a much loved story, only with a difference, this has a multicultural slant.

Cinderella, (along with many of the other characters in this book) is portrayed as mixed heritage. She is also more capable of looking after herself, and a much better role model for young girls since this story is less about her being a slave to her ugly sisters and her “woe-is-me” pity-party and more about how she makes things happen for herself as a valued member of her society. Albeit a magical one.

I’d say this is great reading for children three years and up, as this has paper pages and doesn’t seem to be for an early self-reader, despite the title, but you can still read this story out loud to younger children at bedtime.

A charming book, full of diversity, simple rhythmic words and brightly coloured illustrations.

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Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated Ten Cents a Pound in Books

Jun 18, 2018

Ten Cents a Pound by Nhung N. Tran-Davies is a short, poetic, back-and-forth conversation between a mother and daughter. This is the story of a unnamed young girl whose mother is working hard so that her daughter may have a better life. It tells many stories within the pages that are filled with heart warming illustrations. It is the story of a mother's love, of hope, determination, a child's love and concern for her mother and for the giving of each, so that they may both be safe, and happy.
The book simultaneously draws attention to the difficulties of living with low wages, while optimistically looking forward to the opportunities and possibilities of the future due to education.
The lovely illustrations are both realistic and wistful, and while this story may require some additional explanations for young children, it paints a beautiful picture of determination and potential.

I received a ARC from Second Story Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I give this book 4/5 stars.

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Merissa (12066 KP) rated Highland Hearts in Books

Dec 17, 2018

This book takes place in Scotland which I am sure is a massive surprise considering the title! Callum has a flat in Edinburgh, but goes to the Highlands to see the house that he has inherited from the grandfather he has never met, and now never will. Upon his arrival, he meets his next door neighbour and the spark between them is instantaneous.

With a hint of the supernatural about it, just enough to give Callum a nudge, this story is well-paced and thought out. It moves smoothly, giving the characters enough time to get to know each other even if they do go to bed together the first night - because no one ever does that in real life, right?!

This book simply ticked all my boxes. With excellent characters, whether you like them or not, a back story that completes the picture, romance, steam, supernatural, sadness, hope - it's all here. I loved every word and didn't want it to finish. Absolutely recommended by me.

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!