The unlikely friendship of Bear and Bitsy makes for a delightful story which features quiet acts of courage. The illustrations in this book truly enhance the text. This one is a winner!
Brave Bitsy and the Bear – Angela McAllister
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Category Archives: 2-5 Years Old
Way Back Wednesday ~ Frog and Friends – Eve Bunting
I was recently asked for independent reading book suggestions. This was one of our daughter’s favorites because it featured so many cute animals.
We are always on the hunt for independent reader books that feature colorful pictures. Our daughter is delighted with our newest find ~ The Frog and Friends series. It features Frog and his friends: Rabbit, Raccoon, Squirrel, and Possum who enjoy spending time together and highlights their adventures. Each book is made up of three short stories and the text of each story is enhanced with the use of colorful pictures.
Way Back Wednesday ~ Our Favorite Easter Book
Reading this book has become a special Easter tradition for our family.
The Flowering Cross was a very quick favorite for our daughter. As soon as I finished reading it she wanted me to read it again! 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’s second comment after asking me to read the story again was a request for us to make 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.
Love Monster and the Perfect Present – Rachel Bright
Love Monster and the Perfect Present is the sequel to Love Monster which I previously reviewed and loved. Although the cute, colorful love monsters are appealing to young children, this book is also enjoyable for big kids. The story explores what makes a “perfect present”. In the end, the love monsters learn that a truly meaningful gift is one that comes from the heart.
Mouse and Mole Secret Valentine – Wong Herbert Yee
Mouse and Mole Secret Valentine is a sweet, heart warming story that celebrates the magic of Valentine’s Day. The text is perfect for early readers who are transitioning into chapter book reading, and the illustrations are darling.
Pete the Cat and the New Guy – Kimberly and James Dean
There is a new guy in the neighborhood. Pete the Cat is excited to meet him. He is taken aback by how different the new guy is from him, but he soon discovers that someone being different can be good for all involved. Pete the Cat and the New Guy is a cute book with a great message.
Way Back Wednesday – Birthday Fun!
It happens to be my birthday today…In honor of the occasion, I wanted to feature one of my favorite books!
The Dot is perhaps my favorite picture book of all time. The Dot introduces us to Vashti a little girl who is not very eager about art class. Her art teacher encourages her to “make her mark”. With gentle guidance from her teacher, Vashti’s natural abilities as an artist as well as a teacher develop. Ultimately, the simple text and accessible pictures pull the reader into Vashti’s story. The profound impact of the words and actions of a teacher are highlighted and the power of enthusiasm and encouragement are reinforced.
Top Ten Reads of 2014!
It was another fun year of reading! Here are Once Upon a Storyville’s top ten reads of 2014:
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Way Back Wednesday – Christmas Style #4
God Gave Us Christmas begins with Little Cub asking his Mama about who “invented” Christmas. The Little Cub wonders if it might be Santa. Mama Bear explains that God invented Christmas and ultimately takes a journey with Little Cub in order to let him see that God is everywhere and how He gave us Christmas.
I really appreciate how this book directly addresses why we celebrate Christmas but also includes an explanation about Santa:
“Did God give us Santa?”
“Santa Claus reminds us about many good things like generosity and care. But it is God and Jesus that we celebrate most come Christmas.”
God Gave Us Christmas is a sweet and wonderful Christmas book which includes beautiful illustrations.
It Will Be Okay: Trusting God Through Fear and Change – Lysa Terkeurst
Another “bonus” post this week ~ Lots of books arriving from publishers that need to be reviewed!
It Will Be Okay: Trusting God Through Fear and Change is a terrific book. The friendship that develops between little seed and little fox is a sweet one. Their adventures together ultimately help them realize that although things around them may change – God is always there.
For little ones who tend to be anxious and worry, this book is a must have!
While this complimentary book was provided for review by Harper Collins Publishing, no other compensation was given. All remarks are my personal and honest opinions.