Archive for the ‘Children’s books’ Category

Zoe and Zak Collage

About the Books

Move over Percy Jackson. Find out what everybody is talking about!

Have you ever gotten hopelessly lost in a strange land?
Talked to an elephant?
Ridden a magic carpet?
Been jailed by an angry parrot?
And discovered that you have the power to change the world?

Zoe & Zak hadn’t either. But that was before their lives were turned upside down by a mysterious creature called the Ghost Leopard. Now, they find themselves attending a strange school high in the Himalayan foothills, where nothing is what it seems and anything is possible.

The Zoe & Zak Adventures contains the first three full books of the middle grade fantasy adventure series, where two semi-normal kids begin to live absolutely extraordinary lives.

In Book One, The Ghost Leopard, Zoe & Zak take their first trip to India where they learn that they’ve been chosen to protect a mythical creature from a terrible fate.

In Book Two, The Yogi’s Curse, Zoe & Zak are back in India, this time to attend Moonstock Academy, a strange and sometimes frightening boarding school where weird events seem to occur on a regular basis.

And in Book Three, The Tiger Temple, Zoe & Zak take on their second semester at Moonstock and their most terrifying challenge yet.

If you love to laugh out loud, if you like adventure, and if you’re dying to go on the wildest ride on this side of the Himalayas, pick up the Zoe & Zak Adventures today.

Now Available as a Compendium:

The three book collection contains the complete text of first three books in the Zoe & Zak series. Together, these books are guaranteed to bring you to a magical world unlike any you’ve experienced before. Find out what everybody is talking about.

 

Book 1: Zoe and Zak and The Ghost Leopard

Ghost Leopard by Lars Guignard

The Buzz

Zoe & Zak and the Ghost Leopard BLOG TOUR

“Love Love Love! This book had me from the first chapter. This book overflows with top-notch character development, culture, adventure, and FUN!” ~ Sunshine, Bubbles and Books

This is adventure with a capital ‘A’ and the kind that middle grade readers will love.~ Word Magic: All About Books

“Once Zoe and Zak are off on their adventure, the pace never lets up. There are constant dangers lurking all around them and they are pretty much constantly fighting for their lives. Throw in some really interesting mystical creatures and you have a recipe for a great MG novel!!” ~ Best Kids’ Reads

Amazon (Print) | Amazon (Kindle) | Amazon (Audiobook) | iTunes (Audiobook)

BOOK SALE: You can grab a copy of Book 1, “Ghost Leopard” for 99 cents from Amazon starting December 18th, 2014. PURCHASE NOW!

 

Book 2: Zoe & Zak and the Yogi’s Curse

Yogi's Curse by Lars Guignard

The Buzz

Zoe & Zak and the Yogi’s Curse BLOG TOUR

“Lars Guignard keeps up the pace with this second installment in the Zoe and Zak Adventure series. I recommend this series to tweens and teens who love a great adventure steeped with magic and mysticism. Ages 8+.” ~ Mother Daughter Book Reviews

“Fantasy, action, adventure, wonderful characters and some fun mysteries has me hooked… 5 Stars!” ~ Brooke Blogs

I loved the faster pace of this second book. Zoe & Zak’s adventures kept me turning pages to see what was happening next.
~ Carpinello’s Writing Pages

Amazon (Print) | Amazon (Kindle) | Amazon (Audiobook) | iTunes (Audiobook)

 

Book 3: Zoe & Zak and the Tiger Temple

Tiger Temple by Lars Guignard

The Buzz

Zoe & Zak and the Tiger Temple BLOG TOUR

“Zoe and Zak’s adventure in the Tiger’s Temple nerve-wracking and enjoyable all at the same time! Magic flies high in this story. Guignard continues not only to entertain his young readers but also to educate them on the exotic culture of India. Readers learn about everything from food to mythology. I love all the magic and mystery in his books, and you can’t help but love Zoe and Zak with their self-destructive behavior.” ~ Jump Into a Book

“The great thing about this book, besides the fun adventure, is the exposure kids will get to different cultures, mythologies, and ways of life.” ~ Nik’s Picks

“Lars Guignard’s writing is easy to read and the story flows well and he has a great sense of humor. Zoe & Zak and the Tiger Temple is another must read for readers of all ages. I can’t wait for more books in the Zoe & Zak series! ” ~ Bound 4 Escape

Amazon (Print) | Amazon (Kindle) | Amazon (Audiobook) | iTunes (Audiobook)

 

Purchase all Three!

The Heroes of the Himalayas Book Set by Lars Guignard

PURCHASE: Amazon (Kindle)

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About The Author: Lars Guignard

 

Lars Guignard

Lars Guignard

Prior to writing novels, Lars Guignard wrote for film and television. As a teenager he attended boarding school in the Indian Himalayas and his experiences there provided the inspiration for the “Heroes of the Himalayas” series which now include: Zoe & Zak and the Ghost Leopard, Zoe & Zak and the Yogi’s Curse, and Zoe & Zak and the Tiger Temple.

He lives in the Pacific Northwest where he dodges bears and cougars while hiking & skiing the magnificent Coast Mountain Range.

For news about new releases, please join his email list by contacting the author: Zoe&ZakAdventures@gmail.com

Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

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**$25 Book Blast Giveaway**

 

Amazon 25 gift card

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice)

Contest closes: January 1, 11:59 pm, 2015

Open to: Internationally

How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Lars Guignard and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

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Apple Pie for You and I by Denise Mistich

 

About the Book

Title: Apple Pie for You and I | Author: Denise Mistich | Illustrator: Daniel Bulleri | Publication Date: November 13, 2013 | Publisher: Apple Pie Books | Pages: 32 | Recommended Ages: 3 to 8

Book Description:

Apple Pie for You and I is one fantastically colorful and happy little children’s book! Kids love to count the pieces of the pie as these hilarious critters gobble them down. They also get a little lesson in grammar and find out what happens when they eat too many slices!

Message from the Author:

This project was a lot of fun and I know your children are going to love it. I simply wrote a poem about raccoons eating an apple pie. Illustrator Daniel Bulleri brought the story to life. Grab a copy and enjoy it with your little ones. The book is available as a Kindle e-book and the paperback is coming soon!

Purchase the Kindle for Just $1.00 through Dec. 31, 2014

Amazon | Goodreads

About Author Denise Mistich

Denise Mistich

 

Author Denise Davidson Mistich, co-founder of Apple Pie Books, writes poems and stories that inspire children to think. She is also a minister and host of The Healing Room, Christian Radio for the Whole Woman.

Website | Facebook | Google+ | Goodreads

 

 

About the Illustrator: Daniel Bulleri

The Illustrator, Daniel Bulleri, is a graphic designer and graduate of Chico State University. Other published work includes Your Magical Laugh, written, illustrated and published for the most important people in his life…his own children.

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* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Amazon 25 gift card

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice)

Contest closes: December 31, 11:59 pm, 2014

Open to: Internationally

How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Denise Mistich and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

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A Moat is Not a Goat by Elsa Takaoka

About the Book

Title: A Moat is Not a Goat: Poems for Clever Little Girls * Author: Elsa Takaoka * Illustrator: Fanny Liem * Publication Date: November 27, 2014 * Publisher: Independent * Pages: 32 * Recommended Age: 4 to 8

Summary (Amazon): This is a collection on 16 beautifully illustrated poems about sweet and charming everyday experiences, especially written for little girls. This book will teach, inspire and empower little precocious lassies, opening their hearts and minds to the delightful world of imagination.

Amazon (Paperback) * Amazon (eBook) * Goodreads

 

*** FREE DOWNLOAD OF PAPER DOLLS! ***

You can download three adorable pdfs of paper dolls created by illustrator Fanny Liem based on A Moat is Not a Goat. Just click on the thumbnail below to take you to the author’s site!

Paper Doll Harley-150x150

The Buzz About The Book

“A Moat is not a Goat – Poems for Clever Little Girls” follows Elsa’s interesting writing style of letting the reader have loads of fun, solving fiendish clues and reading aloud rhymes that trip off the tongue with ease.” ~ Read it Daddy!

“Each story is told as a poem and takes the reader on a magical journey through a pony car wash, a snow scene, and a strange world deep under the ocean. There’s a visit to the home of the five sisters, a chance to meet a pink-gowned female pirate, and find out how Miss Wafer saves her pie and tea from a snake. Learn about happiness and making up after a squabble, and how losing a tooth isn’t a disaster. What happens when you snip a lock of hair, and how a day in bed with a cold isn’t all it was planned to be.” ~ Reviewed by Jane Finch for Readers’ Favorite

“Cute rhyming book with beautiful illustrations. I recommend it for bedtime stories. Definitely worth it.” ~ 5 Star Review, celestial, Amazon

“This book is full of clever poems that little girls will love. Everything from dreaming about becoming a pirate or a princess to fighting with your siblings is in here. Little girls will be able to relate to every page. The illustrations by Fanny Liem are SUPER adorable to boot!” ~ 5 Star Review, Teddy O., Amazon

“I am a preschool teacher and I am always looking for books that will amaze and excite my students. I think they will love this book.” ~ 5 Star Review, Darla W., Amazon

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Message From The Author: Elsa Takaoka

 

Elsa Takaoka, AuthorOn the first day of National Poetry Month in April of 2014, I set the goal of writing a poem a day. My little girls and I would sit at the kitchen table – my five year-old doodled and my one year-old scribbled while Mommy wrote. As I struggled to find inspiration, I would occasionally glance at my eldest girl, who has been a doodling machine since the age of two and will often draw pictures for hours. Her doodles contained many of her favorite things: twins and mermaids, princesses and pets. But on closer inspection, they also contained stories of brave and bold little girls -girls with real feelings who fought, made-up, cried and got angry. These girls sailed ships, fought beasts and were pirates. These girls were tender and caring, who doodled and read. Her art contained REAL little girls- imaginative, clever and able to do anything they set their minds to. My hope is that I was able to crawl into the mind of a child and bottle up even a bit of the innocent yet powerful confidence of clever little girls everywhere.

 

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Book Website * Author Website

Facebook * Twitter * Google+

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About the Illustrator: Fanny Liem

 

Fanny LiemFanny Liem is a freelance artist from Jakarta, Indonesia who became captivated with art at a very young age. She credits her talented father for passing on the love of artistic creation. Driven by grit and passion, Fanny learned about digital art on her own, redefining her hobby of drawing to budding career in children’s illustrations. Fanny also taps her feet while enjoying American Country music.

For more information, please visit https://www.behance.net/fannywen

 

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* Book Blast Giveaway *

Amazon 25 gift card

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash prize (winner’s choice)

Contest ends: December 30, 11:59 pm, 2014

Open: Internationally

How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Elsa Takaoka and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

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Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend by Cheryl Carpinello

Title: Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend * Author: Cheryl Carpinello * Publication Date: March 30, 2009 * Publisher: Outskirts Press * Pages: 122 * Recommended Age: 7+

Summary (Amazon):

At the dawn of Camelot, one young girl is about to take her place beside the greatest king in England’s history.

She is a mere child of twelve. But in these medieval days, this is the age when childish things must be put away and greater responsibilities accepted–all in preparation for a betrothal of marriage.

For young Lady Guinevere, on the advent of her thirteenth Birth Day, the whole idea is quite unbearable. After all, what could be better than spending her youth playing with her best friend Cedwyn, roaming the grounds around the castle looking for mythical creatures or hunting rabbits?

However, the wizard Merlyn–her teacher and friend–knows that destiny has a way of catching up with a person. His arrival sets in motion a series of events that will lead Guinevere to her destiny whether she is ready for it or not.

** Finalist Pre-Teen Literature: Dan Poynter’s 2011 Global Ebook Awards **

Amazon (U.S. Print) * Amazon (UK) * Amazon (CA) * Amazon (FR)

Amazon (IT) * Amazon (DE) * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository

 

The Buzz About the Book

“The story is a nice balance between action, elements of magic and fantasy, and important life lessons, all woven within the historical context of medieval times. This was an enjoyable and educational read and I would recommend Guinevere to tween girls and boys.” ~ Mother Daughter Book Reviews

“Cheryl Carpinello’s ‘Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend’, is a unique introduction into Arthurian Legend focusing on the life of the young princess. It is perfect for tweens interested in this genre. While most young people aren’t royalty, they will likely relate with the emotions associated with wanting independence while struggling with the responsibility that comes with it. ~ Vine Voice, Amazon Customer

“‘Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend’ is an interesting and well-written tale told in a way that will appeal to middle school aged readers, especially girls but boys too, who can relate to the idea of wanting independence yet struggling with the obligations that come with it. The euphemistic “darn it” is used a few times, and there are some references to drinking ale. But those who really like to read the Arthurian legends should enjoy this fun peek into Guinevere’s early life. In addition, it illustrates the important lesson that situations may arise in life when we must choose doing our duty rather than just doing what we want.” ~ Wayne S. Walker for Home School Book Review, Amazon

“An interesting read for the 8- to 14-year-old, this book skillfully integrates vocabulary and information about life in medieval Europe without verging on preachy or textbook-like. While it will most definitely interest the bookish child with an unquenchable thirst for history, it will also amuse those with a penchant for adventure– or unicorns. ~ Thomas, Amazon

“…an outstanding job detailing the escapades of the Princess and her young friend, Cedwyn. Carpinello keeps you turning those pages with her descriptions of the dangers and adventures that are ribboned throughout the entire story. Wizards, unicorns, and dragons are a few of the mythical creatures you will encounter in this enchanting book. I am excited to give this to several of my grandchildren to read! ~ Penny Estelle, Amazon

“Refreshing and fanciful, a perspective on Guinevere that people don’t consider, what with the focus on Arthur’s childhood. The rural homespun castle and kitchen are illuminating of the time. Guinevere’s adventurousness, as a girl who will someday be surrounded by courageous knights, is well-imagined. The detail is delightful at times. Storyline with bards and Merlyn is clever and in the tradition of the Arthurian legends. ~ Katherine L. Holmes, Amazon

About Author Cheryl Carpinello

Cheryl Carpinello AuthorI love the Ancient and Medieval Worlds! As a retired English teacher, I hope to inspire young readers to read more through my Quest Books. Please follow me on this adventure. Hook up with me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Google.

Also please visit my other sites: Carpinello’s Writing Pages where I interview childrens/MG/Tween/YA authors; my home website Beyond Today Educator, and The Quest Books where I’ve teamed up with Fiona Ingram from South Africa and Wendy Leighton-Porter of England/France/Abu Dhabi to enable readers to find all of our Ancient and Medieval quest books in one place.

Beyond the Educator * Carpinello’s Writing Pages

Facebook * Goodreads * Twitter * Google+

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Book Blast Giveaway

 

Amazon 25 gift card

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash prize (winner’s choice)

Contest ends: December 26, 11:59 pm, 2014

Open: Internationally

How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Cheryl Carpinello and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

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The Bravest Squirrel Drives a Race Car by Sara Shafer

Title: The Bravest Squirrel Drives a Race Car | Author: Sara Shafer | Publication Date: November 7, 2014 | Publisher: Independent | Pages: 96 | Recommended Ages: 5 to 12

Book Summary:

When his baby cousin Zander runs away, Chaz finally has a chance to live his dream of rescuing someone and proving his bravery. But Zander doesn’t want to be rescued, and he certainly doesn’t listen.

When the little squirrel crawls into a race car, Chaz follows him, expecting they will hide from the humans until the race is over. But Zander doesn’t stay hidden, wanting to try everything the humans do.
When the race car spins out of control, Chaz is the only one who can save them. If he’s not brave enough, not only will they crash, he’ll lose Zander forever.
The Bravest Squirrel Series:
1. The Bravest Squirrel Ever
2. The Bravest Squirrel in the Forest
3. The Bravest Squirrel in School
4. The Bravest Squirrel Drives a Race Car

Amazon * CreateSpace

Barnes & Noble * Goodreads

The Bravest Squirrel series by Sara Shafer

 The Buzz About The Series

“Totally awesome book!! You are brave to be an author!” ~ reader Valerie D., age 9

A wonderful children’s book. I am passing mine on to my youngest grandson. He will enjoy this story.” ~ Susie, Amazon

“I liked how the squirrels act. They were funny. It was a really good book. I think other kids that are reading chapter books should read this.” ~ Gaea, 12 year old reader

About Author Sara Shafer

 

Sara ShaferWhen two squirrels moved into Sara Shafer’s attic, she went on a quest to figure out what they were doing. She knocked on the ceiling, and they scratched back. Imagining what they thought and felt, she wrote The Bravest Squirrel Ever and then continued their adventures with The Bravest Squirrel in the Forest, The Bravest Squirrel in School, and The Bravest Squirrel Drives a Race Car.

Although her attic is currently vacant, the squirrels outnumber the humans in her neighborhood and could decide to take over at any moment. She watches for signs of invasion as she plots more stories of squirrel bravery.

Website | Newsletter | Twitter

Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads

 

The Bravest Squirrel Series logo

$25 Book Blast Giveaway

Amazon 25 gift card

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice)

Contest ends: December 22, 11:59 pm, 2014

Open: Internationally

How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Sara Shafer and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

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Meet Lisa and Michael Cohn, a Mother-Son writing team who created “Bash and Lucy” to help (then) 4 year-old Michael cope with the death of their family dog, Lucy. They have become media darlings, including being featured in The Daily Mail in the U.K. and making an appearance on The Today Show! “Bash and Lucy Fetch Jealousy” is their latest release.

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Bash and Lucy Fetch Jealousy Cover

Title: Bash and Lucy Fetch Jealousy | Authors: Lisa Cohn & Michael Cohn | Illustrator: Heather Nichols | Publication Date: December 6, 2014 | Publisher: Canines and Kids Publishing | Pages: 39 | Recommended Ages: 3 to 8

Book Summary

From an award-winning Mom-Son team featured on the Today Show, Bash and Lucy Fetch Jealousy is a contemporary boy-and-dog book. Bash’s dog, Lucy, helps coach his soccer team, and Lucy leads the team to the championships. But Bash is overcome with jealousy when Lucy enchants a team of Special Olympics kids who say they want her to coach their team. Can Bash overcome his jealousy and learn to share Lucy with kids who say they need her? This is Book Two in the Bash and Lucy series, following Bash and Lucy Fetch Confidence, a Mom’s Choice Silver Award winner and finalist, USA Best Book Awards. Co-uthor Michael Cohn, age 6, has appeared on the Today Show, on SiriusXM Radio, in Disney’s Babble, in The Oregonian and other media.

Amazon * Goodreads

 

Early Buzz About the Book

“This is a sweet story that teaches young readers not only about dealing with jealousy, but how dogs help kids with special needs. In the book, Bash, the boy who is the main character, learns how to help others, in spite of feeling jealous. Beautiful, expressive illustrations!” ~ 5 Star Review, Kristi H., Amazon

 

About the Authors: Lisa Cohn and Michael Cohn

Lisa Cohn and Michael CohnWriter Lisa Cohn and her 6-year-old son, Michael Cohn, have appeared on the Today Show, SiriusXM Radio, AM Northwest and Disney’s Babble, in addition to the Oregonian and other media. Their first book, “Bash and Lucy Fetch Confidence,” received a Mom’s Choice Silver Award and was a 2013 USA Best Book Award finalist. Lisa and Michael’s aim is to share with children their love of dogs, books and writing! Learn about their school visits, dog blog and book reviews by Michael and friends by visiting www.BashAndLucy.com

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Website | YouTube | Twitter | Facebook

Google+ | Pinterest | Goodreads

 

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* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Amazon 25 gift card

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice)

Contest ends: December 21, 11:59 pm, 2014

Open: Internationally

How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Lisa Cohn and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

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The Nancy Cat by M.R. Shields

Title: The Nancy Cat | Author: M.R. Shields | Illustrator: Martin Paterson | Publication Date: November 15, 2014 | Publisher: Independent | Pages: 140 | Recommended Ages: 8+

Book Description

Agent Rose is a secret Agent and the best in the business. Everyday he has to deal with the dangerously impossible, the risky and improbable. When tasked with infiltrating a super maximum security vault, Agent Rose calls upon help from an unusual source..

The Nancy cat!

A fantastic little story for children aged 8+.

Amazon * Goodreads

About Author M.R. Shields

M.R. Shields

M R Shields is a Children’s and Young Adult fiction writer from Perth, Scotland. He is best known for his ‘Chronicles of Astoria‘ Young Adult series and loves creating stories that make children smile or laugh, and not necessarily in that order.

Google+ | Goodreads

 

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* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Amazon 25 gift card

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice)

Contest ends: December 20, 11:59 pm, 2014

Open: Internationally

How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author M.R. Shields and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways click on the  Southern Christmas Charm below.

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Girls Powers-front cover for Amazon

Title: The Mystic Princesses and the Whirlpool | Author: PJ LaRue | Illustrator: Aristides Rodriguez | Publication Date: June 28, 2014 | Publisher: Independent | Pages: 63 | Recommended Ages: 5 to 10

Book Description: Join Exciting Princess Adventures and Learn Life Lessons Along the Way

Have you ever wanted to ride a dolphin or dreamed of playing on a rainbow as if it were a waterslide? How would you feel if someone tried to kidnap you, and you were forced to move to Hawai’i to hide and live with people you don’t know? That happened to Harmonie. Come meet Harmonie, her new Mystic Princess friends, and find out what happens when her enemies, the Children of Ares, find her again.

Purchase * Goodreads

 

The Buzz About the Book

“The Mystic Princesses and the Whirlpool has a delightful plot. P. J. LaRue uses mythological characters to tell a lively story of bravery and friendship. The book teaches important lessons on strengths and weaknesses, conservation and safety. This is the first book in the Mystic Princesses series, and I cannot wait for the next princesses’ adventure to come. Young girls will love The Mystic Princesses adventure on their bedside table.” ~ Kelly Santana, Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews

“A lovely book for children with colourful pictures and any child who reads it will be looking for a sequel.” ~ 5 Star Review, Diane, Amazon

“‘The Mystic Princesses and the Whirlpool’ is a confidence boosting book for children, giving them important information. It is the first in a series and I look forward to reading more about Harmonie and her friends.” ~ 5 Star Review, Mary C., Goodreads

“This early chapter book is perfect for children ages six through ten. It does not portray wimpy princesses, but strong, respectful and independent female role models involved in many adventures in which they learn to overcome their weaknesses, act against bullying, and cooperate with friends and family to promote human welfare and peace. Short chapters interspersed with illustrations will maintain interest if the book is read aloud for younger children. Introduce your little princess to this one.” ~ 5 Star Review, Barbara M., Amazon

“The short chapters would make this ideal for younger girls who are newer to reading Chapter Books. The colourful illustrations are excellent, and compliment this warm story nicely. A new series for girls, offering a fun way to learn valuable life lessons.” ~ 5 Star Review, M.J. Kinsmen, Amazon

 

About the Author: PJ LaRue

PJ LaRuePJ LaRue wrote poetry in high school, but she discovered writing children’s books and short stories later in life. Her writing inspirations are hiking, photography and environmental consciousness, but she links these interests to much larger social issues. A person very close to PJ was molested as a child, making PJ passionate about providing child safety tips. And, PJ was bullied in the third grade by girls much larger than she, who demanded that PJ give them her lunch money. As a result, PJ is committed to spreading the word that bullying must be stopped.

One of PJ’s goals is to help educate children, parents and caregivers, in a fun way, using her children’s book series, The Mystic Princesses. Because PJ loves to travel, the princesses will visit many locales, learning about environmental concerns along the way.

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Pinterest | Google+ | Goodreads

 

About the Illustrator: Aristides Rodriguez

Aristides Rodriguez has worked with clients to create websites, social media graphics, print graphics, and logos. His print media projects include cards, posters and magazine ads. He is comfortable working with a team, but has also designed client projects independently. While in school, Aristides participated in job shadows to Central Florida design community members including Disney Event Group, Orlando, SeaWorld, Orlando, and large offset and digital printing companies. Currently, Aristides is a Winter Park Tech Advisory Board member.

Website

 

* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Amazon 25 gift card

Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice)

Contest ends: December 17, 11:59 pm, 2014

Open: Internationally

How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author PJ LaRue and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

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MDBR Book Promotion Services

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

TeaserTuesdays2014e

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page.
•Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

~~~

My tease is from

Come Along With Me

A Gracie Book: Volume #1

by Linda Lee Schell

22576187

 

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Here is my tease from page 16 of the paperback.

“My name is Gracie. I’m from a different place in a different space.”

and from page 41

…Gracie wondered aloud, “Do you think our little girl will blow our cover?” “No, Gibson replied. “But she’s got something up her sleeve. I just don’t know what.”

~~~

I hope you don’t mind if I share my review.

Gracie is a wee kangaroo from the thirty-sixth universe. And she’s so excited. She’s finally going to visit St. Petersburg, Russia.

When something goes wrong, she winds up on a farm in St. Clair, Pennsylvania. Not quite what she planned.

Once you meet Gracie, you’ll see why her travel plans went haywire. She’s a precocious little roo, plus she’s clumsy and absent minded.

She’s also very brave and arrives in time to save a rather bedraggled city cat from the ferocious farm dogs.

From then on, Gracie and the cat, Gibson, are in cahoots. Each trying to help the other. Gracie wants to go home. Gibson is trying to make the best of it and make the farm his new home.

This was very wordy in the beginning. The prose felt strange yet familiar. Then I got it. It felt like in Willa Wonka or Alice in Wonderland. Otherworldly and zany. I began to suspect much of this was coming from Gracie, the kangaroo from somewhere else. She is a bit rattle-brained and silly.

The last third of the book flowed more easily. And the plot came forward. There’s several other animals that help or hinder the two pals, and one little girl who teaches Gibson how to earn his keep.

I’d say because of the sometimes peculiar use of words, this would be better suited to the upper range of young children. But, I may be wrong. Kids now a days learn to read before starting school, so they may follow the context better than I give them credit for. But there is a rather dark scene on the farm, something that even shocked me. This book is suggested for kids 8 to 12 and I’d recommend it to those closer to 12.

As I read this adventure I was sure it would be a 3 star rating. But that last third of the book sucked me in and by the time I reached the end, I wanted more.  I felt that connection to the characters and wanted to know what kind of pickle they would land in next. I don’t give half star ratings and that’s why it went up to 4 stars.

4 Stars

~~~

Synopsis

Come Along With Me will transport eight-to twelve-year old children, their parents, and their grandparents to another world when they read Come Along With Me, an adventure about friendship and caring, the unfortunate consequences of jealousy, and the power of hope.

Meet Gracie, a ditzy dwarf kangaroo from the Thirty-sixth Universe–a creature who lives in a perfect realm. Because she is bored, Gracie longs for an adventure to St. Petersburg, Russia, a place she imagines is filled with beauty and enchantment. Much to the tiny ‘roo’s surprise, her ability to transport herself to the land of the czars has failed. She ends up at a dairy farm in St. Clair, Pennsylvania, where she saves the life of Gibson, an abandoned Maine coon cat.

The unlikely pair become fast friends. While Gracie tries to find her way back home, Gibson carves a life for himself on a farm with his newly adopted mistress, the farmer’s young daughter. There’s one hitch: The overworked farmer demands that Gibson earn his keep. Gibson’s task is thwarted somewhat when he experiences strange visions. But are these visions the result of a thrashing he received from the farmer’s two dogs? Or, maybe Gibson sees parallel universes?

As outsiders the little kangaroo and the cat from the city negotiate the perils of farm life. They meet two malicious rats who hate anyone who is happy. The two devoted friends must contend with stampeding cows and a barnyard of critters that have little use for newcomers.

Will Gibson keep his sanity and become the little girl’s pet? Will Gracie ever see the splendor of the Russian Versailles? Will the farmer survive the evil machinations of the rats, Bratwold and Eastman? Drift back to the days of Barbie dolls, hula hoops, and Sputnik to find out.

~~~

About the author


Linda’s favorite genre is fantasy/adventure, and her goal is to expand the imaginations of children while simultaneously exposing them to a variety of cultures and histories.

Combining childhood innocence with historical verisimilitude and a dash of magical fantasy–that was Linda’s impulse behind writing her first book, Come Along With Me.

Linda was born in Youngstown, Ohio and moved in 1977 to St. Clairsville, Ohio. Her husband of forty-four years and one son now live in Venice, Florida.

Linda is the daughter of an Ohio dairy farmer and an elementary school teacher. Her working years were in a competitive sales and business environment.

Active in Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce, she is a Paul Harris Fellow.

Entering the work force at age sixteen Linda is now retired, and is seriously devoting her attention to writing children’s books.

You can find her on Goodreads HERE.

Other books in The Gracie Series

20728903

~~~

How about you? Got a tease? Tell me!

stick out tongue photo: rr-sticking-out-tongue roadrunner-stick-out-tongue.gif

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

TeaserTuesdays2014e

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page.
•Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

~~~

My first tease is from

Moore Zombies: The Search for Gargoy

by Wendy Knuth

23274225

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My tease from 31% in the eBook

“Hey, Baby Zom, how about a game of Hungry, Hungry Humans?”

My Review

Baby Zom isn’t happy.

Baby Zom doesn’t want to go camping.

Baby Zom doesn’t want to play Hungry, Hungry Humans

Baby Zom wants Gargoy.

But Gargoy is lost.

Moore Zombies is a delightful picture book. Each page has a wonderful illustration depicting the scene as it’s told.

I would love to have seen the pictures in color, but they’re in black and white in the eBook. They are still fun to look at and there’s so much to see in each one.

Baby Zom is adorable, even if she is a zombie. And she looks to her older siblings to help find Gargoy.

Her brother Kamper is like a typical boy.  He’s always on the go and his room is a mess.

Next oldest is her sister Gothina. She likes pretty clothes and accessorizes with her creepy crawlies.

And the oldest of the bunch, Broheimer loves to read. He’s the nerd of the family.

Together they set out to find Gorgoy.

This would be a great story to read aloud with young children. But I think older kids and grown ups would have just as much fun following the dirt trail to the end of the mytsery.

Did you know zombies love tomatoes?

5 Stars

~~

Synopsis

You’re not really afraid of zombies, are you? Take a peek into the lives of the Moore zombie family. When Gargoy goes missing, Baby Zom enlists her siblings to help in the search. Follow along with Gothina, the critter loving goth zombie, Broheimer, the nerdy zombie, and Kamper, the messy zombie who enjoys camping. Who, or what, is Gargoy? Read on to find out!!

~~

My second tease is from

The Alien Next Door

Scary Neighborhood Adventures

by Donna Trueman

23291057

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My tease from 5% in the eBook

…the old woman turned and looked right at him. And that’s when he saw it…

It was only there for a second, but it was unmistakable.

My Review

 Lukas has a new neighbor. Ms. Weggley may look like a sweet little old lady, but in fact she’s an alien.

His parents don’t believe him, just chuckle at his vivid imagination.

Even his best friend Kianna laughs when he tells her about his neighbor.

The only one who seems to believe him is his dog, Lola. And she doesn’t like the new neighbor. It’s rumored aliens eat dogs!

Lukas sets out to get proof about Ms. Weggley and ends up in the pickle of all pickles.

I’d recommend this book to all young readers.  Lukas, his sidekick Lola, and Brianna make a great team. and this story lets your imagination take flight. Who hasn’t wondered about the strange neighbor. Maybe there are aliens among us.

I hope the author writes more of these Scary Neighborhood Adventures. I gather from the ending, Lukas and his pals have another neighbor to worry about. And this time it’s not an alien.

5 Stars

This book is a free download on Amazon. Click on the cover to get your copy!

~~

Synopsis

Lukas Matthews has been eager to get a new neighbor ever since his old neighbors moved away. But the day the moving van shows up next door, Lukas learns that his life is about to change forever. His new neighbor is not the kind of neighbor he was hoping for at all. His new neighbor, Ms. Weggley, is not the sweet little old woman she appears to be. The old woman has a secret–a secret that only Lukas seems to know . . .
As the resident alien expert in his school, Lukas can spot a being from outer space when he sees one. His new neighbor looks like a sweet little old widow, but there are telltale signs that she could be something other than human. The old woman refers to Lukas and his friend as “specimens,” she makes jokes about eating spiders, and, when most people aren’t looking, her eyes glow an eerie green!
Concerned for his safety and the safety of his best friend Kianna, Lukas hatches a plan to prove his case and expose his neighbor’s true identity. Will Lukas be able to thwart his alien neighbour before she can carry out her devious plans or will it be too late to save his family and friends and the entire neighborhood?

~~~

How about you? Got a tease? Tell me!

stick out tongue photo: rr-sticking-out-tongue roadrunner-stick-out-tongue.gif