Chanticleer Book Reviews

Tag: Children’s Books

SOMETIMES WHEN I’M BORED by Deborah Serani, Psy.D – Children’s Activity Books, Children’s Development Books, Picture Books

Deborah Serani’s Sometimes When I’m Bored is a colorful children’s book that highlights the challenges of being bored as a child in an inquisitive and reflective way. It also teaches children how to navigate this complex emotion. Dr. Serani is also an award-winning psychologist in practice for over thirty years.

The story starts with a little boy explaining how when he feels bored, that “nothing feels fun.” He gives examples (staring out the window, not preferring his toys, completing multiple readings of all his books) of his complex feelings in the story opening, which are relatable as both a child and an adult. He decides to ask his mother for suggestions on how to cure his reluctance to do all his usual and familiar hobbies. The two share a relationship that is bridged by easy-to-understand language.

Momma reminds him that he could see his feelings of boredom as meaning that “something special is waiting” for him. His well-meaning and good-natured mother provides numerous suggestions to her son. The boy starts spending time resting with his father, or writing a letter to a loved one and following his curiosity. These tender moments are beautiful, the bond the two share is sweet and loving. Kyra Teis’ illustrations are full of vibrant color, with double page spreads showing texture and closeness in the characters.

Sometimes When I’m Bored flows naturally and effortlessly while touching on the challenges of feeling bored as a child and as an adult.

Boredom, although at times can feel inconvenient or inappropriate, teaches us all to use our curiosity and openness. We must, like the little boy in Sometimes When I’m Bored, learn and take the advice from those around us to help nurture these new habits in wonder.

Moreover, if we do not honor our disinterested feelings, we are unable to grow as individuals. Serani teaches children about this lesson in her lovely book and this book, like the others in the Sometimes When series, give a safe space for all to articulate their thoughts without judgement and only in awe.

June 16, 2022
GREAT AS a BUTTON by Masoud Malekyari – Children’s Books, Children’s Self-Worth Books, Children’s Picture Books

Masoud Malekyari’s Great As a Button is a delightful children’s book that places a soulful little plastic adornment at center stage in a thought-provoking story that offers up a positive lesson about self-worth.

This tale unfolds from a first person POV as a lonely, black plastic button falls off a shirt. The button ruminates over its plight of feeling too plain to be noticed, and wishes perhaps to be a sock, a key, or a pair of glasses, i.e., a more important item that the button surmises someone would go out of their way to look for.

Amidst encounters with an inquisitive dog and some playful ants, the button has longings to reside in a big castle while adorning a king’s coat, or to sail across the ocean while attached to a boat captain’s slicker. Fate suggests that the button might be in trouble if snatched up by birds; lucky if used by a seamstress; or forlorn when not chosen like the more ornate accessories in a tailor’s shop. When given to a young boy, surprising opportunities send the button in an unexpected direction where ultimately, he discovers newfound importance on a sunny winter’s day.

Illustrations by Sebastião Peixoto prove glowingly complimentary and are a key component of the story.

The natural color shadings render quiet, yet well-defined drawings. Quirky and whimsical features lend true personality to the bevy of characters. From the intense facial details of a battling buttons army to the sad expression of the central plastic disc pondering his plainness, this simple character with its curlicued thread body is artfully brought to life.

Peixoto also smartly visualizes enlightening options between the little button’s desire to live in a royal palace, contrasted with an outdoor tent-like open book structure, where a smokestack chimney provides warmth on a snowy day. Likewise, the thought of adventure on the high seas is pitted against the simplicity of a paper vessel floating down a curbside stream.

Great As a Button is a charming take on learning to be happy with who you are.

Like the little button, it may take some of us a bit longer than others, but finding our particular niche is key. Our own unique traits and talents will lead us to where we belong, and satisfaction will come with contentment. Comparisons with others is unnecessary, as we come to realize we are each an individual with our special place in this world.

Like the simple button who comes to understand his self-worth, this quaint, imaginative read is an important work with a vital message for both young readers and the confident adults they aspire to be.

Great As a Button by Masoud Malekyari won Grand Prize in the 2020 CIBA Little Peeps Book Awards for Early Readers Fiction.

March 30, 2022
WISHES and KISSES by Heather Pallotta – Heartwarming Children’s Books, Children’s Literature, Stories in Verse
A triumphant treasure in the bustling world of children’s literature, Heather Pallotta’s Wishes and Kisses is a work of art that will let every child who experiences it know that they are greatly loved and how magical they make the lives of the people around them.

In the world of Wishes and Kisses, we are all made of sunshine and love, wishes and kisses, and how our uniqueness makes us perfectly us. Children will learn that some days will bring warmth and wiggles and others they may feel down and not quite themselves, but that all of these feelings are okay. The story reminds children (and adults) to fly high and follow their dreams to the stars.

Heather Pallotta has been an artist since 1999 and was inspired to create children’s books by her children. She aims to teach confidence, love, uniqueness, and endless possibilities through her highly imaginative books.

It is beyond doubt that Wishes and Kisses was written with an abundance of love for her children by watching their growing imaginations and exploration of themselves and the world around them.

The illustrations, also drawn by the author, are simply stunning, beautifully reflecting the thoughts and feelings of the story itself. Parents and children will love these beautiful drawings and the uplifting message that will surely inspire the next generation of readers and artists.

Pallotta has other stories within the world of Wishes and Kisses to come, the first being Ruler of Daffodils.

Wishes and Kisses won 1^st Place in the CIBA 2017 Little Peeps Awards for Children’s Literature and may be downloaded for free here.
October 11, 2021
The MOON and STAR: Lessons From a Cat by Peggy Sullivan – Children’s Literature, Children’s Cat Books,

In Peggy Sullivan’s award-winning book, The Moon and Star: Lessons From a Cat, readers learn how a charming, tiny white cat finds solace in her connection with the Moon as she goes through life’s challenges and changes.

Star lives happily with a tall girl and two other cats. She runs, dances, and hunts for goldfish in a backyard pond. But this mindful cat soon realizes that life is full of unpredictable circumstances. Though she moves to a college town and has new and fun experiences, Star feels sad when she loses a feline friend, even more so when the tall girl goes off on her adventures.

Luckily Star is a cat with an attraction to the Moon. Its magical glow helps the little cat gain a sense of calm. The peacefulness Star feels stays with her, regardless of changes in her life or surroundings. Though Star and the tall girl move many more times, this sensitive cat realizes the light of the Moon offers a unique sense of serenity wherever her journey takes her.

In the first story, Midnight and Moonlight, Sullivan focuses on friendship and differences.

In this next adventure, the author shows us positive and relatable life lessons explored through the eyes of our furry friends and shares them in a gentle and entertaining format. While it can be challenging to write for a young audience and tell a well-crafted story with little words, humor, and grace, all while relating a universal message, Sullivan has the knack. Her background and experience as a mental health counselor and child advocate make for a rich and holistic reading experience.

As in all of Sullivan’s Children’s books, the images match magnificently with the story.

Here the text is easily followed, and accompanying drawings feature the colorful antics of an adorable, big blue-eyed Star. Several images of this gentle little cat pondering a quiet respite beneath the night’s starry, moonlit sky are sure to help deliver an essential message to youngsters. Ultimately the Moon serves as Star’s sanctuary and ideally reveals to readers that small moments of comfort and joy surround us if we just take the time to look.

The Moon and Star: Lessons From a Cat by Peggy Sullivan won the GRAND PRIZE in the 2017 CIBAs for the LITTLE PEEPS Book Awards for Children’s Literature.

October 1, 2021
ELFABET: An A to Z of Woodland Folk by Sylva Fae – Children’s Literature, Children’s School Issues, Early Readers Books

Sylva Fae helps early readers learn their alphabet with another delightful children’s book, Elfabet: An A to Z of Woodland Folk.

Little Eric, king of Ladybirds, also known as ladybugs, needs a way to learn his letters to spell many dazzling words. Little Eric uses the world of the forest folk around him as inspiration for his elfabet. Get ready to meet a whole trove of fantastical creatures from dragons to pixies, to fairies and goblins, and many more for every letter of the elfabet!

Fae’s Elfabet charms readers and fills us with love on every page. Just like in Rainbow Monsters, where readers got to learn about colors by getting to know a rainbow of monsters, Fae makes learning the alphabet fun and engaging. Everyone knows that “A” is for apple and “D” is for dog, but now readers will get to explore a whole new and fantastical world. A world where “A” still stands for apple but is collected by elves, and “D” is for fire-breathing dragons!

Both Sylva Fae and illustrator Katie Weaver dedicate this book to their children, who inspire their work.

In her illustrations, Weaver uses an array of bright colors and draws various subjects to encourage creativity in children. On each page, the drawings are within each corresponding letter, and readers will wonder and daydream about what magic lies beyond the edges of each letter. By the time children reach the end of Elfabet, they will be inspired to write and draw their own stories of the woodland folk.

Make the road to reading get off to a fun and creative start with Little Eric, the king of Ladybirds in Sylva Fae’s Elfabet: An A to Z of Woodland Folk. This title won 1st Place in the CIBAs 2019 LITTLE PEEPS Awards for Children’s Literature.

September 1, 2021
The KNOCK … a collection of childhood memories by Carolyn Watkins – Children’s Life Books, Childhood Memoir, Family Life

In a quiet voice filled with emotion and heartfelt detail, Carolyn Watkins’ The Knock… a collection of childhood memories realistically captures what it’s like for a child when a parent in the military is deployed at a great distance for active duty.

From her own personal recollections as an 8-year-old girl, each vignette weaves an honest perspective of life growing up in a military family. Tapping into the tender parent/child bonds and the feelings of loneliness and anxiety that arise in being separated from loved ones, Watkins’ intentions are to help other youngsters in similar situations, and to let them know that they have a supportive network. Here she explores the importance of family coping skills to include the strengths of a parent on the homefront, the help of relatives, and the care and concern needed for a wounded parent returning from war.

When dealing with her father’s absence, Watkins easily voices notable questions like “Would he remember me?” and “Would he be hurt?” She also recalls how her mom often hid her own emotions to remain stoic and supportive for her children. While the brave front is comforting, Watkins realized how it contributed to more concerns.

Wisely, Watkins sheds important light on the need to be open and express emotions during trying times. The ultimate realization is that shared feelings can make the experience of handling tough situations a bit easier. Watkins also reflects on the adolescent insecurities she felt and how they seemed heightened by constant relocations. Flexibility and adjustment as part of a military family proved key.

While this particular true-life memoir focuses on the ’60s and the war in Vietnam, the story is truly relatable to the conflict of any era. With Dad off to serve in the jungles of a foreign terrain, and Mom at home serving a dual parenting role, a visit from German Grandmother “Oma” helps solidify the cross-generational sentiments of wartime experiences. Stark recollections of visits to a hospital where Watkins saw firsthand the harsh realities of war seem a necessary component. Clearly, a time that helped Watkins gain strength in learning to accept “The Knock” at the door that symbolizes an unsettling fear of the unknown. Such moments undoubtedly helped the family come to understand the heroic efforts of those who put themselves in harm’s way in the fight for our freedom.

Lyndsey Erickson’s soft pastel illustrations easily complement the moving words of this narrative. Whether visualized in the glory of the star-spangled flag flying against a blue-clouded sky; a family gathered around the dinner table featuring an empty chair, that speaks to both togetherness and the solemnity of dad’s absence, or an army helicopter falling from the sky, all depict indelible moments. The importance of letter exchanges, especially during a time before computers and internet communication is sweetly rendered through images of red & blue-bordered airmail envelopes. A small, yet charming note of nostalgia.

The book’s final words include a great springboard of ideas to open up further discussion about family dynamics, challenges, and feelings of universal concern. Though intended for the 8-13-year age group, this gentle, informative memoir shares a powerful message that should be appreciated by readers both young and old.

The Knock won First in Category in the CIBA 2019 Little Peeps Awards for Children’s Literature.

February 4, 2021
OSCAR’s CHRISTMAS WISH by Veronica Fischer – Children’s Christmas Story, Children’s Books in Rhyme, Children’s Animal Stories

Veronica Fischer has written a delightful holiday story for young readers with rhyming prose and colorful pictorials that highlights an important message about being yourself.

In Oscar’s Christmas Gift, the city zoo is home to a magnificent menagerie of animals, including horned rhinos, tuxedoed penguins, roaming lions, hooting monkeys, and trumpeting elephants. The furry and feathered residents here love being visited. Among them are a family of ocelots comprised of a Momma, 5 boys, and little Mary Lou. Young Oscar is a unique individual in the world of ocelots in that, unlike the felines showcasing a traditional spotted coat, Oscar’s golden fur has no markings. Embarrassed without his “polka-dots,” Oscar fears being laughed at. While his mom and siblings offer encouragement and highlight the attributes he possesses, words like “You’re smart!” “You’re silly!” “You’re ever so funny!” are not enough to convince a disheartened Oscar.

Since it’s Christmas time, clever Oscar decides to write a letter to Santa and ask for the spots he so desperately wants. Fearing his request won’t reach the North Pole in time, Oscar decides to take it there himself. En route, he meets up with an alligator named Mit, who desires to sing, and Carl, a panda bear in need of a comfortable place to sleep. Unfortunately, when the three new friends reach what they believe to be their intended destination, they are informed by a bullying group of penguins that they aren’t at the “real” North Pole. A dismayed Oscar runs off, only to meet with an elderly, red-suited man. While this wise Santa-like character notes Oscar’s beauty and strength and points out the perfection of his uniqueness, nonetheless, he understands Oscar’s desire to fit in with the other ocelots. Soon he offers a practical and inventive solution for Oscar’s concerns, as well as those of his traveling companions.

Vicky Amrullah’s full-color illustrations are bold and vibrant and artfully complement the narrative. Expressions on each characters’ face truly capture the sentiments of the storyline, whether in the tearful gaze of a shy, green-eyed Oscar, dismayed because he was born without spots; the toothy grin of a wanna-be singing gator; or the heartfelt kindness of a wool-capped, bearded man who bears a remarkable resemblance to Santa.

From the opening Oscar Wilde quote, “Be yourself. Everyone else is taken,” to the underlying story of classic children’s books like The Ugly Duckling, Fischer takes an upbeat and contemporary storyline of being yourself. She gently reminds children about the importance of individuality, ingenuity, and appreciation for what we have. In short, a Children’s book we highly recommend – and a perfect holiday read.

Oscar’s Christmas Wish won First Place in the CIBAs 2018 Little Peeps Awards for Children’s books.

December 15, 2020
WHAT WONDERS DO YOU SEE… WHEN YOU DREAM? by Justine Avery – Baby & Toddler Time Books, Baby & Toddler Sense & Sensation Books, Children’s Mystery & Wonders Books

As a calming invitation to a new bedtime ritual, What Wonders Do You See … When You Dream? is a lyrically narrated and masterfully illustrated children’s book well intended to help youngsters wind down and prepare for the magical adventure of sleep. Here the graceful style and delicate rhythm of Justine Avery’s writing comes alive with artist Liuba Syrotiuk’s dreamy watercolor visions. The beautiful collaborative effort provides inspiration for young readers to set aside their day’s excitement and drift into an imaginative landscape of shut-eye.

Against an airy backdrop that moves from rolling green hills and the face of a smiling sleepy sun to swirling blue-mauve skies and a sprinkling of stars, the narrative follows a whimsical boy and girl getting ready for bed. They put their toys away, brush their teeth, get into their PJs, and then take a moment to stretch and relax. Ultimately, deep meditative breaths help calm their active minds in a mindful moment, and soon they can drift quietly into a blissful encounter with their dreams.

Avery writes with a wispy hand and a soothing, creative voice. While the rhyming verses and words may diverge from the traditional, such free-form stylings are pleasantly suited to the relaxing nature of the story. Additionally, she broadens the audience’s vocabulary with fun words like “niggles” and “sniggle” that are sure to entice.

While youngsters often struggle at bedtime with concerns about the dark or worried about monsters in the closet, Avery’s smart emphasis is on bedtime as “magical … wondrous” and “best when you’re feeling slumberous.” Here, funny bug-eyes beneath the bed and small furry mop-like creatures running about elicit a figment of charm and humor rather than fear. The story’s final question of What wonders do you see? reveals a moment for youngsters to point out images on the page, as well as igniting an opportunity for them to talk about their own personal dreams.

Syrotiuk’s gossamer watercolors awash with gentle hues and soft-edged lines provide a perfect accompaniment to Avery’s narrative. This fresh, straightforward design ideally punctuates the soothing, balm-like feel of the story. Skillfully rendered brushwork draws readers into a dreamscape enveloped in ribbons of color. It showcases an imagined world filled with flora and fauna, floating sea life and planets, balls of yarn, and a frisky calico cat that lends its playful presence throughout the book’s pages.

Mini watercolor portraits and bios of both the author and illustrator, along with a message about freely sharing this work, appear at the book’s end. This small detail adds a glowing touch to the book’s overall design.

In a truly artful and harmonious combination of words and imagery, the sometimes mundane or, more often, chaotic time of getting ready for bed aptly turns into a surprise adventure. Here’s the perfect story to lull antsy youngsters into imaginative sweet slumber and help them discover some remarkable secrets when they close their eyes and dream.

What Wonders Do You See … When You Dream? Won First Place in the CIBA 2019 Little Peeps Book Awards for Children’s Literature.

December 13, 2020
BUCK: Keeper of the Meadow by Gloria Two-Feathers – Children’s Books, Animal Books, Native American Tales Children’s Books

In this engaging children’s tale by author Gloria Two-Feathers, a young colt named Buck will learn how to obey, how to defend, and how to strike out on his own.

The scene is set in the Great Plains, where a river named Minisose divides a sea of tall green prairie grass. Many animals call that grassland their home, and the most magnificent is the herd of wild horses led by a dark stallion named Plenty Coups and his chosen mate, the lovely cream-colored mare, Cloud. By tradition and instinct, Plenty Coups protects the herd from attackers, while Cloud leads them to safety.

Cloud knows how to find watering holes when the sun, Wi, is at its hottest and how to locate grass when Winter Man covers the ground with snow. One day in early spring, she realizes she must find a safe place to deliver a foal. In a secluded spot near a little pool, surrounded by the fresh grass, she delivers Buck, the young colt who soon accompanies her to find the herd again. But the winter has brought out a pack of hungry wolves led by the fierce Yellow Eyes, determined to bring Cloud down and feast on her son. This is the first great danger Buck will face, and he shows himself to be smart, plucky, and independent. One day these qualities will come to the fore as he takes on his destined role: to search for and rule over a magic meadow.

This mystical story is intertwined with the ancient lore of the Lakota people. This is the second book for children with a traditional framework, the first being the award-winning and delightful, Tallulah’s Flying Adventure. In this book, Two-Feathers identifies many natural presences with traditional names that play a role in the story’s drama and poetic nature. Buck’s youthful spunk will resonate with children and adults who will admire his spirit and growing strength. As much as readers admire Buck, they will fall in love with Cloud, the gentle mother who is not afraid to fend off a gang of bloodthirsty wolves. Buck – Keeper of the Meadow contains beautiful, expressive illustrations by fourteen-year-old artist Lucy Roe, and concludes with an urgent plea to all children, “to save the wilderness areas for future of all creatures,” as Buck will do as he guards the ancient meadows.

Buck: Keeper of the Meadow will be a strong read-to for younger children and a very appropriate exploration for older children and young teens, with many thought- and question-provoking themes for family talks and lively classroom discussions.

November 30, 2020
The UNIVERSE a WORK of ART by Eva Newermann and Line Newermann – Children’s Literature, Children’s Arts & Crafts, Astronomy

A dynamic mother-daughter team offers children a readable, richly illustrated story of the composition of the Universe, combining artwork, facts, games, and encouragement.

Line Newermann provides the text, recalling her magician father who gave her a lifelong fascination with the objects in the heavens. Her artist mother, Eva, supplies the beautifully painted illustrations – delicate, soft, and dreamy, as well as educational. And both author and illustrator encourage children to paint their own skyscapes.

A picture of a space probe introduces ideas of human exploration of the planets, moons, and stars. Planets in our solar system are shown by size, compared to each other and to the sun, “1000 times more massive than all the planets together.” Each planet is described in terms of its composition, position, and name derivation. Planet names provide “brain teaser” opportunities: readers can create their own mnemonic sentences using the names in their correct order, and rearrange jumbled letters for each name.

With vibrant, deeply emotive paintings matching each page of information and the inclusion of poems and photos to further pique the reader’s imagination, the authors have constructed a multi-dimensional learning tool, suitable for children in the K-12 age group. The Newermanns’ book would also make a pleasant “read-to” for parents and teachers, who might learn a few new things in the process.

The Universe: A Work of Art won CIBA 2018 First in Category Little Peeps Award for Children’s Literature.

September 30, 2020