The Day My Fart Followed Me To Hockey (My Little Fart)

The Day My Fart Followed Me to Hockey

Sam Lawrence & Ben Jackson
Illustrated By Danko Herrera




My Review-

This book is an hilarious adventure. Timmy is nervous as he's going for the hockey tests.
His little fart, his best friend, tries to cheer him up.
At the hockey arena, Timmy is shocked to find the little fart who had followed him.
Timmy is really angry and he does not want to be the stinky kid.
However what the fart does, turns out to be funny!
With all the laughter, Timmy feels relieved and finally passes his test.
A book all kids would enjoy! The fact that a fart is characterized, would surely interest young readers and they'd easily connect with the story!
Thank you Netgalley for the copy!

Fish Boy

 

Fish-Boy: An Inuit Folk Tale

Vanita Oelschlager
Art By Mike Blanc

Price -$8.95

My Review-

 

A little boy is travelling to Diomedes with Teragloona, to trade bearskins for dearskins.
In the sea, the boy spots a beach, he thinks is made of black sand.
To his shock, it tunrs out that it isn't a beach but millions of birds who are known  as sea parrots.

That's when Teragloona tells him the story of Fish-Boy.
Fish- Boy is lonely and when he meets a fisherman, he requests him to be his father. The fisherman agrees after Fishboy helps him catch fishes easily.
Soon they're famous and get an invitation from a chief of another village.
But when they pay visit, they are disappointed by the way the people treat them.
The fishboy saves himself, his father and the crew through magic. But those who mistreated them where turned to birds forever.
This a great story for any kid, who likes the oceans, seas, fishes, mermaids, mermen and the deep.
The tale also explains how we should treat our guests with respect and kindness.
A must read!
Thank you Netgalley for the copy!

Book Review : Sweet Dreaming

Sweet Dreaming

Julia Rawlinson
Pictures by Nicole Wong


Price- $12.59

My review-

Little Molly is not able to sleep. Her mom comes up with an idea to help her.
What I liked about the book is, instead of "Let me tell you a story", her mother encourages her to use her own imagination and create her own story.

She gives her characters she can play and imagine and eventually fall asleep.
But every time Molly finds it unsuitable, no problem though her mom has more characters.

This book is definitely sweet and cute. It encourages the kid to run their own imaginations and build their own stories.
In a way, kids could remember what they've learned so far and use them in a story.

A very enjoyable and must read!

Thank you Netgalley for the copy!

Book Review: Pearls For Pearl

 

Aww... this book is so cute and is definitely the perfect gift for every little girl. The illustrations are equally pretty as the story.

 

And what's the cherry on the top, it has a positive message. Beautifully narrated, a tale of a little mermaid who is adopted by a little girl. How the mermaid finds a friend and tries to reach what she desires.

A must read bedtime tale.
Thank you Netgalley for the copy.

 

 

Description
Determined to reach a distant treasure, a little mermaid creates a bubbly new way to travel!

When a petite mermaid named Pearl is adopted, she finds herself in a world of exciting treasures. With the help of her friend and her wits, Pearl goes after her dreams.

Goal setting is difficult to teach, but a concept that is extremely important for preschoolers to learn. Heaton wonderfully illustrates how important it is to make goals that are just out of reach.  By brainstorming with her new friend, Peal finds a way to solve her problem and reach her goal.

Author Interview: Junior Ranger Aida Frey

 

Let’s Welcome Aida Frey

Thank you so much for having me!

Tell about yourself and your book.

My name is Aida Frey, I’ve been a Jr. Ranger for 7 years and I’ve visited 304 National Parks! My book, “America, Can I Have Your Autograph?” is a book about my adventures at the National Parks and how they inspired me to visit our country!

 

What does a Junior Ranger mean and what do they do?

A Junior Ranger is a person of any age who visits our wonderful National Parks and learns something at every visit! They tell others about the beautiful places you can visit and take care of the park itself.

When did you first thought about becoming a junior ranger?

My first national park was Effigy Mounds in Iowa and my Mom and Dad took me there when I was only 9 years old. Two very nice lady rangers came up to me and helped me fill out my first Jr. Ranger booklet so I could receive my badge, it was life changing!

Inspiration behind your love for wildlife?

When I was a kid, I used to carry this plush animal of a fox, and I think seeing the actual animal and having a little toy to go along with it was cool.

What reactions do you get from family, friends, teachers, etc?

I always get the best reactions; everyone is always asking me questions and is always really proud of me!

Who always accompanies you to the national parks?

Both of my parents, so mom and dad

Your favourite Animal/Bird?

I would say foxes or wolves, seeing them in the National Parks were always a treat!

Do you have pets? Which?

I don’t since I travel way too much to keep one, but maybe one day

Where do you plan to visit next?

We plan on visiting Southern California over the summer of 2018; we’re still planning the specifics.

How did you come up with the idea of publishing your amazing experience as a book?

When I first started visiting the parks, I always wrote down what happened at that park, what I did and who did I meet, so after a while, I had this big pile of notebooks filled with stories. I had the idea in 8^th Grade to publish my stories and encourage others!

Do you look at writing as a career?

I think writing more books would be awesome, but my main focus for a career would be becoming the National Park Director so I can make more parks to visit!

If yes, which genres would you also like to write in?

I am thinking of continuing the story and maybe publishing a second book

Can everyone join you as junior ranger?

Yes! There is no age limit and it’s very easy and fun!

Can adults also join?

Of course! Both of my parents are Jr. Rangers and so was my Grandma! We went to the Grand Canyon and she got her badge with me too!

A funny experience you had in a national park?

I’ve had a wild horse stick it’s head into my car and eat an apple out of my hand, the full story has its own chapter in my book!

A scary experience?

I went to Indiana Dunes National Park with two of my other friends and we hiked a trail late in the evening. We actually got lost and bats were flying all around us! It was pretty scary, but awesome because it was such a unique experience!

Your favourite celebrity and why?

My favourite celebrity is Harry Styles from One Direction. I think he’s not afraid to express his thoughts on things through music, which encouraged me to learn to play the guitar like him!

Writing, travelling and studies. How do you manage all three?

I wish that was all I had to deal with! I also play sports, the guitar and book signings in my area and always busy with my life. My friends are really helpful in helping me balance everything, but it’s difficult sometimes.

Subjects you enjoy in school?

I take two college courses at my high school, which is psychology and US History, and those are my favorite classes because it challenges me and I learn A LOT.

One animal you think, the earth would be bad without?

I think birds. We hear them every single day and it would be really weird looking at the sky and seeing nothing.

Your favourite Quotes, Books, Authors?

My favourite book is “How To Be A Bawse” by Lilly Singh, Her book is about being the best version of yourself and how to be productive in even the most stressful situations.

Your Hobbies?

Playing hockey with my friends, listening to music and playing the guitar.

Favourite food/ cuisine?

Anything that’s edible really. I LOVE trying new foods! I also have an unhealthy obsessions with humus J  

Are you health conscious? What do you do for your health?

Since I play lacrosse and hockey over the summer, I tend to lay off the cans of pop and junk food. Of course every once in a while, I might cheat, but I try my best!

If you become a Millionaire overnight, what would you do with the money?

I think I would publish my second book, save some money for college and

visit more national parks!

 Connect with the Author:

 Facebook

 Twitter

Blog/Website- http://www.aidafreyjuniorranger.com/

 Instagram

 Buy her Book - http://www.lulu.com/shop/aida-frey-and-dana-dorfman/america-can-i-have-your-autograph-the-story-of-junior-ranger-aida-frey/paperback/product-22648371.html

 Join junior ranger programmes- https://www.nps.gov/kids/jrRangers.cfm


Interviewed by Hemdiva dev

 

 

 

Thank you!

 

The Ghost, The Owl

by Franco

 

 

 

This is a story of a girl ghost who does not remember who she was when she was alive. The birds, especially owl helps her despite being warned not to. And she discovers the truth about her life.
Very beautiful graphics and amazing story with a message that we should always help each other.
They who help get help, always.

 

Book is available for pre-order.

 

 

About the book

On a cool evening on the swamp, a figure appears dancing across the water. A human figure, but far from a human form. A Ghost, a young girl spirit that seems to have lost its way. A good Samaritan owl decides to help against the wishes of his animal brethren. What mysteries does the ghost girl hold the secrets to and what will happen when she and the owl unlock them together? Will they find out what happened to her? Will she find her way to where she needs to be? What will happen to the animals in the swamp and surrounding forest? An adventure with the most unlikely of pairs, The Ghost, the Owl. 

Thank you Edelweiss for the copy.

 

Barbie #2: "Big Dreams, Best Friends"

Click to read 

Sarah Kuhn

Papercutz Books

Barbie and her friends Whitney and Liz are fashion designers on tour with Christine and her band. 

But Barbie seems to be nervous, she has a Designer's Block!

Barbie's friends continuously try to cheer her up, she feels better.

During the rehearsal, Drea, the drummer, gets it all wrong.

Barbie and friends cheer Drea and in doing so Barbie finds her own confidence.

Click to read

A complete Barbie and Friends books. Where Best friends help you reach your Big Dreams!

For all the Barbie fans! This book is written in a comic style and it turns out good.

Book Review: Horror Library Volume Six

Click image to read on Amazon

Horror Library Volume 6

Multiple authors

A horror for every taste. This book that has a collection of stories by 27 different authors is horror masterpiece in itself.

I'd like to mention "The Night Truck" by Stephanie Bedwell Grime. The story is narrated simply, but still it scares you very much. It's my favourite in the whole book.

"The Plumber" is another story that will leave you scared and feeling Ugh!

All the stories have there own and unique narration style. Making every story stand out from the other.

Click Image To Read

This was my first time reading Horror Library and I'm hooked. Will definitely be looking out the future volumes and the ones that are already published.

One thing I'd like to add, if you read the book in darkness or when alone, you will be frightened for weeks.

Thank you Netgalley for the copy.

The Most Magnificent Thing

Click Image To Read

The Most Magnificient Thing

Ashley Spires

4.5 stars

A simple story about a little girl who wants to create something magnificient.
While doing so she learns how difficult it is to bring to life what you have on mind, especially when people don't cheer or support you and you do everything by yourself.
Also, one should never give up untill success finds them.
The story also tells that one should have patience and keep trying.
A really good book for kids.

Thank you  Netgalley.

Start a Story

Book Review: Gaurdian of the Gauntlet

Gaurdian of the Gauntlet

Click the image to read on Amazon

Lenita Sheridan

Blurb- Camari and Mila are two sisters who are princesses and live in the kingdom of Harroway. One day they encounter Prince Denir from the kingdom of Thalon. He was given a special gauntlet that has special powers, but only when used by one who has a belief in a higher power. One day he turns Camari invisible. A problem occurs when Denir is called off to war and Camari is left invisible. There is an enchanted bog witch named Bogwina and a wicked magician named Mecandel who are conniving to steal the gauntlet. The journey takes Camari through the wetlands of Fremil after she meets Prince Isryk of Bredin who is her guide. She encounters many awful creatures along the way. In the end she discovers that she has been given a great gift by her higher power.

My Review- The book is about two sisters, Camari and Mila, who are princesses. The story is a great read! Interesting and I enjoyed reading it. I found the characters very engaging and relatable. 

Author Interview : Angèle Gougeon

Let’s welcome author Angèle Gougeon.

Angèle Gougeon: Let me just say that I am so happy to be here. 

Thank you… We’re so happy to have you here, too!

Tell us about your books.

My current published novel, Sticks and Stones, is a dark paranormal that follows the life of a teen – Sandra Daron – who has a terrible gift. She has visions the moment she touches someone. Usually of that person's death. I've had some incredibly lovely people compare the book to a V.C. Andrews styled novel with a Supernatural twist.

Sticks and Stones

Angèle Gougeon's Author/ Book links

 Twitter

 Like on Facebook

The day you decided you will be a writer?

Always. What I mean is: I don't remember a time when I didn't want to write. My mother jokes that every time she passed my room when I was a child, I'd have the floor lined with my toys. We were going off on an adventure. I still remember one of the first stories I wrote in the second grade. Once I finally figured out how to dot my I's and cross my T's … well, I never put my pencil down again.

Who helped you with your dream? Your support?

I have a wonderful family that has always pushed me towards my goals. My biggest fan, however, has always been my mother, as corny as that sounds. She's the one who gave me my love of literature. She's always been my guinea pig and primary beta reader (though I'm sure she hasn't always been overjoyed to be so. There are always those skeleton spines in our closets that should remain where they're buried. Some stories definitely won't ever be seeing the light of day again). I could always count on her unvarnished truth of my work. But I've also had countless teachers, friends, and guidance counselors that have helped feed my dreams of becoming an author. I would never have published my first short story, (never mind my first novel), without their help and support.

Do you think the process of writing (Typing/Handwriting) is tiring? How do you deal with it?

Oh, it is very tiring! I'm a slow writer and, most days, it feels like I'm chipping away at a block of stone with … well, a banana. I listen to a lot of music – and I also work as an artist. I can easily switch over to one of my other projects if my characters are giving me a bit too much hassle.

What profession you’d choose if not an author?

Is saying I'd work as an artist cheating? Especially since I already do that?

How about: ice cream taster? Okay, okay, I'll be serious. At one point, after graduating from university, I was very much interested in becoming an animator. I also looked into art restoration. It's hard to talk about 'what-if's,' however, when I already have my dream job.

Why did you choose this particular genre/s?

I grew up on Fantasy. As I grew older, I branched out into, well, almost every other genre imaginable. But my first love has always been Fantasy and Paranormal works. My pieces tend to all have some kind of supernatural or mythical element to them. I dabble in comedy, but I also love writing those darker pieces that, hopefully, will linger long after the story itself has come to a close.

Have you ever met a fan/reader?

Yes! I've met some absolutely wonderful readers and authors along my writing journey. I don't think I'll ever get used to meeting someone who has read or heard of my book. It's always a humbling experience.

Would you ever go for traditional publishing? (If you’re a self published author)

*My book was published through a publisher – so I suppose I'll skip this question? If you'd still like to have an answer from me on the subject, please let me know!*

Do you interact with other authors? Do you think it’s important?

There's a wonderful sense of community in the author world. Almost every author I've met has genuinely wanted to support and offer feedback and guidance. If you're going through an experience, or if you have a question about the writing, editing, or publishing process, chances are there is someone out there with an answer, and they will be willing to share. The author community is absolutely amazing and I see no reason not to get involved, whether you're a writer or reader.

Your favorite food/dish/cuisine?

Pasta. Lasagna in particular. And, chocolate, of course! (Not together. Though, yes, I realize that's also a thing.) I'm also quite fond of tourtière.

Your favorite place on earth? Why?

It's probably a bit boring to say the place where I am now: the prairies of Canada that I grew up in. Yes, the summers are filled with humidity and a scourge of mosquitoes. Yes, the winters are long and bitter and cold. But I also live in rural Manitoba – there are four historical buildings within walking distance of my house. We're sat flush between two cities and have a local grocery store just moments away. Sometimes an owl roosts in the trees outside my window at night and we have one tiny aspen in a sea of oaks that sounds like an ocean every time there's a wind. I love Manitoba, and wouldn't want to be anywhere else … no matter how much us Manitobans like to complain.

Your hobbies other than writing? Do you find time for it?

*I've already answered this, I feel, when talking about my art*

Your thoughts on life? What helps you to deal with ups and downs of life?

Just never stop trying. Most goals and dreams take a lot of work to reach. I've been lucky enough to have a great support system around me as I work toward mine. I know it sounds idealistic, but every time life knocks you down, pick yourself back up and keep walking. Because that just means you're one step closer than you were before. Those disappointments become so much easier to bear when you have friends and family at your side.

Your favorite quote?

*I can't answer this! I always find this question so difficult.*

If you become a billionaire overnight, what would be your reaction? What will you do with the money?

The thought fills me with fright. I've never wanted to become rich writing. I'd just like to live comfortably, and take care of my family the best I can.

 Do you believe in ghosts/ Did you have a supernatural experience?

The main character in Sticks and Stones has visions. I can't say I particularly believe in this particular phenomenon, but I do believe in some aspects of the paranormal (and, yes, that does include ghosts). I've had too many little experiences over the years. For example: being terrified of the garage in the house I grew up in (long before I learned that someone had hanged themselves inside), having lights and appliances turning on by themselves right in front of me, and even hearing ghostly footsteps when I worked at the Marine Museum in Selkirk - when no other employees or customers were around. There's something very compelling in the mystery of the supernatural, probably why I enjoy writing it so much!

Book Review: Maxwell The Monkey Barber

Click Image To Read on Amazon

 Maxwell The Monkey Barber

Author- Cale Atkinson

Owlkids Books

Maxwell, the monkey, owns a barbershop! He loves his job so much!

Many different animals come to him to get trim, chop or a special style for their hair.

And Maxwell is good at his work with his scissors, everyone is satisfied by the cuts.

Be it the lion or the bear or any other animal, there's no hair Maxwell can't fix. 

He even has solutions for the one without hair!

The illustrations are funny and out-standing!

Thank you Netgalley for the free copy!

Author Interview: Sharmishtha Basu

Let’s welcome Sharmishtha Basu

Sharmishtha Basu is creator editor of twin ezines Agnishatdal and Agnijaat. She is also a self-published author in Amazon, an avid blogger, digital artist, bookworm. She lives in Kolkata, and dreams of building her home by ocean, preferably in her own island!

She spends most of her time writing these days, honestly, this year she is rewriting her five storybooks (two has already been rewritten and published- five left), so she is spending long hours writing! Ha! Her other hobby takes more time, digital paintings, they take hours often. So you can see both her hands are full and ears too are filled with music mostly, she loves to play music when she is painting, when writing music is turned off.

Her social media nitty gritty for you:

Blog:

https://Sharmishthabasu.wordpress.com

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/author/sharmishthabasu

Goodreads

http:/goodreads.com/sharmishthabasu

http://goodreads.com/group/show/200142-sharmishtha-basu-s-indie-adda

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/sermistabasu

https://www.facebook.com/groups/sharmishthabasu

linkedin:

https://linkedin.com/authorsharmishthabasu

Skype

Basu.s1969@hotmail.com

Hangouts

Basu.s1969@gmail.com

Email id

sermistabasu@gmail.com, agnijaat@hotmail.com

Ezines:

https://agnishatdalezine.wordpress.com

https://agnijaat.wordpress.com

Diva Dev: Tell us about your books. 

Sharmishtha Basu: Well, there is quite a set of books I have self-published in  Amazon, poetry, story both mostly fully illustrated by my own digital paintings.

Diva Dev: The day you decided you will be a writer?

Sharmishtha Basu: I am an accidental writer! Ever since I remember I was a bookworm, I needed books like people need food, I can’t recollect a single day till I joined my first job which I passed without reading anything, excluding Saraswatipuja, on that day many Bengali families ban reading, I don’t know why but they do, and being a devoted worshipper of Goddess Saraswati I obeyed! But not after graduation! These days I read blogs mostly, and quite a bit. But before 2007 I did not even dreamt I will be writing! Ha!

The office in which I worked back then was in a factory, surrounded by factories, and my bosses – well, they were never around, they mostly were out in their Kolkata central office while I sat there in their factory office doing nothing. So one fine day I noticed that MSN allows readers to share their words in its website and I mustered up my courage and started babbling! My first try was accepted and after that they pampered me silly! I got addicted to writing. Next level of encouragement came from my readers of wordpress and they are still very much with me. So I will say one fine day MSN made me a writer by accepting my first attempt on writing (outside school/college notes). I have never even tried writing anything other than answers to questions or essays in school curriculum. I will say I am quite grateful to my readers for giving me a wonderful passion and full time occupation (of my time not livelihood yet)!

Diva Dev: Who helped you with your dream? Your support?

Sharmishtha Basu: My readers… my friends… MSN, Wordpress and Amazon.

Diva Dev: Do you think the process of writing (Typing/Handwriting) is tiring? How do you deal with it?

Sharmishtha Basu: Not at all!  I get tired with editing though, especially the second edit which I earlier skipped but these days do, quite seriously sometimes. But to be honest I very often am too bored to do it. It is a habit I will have to change! Ask me to write and I will go on and on, ask me to edit and it gives me heebie jeebies! Honestly! That is why you will see my earlier works are full of silly typos, especially in blogs because wordpress often edits on its own, repeatedly!

Diva Dev: What profession you’d choose if not an author?

Sharmishtha Basu: At first I will sheepishly say I don’t earn anything from my writings, not yet, very few of my books have been sold till date. So I am still trying to make it my profession. Hopefully I will some day! When I was a child I wanted to become a doctor or pilot. Unfortunately when I was growing up women could rarely join airways as pilots, then I don’t have perfect eyesight… as for becoming a doctor well that is a raw nerve, let us say I tried my best sometimes best is not enough.  After that I became quite docile and started trying to make my own living in any honest, dignified way. Writing stirred up my dreams after quite long time and they are not going to die ever, even if my books don’t sell ha ha! I am smug with the attention I am getting through them.

Diva Dev: Why did you choose this particular genre/s?

Sharmishtha Basu: You will see apart from “The charons” almost all my book are fantasy or paranormal/chillers- I love these two genres, “The charons” is a chapter of my own life, the book that made me a writer I will say. Apart from that I love to imagine and love to scare myself too! Ha ha… so you will read chillers and fairytales again and again. Just can’t have enough of them! Reading or writing. I still love fairytale stories and movies! As for horror/chillers they are almost my daily diets!

Diva Dev: Have you ever met a fan/reader?

Sharmishtha Basu: Never came across anyone who has read my works or knows who I am in cyberspace! I never tell anyone about my online life. Till date only one pried out about it and after that some bad changes happened. Unwelcome changes in my wordpress circle! That clearly hinted that she orchestrated that. So… I keep my writerdom hidden! And I will be very tongue-tied to anyone in real life… so can’t say I will love to meet my readers, fans? Ha! Do I have one? Oh boy! Won’t that be cool!!!!!! Yum yum!


Diva Dev: Would you ever go for traditional publishing? (If you’re a self published author)

Sharmishtha Basu: I will absolutely love it! You know it is sort of very ego satiating! Someone else thinks your work is worth a try! I will also love if “The charons” is turned into a movie with Jodie Foster as lead actress, playing Urna (me). 

Diva Dev: Do you interact with other authors? Do you think it’s important?

Sharmishtha Basu: I firmly believe that we should regularly interact with other authors unselfishly, without being jealous, trying them to help them in any rational way we can. Even if we don’t understand or deny, we LEARN A LOT from others, their styles, their works, their ways of tackling things! Will I say we develop each other knowingly or unknowingly? But don’t be nasty, don’t steal works of others. I have met these characters again and again in wordpress they are disgrace to humanity! Act dignified and you will only benefit!

Diva Dev: Your favorite food/dish/cuisine?

Sharmishtha Basu: You may laugh but I just love south Indian dishes- four in specific- dosa, idli, vada and sambhar. Just love them. Apart from that I love simple rice and any curry to go with it, not very spicy though! But tasty must!

Diva Dev: Your favorite place on earth? Why?

Sharmishtha Basu: Any place on beach! I will so love to live right by the ocean! I have never lived in one but I love ocean. Period!

Diva Dev: Your hobbies other than writing? Do you find time for it?

Sharmishtha Basu: I love to paint digitally, apart from that listening to music of all types, watching movies and reading (mostly blogs these days) and I being unemployed can manage my time to do these things. If not everyday then frequent enough to keep me happy. 

Diva Dev: Your thoughts on life? What helps you to deal with ups and downs of life?

Sharmishtha Basu: Life to me is unpredictable, and never think that world is ultimately good to good people- that is a lie fed by crooks mostly I think. So when things are good enjoy them to the best and when they are bad remember one thing they will pass, all you have to do is keep yourself as intact as you can, if possible use that bad thing to make a better of yourself! Tough but not totally impossible, that is a very good way of settling score too! 


Diva Dev: Your favorite quote?

Sharmishtha Basu: “There is no use worrying, it was never worth-while, so pack your worries in your old gummy bag and smile, smile, smile.” This quote has always made me smile!

Diva Dev: If you become a billionaire overnight, what would be your reaction? What will you do with the money?

Sharmishtha Basu: I will buy an island, preferably with an old house in it as my home, castle will be best! I will buy a fort/castle too, in case I get tired of island life. I will save enough for a decent life and enjoy the rest! But a dream home will certainly be my first step! The rest will depend on how much money will be left after buying my dream home and keeping aside money for rest of my life! Sorry I won’t be spending money on world peace!

Thank You So much Sharmishtha!

Books By Sharmishtha Basu