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Big Wishes for Little Feat
Big Wishes for Little Feat
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
I love children’s picture books, but I loved them with substance, <i>Big Wishes for Little Feet </i> gives me that and so much more!

Cheryl Olsten brought to life a vivid story of finding happiness right where you are planted, of never giving up even when things do not go your way, and that there is joy in the midst of sadness. I LOVED Lafitte and his story of perseverance. The narration was done beautifully (emphasized by the fantastic illustrations) and I enjoyed getting to watch him grow up. I also liked Ella’s story and how they intertwined together. I think there are a lot of kids who can relate to Ella and her family situation. I especially liked how Cheryl Olsten explained the phonics to say Ella’s nickname from her father <i>Brilliant étoile</i>. It was a fun interactive part of the story; plus, it reinforces dual language learning.

<b>“Little Feet, thought the horse. That is who I am­—a horse of great courage, strength, and skill.”</b>

Paolo D’Altan’s work in this book is phenomenal. He truly conveyed the wonder and curiosity displayed by Ella and Lafitte and told their story in a colorful and eye-catching way. I want some of the pictures to hang in my home! As I look back over the story, I am again amazed by all the detailed work that went into this book and I am looking forward to showing my niece this book over Christmas to see which picture is her favorite. Well done Paolo D’Altan!

A definite 5 out of 5 stars for me! Some great themes combined with a good flowing storyline and some great imaginative art.

*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
  
Smith&#039;s Corner: Alora &amp; Ash (The Heartwood Series #3)
Smith's Corner: Alora & Ash (The Heartwood Series #3)
Jayne Paton | 2021 | Contemporary, Romance
6
7.3 (3 Ratings)
Book Rating
Didn't quite love this one!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.

This is book 3 in the Heartwood series and while not totally necessary, it might help you get a better picture of this family group, and all the supporting characters.

Ash went to prison, and he shut Alora off completely just when she needed him the most. You get a picture as to WHY he does that, though. When their paths cross again, Alora runs away from Ash. It's not long til Ash discovers the secret Alora has been keeping from him, though.

Ash has to learn the hard way about letting people help him. Had he done so before, he might not have such a hard time now. But one thing holds true from then to now: he LOVES Alora, so darn much!

You understand why Alora is reluctant to let Ash in, he hurt her before, but when she does let him in, its wonderful!

There is some overlap with book 2, Layla and Levi and it's kinda fun watching those two from the other side, so to speak!

This is a great addition to the series but it doesn't quite push my buttons like Dallas and Delilah or Levi and Layla do, I'm afraid. Oh it's good, yes, but I didn't quite love it.

Fox and Faith are next. Given that Fox hasn't SAID a word in three books, that should be an interesting read!

3 good solid stars

same worded review will appear elsewhere​
  
I&#039;m Lost I&#039;m Lost
I'm Lost I'm Lost
4
4.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
I’m Lost I’m Lost by Ruth Passmore is a little bit on the misleading side. The cover of this book depicts animals and a train. Potential readers should be aware that although the front cover depicts a train the book has absolutely nothing to do with them (a big disappointment to my two-year-old who loves trains). I know you should never judge a book by its cover by a children’s book may not be the best idea to practice that idea. At the same time, this is a counting book and aside from the numbers on the train cars, the front cover does not hint at this at all, although the back of the book dose.

Baby animals are lost and trying to find their way home in this short counting book. Readers start with a classical animal issue, a cat stuck in a tree. With the aid of very simple illustrations, readers are introduced to nine other animal species, ending with ten baby kangaroos.

What I liked best it that the idea behind this book is great. Counting is a fundamental skill that all children must learn and this book does so in a fun way. Children frequently have a fascination with animals and this book mixes animals with learning in a way children would not notice. The repetitive pattern is also nice for children. What I did not like is that some of the choices in animal types are questionable as they could be difficult for young children to read such as tortoises, hedgehogs, and kangaroos. Also on six out of ten pages, a specific number of animals is given but technically it is wrong. For example page, one says there is one cat stuck and a friend (witch according to the picture is also a cat) helps it, the same issue arises on multiple pages (page three has four fish on it not just the three that are lost). This is very confusing to young children.

Toddlers and their parents are the target readers for this book. Parents will enjoy reading this counting book to their young children. Young readers will enjoy the repetitive pattern of the story. The names of some animals may prove difficult to some young readers and they may need help if reading it on their own. I give this book a 1 out of 2 rating. Although a cute book, I would not necessarily recommend it as an educational book. While there is nothing wrong with the text, the illustrations could be confusing when it comes to counting.

https://nightreaderreviews.blogspot.com
  
Mickey on the Move: Farming
Mickey on the Move: Farming
Michelle Wagner | 2022 | Children
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Mickey on the Move Farming is about a little boy who is severely deaf in both his ears. This adventure is the second that comes after Mickey on the Move. This book discusses cochlear implants and what might happen if they get wet. If you want to learn about Mickey and his cochlear implants, read Mickey on the Move.

As Mickey on the Move: Farming continues to talk about the cochlear implant and what it is like for Mickey to enjoy the great outdoors. Mickey enjoys raising his chickens, gardening, and helping with his dad's vineyard. However, he enjoys the outdoors and other fun kids' things like swimming. There is one worry while Mickey enjoys the outdoors and some summer fun and stands hampered by weather with his current cochlear implant.

 In this book Mickey on the Move Farming, we are introduced to a new accessory to the aqua cochlear implant (which I believe is an addition or add-on). We see Mickey with these wants he been when he offers this. What summer fun or outdoor fun and nature is he going to enjoy?

What are cochlear implants? - A cochlear implant is a small electronic device that electrically stimulates the cochlear nerve (nerve for hearing). The implant has external and internal parts. The outer part sits behind the ear. It picks up sounds with a microphone. It then processes the sound and transmits it to the internal part of the implant.

What will he do with his newfound freedom with some water-safe cochlear implant? What adventures will he do and go on? This picture book shows Mickey enjoying some of the great outdoors with his new, improved aqua cochlear implant? The picture book is done well. It is an excellent book for children to learn about others that may be different. Also, remember that children that are deaf or have severe hearing loss want to be like any other child or children.
  
Running From Darkness (Dark River Stone Collective #3)
Running From Darkness (Dark River Stone Collective #3)
JP Sayle | 2023 | Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance
8
8.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
That he wanted in Conall's bed was secondary to making sure Calli was safe.
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.

This is book 3 in the Dark River Stone Collective series. While not strictly necessary, I would recommend you read at least book one, The Light Beneath The Dark. It will give you a better picture of Linc and Mason, as it's their story and they play a large part here. Some references are made to that book, so it might help. BUT book 2, When Darkness Turns To Light, was a far more gripping read. So, you know, just read 'em both!

Conall and Kyle are perfect for each other, right from the start. I loved that Kyle knew he wanted Conall, but he wanted to HELP Conall and his sister Calli first and foremost. That he wanted in Conall's bed was secondary to making sure Calli was safe.

Because Conall finds her being attacked by their step-father and reacts with violence. Which I totally get and fully approve of, given as Calli is 14. Running to the Dark Angels was the quickest way to get her safe.

I loved that Mason is very . . loose . . with his words, and helps Conall keep Calli safe. Calli will be a force of nature, once she has some time to come to terms with what's happened, she really will. She shows great courage here, and I loved that River kinda attached herself to Calli.

This book doesn't quite bite the way book 2 does, but it bites in a very different way. I still enjoyed it as much as book 1 though, and it is a welcome addition to this series.

Who is next?? I dunno, I don't really care, but I will be reading it!

4 good solid stars

*same worded review will appear elsewhere
  
A Monk&#039;s Guide to a Clean House and Mind
A Monk's Guide to a Clean House and Mind
Shoukei Matsumoto | 2018 | Mind, Body & Spiritual
7
7.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Sweet read but not for everyone
A Monk's Guide to a Clean House and Mind is literally a cleaning manual for those who follow spirituality as part of their general course. Shoukei Matsumoto, a Japanese Zen Buddhist monk, has created a simple guide for those who want to be mindful about their daily chores and why monks themselves do each task with such vigour and importance.

While the book itself is sweet, with lovely picture representations, I did feel that some of it may not apply to a secular western household as they speak of how to repair an altar. And when you live by yourself, sharing chores is not really an option. With that in mind, the book is geared for a certain audience, many of which may have to read this as just a pleasant handbook.
  
The pint sized detective is back for his second case, this time trying to figure out for his neighbor Oliver who is breaking into Oliver’s trashcans every night. Nate’s excited for his first night time case, but can he catch the culprit?

This is the second picture book to feature Nate the Great, and it is a lot of fun. We are introduced to Oliver and Nate’s dog Sludge, who would become main characters in the series, here. The mystery is good with Nate hitting a couple of dead ends before he reaches the conclusion. The pictures might be a little dated, this is from the mid-70’s after all, but that’s my only issue, and it’s a very minor one.

Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/10/book-review-nate-great-goes-undercover.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
  
WI
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Piggie has a surprise for Gerald, but he’s going to have to wait to see what it is. The problem is, he really has to wait, and he’s not very patient. Will the surprise be worth the wait? Can Gerald hold out long enough to find out?

As always, the lesson (that good things come to those who wait) is illustrated with great humor and fun. The dialogue and illustrations are clever and fun, and kids and their parents will be entertained. It would have been nice if Gerald and Piggie distracted themselves to try to make the time go faster, but it wouldn’t have been as fun. Really, that’s my only complaint in this fun picture book.

Read my full review at <a href"http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2014/11/book-review-waiting-is-not-easy-by-mo.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.