When I Grow Up, If You Were Me and Lived In ….

Teaching youngsters to not only enjoy reading, but learn while doing so is always a good thing. I’m sharing my thoughts on several children’s books that accomplish this task quite well and with ease.

WHEN I GROW UP I WANT TO BE … IN THE U.S. NAVY by Wigu Publishing

This is a charming story of a young boy named Noah who enjoys hearing his Grandpa Ed’s stories of being in the Navy.

When a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier comes into port, Noah is excited to visit it. Noah and his little sister, Marina, tour the ship with their grandfather. He tells them the sailors take an oath to keep the country safe. He explains the various jobs on the ship and the different names items have.

The youngsters talk about the different positions on the ship and what they want to be. They finally decide they can both be on the ship – Noah as a fighter pilot and Marina as the captain of the ship.

Woven throughout the delightful story is detailed information about the Navy, the personal involved on the ship and the duties they perform. The cheerful illustrations of Noah, Marina and Grandpa Ed are blended with actual photos showing the workings of a ship.

This book is educational and entertaining. It shows respect to those serving in the U.S. Navy, while making it easy for youngsters to understand. It combines history with career choices and presents it on a level youngsters can appreciate.

When I Grow Up I Want To Be … in the U.S. Navy by Wigu Publishing, Wigu Publishing, @2014, ISBN: 978-1939973023, Paperback, 58 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN …. By Carole P. Roman

If you are looking for a way to explain different cultures to your youngsters, award-winning author Carole P. Roman has a delightful series that you don’t want to miss.

Each book in the series features a different country, introducing youngsters to the culture and customs of that region.
 
IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … AUSTRALIA takes youngsters Down Under to learn about the county (and continent) of Australia. They learn its location and capital city. They learn the popular names of boys and girls. They also learn of interesting places to visit, what games are played and the major holiday.

This story is presented in simple, easy terms youngsters will be able to follow. The story is fun and educational and brought to life through beautiful illustrations.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … FRANCE takes youngsters on a magical trip to Western Europe to tour Paris. The charming story tells of the activities youngsters would see and participate in while in France. It explores the various differences in the cultures.

The book, also beautifully illustrated, shows diversity, as well as similarity in the youngsters’ activities.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … INDIA whisks youngsters to South Asia and the second most populated country in the world, India. Youngsters learn how people travel and how their money is different. The story explores beautiful monuments and discusses good.

The colorful illustrations enhance the story. Youngsters will learn that no matter where they go in the world, children are basically the same.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … KENYA explores the customs and cultures of a part of Africa. Youngsters learn the names parents are called and the various animals that call that region home.

The story teaches youngsters about how people prepare their meals and enjoy their leisure time. The lovely illustrations will hold youngsters’ attention as they learn the ways of other countries.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … MEXICO carried readers to the southern part of North America. Youngsters will learn of traditions and customs that have long histories.

Beautifully illustrated, the story teaches youngsters interesting facts about the neighboring country. They learn names and favorite places to visit, along with activities everyone enjoys. They learn how the money is different and the alternate name for school.

I YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … NORWAY takes youngsters away to ‘The Land of the Midnight Sun.’ The story teaches the history of their money, explains about the Northern Lights, and tells of a hotel made out of snow and ice.

The colorful illustrations bring the activities to life showing youngsters fun events are enjoyed all over the world. Youngsters will learn bits of history while enjoying the read.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … SOUTH KOREA propels readers to a land in East Asia. This enchanting story will entertain youngsters with history and facts from a culture far away.

The delightful illustrations highlight activities youngsters all over the world enjoy. This fascinating story will explore the diversity of the two cultures, while showing the similarities.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … TURKEY finds readers exploring Western Asia. This charming story gives a bit of history about the country’s location and travel spots tourists would visit.

Richly illustrated, this book will enhance youngsters’ learning experience. This is a great way for youngsters to learn without feeling pressured.

This charming series offers a wonderful way for children to learn and have fun doing it. The series opens up avenues for parents and children to discuss how people of the world are different, but still the same. It’s a fascinating way for youngsters to explore the world. The series is geared toward youngsters ages 3 to 8, but can be enjoyed by all ages.

If You Were Me and Lived In … Australia by Carole P. Roman, A Child’s Introduction to Culture Around the World, CreateSpace Independent Publishing, @2014, ISBN: 978-1490522395, Paperback, 28 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … France
ISBN-13: 978-1481032001, @2013, Paperback, 26 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … India
ISBN-13: 978-1484930861, @2014, Paperback, 28 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … Kenya
ISBN-13: 978-1481979917, @2013, Paperback, 30 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … Mexico
ISBN-13: 978-1480209626, @2013, Paperback, 26 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … Norway
ISBN-13: 978-1481979948, @2013, Paperback, 30 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … South Korea
ISBN-13: 978-1481062343, @2013, Paperback, 28 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … Turkey
ISBN-13: 978-1481979849, @2013, Paperback, 26 Pages

FTC Full Disclosure - These books were sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copies did not influence my reviews.

Hi everyone and thanks for stopping by today. It’s always a pleasure when I can pass along information on books that will entertain and educate the youngsters in your lives. Hope you’re having a pleasure Saturday. What’s on your reading agenda for today?

*There are affiliate links in this post.

Hoo Hoo the Bear Series by Amanda Kleback

Always on the lookout for entertaining and enlightening books for my young cousins, I was delighted to discover the Hoo Hoo the Bear series by author Amanda Kleback.

This charming series features five titles available in hardcover and made in the USA. The series takes youngsters and their parents on unique journeys while creating lasting memories with the help of an adorable little bear named Hoo Hoo. Who can resist a cuddly bear at Christmas? To enhance the learning experience, a plush Hoo Hoo the Bear is also available to accompany the series.

HOO HOO’S SONG

The first book in the series is HOO HOO’S SONG. The main character, Hoo Hoo, is a cute, cuddly bear with a big heart. He hears a song coming from his heart and it leads him to a shelf in a store.

Before long the song leads Hoo Hoo to find Mrs. B, whose heart is singing the same song. Mrs. B. is a bit sad, but Hoo Hoo makes her giggle and they become best friends. She takes Hoo Hoo home and their family adventures begin.

Author Amanda Kleback tells a delightful story of friendship, love and caring. The story is beautifully illustrated by Kerry Mentzer and Sara Warfel. It includes an illustration of Hoo Hoo youngsters can color using their own imagination. There is also a maze puzzle in back for youngsters to enjoy.

Hoo Hoo’s Song by Amanda Kleback, Illustrated by Kerry Mentzer and Sara Warfel, The Hoo Hoo the Bear Company, @2012, ISBN: 978-1936963041, Hardcover, 24 Pages 

KNOCK, KNOCK! HOO HOO’S THERE!

The second book in the series, KNOCK, KNOCK! HOO HOO’S THERE!, takes youngsters on a magical journey back in time to a land where dragons roam and Sir Hoo Hoo lives. One day Sir Hoo Hoo encounters the Nusspickle monster who blocks his path home. Sir Hoo Hoo has to knock on wood to enlist the help of a fairy who leads him away from danger.

In this cute story, the author uses the old saying, ‘knock on wood’ to create Hoo Hoo’s adventure. The story is beautifully illustrated by Brian and Amanda Kleback with contributing art by Sara Warfel and Kerry Mentzer.

Knock, Knock! Hoo Hoo’s There! by Amanda Kleback, Illustrated by Brian and Amanda Kleback, Contributing Art by Sara Warfel and Kerry Mentzer, The Hoo Hoo the Bear Company, @2012, ISBN: 978- 1936963058, Hardcover, 24 Pages 

HOO HOO!!! MERRY CHRISTMAS

Next in the series is HOO HOO!!! MERRY CHRISTMAS. In this adorable tale Hoo Hoo gets ready for his family’s annual Christmas Eve tradition - preparing food as it has been done for generations.

Just before midnight Hoo Hoo goes with his family as they carry a big pot of fruit soup to the barn to share with the animals. At the strike of midnight the barn becomes flooded with conversation as all the animals talk for one minute. Hoo Hoo learns sharing the food is a tradition of saying thanks for what the animals’ ancestors did the night Jesus was born.

The author creatively uses the Polish tradition of Wigilia (observed by her family) to relate the celebration of family, friends and especially the birth of Jesus. Hoo Hoo, his family and all the animals come to life through the amazing illustrations of the author and Jessica Lopez.

Hoo Hoo!!! Merry Christmas by Amanda Kleback, Illustrated by Amanda Kleback and Jessica Lopez, The Hoo Hoo the Bear Company, @2012, ISBN: 978- 1936963065, Hardcover, 24 Pages 

HOO IS FROM BALTIMORE, HON!

The series continues with HOO IS FROM BALTIMORE, HON!. Hoo Hoo learns Mrs. B. grew up in a magical place called Baltimore. On a field trip to the area, Hoo Hoo and his family visit various famous and popular sites such as the Maryland Zoo, Fort McHenry, the Maryland Science Center, the Cylburn Arboretum, and much more.

The author weaves an adventure through the city and its attractions. She points out seeing magic in a place depends on how you look at it. The beautiful illustrations depicting the story are by the author.

Hoo Is From Baltimore, Hon! by Amanda Kleback, Illustrated by Amanda Kleback, The Hoo Hoo the Bear Company, @2012, ISBN: 978- 1936963072, Hardcover, 24 Pages 

DON’T GET A BOO BOO, HOO HOO!

The last installment in the series is DON’T GET A BOO BOO, HOO HOO!. This is a well-written book explaining various safety tips for youngsters.

The author uses Hoo Hoo to explain how to respond to strangers, when and how to dial 911, and what to do when someone swallows poison. In addition, Hoo Hoo demonstrates what to do when lost, dealing with bullies, and in case of fire. The bright, vivid illustrations by the author will capture a youngster’s attention and hold it as the lesson is learned.

Don’t Get A Boo Boo, Hoo Hoo! by Amanda Kleback, Illustrated by Amanda Kleback, The Hoo Hoo the Bear Company, @2012, ISBN: 978- 1936963133, Hardcover, 24 Pages 

This series doesn’t have to be read in order. In fact, I’m not sure I have the books listed in the correct order here. However, the complete set would make a wonderful gift for a child’s library providing delightful hours of entertainment and many life lessons to learn along the way. Additional learning activities, lesson plans, and games can also be found on Hoo Hoo’s website at www.hoohoothebear.com. 
 
FTC Full Disclosure - I requested the first book in this series. The entire five book series and a couple of adorable plush Hoo Hoo the Bears were sent to me by the author in hopes I would review the books. However, receiving the complimentary copies and bears did not influence my reviews but were a wonderful surprise and treat.
 
Thanks so much for stopping in today. Do you enjoy searching for books to share with youngsters in your family? Have you found any books lately you’d like to tell us about?

Pansy At The Palace by Cynthia Bardes

With the National Dog Show yesterday, sharing a delightful tale about an irresistible poodle seemed perfect for day.

Pansy At The Palace by Cynthia Bardes 

An adorable little girl named Avery adopts a cute chocolate brown poodle from a Los Angeles animal shelter. She names the dog Pansy and takes her to live with her and her family at the Palace Hotel. Pansy quickly makes friends with the guests, residents and staff of the hotel.

When jewelry is stolen from several guests, Pansy quickly picks up the trail of the thief. It’s up to this canine detective to locate the thief and save the hotel’s reputation. 

Author Cynthia Bardes has created a delightful story with an irresistible canine protagonist in PANSY AT THE PALACE. This is an entertaining tale of friendship and mystery. The story moves quickly and will capture youngsters’ imagination. In addition, the story highlights the importance of adopting pets from humane societies and animal shelters.

This charming story is brought to life through the vivid and beautiful illustrations by Kim Weissenborn. The bold and colorful illustrations will mesmerize young readers as they join Pansy on the search for the missing jewelry. The glossy pages are high quality and durable for many hours of enjoyment at the hands of youngsters.

PANSY AT THE PALACE would make a delightful addition to any child’s library and a perfect gift for the holiday season.
 
For more about Pansy, visit PansyAtThePalace.com

Pansy At The Palace by Cynthia Bardes, A Beverly Hills Mystery, Illustrated by Kim Weissenborn, Octobre Press, @2012, ISBN: 978-0615692531, Hardcover, 32 Pages

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
 
Thanks so much for stopping by today. Have you discovered any new children’s books lately?

Sunday Salon: Three Reviews

I decided to be a little different today and review three books instead of one, as well as venturing into a new genre. 

The books are for all ages, but with more focus toward youngsters in the four to 12 year old range.

All three books are from the Brian D. McClure Children Book Series. Each is beautifully illustrated by Buddy Plumlee. The series contains universal life lessons that educate and empower while entertaining.

“The Sun and The Moon” compares the actions of the sun and the moon with that of humans. The sun and the moon argue and walk out on their responsibilities. Without them realizing it, their actions cause harm and destruction to Earth and it inhabitants. Soon the realize what they’ve done, makeup and resume their duties bring things back to the way they should be.

 

The book can be found on Amazon at: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1933426098/ref=s9_simh_gw_p14_i3?p...

“The Raindrop” tells the adventure of a single raindrop who feels he is useless. As he travels on his journey he remembers the higher purpose of his life. The book tells the importance of all things big and small.

The book can be found on Amazon at: http://www.amazon.com/Raindrop-Brian-McClure-Childrens-Collection/dp/1933426012/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_b

“The Birds and The Frogs” focuses on one group being superior over another group. In the story the birds convenience the frogs that they are superior because they can fly and the frogs can’t. The frogs believe them and bow down to them. A young group of tadpoles finally teach the birds and the frogs a higher truth. Through the teachings they learn to respect and accept each other on equal ground and overcoming bullying.

The book can be found on Amazon at: http://www.amazon.com/Birds-Frogs-Collection-Children%C3%82%C2%92s-Children%C2%92s/dp/1933426136/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1267734539&sr=1-1

All three books have uplifting rhymes and inspiring messages that entertain and education both children and adults. In each book the message flows between the characters of the story and humans, giving examples in both forms.

The books are not rated for a certain age group. Instead they are listed on the back book jacket cover as juvenile/spiritual/inspirational for all ages. These would be great books to read for a bedtime story.

The Sun and the Moon, Universal Flag Publishing, @ 2006, ISBN: 978-1-933426-09-9, Hardcover, 36 pages. The Raindrop, Universal Flag Publishing, @ 2006, ISBN: 978-1-933426-01-3, Hardcover, 36 pages. The Birds and The Frogs, Universal Flag Publishing, @2007, ISBN: 978-1-933426-13-6, Hardcover, 40 pages.

FTC Full Disclosure - All three books were sent to me by the Cadence Group in hopes I would review them. However, receiving the complimentary copies did not influence my review.