Once Upon a Storyville

Where one Mom and educator shares her opinions on books, and maybe more…

Once Upon a Storyville

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs: 100+ Recipes that You’ll Love to Cook and Eat – America’s Test Kitchen Kids

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs is an outstanding cookbook.  The recipes are presented in a clear, easy to understand format with companion photographs and preparation notes.  Everything we have tried has been delicious!  This book is especially good for tween and young teens who are continuing to develop their culinary skills.  This one is a winner!

The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs Book Cover The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs
America's Test Kitchen Kids (COR), America's Test Kitchen,
JUVENILE NONFICTION
Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
September 15, 2018
208

Corrie ten Boom: The Courageous Woman and the the Secret Room (Do Great Things for God Series) – Laura Caputo-Wickham

The Do Great Things for God Series introduces young children to the idea that God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.  Each book in the series features a woman of faith.  Corrie Ten Boom’s story is shared in an age appropriate manner and coupled with engaging illustrations.  This series is a new favorite!

Corrie Ten Boom Book Cover Corrie Ten Boom
Laura Wickham
2021-04
24

Giraffe Problems – Jory John

The things that make us different can make us self-conscious.  This is definitely true for Edward the giraffe.  He sees his long neck as a frustrating problem until he is befriended by Cyrus the turtle.  Cyrus helps Edward see the beauty in what makes him different.  Giraffe Problems is a beautiful illustrated book with an important message.

Giraffe Problems Book Cover Giraffe Problems
Jory John
Juvenile Fiction
Random House Books for Young Readers
September 25, 2018
41

The Couch Potato – Jory John

The Couch Potato is another winner by Jory John.  It shares a powerful message about screen time that can be appreciated by all ages.  Beautifully illustrated and engaging, this book is perfect for a read aloud and can serve as a starting point for discussion about screen use and the impact it has on our lives.

The Couch Potato Book Cover The Couch Potato
Jory John
Juvenile Fiction
HarperCollins
November 3, 2020
40

Our Favorite Easter Book

This review was originally posted on April 1, 2015.

Reading this book has become a special Easter tradition for our family.

The Flowering Cross was a very quick favorite for our daughter.  It is a touching Easter story which focuses on the transformational power of God’s love.

Katie is a six year old little girl who truly loves God.  She displays her unconditional love and kindness to her neighbor Jack who is known throughout the neighborhood for being “mean”.  Soon her kindness not only brings out kindness and gentleness in Jack but also a willingness to accept God’s love.

The illustrations in this book are amazing.  They bring the story to life with the use of vivid color and detail.  They truly enhance the story for the reader.

Bible verses as well as faith imprints which include discussion starters are found throughout the book and provide a terrific addition to the story.  Additionally, directions on how to create a flowering cross are also included at the end of the story.  This was particularly appreciated by this reader since our daughter has become keenly interested in the idea of our family making a flowering cross!

While this complimentary book was provided for review by Thomas Nelson Publishers, no other compensation was given.  All remarks are my personal and honest opinions.

The Flowering Cross Book Cover

The Smart Cookie – Jory John

The Smart Cookie is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that is best enjoyed as a read aloud.  It filled with fun puns and clever word play and shares an encouraging message.  A great addition to any primary classroom library.

The Smart Cookie Book Cover The Smart Cookie
Jory John
Juvenile Fiction
HarperCollins
November 2, 2021
40

Mortimer’s First Garden – Karma Wilson

Sweet Mortimer Mouse discovers the joy of spring and the delight of watching a seed transform into a plant in this beautifully illustrated book.  Mortimer’s First Garden would be a fantastic book to use for a read aloud option.  This one is a winner!

Mortimer's First Garden Book Cover Mortimer's First Garden
Karma Wilson
Juvenile Fiction
Margaret K. McElderry Books
February 24, 2009
32

The Really Radical Book for Kids – Champ Thornton

The Really Radical Book for Kids is a terrific sequel to The Radical Book for Kids.  Both volumes provide church history, closer analysis of specific books of the Bible and biblical characters as well as apologetic insights.  Written in a highly approachable and enjoyable manner, this book is an outstanding resource for learners of all ages.

While this complimentary book was provided for review by New Growth Press, no other compensation was given.  All remarks are my personal and honest opinions.

The Really Radical Book for Kids Book Cover The Really Radical Book for Kids
Champ Thornton
Religion
2023