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< Back Angela Odusanya Amelia's Loose Part Art Amelia learns to create art from everyday objects . Amelia is an artist with a secret technique. She creates her art from photographs, by using her camera to capture the beauty of everything around her. As Amelia goes to her grandmother’s house for the night, she captures photographs during the car journey, the blue sky, the cornfields and even a horse. But when she passes a field of wildflowers, she is so mesmerised by its beauty she forgets to take a photograph. Arriving at her grandmother’s house, Amelia realises she has forgotten her art box. She is sad that she will not be able to create art without it. Her grandmother reminds her that a rt is inside of her, and supplies are all around her. She just has to look for them. Amelia looks all around her, and by taking a little bit of this, and a little bit of that, she creates new, beautiful pieces of ‘loose part art.’ She even creates a picture of the beautiful wildflowers she forgot to photograph on her journey. What will Amelia’s next masterpiece be? Amelia's Loose Part Art is an illustrated picture book by Angela Odusanya about a little girl who discovers that a rt is inside of her, and supplies are all around her. Rather than using her art box of pencils and paints, she learns to create art from everyday objects. This is an exquisite picture book about a sweet protagonist with an artistic flair. The book will fire up readers imagination and creativity, and will encourage them to look beyond traditional materials to create art. The book introduces young readers to loose part art, promoting the idea that art and creativity can flourish anywhere and everywhere. Each page is filled with bright and vibrant illustrations, which capture Amelia’s beautiful and colorful artistic creations. The book includes simple loose part art projects at the end, that children can try at home, making this an interactive and hands-on reading experience. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An exquisite picture book about a sweet protagonist with an artistic flair. Purchase here

< Back Anna Kutishcheva Jake and Nick's Spooky Fall A spooky tale, with a couple of adorable canine characters from author and illustrator Anna Kutishcheva An adorable picture book about two canine friends and their fun-filled adventures. Jake wants to play. He is happy, confident, and energetic. He wants to jump and frolic in the leaves with his friend Nick. But Nick isn’t in the mood to play today. He is tired and a little scared. He sees monsters everywhere! In the closet, under the bed, and behind the shower curtain. Nick has nowhere to hide! Jake is not afraid of monsters. He reassures his friend there are no monsters, it’s just his imagination. But the dogs need to be on guard. Someone or something is stealing their kibble! Is it just Nick’s imagination? Or do monsters really exist? The story and the fear of the unknown will resonate with young children. Those sudden movements, unusual objects or unexpected sounds can often create such anxiety in little people. The book will provide comfort to young children that it is perfectly okay to be a little scared sometimes, but that not everything is as it seems. Things that might at first appear scary are usually nothing to worry about at all. Young children will love the adorable canine characters and their fun-filled adventures. They will laugh at Nick’s attempts to run away and hide as they discover the real identity of the ‘monsters.’ Kutishcheva’s illustrations are delightful. The whimsical, watercolour style illustrations bring the story and the characters to life, and will engage readers of all ages. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A super cute book, about two canine friends and their fear of monsters. A FINALIST and highly recommended. Purchase here

Winners and finalists of the Spring 2022 Readers' Choice Book Awards announced! We are pleased to announce the winners of the Spring 2022 Readers’ Choice Book Awards. Best Children’s Book 3-7 **GOLD** Ron Keres, The Scariest Story You've Ever Heard **SILVER** Julia Coldicott, Just Being Fred **BRONZE** Leah Ingledew, Where's My Shell? **FINALISTS (5 Stars)** Alan Claycomb, Maisley's Moon Amy Lee Westervelt, The Colors Inside of Me Angela Delf, Trixie Bixby and Her 66 Pairs of Socks Anna Kutishcheva, Jake and Nick's Spooky Fall Billy Baldwin, Orbit's Monster Nebula Brett Gunning and Stacy Padula, On the Right Path: Book Two Carina Ho, Mighty Mara Charlene McIver, Squishy Sand Charlene McIver, Medieval Mashup Deanna Chesley, What If We Had A Pet Shark? Deborah Wade, Always In Your Heart Janet Lau, The Little Grey Pig: A Story About Self-Confidence JB Van Cleave, PTSDragon Jessica Wendi Abel, The Little Blue Rocket Ship Joanne Russo Insull, Sarah and the Crows Clean Up Joe Burud, AJ and the Bouncing Ball Leah Ingledew, Meowl! Linda Harkey, Chatty the Hen Pheasant: Travels with the Pack Mariam Latifi, A to Z of Mini Muslims Marta Almansa Esteva, Nurse Bear Does First Aid Michelle Medlock Adams, Dachshund Through the Snow Robert Zaslow , The Mayfly and the Methuselah Tree Ron Keres, It's Not That 'Big a Deal' Sasha Graham, Whitney Wins Everything: A Tiny Ninja Book Tracey Lear, Eli’s Story What Makes Me, ME! Best Children’s Book 8-12 **GOLD** Paula Welch, The Interlopers **SILVER** Ellen Davidson, WIND **BRONZE** Leah Cupps, Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings **FINALISTS (5 Stars)** Angie Bailey, Believe Colette Sewall, Kiki Macadoo and the Graveyard Ballerinas Molly Awiszus, Puddles of Windrush Farm Ryan Poirier, The Herd Sally Kingman, Everything Is Everything: Finding Your Magic Best Teen Book **GOLD** Shina Reynolds, A Light in the Sky **SILVER** Stacy A. Padula, Gripped Part 5: Taylor's Story **BRONZE** Kyrie Wang, Forbidden Ties (Enemy's Keeper Series Book 1) **FINALISTS (5 Stars)** Angie Bailey, Believe Daryl McCullough, Story of Tree and Cloud Kerk Murray, Pawprints On Our Hearts Mary Aviyah Farkas, Overcoming Deepest Grief, A Woman's Journey Vali Benson, Blood and Silver Best Adult Book **GOLD** Edgar Doleman, Arlen's Gun: A Novel of Men at War **SILVER** Danny Holst, The Harlem Story **BRONZE** Stoni Astley, Sanctuary's Lights **FINALISTS (5 Stars)** A Frank Corso Mystery, Divine Travel Agency Angie Bailey, Believe Bryan Asher, The Treasure of Lor-Rev Bryan Asher, The Assassin of Malcoze Carolyn Clarke, And Then There's Margaret Carter Fielding, Murder in the Tea Leaves: A Blake Sisters Travel Mystery--Book 2 Danny Holst, Promised Land Deborah S. Greenhut, The Hoarder's Wife Dr. Trent W. Smallwood, Lethal Decree Jim Malloy, Raptor's Revenge Liza Gino, Imelda's Secret Marieke Lexmond, The Magical Tarot Deck Mrs. Anthony, I Am Woman: Book One: My Journey, My Tony Paula Welch, A River of Fortune Romana King, House Poor No More Stephen Alder, Deehabta's Song W.A. Pepper, You Will Know Vengeance: A Tanto Thriller

< Back Michael and Nicole Collazo Cozy Critters on the Ark A contemporary twist on the Noah’s Ark story, for young readers. Rufi is a little mouse who believes that hard work makes a happy home. One day, the pipes burst in his house, and Rufi is forced to build a new home. As he searches for a perfect spot to build a new home in the forest, Rufi meets Noah. Noah explains that a storm is on the way, and he is building a big boat to keep all of earth's creatures safe during the storm. Noah invites Rufi to join him and help build the boat. Rufi wastes no time and gets straight to work on the boat. He works tirelessly to get the boat finished and the Ark sets sail, with a pair of all living creatures on earth. On board, Rufi works day and night to take care of all the creatures and becomes good friends with the humans and other critters. But one day, a pipe bursts on the boat and Rufi is nearly swept away. The critters put aside their differences and join together to help Rufi to safety. Rufi fixes the pipe and soon begins to realise that it is not hard work that makes a happy home, it is friendship and love. Cozy Critters on the Ark is an illustrated picture book for young children by Michael and Nicole Collazo, based on the story of Noah’s Ark. A lone, little mouse named Rufi unexpectedly finds his way on board the Ark. He works tirelessly to help all the humans and creatures on board, and makes lots of new friends. As Rufi finds a sense of purpose and belonging on the boat, all the humans and creatures learn how to coexist and live together. They put aside their differences and work together to save life on earth. The book is a great resource for parents and educators to help young children learn about the biblical story and core Christian values. The vibrant, cartoon-like illustrations bring the biblical story to life and the sweet mouse character will appeal to young readers. A captivating and entertaining read for young-ones and adults alike, and a poignant and timely reminder of the importance of friendship, unity, and collaboration. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An endearing little mouse collaborates with humans and other creatures, to build an Ark and save life on earth. Purchase here

Winners and finalists of the Winter 2021 Readers' Choice Book Awards announced! We are pleased to announce the winners of the 2021 Winter Readers’ Choice Book Awards. Best Children’s Book 3-6 **GOLD** Deanna Chesley, It Just Blooms **SILVER** Ceese Kelley, Dear Mama's Loving Arms **BRONZE** Michael Wong, I Wish You Happiness Ava **FINALISTS** Jana Buchmann, Who Wants to Play with Little Mouse? Andy Choi, Shine on! B.C.R Fegan, Don’t Drink the Pink Nicky Gilbody, Atch…Oops! Anthony Haydock, POG Jodie Isitt, Autism with Lola Playing with Bourbon Badger Markkizaac Mago, My Super Grandma! Sarah Morrell, Molly’s Magic Brolly Alicia Ortego, Kindness is my Superpower Jillian Rodriguez, I'll Meet You at the Rainbow Susan Smith, The Incredostupendoflexo Fishcake Harry and his Fantastic [not at all] Fishy Friends Clare Thompson, Noah's Shark Wayne Trotman, The Last Honey Bee Randi Williams, Ruthie Raccoon Stays Home Wendy Winter, Where's My Joey? A Heartwarming Bedtime Story for Children of All Ages Lori Yarborough, My Snuggle Monsters Won't Go to Sleep Sandy Zanella, Happy Yogis: A fun kids yoga book with positive affirmations Best Children’s Book 7-10+ **GOLD** Michelle Cordara, The Tipple Twins and the Gift **SILVER** Ektaa Bali, The Unicorn Princess **BRONZE** Michelle Deyarmin, Sandy the Service Dog: Lost in a Hurricane **FINALISTS** RA Anderson, Once Upon the Rhine: Cody the Cockatrice Series Book One Wendy Beasley, Charlotte and the Fairies Blaque Diamond, 1380 Prospect Avenue: Not Another Bronx Tale Kristin Fulton, The Haunting Daniel Henshaw, Glenkilly Alan Hesse, The Adventure of polo the Bear: a story of climate change Cheryl Lee-White, The Book of Silly Rhymes Dr Sukriti Mantri, The curious bunch and an unlocked time tunnel Maddison Tory, Your Secret Superpower: Ignite your Spark George Yuhasz, Imagine That: The Magic of the Mysterious Lights

< Back Susan Justice Children Who Dance in the Rain Sophie learns important life lessons on a trip to India, by author Susan Justice Sophie wakes up tired and is in a bad mood. She doesn’t want to go to school, and she refuses to eat her fruit for breakfast. She demands her mother drives her to school because it’s raining. Later the same day, Sophie’s mom tells her they are planning a family trip to India to see her grandmother. When she finally arrives at her grandmother’s house in a village in India, Sophie is shocked at how different it is to her own home. Sophie complains about the lack of cleanliness and lack of Wi-Fi, and asks to stay somewhere else. Sophie meets a girl named Nanaki, carrying lots of plastic trash in a bag. Nanaki explains that she has no parents and is collecting plastic to help buy food for her younger brother who is ill. Sophie visits Nanaki’s home, a house made of mud. Nanaki explains that she doesn’t have money for toys, but loves to play and dance under the night sky with the other children. Sophie soon realises how lucky and privileged she is to live in a nice home with plentiful food. Suddenly, it starts to rain, and Sophie joins in with Nanaki and the other children as they dance barefoot in the mud and rain. Returning home, Sophie discovers that happiness doesn’t come from material possessions, but from being grateful for what you have and sharing it with others. Children Who Dance in the Rain is an illustrated picture book by author and legal advocate Susan Justice. This is a wonderful, entertaining and educational picture book, which teaches younger children important life-lessons about gratitude, kindness and humility. This is a great resource for parents, carers and teachers to start conversations with younger children about privilege and will make a great addition to home and pre-school libraries. I particularly liked the book was partly set in India, and the diversity of the story and images presented. The artwork by Lena Bardy is bright, vibrant and mesmerising, which brings the culture of India to life beautifully. Simply stunning. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A wonderful, entertaining and educational picture book, about gratitude, kindness and humility, with stunning artwork. Purchase here

< Back Stephanie Scott Tools to Cool Finding Ways to Cope Nini the bird helps readers find different ways to keep cool. Tools to Cool Finding Ways to Cope, by author Stephanie Scott, is an illustrated seek and find book for young readers, with tools to help them cope in stressful situations. On each page, a different situation, scenario, or emotion is presented, (ie, feeling stressed or worried at school, making new friends, or feeling angry or mad) and then provides a number of coping mechanisms, such as finding a quiet space to calm down and relax, deep breathing, or dancing. On each page, the reader is asked a number of questions, to help them find a solution that might work for them, and a ‘Can you find?’ bubble, which encourages readers to look for the item in the illustration. This also encourages positive action, by encouraging the reader to explore further in real life. There are over 20 coping tools and strategies hidden in the book. Tools to Cool Finding Ways to Cope is a unique and interactive seek and find book, where readers are encouraged to find coping tools and strategies that are hidden in the illustrations. This is a cleverly crafted book for young readers, which addresses the topic of coping with stress, with a fun and engaging activity. The book follows an endearing character, Nini the bird, as she navigates her way through different scenarios. The book is designed to be used independently by children, and will encourage readers to take control and develop their own coping mechanisms. It will also make an excellent resource for parents, carers, and teachers to discuss stress and coping mechanisms with young children. It will encourage open conversations about emotions, and teaches valuable life skills in an accessible and enjoyable way. Overall, a charming and educational illustrated book that not only entertains children, but also empowers them to handle stress in a positive and proactive manner. Star rating: 5 stars Summary: A unique and interactive seek and find book for young readers, which addresses the topic of coping with stress, with a fun and engaging activity. Purchase here

< Back Kat Farrow Bobbin and the Magic Thief Can a young faerie rescue her friend from an evil thief? Miss Bobbin, a head-strong young Spindle Faerie, is an outsider in the realm of the Eastern Faeries. But she needs all the help she can get from her fae-folk when her best friend, Heddy, is stolen. One day, whilst out exploring the woods, Bobbin and Heddy approach the millers cottage. The friends know they are forbidden to get close to humans, but Heddy is attracted to something in the cottage. Entranced by the millers’ daughter singing, Heddy enters the cottage and dances on the spinning wheel. Bobbin tries to coax her out of the cottage, but Heddy is snatched suddenly by a flying sack. Bobbin chases the sack and finds the thief; a strange, little man. She chases the thief but soon loses sight of him. Unable to find her friend, Bobbin seeks the help of the fair Queen Maeb. She pleads with the Queen to help her, but the Queen makes it clear that Bobbin must rescue Heddy herself, because she is the one responsible for her disappearance. As Bobbin sets out on her mission to locate the thief and rescue her friend, she joins allies with a host of woodland creatures. But unbeknownst to Bobbin, the thief has another, more sinister motive for stealing Heddy. When Bobbin learns of the thief’s plot, she is forced to break the faerie law in order to save her best friend. Will Bobbin save her friend? Or will the thief achieve his goal and destroy the Spindle Faeries? Bobbin and the Magic Thief: A Spindle Faerie Tale is the first book in the fantasy fiction series, by author Kat Farrow. The story is a retelling of the classic Rumpelstiltskin fairytale, with a magical infusion of faeries. In this imaginative adaptation, the author transports the reader to an enchanting faerie realm, full of charming characters, wonder, and adventure . The plot, while retaining some of the original Rumpelstiltskin story, takes on many twists and turns. Bobbin is a delightful character, and her journey to rescue her friend is also a personal journey of self-discovery. This is a wonderful novel for young readers, combining elements of magic, mystery, and suspense. It will appeal to readers who enjoy traditional fairy tales as well as contemporary fantasy fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A traditional fairy tale reimagined and infused with enchanting faerie magic. Purchase here

< Back C James Sweeney Sadie Sasquatch has Big Feet Sadie Sasquatch finds a sporting match. Sadie Sasquatch loves going to school and learning new things. She loves story time, and arts and crafts, and she especially enjoys nap time. But her favourite time is recess! She loves to climb and jump, swing and slide, spin and play. But, as a sasquatch (bigfoot) sometimes Sadie’s big feet get in the way. They get tangled in the skipping rope, smudge the chalk on the hopscotch board, and get in the way when she plays basketball. Sadie’s friends are not happy, and Sadie is sad they do not want to play with her anymore. Over in the field, Sadie notices a group of friends playing kickball and joins in. But when she is picked last for the team, Sadie thinks it is because of her big feet. When it is her time to kick, Sadie grits her teeth and kicks the ball as far as she can. She lands a home run and helps her team win the game. As Sadie teaches her dad her new skills, she soon realises kickball is the perfect sport for a little (and big) sasquatch. Sadie Sasquatch has Big Feet by C. James Sweeney is part of a book series about a little sasquatch and her adventures at school. Sadie is different from the other children, and sometimes feels like an outsider. In this book, Sadie realises that her big feet are not great for many activities. However, they do not stop her from joining in and having fun. As she tries lots of different activities, she joins a group of friends playing Kickball. Sadie learns that she has unique skills, and finally finds an activity that she likes and is good at. The book teaches children important life lessons about perseverance, self-acceptance, and the importance of harnessing one’s own strengths. It reminds children that it is okay to be different, and it will encourage children to find an activity that is a good match for their own unique qualities and talents. It will help to develop inner-strength and confidence amongst young readers. Sadie is a cute, funny, and relatable character, and her story and school experiences will resonate with many young readers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming picture book about a little sasquatch who finds her confidence and skills-match on the kickball field. Purchase here

< Back Joanne Russo Insull Don't Follow Pino! Brothers, Dugan and Pino, escape their yard and are lost far away from home, by author Joanne Russo Insull This is a picture book for young readers about two dogs, brothers Dugan and Pino. Dugan loves to go on a walk with his mom and big brother, Pino. Every morning, they walk around their neighborhood and meet lots of new people. Dugan and Pino try to be on their best behavior when they walk on their leash, and if they are very lucky they might even receive a nice treat or two. When they are not out walking, they like to play outside in their back yard. The yard is locked and safe, and Dugan and Pino run and play with the squirrels and chipmunks. But one day, a workman who is fixing a pole behind the house, forgets to shut the gate. Pino suggests to Dugan that they go on a walk outside, without their mom. Dugan is reluctant, he knows they shouldn’t leave the yard alone, but Pino is persistent. Dugan is scared they will get lost, or get into big trouble, but he follows Pino through the gate and out into the street. He tells himself, “Don’t follow Pino!”, but he continues to follow him into a field, far away from home. As Dugan becomes more concerned, he hears his mom calling from the other side of the field. He turns around and sees her waving at the entrance, walking quickly towards them. But Pino thinks it’s a game, and he runs even further away. Suddenly, Dugan notices his mom turn around and walk slowly in the opposite direction. Dugan panics and decides to follow his mom rather than Pino. He runs as fast as he can to catch up with his mom, and Pino follows closely behind. Mom is happy to see her boys again, and quickly puts on their leashes. Dugan feels bad for scaring mom and promises never to run away again. Pino, on the other hand, has other ideas! Don't Follow Pino! by Joanne Russo Insull is a sweet picture book about a couple of mischievous dogs, who escape the safety of their back yard and become lost far away from home. Dugan is influenced by his older brother, Pino, and tags along even though he knows he shouldn’t. Mom eventually finds them, but Pino thinks it’s a game, and runs away. Mom’s quick reaction is to turn and walk in the opposite direction, to bring the boys safely home. Dugan and Pino are sweet and adorable characters, and younger children will enjoy reading about their exciting adventure. This is a fun read for the whole family, but there are some important messages for young people too, about peer pressure, following rules, personal safety. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet picture book about two mischievous pups, and a fun read for the whole family. Purchase here

< Back Kate Seng Mazie's Full Heart: An Adoption Story Mazie's Full Heart highlights the natural curiosity of an adopted child. Mazie's desire for clarity allows her to realize just how much she loves the only family that she knows and that includes Noodle, her favorite pet! Purchase here

< Back Aurora Winter Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse: The Marvelous Multiverse App A thrilling, magical, mystery ride through the multiverse, by author Aurora Winter Siblings, Ana and Zachary, from Los Angeles, California, are visiting their Aunt Wendy and Uncle Shockley in Vancouver. Ana is an aspiring actress, who dreams of making it big in Hollywood. Zachary is in remission from cancer, and immunocompromised. The siblings are in quarantine following their travels and are alone in the house and bored. They explore their aunt and uncle’s house, and find their uncle’s experimental, hydrogen-fueled car, named the Parallel Universe Pod (P.U.P). While they are exploring the car, Ana activates the Marvelous Multiverse app, which takes them on a joyride across the solar system. The P.U.P transports them to a parallel world and they crash land on a planet called Lokey, accidentally killing the evil Emerald Censor. Ana and Zachary meet the magical and mysterious inhabitants of Lokey and become instant heroes. When they learn of a Wizard Snapdragon with magical healing powers, they set off to find her, in the hope that she will cure Zachary’s cancer. But their arrival in Lokey has not gone unnoticed, and the siblings are soon pursued by Queen Crimson, who is determined to avenge the death of the Emerald Censor. As the siblings navigate this new world, the cruel Queen Crimson kidnaps Zachary. Ana must rescue her brother, whilst at the same time must confront the evil forces that are determined to destroy her. Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse: The Marvelous Multiverse App is a magical, fantasy fiction, adventure novel, and the first book in a planned series, by author Aurora Winter. This is a fun, fantastic, fast-paced, fantasy adventure, well-executed by Winter. With a unique and imaginative plot, a mesmerising magical multiverse, and a host of wonderful and magical creatures, this book will appeal to young adult readers who enjoy adventure and fantasy fiction. Inspired by books, such as Wizard of Oz and Harry Potter, and movies such as Back to the Future, this book can sit proudly alongside those classics. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun, fantasy fiction novel, packed full of magic and adventure. A thrilling ride through the multiverse, not to be missed! Purchase here