Archive for the ‘Children’s books’ Category

Welcome to my Monday Minis where I share shorter reviews of books I’ve read.

Today’s book is one from my holiday list. So cute and fun.

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The Tannenbaum Tailors and the Secret Snowball

by JB Michaels

27877098

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Genre: Holiday / Adventure / Children’s Book

My Review

Strap yourself in. It’s going to be a bumpy ride aboard the Icicle ship. Will Captain Brendan and the Tannenbaum Tailors be able to save Christmas from the Spiritless Elves?

Wouldn’t it be super if these wee folks were real? Imagine tiny elves scampering on your Christmas tree, making sure there’s no faulty wiring that will cause a fire and polishing the bulbs to make it merry and bright.

And with any good adventure, there’s usually a bad guy or two. The Spiritless elves try to ruin the festivities and that’s where the action really begins.

 This was such a fun, action packed adventure and a whole new look at Christmas. I’d say it’s aimed at middle grade readers but don’t let that stop you mature readers from jumping in. I think you’ll find this joining your holiday reading list.

4 Stars

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Synopsis

They are the Tannenbaum Tailors: elves charged with maintaining Christmas trees in homes around the world. Without the Tailors’ efforts, families might lose their Christmas spirit. And this year, one team of Tailors will be tested like never before.

With the North Pole itself under attack, newly promoted Captain Brendan is assigned a special mission: conceal the source of Santa’s power within a Christmas tree in Chicago. On Christmas Eve, Santa will pick it up.

The job would be simple, but the Tailors find themselves facing a serious threat””the thieving Spiritless elves, already responsible for sabotaging the North Pole Home Tree, will do anything to gain control of the very thing that makes Christmas possible.

Equally bad, Christmas spirit is at an all-time low in the Chicago home where Brendan’s assigned.

The family’s mother even wants to take the tree down before Christmas Eve! To save Christmas, Captain Brendan and his Tailors will have to use every spirit-raising trick they know””and possibly even bend a few rules to pull it off.

 Combining holiday cheer with action and thrills,

The Tannenbaum Tailors and the Secret Snowball reads like Raiders of the Lost Ark in a Christmas tree.

Amazon / B&N

I got this as a free download. Click on the links above to grab a copy.

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Welcome to The Kid’s Korner.

I decided to do this feature as I have so many great children’s books to share. From picture books, to books for beginning readers, to middle graders, I have plenty of fun ones.

Today I’m sharing a fun adventure book in the If You Were Me And Lived In…  series by Carole P. Roman.

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If You Were Me And Lived In…

Elizabethan England

by Carole P. Roman

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Genre: Education / Adventure / Children’s Book

Grade Level: 3 – 9

 My Review

Ever wondered what it would be like to live during the Elizabethan era? The author spins the time travel dial and you are there. Walking among queens and kings, merchants and explorers. Those with money and those with less eat different foods, wear different clothes, but all follow the same religion, the one practiced by the royals.

A non fiction tale told from the view point of a child living in London during the 1600s, the author did her research. While this book is directed towards a young reading audience, I learned a lot, and your child will have fun while learning too.

And I thought it was a wonderful idea for the author to provide a glossary at the end of the book to help with word pronunciation and understanding their meaning, along with a list of renowned people from the era.

 I read and enjoyed another book in this series, The American West, and I’m thrilled that the author included fun little facts you wouldn’t normally think about in this book also. Highly recommend this one too.

5 Stars

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Synopsis

Join Carole P. Roman and travel through time to visit the most interesting civilizations throughout history in the first four books of her new series. Learn what kind of food you might eat in Elizabethan England, the complicated clothes you might wear, what might influence your parents to choose your name, and what children did for fun. If You Were Me and Lived in…does for history what her other award-winning series did for culture. So get on-board this time-travel machine and discover the world through the eyes of a young person just like you.

Amazon / B&N

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Welcome to The Kid’s Korner.

I decided to do this feature as I have so many great children’s books to share. From picture books, to books for beginning readers, to middle graders, I have plenty of fun ones.

Today I’m sharing a fun adventure book in the If You Were Me And Lived In…  series by Carole P. Roman.

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If You Were Me And Lived In…

The American West

by Carole P. Roman

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Genre: Education / Adventure / Children’s Book

Grade Level: 3 – 9

 My Review

Learn how it was to join the Wagon Train of 1843. What was it like to load everything you own into one wagon and travel west across the country, braving the elements and hidden dangers? What would you do for food and clothing? What did you do for shelter once you arrived at your chosen destination? Life is different, with many new customs, and there’s much to be done to settle into your new life.

There’s so many interesting details shared about settling in the Old West. Many I never even thought about before. With beautiful illustrations by Paula Tabor, and informative discussions on such things as building homes, clothing, names of the times and daily living, Carol captures the image of the American West.

At the end of the book, the author shares about famous people from these times and includes a glossary of words that explain meaning and pronunciations.

Young readers will find this to be a fascinating and fun trip back in time to see how it was done in the American West.

5  Stars

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Synopsis

Join Carole P. Roman and travel through time to visit the most interesting civilizations throughout history in her exciting new series.

Learn what kind of food you might eat on the Oregon Trail, the clothes you wore in in the American West, what your name could be in the 19th century, and what children did for fun once their many chores were done.

If You Were Me and Lived in…does for history what her other award-winning series did for culture.

So get on-board this time-travel machine and discover the world through the eyes of a young person just like you.

Amazon / B&N

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Welcome to The Kid’s Korner.

I decided to do this feature as I have so many great children’s books to share. From picture books, to books for beginning readers, to middle graders, I have plenty of fun ones.

Today I’m sharing my review of a delightful children’s book about unusual animals.

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Unusual Animals A – Z

by Heather Jones

Illustrated by Soraya Edmunds

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Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

 My Review

Have you ever heard of a Sun Bear? How about a Jabiru Stork? Did you know a Crawdad swims backwards?  Heather Jones shares fun facts about unusual animals in her charming book Unusual Animals A – Z.

I remember spending so many happy times reading to and with my son. He’s now all grown up but that didn’t stop him from reading this with me. We had lots of fun discussions about the animals featured in this book and went on to talk about some others.

No matter the age of your kids, they’ll enjoy this delightful book and have fun while learning all about the animals. I’m an adult and even I learned something new.  My edition is a large hardcover copy. Your children can easily hold it on their lap to turn the pages. And the illustrations are cute and colorful.

There’s a section the author includes at the back of book. Each animal is featured in alphabetical order with a picture asking your child to give the animal a name that starts with that letter. I had fun coming up with quirky names and I bet your child will too.

You’ll want to keep this one close by as it will become a family favorite.

5  Stars

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Synopsis

Award winning Unusual Animals A-Z is quirky, imaginative, educational and just plain fun. Whether it’s Andre the aardvark or Zena the zorilla, each of these twenty-six unusual animals is introduced to the reader with a colorful watercolor painting and a factual characteristic. While Bernie the bearded dragon likes to bask in the sun, Morris the manatee uses his small front flippers and massive body to body surf through the waves. Each animal has the same lettered name and when the reader reaches the end, he has twenty-six chances to come up with one of his own.

Amazon / B&N

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Welcome to The Kid’s Korner.

I decided to do this feature as I have so many great children’s books to share. From picture books, to books for beginning readers, to middle graders, I have plenty of fun ones.

Today I’m sharing my reviews for the last two books in the Captain No Beard series by Carole P. Roman.

Be sure to check out the interview.

And there’s a giveaway for a chance to win signed print copies of the complete 10 book set of the Captain No Beard Series! So don’t forget to enter.

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Enjoy my interview with Author Carole P. Roman

Of all the themes you could have chosen for your series, why pirates?

I love pirates. I used watch swashbucklers with my mom and was surprised how easily the story came to me. I have always been attracted to sailing ships and seaports. I’m a big Mystic Seaport fan. Just seemed there was a lot of things I could do on the high seas!

I adore the zany crew of the Flying Dragon and especially enjoy meeting each new character. Where did the idea for each of them come from?

Each of the human characters are based on my grandkids. I was surprised at how well Bonnie Lemaire captured their personalities. Alexander was just over two when we started, Hallie a few months old. Then when Cayla and Zach came along, I added them to the story. The stuffed animals in the story have some traits of various members of my family. I’m not telling who- but they’ll recognize themselves, I’m sure.

Could you share with us about the delightful illustrations in your books?

Createspace had four or five illustrator and I chose Bonnie because she had the whimsy I was looking for. We’ve never met, or spoken on the phone and all our notes were done through emails in the beginning. I think she is a genius. She took my descriptions and really captures the fun of the book.

Each of the adventures in your series teaches a valuable lesson. Did the ideas for the stories come first or the lessons?

The first book was simply a reflection of playtime with the kids. It’s sort of how we used to make up a story as we played. The rest of the books evolved from a conversation with someone in my family, Snake Island started with the most beautiful sunrise. I may have written the first line, but the characters took over from there. They really do speak to me.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about writing your series?

I had a great time doing it. I love reading the books to kids and watching them enjoy the “drama” of the story. I think there is not enough adventure in kids books today.

Five fun short questions.

Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving.

Sweet or salty snacks? Both!!

Hot or cold beverages? Hot- coffee.

If you could be any animal, what would you be? Probably a dog. A really cute one.

Early riser or repeatedly hit the snooze? Oh, crack of dawn for me. I hit the floor running and don’t stop until midnight.

Thanks for the thoughtful and fun questions!!!

And thank you, Carole, for this wonderful interview.

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A Flag For The Flying Dragon

A Captain No Beard Story #9

by Carole P. Roman

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Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

 My Review

Oh boy. There’s a new crew member aboard the Flying Dragon and Mongo the monkey isn’t happy about it one bit. Zachary is too young to do most jobs and a whole lot of trouble to look after. When Captain No Beard decides the ship needs a flag, maybe Zachary has an idea for that? And Maybe he’s found his place on the ship.

I love this problem solving gang of pirates. And how Carole introduces the lesson to be learned and the solution to the problem is always a fun, delightful adventure.

It’s never too late to join the crew. Welcome aboard, Matey.

5  Stars

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Synopsis

It’s business as usual on the Flying Dragon. Their mission is to find a flag for the ship. Captain No Beard sighs, “Being a captain is hard work,” as he watches the busy crew preparing the vessel for their next adventure. Polly is giving out pretzels; Linus is polishing a lamp. Matie is cracking coconuts, Cayla is stuffing holes, and Hallie is swabbing the deck. High overhead, trouble is brewing, and it is not the weather. Mongo does not want any help from the newest crew member, and it is creating a hurricane of a mess on board. The team must come together and find a task that will fit Zachary without interfering with their own fun. On the way, they acquire a flag that will unite them as both friends and crew. Join the problem-solving crew of the Flying Dragon as they find a flag for their ship and a job for Zach.

Amazon

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Being A Captain Is Hard Work

A Captain No Beard Story #10

by Carole P. Roman

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Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

 My Review

The last book in the series and it’s another fun adventure.

As the title says, being a captain is hard work. Capatin No Beard says this in all of his books. What he doesn’t realize and learns from his crew is that he makes it harder on himself.  Sometimes, listening to others and not always insisting his way is the only right way means smooth sailing.

Once again I’m taken away by the vivid, exciting illustrations. Carole has some fun, lovable characters in her band of pirates and it’s always fun to see how they work together to solve problems and help each other. How Captain No Beard learns to listen to others and comes to understand that being stubborn has consequences for his crew too is cleverly blended into another exciting adventure on the high seas.

I’ve loved all of the books in this series and can’t recommend them enough. They will make reading time such fun for parents, teachers, and kids and the life lessons are invaluable.

5  Stars

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Synopsis

Captain No Beard is determined to travel to Dew Rite Volcano. He won’t listen when Mongo predicts a storm or Linus indicates they are headed in the wrong direction. He insists Polly cook in the galley even though the seas are getting rough. What’s a crew to do with a stubborn, know-it-all captain? Will they convince the captain he is barreling headlong into danger, or will Captain No Beard jeopardize both his safety and the crew’s with his single-minded determination to go where he wants?

Amazon

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Author Carole P. Roman

Carole P. Roman

Named to Kirkus Reviews’ Best of 2012 for her first book, award winning author Carole P. Roman started writing as a dare from one of her sons. Using an imaginary game she played with her grandson as a base, Captain No Beard was born.”Captain No Beard- An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate’s Life” has not only been named to Kirkus Best of 2012, it received the Star of Exceptional Merit, and won the Pinnacle Award for 2012. “Pepper Parrot’s Problem with Patience” Book 2 in the series, received 5 Stars from The ForeWord Review The Clarion Review. Strangers on the High Seas has won second place in the Rebecca’s Reads Choice Awards 2013. It has followed with six more books to the series. This year, Captain No Beard and the Aurora Borealis was named to Kirkus Best 2015. The entire cultural non-fiction series If You Were Me and Lived in… was named Best Series by Shelf Unbound. She has begun work on two new series that will be released in early 2016.
Motivated by her love of yoga, Roman has written a book that not only teaches four poses, but shows how easy and accessible yoga can be.
Her nonfiction series, “If You Were Me and Lived in…” combines her teaching past with her love of exploration and interest in the world around us. The debut book in the series, “If You Were Me and Lived in…Mexico” has won the Pinnacle Award for Best in Children’s Non Fiction 2012. France, South Korea, and Norway. Rebecca’s Reads has given If You Were Me and Lived in…Norway an honorable mention in the 2013 Choice Awards. If You Were Me and Lived in …France won second place. ForeWord Review has nominated If You Were Me and Lived in…France for best in children’s non fiction literature 2013. They will be followed with Kenya, Turkey, India, and Australia. She plans to do Portugal, Greece, and Argentina next year. There are now 22 books in the series and include a trip to Mars in 2054.
Carole was recently featured in a two part article on Forbes.com where her book, Navigating Indieworld was discussed along with her self-publishing success.
Writing for children has opened up a whole second act for her. While she is still working in her family business, this has enabled her to share her sense of humor as well as love for history and culture with the audience she adores. Roman lives on Long Island with her husband and near her children.

Goodreads / Website / Blog / Twitter / Facebook / Amazon

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giveaway photo: Giveaway Banner for 42nd giveaway.png

Carole has a wonderful giveaway! One person will win signed print copies of the complete Captain No Beard series!

US Only.

I like to keep the giveaways easy so all you need to do is leave your email address so I can contact you and leave your answer to this question in the comment section:

What’s the first book you remember reading?

Giveaway ends December 6th.

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And here are my reviews for the other books in the series. Just click on the covers to read my reviews.

   

   

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Welcome to my Monday Minis where I share shorter reviews of books I’ve read.

I’m once again sharing some fun adventures with Carole P. Roman’s Captain No Beard series.

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The Crew Goes Coconuts!

A Captain No Beard Story #6

by Carole P. Roman

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

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My Review

It’s not always smooth sailing on the Flying Dragon and a storm is brewing aboard ship. All of the juice is gone and no matter where they search, none is to be found. When Matie the goat is blamed for their plight, the crew learns an important message about bullying and casting blame.

This was such a fun new adventure. And I loved the lesson to be learned. We all find it easy to cast blame, especially when it’s many against one. It’s our job to protect the underdog, not bully them. Matie was an easy target, being new to the crew, but soon proves her worth.

As with the previous books, I delighted in seeing the crew again. the illustrations were pure fun, and I was left smiling and feeling lighter at the end.  Perfect for the young pirates in the classroom or at home.

5 Stars

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Description

There is a storm brewing on the Flying Dragon, and it’s not about the weather. When the crew finds themselves parched and not enough juice to go around, blame falls on Matie the goat, Hallie’s friend. Divided, they square off, ready for a fight and Captain No Beard must teach his crew that not only is bullying wrong, they must learn to value and respect each and every member of the crew. Watch the crew of the Flying Dragon learn an important lesson about being a true friend.

Amazon

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Captain No Beard And The Aurora Borealis

A Captain No Beard Story #7

by Carole P. Roman

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

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My Review

Has Captain No Beard gone to the dark side? The crew learns he’s using the North Star to track a coarse to the Arctic, where he plans to steal the Aurora Borealis. But the gang need not fear as the captain listens to reason, admitting it’s wrong to steal no matter what. Besides, you can’t steal the northern lights, silly pirate.

I enjoyed learning about navigation by stars. And I’ve only caught a glimpse of the northern lights before and imagine it’s quite a spectacle to behold. The illustrations in the book are spectacular. Bold and bright. Your kids will be astounded by them and have so many questions. All easily answered by reading the story.

Another charming learning experience with the Flying Dragon gang.

5 Stars

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Description

Captain No Beard and his crew of loyal pirates heave anchor for another adventure, this time in the icy waters of the Arctic. Captain No Beard’s steering a course due north, sailing by the light of the North Star. Everyone on the crew wonders what the captain’s up to, especially as he gets embarrassed when they ask. When the captain finally admits his plan, the crew discovers he plans to steal the aurora borealis, the beautiful northern lights that brighten the arctic sky. They’re all shocked. They may be pirates, but even they know stealing is bad. Besides, how can anyone steal the lights from the sky? A charming, engaging tale about doing what’s right, Captain No Beard and the Aurora Borealis is the latest installment in Carole P. Roman’s award-winning pirate series. The first book, Captain No Beard-an Imaginary Tale of a Pirate’s Life, received the Kirkus Reviews Best of 2012 award and the Star of Remarkable Achievement. The series presents real-life problems in an imaginary setting and encourages discussion with both parents and educators.

Amazon

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Fribbet The Frog And The Tadpoles

A Captain No Beard Story #8

by Carole P. Roman

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

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My Review

It’s a rocky boat for the crew of the Flying Dragon and hard work for Captain No Beard. Cayla is getting bigger and that means getting into more trouble, And Fribbet the frog is crying puddle of green.

The captain has his hands full with Cayla and the crew are wringing theirs over Fribbet. But No Beard and Fribbet come to realize that families will grow and that’s a good thing as they’ll never be alone.

You’re children will be delighted to learn about Fribbet and how tadpoles become glorious green frogs. I loved the subtle narrative about new siblings in a household and how frightening that might be for kids.

Carole once again shows that learning and fun can be one and the same.

5 Stars

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Description

Fribbet the Frog and the Tadpoles is another great voyage into problem solving and friendship, as well as an adventurous trip into the imagination.

Join the Captain No Beard and his friends as they learn the value of sharing our troubles with others and that help is always there when we need it.

Amazon

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Welcome to The Kid’s Korner.

I decided to do this feature as I have so many great children’s books to share. From picture books, to books for beginning readers, to middle graders, I have plenty of fun ones.

Today I’m sharing some more fun adventure books in the Captain No Beard series by Carole P. Roman.

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Strangers On The High Seas

A Captain No Beard Story #4

by Carole P. Roman

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Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

 My Review

It’s a beautiful day on the high seas and the crew of the Flying Dragon are getting to know the newest member of the gang. Cayla, the cabin girl, is a bit young and they all take turns making sure she doesn’t get inot trouble. But trouble finds them.

A ship flying the Jolly Roger is heading their way. Oh no, it’s the Shark Bait pirate ship.  They say the captain is so mean he bites his own tail. What will they do?

Oh boy, I got a case of the giggles reading this one. And I laughed out loud at how new crew member, Cayla inadvertently saved the day.

Each new book I read in this series just endears the characters to me more and I’m anxious to see who joins this zany pirate gang next.

Your kids will get the giggles too, and ooh and aah over the fun, colorful illustrations. Sure to be a big hit.

5  Stars

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Synopsis

When the Flying Dragon gets a new crew member, Captain No Beard soon discovers that every person is valuable in his or her own way.Responsible for his new crew member and baby sister, the Captain becomes unhappy with his situation and begins to think that being a captain is hard work.

However, when the dreaded Barnabas the Scurvey Dog begins to chase the Flying Dragon, the fearless Captain has to put aside his problems and keep everyone safe. In their race to escape, the Captain, his loyal First Mate Hallie, Mongo the Monkey, Linus the Lion, Fribbet the Frog, and Polly Parrot soon find out that help can come from the most unlikely of places.

The Captain’s new award winning adventure is the charming fourth entry in the Captain No Beard children’s book series. With a delightful message that teaches children not to judge a book by its cover, this exciting journey will excite young readers as well as teach them valuable life lessons. While stressing the importance of never marginalizing someone because they don’t look like they can help or keep up, the adorable crew teaches children the importance of not talking to strangers. Filled with thrilling adventure, this amusing book will teach children the important lessons in their young lives, all while keeping then riveted from the very beginning.

Amazon / B&N

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The Treasure Of Snake Island

A Captain No Beard Story #5

by Carole P. Roman

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Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

 My Review

The seas are calm and it’s a beautiful red sky morning on the Flying Dragon.. But Polly says to take heed. A storm is brewing. The crew doesn’t believe her so she explains what she read in a book.

Red sky in morning, sailor take warning. Red sky at night, a sailor’s delight. I learned some hand rhymes like this when I was young. There’s also one for poisonous coral snakes. Red on black, friend of Jack. Red on yellow, kill a fellow. Another snake is very similar to it and it helps you know which one is poisonous.

I love how the sailor’s poem prepared the crew for a storm they couldn’t even see yet. And all because Polly the parrot loves books.

They weather the storm and follow a treasure map to a small island to hunt for bounty. It’s what pirates do, don’t you know?

Oh, it was crazy cute what was in the treasure chest they dug up. Carole sure knows how to spin a charming, funny story.

Kids will want to go on a treasure hunt too. But they’ve already found it. It’s this wonderful book of adventure and imagination.

5  Stars

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Synopsis

After a fierce battle with a storm, the crew goes in search of treasure. Alexander, that is, Captain No Beard uses a map to locate it on the ominous sounding Snake Island. Bravely they dig until they find the best treasure ever!

Amazon / B&N

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Welcome to my Monday Minis where I share shorter reviews of books I’ve read.

I’m reading this cute, fun series By Carole P. Roman called Captain No Beard.

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An Imaginary Tale Of A Pirate’s Life

A Captain No Beard Story

by Carole P. Roman

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

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My Review

It’s a busy day on the Flying Dragon and all hands are on deck for a new adventure. But before they set sail, the pirates all have their assigned chores to do. Then its off to sea, where they battle a raging storm and a mysterious voice from the deep to get back home.

What a charming story.

Alexander is a young boy with a big imagination. His crew is made up of stuffed animals and his cousin and first mate, Hallie.

I adored the fun character’s in Carole’s story, such as Fribbet the frog, Mongo the monkey and Captain No Beard. And the illustrations were colorful and busy.

This crew of pirates set my imagination to buzzing, remembering when I was young and all of the flights of fancy I had then. And while there’s lessons to be learned, they’re subtle and add to the fun.

A story to be shared and read over and over again, the adventure will never get old and the lively illustrations will reveal something new each time.

5 Stars

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Description

Captain No Beard and his pirate ship The Flying Dragon set sail for a voyage of the imagination with his fearless crew of four: First Mate Hallie, Mongo the Monkey, Linus the loudmouthed lion, and Fribbit the floppy frog. Normally a young boy named Alexander, his cousin Hallie, and three stuffed animals, once they board his bed their world is transformed into a magical vessel, sailing the seven seas on dangerous and exciting adventures!

Captain No Beard – An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate’s Life named to Kirkus Reviews’ BEST OF 2012 for Children’s Indie Books, and garnered the star of remarkable merit!

Amazon

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Pepper Parrot’s Problem With Patience

A Captain No Beard Story

by Carole P. Roman

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

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My Review

There’s a new member on the crew of the Flying Dragon. Before they can set sail, Pepper the Parrot must learn the drills. Pepper can’t tell left from right and keeps getting frustrated. It’s up to the crew to help her learn and to accept that some things take time and practice.

Carole once again makes learning fun with her lovable band of pirates. I fell in love with them all over again. And every page shares delightful illustrations that will charm both parent’s and children.

I love these pirates. How they work together. Help each other overcome obstacles. And all end up happy and ready for the next adventure.

Another extraordinary children’s tale, sure to get plenty of bedtime story requests.

5 Stars

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Description

The crew of the Flying Dragon is sailing again. This time, new crew member, Pepper Parrot is having a hard time keeping up with the drills. Captain No Beard and his mates join together to help Pepper achieve her goals with patience and tolerance.

Amazon

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Stuck In The Doldrums

A Captain No Beard Story

by Carole P. Roman

Genre: Adventure / Children’s Book

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My Review

Captain No Beard always says being captain is hard work. He thinks he has to be best. That he knows all. But when his crew doesn’t do what he wants, he gets mad and decides he doesn’t need them. Until he does.

A fun story about having friends but also being one. And that it’s okay to ask for help. You don’t have to do everything yourself. I’m sure many kids will identify with that.

The lively illustrations tell the story as much as the words do. I continue to be charmed by these rambunctious pirates.

This is the third book in the series and I love that a new character was added. I wonder who the next one will be and what challenge they will face. I’m sure it will be fun to find out.

5 Stars

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Description

When the wind stops blowing, Captain No Beard and his crew, including First Mate Hallie, Linus the Lion, Fribbet the Frog, Mongo the Monkey and Polly the Parrot, are stuck on a desert
island. Marooned with nothing to do, they begin to play and enjoy themselves. However, Captain No Beard has other ideas, bossing his crew around and making playtime cheerless for everyone. Soon, Captain No Beard decides he has had enough and storms off. When his ship is attacked by a giant squid, he realizes he needs his crew more than ever.

Captain No Beard and his crew show young readers that’s it’s important to cooperate and share your belongings. The crew teaches us that if you want to have friends, then you must be a friend too.

Amazon

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

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Moto Maddie BMX Portal series banner
This is my stop during the book blitz for the Moto Maddie BMX Portal series by Kat de Falla. This book blitz is organized by Lola’s Blog Tours. The book blitz runs from 6 till 19 November. See the tour schedule here.

Both books for only $0.99!
This series consist of two books so far Flying Mutant Zombie Rats and Slime Spewing Vampire Velociraptors. Both books are only $0.99 for a limited time only! Both books are in Kindle Unlimited!

Flying Mutant Zombie Rats (Moto Maddie BMX Portal #1)
By Kat de Falla
Genre: Fantasy
Age category: Middle Grade

Flying Mutant Zombie Rats

My Review

 I confess, the cool cover and title were the first things to catch my attention. Once I read the blurb, I was in for the fun.

Pea O’Neil is stoked. Summer vacation is starting today and the super cool new BMX track is open and calling his name. He’s been practicing his back flip and can’t wait to show off with his friends. He’s nailing it until…. something knocks him flying. He’s accidentally opened a portal to another dimension and nasty mutant zombie rats come pouring out, eyes glowing red, teeth gnashing, and they have wings.

It’s a race against time to stop the horde of rats, especially after his cranky neighbor gets bitten and starts to act strange.

This brought back so many memories for me. That last day of school, the last bell rings, and the mad dash to freedom. I lived on a dead end street and there were tons of kids in my neighborhood. Pea and his pals remind me many of the kids from back then. The camaraderie and competition between them brings on the excitement as they battle the otherworldly rats. I couldn’t help but laugh at some of the weapons they come up with.

Brave boys battling mutant zombie rats in order to save the world. And a smart aleck talking cat. What’s not to love?

4 Stars

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Blurb:

Summer vacation is almost here! And Pea O’Neil is stoked to try out the new local BMX track which is finally open. He and his gang of friends can ride all summer long!

But when Pea tries a back flip, he unwittingly opens a portal to another dimension and hordes of flying mutant zombie rats are unleashed upon the city. With the help of an otherworldly talking cat sent to help prevent the demise of humankind, Pea and his friends must hunt down the hungry mutants and send them back before the portal closes.

But when the zombie rats attack a neighbor man, the boys have to enlist the help of a graveyard looney and the city’s stray cats. With time running out, Pea and his gang track the monsters to the city’s sewer system. But in the city sewer of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, it’s eat…or get eaten.

You can find Flying Mutant Zombie Rats on Goodreads

You can buy Flying Mutant Zombie Rats for only $0.99 on Amazon
Flying Mutant Zombie Rats is available to read with Kindle Unlimited.

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Slime Spewing Vampire Velociraptors (Moto Maddie BMX Portal #2)
By Kat de Falla
Genre: Fantasy
Age category: Middle Grade

Slime Spewing Vampire Velociraptors

My Review

The boys are back in action. They thought it was all over when they closed the portal, stopping the mutant zombie rat invasion. But another strange events opens it again and out come some slime spewing vampire velociraptors, armed with huge fangs and a raging hunger.

After the previous invasion, most adults scoffed at the boys claims of zombie rats. But they can’t ignore the velociraptors rampaging through their streets leaving trails of glowing slime.

 Pea’s father is bitten while trying to capture the creatures and the infection is taking hold. Max, the talking cat, and now the O’Neil’s family pet, along with the boys and some believing adults must race against time to save Pea’s dad and stop another otherworldly invasion.

More fun and creative antics await you in this second installment in the Moto Maddie BMX series. Some of my favorite parts have to do with Pea’s two step-brothers They’re big bullies and love to torment Pea, taunting him, beating him up, and doing all this away from their parent’s prying eyes. Made me kind of wish the dinos would chomp them and reminded me, in a round about way, of Cinderella. LOL

Just like in the first book, there’s plenty of action and creative solution solving to keep you laughing and cheering on the characters. I hope the author keeps this series rolling.

4 Stars

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Blurb:

When Pea opened a portal and the alien cat, Max Gigan, jumped through from another dimension, he certainly didn’t expect the talking tomcat to stay on as a family pet. He soon learns it can come in handy to have a fur ball from an alternate universe around when his friend re-opens the portal letting in vampire velociraptors who want to slime and eat the whole city!

Pea’s dad is one of the first infected. But his dear old dad isn’t the only one. The dinosaurs escape the museum where the portal opened, and rampage through Milwaukee. As Pea’s dad gets sicker, the BMX gang joins together with the feline army to corner the raptors and use them to develop an antidote. But Pea’s meddling step-monster brothers threaten to ruin everything! A city wide alert goes out for the misidentified “turkeys” while Pea and his gang try to stay ahead of the hunt.

Can the kids capture the dinos and get them home before they control everyone with their vampire powers? Will Pea’s dad remain infected forever?

Join Pea and his gang in their battle against the SLIME SPEWING VAMPIRE VELOCIRAPTORS.

You can find Slime Spewing Vampire Velociraptors on Goodreads

You can buy Slime Spewing Vampire Velociraptors for only $0.99 on Amazon
Slime Spewing Vampire Velociraptors is available to read with Kindle Unlimited.

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Kat de FallaAbout the Author:
Author Kat de Falla was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where she learned to roller-skate, ride a banana seat bike, and love Shakespeare thanks to her high school English teacher. Four years at the UW-Madison wasn’t enough, so she returned to her beloved college town for her Doctor of Pharmacy degree and is happily employed as a retail pharmacist where she fills prescriptions and chats with her patients. She is married to her soulmate, classical guitarist, Lee de Falla and raising four kids together ala the Brady Bunch.

You can find and contact Kat de Falla here:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Goodreads
Amazon
Instagram

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giveaway photo: Giveaway Banner for 42nd giveaway.png

There is a tour wide giveaway for the book blitz of Moto Maddie BMX Portal Series. One winner will win a $20 Amazon Gift Card.

For a chance to win, enter the rafflecopter below:

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a Rafflecopter giveaway


banner Lola's Blog Tours

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Boxed Book Set Details:

Book Title: Purple Turtle Graded Readers Level 3 (12 Titles)
Category: Children’s Fiction,
Genre: Educational
Publisher: Aadarsh Pvt. Ltd.
Release date: April 1, 2017
Tour dates: Oct 30 to Nov 24, 2017
Content Rating: G (informative content intended for and available to children & their parents/educators to enhance and support learning. Suitable for: Family audiences with younger children.)

My Review

The Purple Turtle Graded Reader set is sure to delight young ones as they strengthen their reading skills, learning new words and context and many other things. And parents and teachers will find them useful, fun teaching tools.

Each book focuses on different subjects and begins with a list of things to do. There’s read along, read aloud and read alone. The children mark off each task as it’s completed. And at the back of each book are some fun activities like connect the dot, find the object, matching pictures to words and other cool stuff.

The stories are fun adventures with vivid illustrations sure to bring a smile to kids faces. And they’re small books, the perfect size for little hands.

The saying, “Learning is fun,” rings true with these well crafted story books. Perfect for home or classroom.

5 Stars

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Boxed Book Set Description:

A1 Edutainment is all set to take you on an adventurous journey to the amazing world of Purple Turtle and his friends. Purple Turtle Graded Readers by A1 Edutainment is a new reading program especially for emerging readers. The third level includes a set of 12 books with engaging stories and fun-filled activities. It is based on the Lexile and ATOS reading level system and has a word count of 250-350. This level is for learners who have started reading with confidence.

To read more reviews, please visit Purple Turtle’s page on iRead Book Tours.
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Buy the Boxed Set: 
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Watch one of the book trailers:
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Meet the Publisher:


Purple Turtle is India’s 1st International brand with its educational content in several languages sold in more than 30 countries including Russia, China, US and UK. The character of Purple Turtle has delighted children across the globe through beautifully created Purple Turtle books, rhymes and videos available on YouTube.

Purple Turtle was created with the idea to spread education through a wide range of innovative books for children. To give them the experience of convenient online learning, Purple Turtle also brings both learning and entertainment on a common platform to give a wholesome learning experience to young minds.

Connect with the publisher: Website ~ TwitterFacebook

Enter the Giveaway!
Ends Dec 2

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE