Happy Book Birthday, The Little Tiger by Nicola Killen

I have another book birthday to share today! This one adds to a lovely series by Nicola Killen. I have enjoyed the other books quite a bit and added them to my bookshelf already. So, I was excited to get my hands on the latest edition (especially in time to celebrate the release!) and curious what the author and planned next for this cute character.

Not only do the illustrations always catch my eye, but the character and her desire to 'be' other animals, reminds me of my own siblings, children, and several nieces and nephews...or maybe, this says something about the mental state of my family? 

Anyway, off we go to see what happens when Ollie decides to be a tiger!

THE LITTLE TIGER

by Nicola Killen

Paula Wiseman Books

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

From beloved author-illustrator Nicola Killen comes an adorable story about new friends and birthday surprises, tenderly told and illustrated in limited color with lovely foil and interactive die cut pages.

For Ollie’s birthday, her wish came true! In a brightly wrapped box was her very own tiger suit. Ollie practices her very best Rooooaaarrrr , then a bunch of colorful balloons and a gust of wind carry Ollie to the forest where she makes new animal friends. Elephant, Monkey, Sloth, Rhinoceros, Zebra, and Lion help make the most wonderful birthday party for their new friend.

GOODREADS    /   B&N    /    AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

The magic of imagination flows into a wholesome adventure in a read to snuggle up with and enjoy.

It's Ollie's birthday, and how lucky she is to receive a tiger costume! But she barely has enough time to give her first roar before a giant bunch of colorful balloons floats past her window. Determined to catch them, she runs outside...but little does she know that those balloons will lead to so much more.

I've enjoyed every book in this series, and this one isn't any different. Ollie's love for animals and her joy in pretending to be different ones, won't only connect with those young readers, who enjoy being animals themselves. This book (or the entire series, really) allows imagination to flow with a warming innocence, while still sliding in a bit of fun adventure. Ollie's determination to catch the balloons is easy to understand, and the surprise that awaits her brings a smile to the face. It's hard not to want to jump right into the pages and celebrate right along with Ollie's friends.

The illustrations give the tale a lovely, gentle atmosphere. Killen sticks mostly to grays and whites, which set a calming, dreamy tone. The style also allows the details to gain crispness...and Killen adds all sorts of tiny goodies here and there. Then, the pops of color come in, highlighting certain elements in all the right ways. As if that weren't enough, there are glistening hints added to some scenes, giving the last magical touch. 

This makes a good read-aloud for groups as well as individual settings. It invites to dreams, although it isn't really a true bedtime read. The text fits well to the age group and is concise enough to allow the illustrations to share the work. The party scenes came across with a little dizzy-ing activity (as parties tend to) and rings with the wonders of friendship. So, there is quite a bit of goodness in these pages. It slides nicely in with the rest of the series and already has me wondering what might come next.

Happy Book Birthday, Bumblebee's Big Mission by Patty Michaels

Happy book birthday to today's read! This is an early reader and focuses on those, who already have basic reading skills and are ready to start challenging their abilities. It's especially intended for Transformer fans and focuses on one of my favorite characters—Bumblebee. I'm curious to see how it reads, since this could be a great way to get even those more reluctant readers to pick up a book.

BUMBLEBEE'S BIG MISSION

Transformers EarthSpark

Ready-to-Read Level Two

by Patty Michaels

Chapter Book

ages 6 to 10

32 pages

EarthSpark is a kids animated series from Nickelodeon and Hasbro introducing the first Transformers bots to be born on Earth, now airing! See how fan-favorite Bumblebee spends his days in this exciting Level 2 Ready-to-Read!

Since the Transformers War ended, Bumblebee has been living under the radar, helping Optimus Prime whenever he needs him. Only a select few know his whereabouts and the top secret, super important missions he has completed. Get the scoop on this awesome Autobot! TRANSFORMERS © 2023 Hasbro. EarthSpark TV series © 2023 Hasbro/Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved.

GOODREADS   /    B&N    /    AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Young Bumblebee fans get to know the popular Transformer better, while exercising their reading skills in a fun way.

While the first pages introduce Bumblebee (who he is and what he does) to young readers, the book takes a look at his new mission, since the Transformers War has ended. Where he is, what his task is, and what attitude he has toward this important mission come to light.

This is a read for young Transformer fans, and while it does introduce Bumblebee, it works best for those who already have a basic idea of who the character is. Those, who aren't already, at least, slightly knowledgeable about this series, will have troubles sinking in, though. This isn't a traditional story in so far that there isn't a continuous plot or adventure. Instead, it reads much like a briefing or an explanation over the situation. The family, lifestyle, and goals around the secret mission are explained as well as the negative attitude Bumblebee first has concerning his position. The book does end on a positive note, which fits well with this Transformers' personality and will have fans smiling.

The text is printed in a larger font and great for those readers, who already have a pretty good grip on their words. Each page holds a paragraph made with several sentences. The vocabulary, while fitting to the reading level, also adds in a couple more difficult terms to stretch those reading skills. 

It's a lovely way to encourage kids to practice their word skills and is one I recommend to Bumblebee fans.

Today's read... The Three Little Mittens by Linda Bailey

The cover caught my attention on today's read. Not only are the mittens cute, but it reminded me of one of my favorite tales as a kid. I don't remember the title on that one, but it was about a mitten, which was lost in the snow and turned into a house for many creatures, who sought shelter from the cold, blowing storm outside. 

I'm pretty sure this one doesn't surround a snowstorm, but it does seem to have something to do with lost mittens. Let's just find out if it's a read to cuddle up with in front of the fire with a cup of hot chocolate or not.

THE THREE LITTLE MITTENS

by Linda Bailey

Illustrated by Natalia Shaloshvili

Tundra Books

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 8 to 12

A single mitten is excluded by a matching pair in this endearing picture book about friendship, belonging and the pressure to "match." For fans of The Day the Crayons Quit .

Dotty and Other Dotty are a matching set of mittens. When another mitten, Stripes, loses her partner and becomes a single mitten, they don't feel the need to include her. She doesn't "match" them, so she is banished to the dark, lonely pocket of the Little Girl who owns them. Before long, however, Dotty loses her partner, and now she doesn't match the reunited pair of Stripes and Other Stripes, who in turn banish her to the pocket. "YOU don't match!" they tell her.

When the Little Girl, who has been listening to their conversations, weighs in with a huge question ("Why do you have to match?"), the mittens are shocked. Then comes their realization that "matching" often means leaving someone out. This prompts the Little Girl to break a fundamental rule of fashion so that individual mittens (and maybe even socks! or shoes!) can be themselves — and everyone can belong.

A warm and fuzzy story with lots of laughs, this latest picture book from Linda Bailey explores what it feels like to be excluded and included and celebrates one-of-a-kindness!

GOODREADS   /   B&N    /    AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

If only mittens were this fuzzy, friendly, and fun.

There were once three mittens—two were a pair, while a striped one was all alone and didn't fit with the other two. It stayed in the pocket and never had a chance to play. That is, until one of the other mittens was lost in the snow. Now, neither of the two remaining mittens looked like the other, but somehow, they had to make a pair. If only that were possible.

This is a sweet tale about some very fuzzy and wooly mittens. Each mitten holds just enough personality to win over (and their simple faces are adorable). It's easy to sympathize with the misfit mitten as it's bullied and feels unimportant. The emotions come across with familiarity and it's hard not to root for the odd mitten. There are wonderful messages surrounding friendship and individuality, and I did enjoy how this blossoms at the end. It really puts a smile on the face.

The illustrations carry a fuzzy note, making each one seem cuddly. The text is a little on the longer side and makes a great read-aloud for story time. It does work well to open up to discussions and hits some important life lessons. I did wish there was a little more sadness at the loss of the one mitten and caught myself wondering what happened to it, but this was a well-rounded tale as it is and brings more than a few smiles along the way.

And here they are...

LINDA BAILEY is an award-winning author who has written nearly forty books for children. Mary Who Wrote Frankenstein was cited as a Best Book of the Year by Publishers Weekly, the Globe and Mail, the New York Public Library, CBC and Booklist, among others. In addition to these, Linda has been awarded the Blue Spruce Award, the Silver Birch Award the Shining Willow Award (twice), the B.C. Chocolate Lily Award (five times), the Red Cedar Award, the California Young Reader Medal, the Georgia Storybook Award, the Christie Harris Award, the Hackmatack Award, the Vicky Metcalf Award for Literature for Young People and the Arthur Ellis Award (twice).

NATALIA SHALOSHVILI began her creative career as a fashion and editorial illustrator, working with a number of international magazines and creative agencies, including Grazia, Women’s Health and Gala. Later, she found her true passion in children’s books and paintings. Her original work can be found in private galleries and homes around the globe. Natalia lives in London, England, with her family.

Today's read... Frankie's Fishy Feelings by Quincy Kadin

Today's read caught my interest more due to the author than the book...although that fish with roller skates does invite in. This read surrounds anxiety and has the purpose to help raise awareness for the mental illness. I'm not sure what to expect, so let's just dive in. 

FRANKIE'S FISHY FEELINGS

by Quincy Kadin

Blurb

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

 

"Frankie's Fishy Feelings" is a heartwarming children's book that tackles the important topic of childhood anxiety in a fun and relatable way. Dive into the underwater world with Frankie, a kind-hearted 5-year-old shark who navigates through her fishy feelings and discovers coping strategies to overcome them. Frankie is a lovable shark who often finds herself feeling overwhelmed and worried about everyday situations. From the first day of school to playdates with friends, her anxiety makes her feel like she's swimming against the current. But with the support of her parents and a therapist, Frankie learns valuable techniques to manage her anxious thoughts. In this engaging story, young readers will join Frankie on her journey of self-discovery and watch as she learns breathing exercises and visualization techniques. Through this experience, Frankie gains confidence and finds the courage to face her fears head-on. With colorful illustrations that bring the underwater world to life, "Frankie's Fishy Feelings" offers a relatable and accessible narrative that helps children understand and cope with their own feelings of anxiety. The book emphasizes the importance of self-care, empathy, and seeking help from trusted individuals when needed. Written with empathy and sensitivity, "Frankie's Fishy Feelings" is suitable for children ages 4 to 8 and serves as a valuable tool for parents, teachers, and caregivers to open up discussions about mental health, emotions, and coping strategies in a safe and supportive manner. Join Frankie on her underwater adventure, where she discovers that even sharks can conquer their anxieties and embrace a world full of possibilities!

GOODREADS  /   BLURB

MY TIDBITS

A simple and easy-to-connect with read, which gives kids hints on how to deal with anxiety.

Frankie is off to her first day of school, which should be exciting, but it makes her stomach feel odd, instead. The icky feeling grows and grows, and she's barely able to stuff it back inside...even when it does turn out that she has fun. The icky feeling happens every time something new approaches. When she tells her parents about the problem, they take her to therapy where she learns that she suffers from anxiety and also learns a few coping mechanisms, which might make life easier.

This is a cute book about an adorable fish. There's a touch of light-heartedness to Frankie despite her anxiety, which keeps this book from growing heavy or serious. Still, Frankie's troubles come across clearly and in a very age-appropriate way. The silly way she describes the feeling fits well and is familiar enough for readers to sympathize and identify with. Even the situations are recognizable, just with a fish twist.

There are a few easy coping mechanisms mentioned to assist readers in learning to calm down and draw back from their anxiety. These are easy to do and does raise awareness of those with anxiety issues. It's a simple read and just brushes the surface enough to start a discussion on the topic. And if nothing else, it's a cute read.

And here she is...

https://www.frankiesfishyfeelings.com/

Los Angeles high school student, Quincy Kadin, has suffered from anxiety for as long as she can remember. She had a particularly distressing panic attack on a plane, that resulted in her being kicked off the plane with her mom in another country. She was forced to get documentation from a local doctor that stated she was fit to fly home. After this incident, Quincy began thinking about all of the other kids who deal with anxiety and what it prevents them from doing. Thus, she wrote Frankie’s Fishy Feelings...

Happy Book Birthday, Rattlesnake by C. Lee McKenzie!

I'm especially excited to shout-out this book's birthday (so excited that I'm hitting it a day early!) This one just happens to come from a very sweet author that I know...and who just happens to be very talented as well. Her stories always grab in all the right ways. Plus, she writes in a variety of directions. So, I was thrilled to get my hands on a copy and share it with you. 

RATTLESNAKE

by C. Lee McKenzie

Evernight Teen

YA Paranormal

290 pages

The desert town of Rattlesnake isn’t a destination. It’s a last resort. Seventeen-year-old Jonah Guthrie’s aunt sold their home in New England and fled to this place to escape the humiliation of his dad’s indictment for embezzlement and subsequent disappearance.

While their late uncle left them a house and a silver mine, the house is a shambles and the mine is defunct. They’re almost out of money, so they have no choice but to stay in Rattlesnake. And then Jonah discovers they’ve inherited something else. Her name is Catherine, and she’s been dead for over a hundred year. Now, she needs his help.

GOODREADS   /   AMAZON 

MY TIDBITS

Past and present weave tightly together to cast a tale full of mystery, longing, and heart.

After his father's indictment and disappearance, Jonah and his sister follow their aunt in a last effort to a small town, where his uncle has left them property. Not only is the house as broken as their lives, but Jonah soon meets the ghost of a girl, who'd lived there long before...and her history isn't any gentler than his. Or so it seems. Both need to figure out their lives (past and present), and both are about to face obstacles, which threaten to destroy their last threads of hope.

When I picked this up, for some reason, I thought it'd be set partly in the past, but it sits pretty strongly in present day. Jonah and his younger sister have quite a bit to deal with before they hit the dying town of Rattlesnake. It's hard not to sympathize with both, especially since they are both kind and just trying to stay afloat. Bullying, crushes, abuse, rumors, and secrets bring tension (and triggers), which make this a tale which draws in and holds the reader in the pages. Being under 200 pages, it's a quick read, anyway. Yet, it packs everything necessary to round it off into a solid tale.

I especially enjoyed the aunt and the other characters. Each one brings personality as well as their own subplots. These add richness and give the entire read the heart it needs to really dig in.