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!

Diary Of A Monster

Diary Of A Monster
Dear Diary Series


Valeria D'avila, Mo'nica Lo'pez
Illustrations - Laura Aguerrebehere
Translation- David Warriner


My Review-

Wouldn't it be cool if you could just check out the diary of a Real Monster?
This book provides insight into the life of monster through his notes in his diary.
In his diary, he boasts how evil and ugly he is. How he is super happy to scare people!
How he loves having toad soup or mosquitoes or worm cake as dinner.
How at his sight, everyone screams. How he enjoys staying in the lake but his tail feels sore.
How he loves hugs from his mom and likes to hear about fairies.
Cool, Naughty and Funny!
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!

Free on Kindle - Carnival of Fear

Carnival of Fear

J G Faherty

My Review-

Scary, Intriguing, Unique!
The first few chapters introduced so many characters, I thought I wouldn't be able to keep up with them. But as the story progressed, the characters felt real and easier to understand. 
The narration is distinctive and it just makes the reading experience a great one. 
No typical horror movie characters, the thing that impressed me. The story is about a carnival, as the name suggests, where nothing is what it seems. 
Everyone is interested in the house of horrors but it takes them to a different world. Scary fun!
If you're looking for a great read for this Halloween, this book has got it all. 
Aliens,  witches,  wolves, serial killers and every horror character you can think of. 
Thank you Netgalley for the free copy in exchange of an honest review.

About the book- The Halloween carnival seemed like the perfect way to spend a Friday night, but when a group of teenagers find themselves trapped in the haunted mansion, they learn the awful truth about the carnival, and the demons that run it.
Now they’re trapped, fighting their way through a maze of torturous attractions where vampires, werewolves, aliens, and other monsters come to life, eager for human blood. As the body count rises, friendships are made and lost, and unlikely heroes emerge.
The final showdown takes place in Hell, where the ultimate battle between good and evil will determine their fate.
The Carnival of Fear - the price of admission is your soul!

W to M of Self-Publishing: Why do Indie Authors Fail? (Free on KU)

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Price - Free! (Kindle Unlimited)

0.72$/ 49Rs to buy

W to M of Self-Publishing: Why do Indie Authors Fail?  Kindle Edition 
by Prakash Vir Sharma (Author)


My review: 

W to M of self publishing is a gem of a book. Its simple, quick and very useful. The author begins with sharing his personal experiences and advice for other authors.
A great book for newbies or for that matter, every writer. The author himself has explored a wide ways of publishing and writing, which at some point every writer has to go through.
But if you read the book, you'll find out what really works and what does not. Better, than to try yourself and learn the hard way.
Contradictory to most of the books in this genre, the narration is very simple and easy to understand. You won't require to re-read again and again. It's that easy to read.
Everyone experiences the good and the bad, but not many decide to share it with others so that they benefit from it. Kudos to the Author!
If reaching Amazon's Best-seller's list is your aim, this book is for you. 


About the book:

"W to M of Self-publishing - Why do Indie Authors Fail? is a beginner's guide to learn everything about What, Why, How, and Where of writing, editing, formatting, publishing, and marketing of books.


I thank the author for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.

 

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.

The First Horror (99 Fear Street Book 1)

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The First Horror (99 Fear Street Book 1)

 

R. L. Stine

 

 The story starts with Cally and Kody Frasier, twin sisters arriving on 99 Fear Street in Shadyside with their family. Though the place is anything but pleasing, the family try their best to fix things.

But soon, weird and dangerous things start occurring. The house has its own back story, no one ever lived there and also who people who build the house were killed.

The Frasier's have near death experiences. 

 What seems like a gripping thriller turns out be the biggest horror in this book.

A  greatly written book for every horror lover.

 

 

 

The first book in a scary new trilogy contributing to a series with more than 8.5 million copies in print. Here begins the terrifying story of a family who moves into the house that even their neighbors on Fear Street are afraid to enter. Twin sisters must learn the secret of the evil or be the next victims.

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 Boy Who Swallows Flies

Click To Read

 

Michael F. Stewart

 

 

Jarrod is ill and nor does he or anyone else understand what the problem is.

He has his "moments" and everytime experiences things that seem unreasonable.

He's also the 'Bug-Boy' for he's very fond of bugs. All kinds of bugs. He has them in his room and can't resist noticing them in the school or anywhere he goes.

His moments continue occurring often affecting his health, his grades and his social life.

Until one day when he realises that what he sees or hears is real. And someone somewhere needs his desperate help.

And a super hero is born. And like every super hero, no one believes him or his powers but he tries his best to help.
He tells his best friend and even proves it.

Well he really does swallows flies. Because that is what his Super Power is about.

A very enjoyable read for kids, especially boys who love reading about super powers. For Jarrod has a very very unique power that no can even think of.

Thank you Netgalley for the copy.

About The Book

Jarrod can view the memories of any bug. He just has to eat it. It’s not the tastiest of superpowers and, let’s face it, fly memories aren’t all unicorns and rainbows. Eating insects also doesn’t net him many friends, but Jarrod’s ready to prove that he and his bugs are worth more than ridicule.

When he swallows a fly while biking, he’s in for a shock. The bug saw a room stacked full of sick dogs and puppies in crates. It’s a puppy mill, and Jarrod needs to save the animals. But the flight range of the common housefly is five miles. Even if the police believed him, with no evidence, they can’t help. It’s up to Jarrod.

Trained cockroaches survey neighborhood basements. A fly taped to a window makes an excellent sentry. Every ant, mosquito, caterpillar—don’t eat the fuzzy yellow ones—and beetle is his edible sidekick.

Will Jarrod save the dogs? Or is it all too much to swallow?
 

Book Review: Everybody's Somewhere

Everybody's Somewhere


Cornelia Maude Spelman
Illustrated by
Alea Marley


This book is great to explain kids how everybody's
somewhere. Even if they are not present right here,
they're somwhere in the world.

They can be anywhere, doing something or the other.
Travelling, playimg, painting, sleeping, studying or flying.
Just like we're somewhere in the world.

Young kids wonder where people go when they're
not around and this book will help them understand
it in a simple way.
About the book

Everybody's somewhere, where are you?
I'm right here, I'm somebody, too.
Some are in the country, some are in the town.
Everybody's somewhere, up or down.

Everybody—moms, dads, grandpas, grandmas, friends, and people you've never met—is somewhere in the world, doing something right now, even if you can't see them.

Everybody's Somewhere is a fun, colorful introduction to the idea that everyone you've met, or haven't met, is somewhere. Written perfectly for young minds that might not fully comprehend how big the world is, or the number of people on it, this fun children's book will plant the seeds of the ideas in their minds.

With its playful, bouncy rhymes, Everybody’s Somewhere asks children to expand their perspective, and follows-up with fun illustrations. Award-winning author Cornelia Maude Spelman invites children to imagine other people in other places doing different things, to be delighted by new ideas, and to be reassured that everyone is important and sharing the same world.

Book Review: The Girl Who Said Sorry

The Girl Who Said Sorry

Hayoung Yim

Illustrated by Marta M.

 

The Girl who Said Sorry is about how a girl is easily
encouraged and even easily discouraged.

She is expected to be sorry for being herself.
But the writer believes that we shouldn't be "sorry"
for being ourselves. Because we are not hurting someone,
instead we're expressing ourselves.

Girls are motivated to be brave, smart, follow their mind , etc.
But at the same time they're expected to never be bossy and be a lady.

Everytime she says "Sorry" and finally she realises
that for being herself she shouldn't be sorry.
Thank you netgalley for the book.

About the book
Too girly or too boyish. Too thin or too fat. Too quiet, too loud. Be ambitious, but don’t hurt feelings. Be inquisitive, but don’t interrupt. Be outspoken, but don’t be bossy. Most of all, be yourself—but be a lady.

What’s a girl to do in a world filled with contradicting gender expectations, aside from saying sorry?

The way we teach politeness norms to children is often confusing, changing based on gender—and can have lasting effects. And while everyone should be courteous and accountable for their actions, apologetic language out of context can undermine confidence and perceived capability.

Within the subtle yet beautiful illustrations and powerful rhyme of "The Girl Who Said Sorry", developing girls will learn that self-expression and personal choices can be made without apology, and with confidence.

50% of profits from this book is donated to Girl Up, a United Nations Foundation campaign dedicated to empowering young girls to take action on global issues.

Happy Halloween & A Book Review

Click To read on Amazon

 

Night of the Puppet People

(Goosebumps Most Wanted #8) (Goosebumps: Most Wanted)

 

R. L. Stine

 

Happy Halloween!

 

I'd this book on my 'To-read' shelf for a long time! Finally I got to read it!

The story begins with Jenny and her brother Ben's birthday party. They are both five year old twins.

A puppet show is arranged which turns out awfully scary for them. Since then, Jenny and Ben hate everything-Puppets!

Seven years later, they are still scared of puppets. But for a school variety show, they decide to perform a Puppet skit to beat Anna and Maria.

And they find three weird and scary puppets at their friends place.

The trouble starts as the puppets aren't as good as they seem. Soon Ben's life is in danger! And the only way to save him is to find the one who created those puppets.

 

This book is gonna give you creeps if you are already scared of puppets! It's interesting as well as gripping throughout. I can't put it down.
The end is unexpected as usual. I loved it.

 

 

Book blurb

 

Ben and Jenny Renfro are terrified of puppets and they don't know why. It's just been a fear that the twins have shared for as long as they can remember. Yes, they are creeped out by all kinds of puppets, but especially marionettes. Something about all of those wires is extra scary.

The twins are determined to defeat their class rivals by winning their school's talent contest. And that means doing whatever it takes. Even if they have to surround themselves by the thing they hate most--puppets! But there is more to these guys than just string and glue. Something evil is hanging around. Will Ben and Jenny be able to take control?

Click To Read on Kindle



 

Book Review: The Prayer Box

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The Prayer Box

By Jennifer Berry

Illustrated By Josie Portillo

Rosetta is sweet little girl who enjoys everyday with her mom. Her teaches her many things and they also have fun together.

One day her mom tells her about the prayer box in which writes prayers. The girl is tempted to peek inside but is disappointed to find no prayers for her.

Her mom than explains her why.

That leads her to know how special she is and how special every kid is.

Sweet illustrations and perfect for mamma's girl to read.

Thank you Netgalley.

The Most Magnificent Thing

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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 2

Start a Story

Author Interview : Christopher Holley

Let’s welcome Christopher Holley

Tell us about your books. 

I have written 6 children's picture books, all with positive messages and a tad of silliness.  I am almost done with a young adult novel that Im really proud of.  It is really funny and is loosely based off my experiences as a teacher.  I have also written 1 teacher's manual teaching teachers about the art of classroom management.

The day you decided you will be a writer?

In 2008 I asked my friend if he would draw a picture book if I wrote one.  He said yes and A World Without Water was created.  I think writing that book showed me I am capable of putting together a coherent story.

Who helped you with your dream? Your support?

Artists, editors, family and friends all played a part in helping me accomplish my dream.

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

I only write when I feel like it.  It is tiring to be your own editor and critic.

What profession you’d choose if not an author?

I currently am a 3rd grade teacher and will probably do that until I retire, unless I was successful as an author.

Why did you choose this particular genre/s?

Truthfully, writing picture books just came easiest to me, so thats what I pursued.

Have you ever met a fan/reader?

Yes, other students in my school have read my books or have had them read to them and told me they loved them. 

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

Yes, but finding a publisher and/or an agent seems very challenging and a lot harder than I had imagined.

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

It is very important to network, but I tend not to because I dont really have the time to dedicate to being helpful back.

Your favorite food/dish/cuisine?

Wendy's spicy chicken sandwich (Im a cheap date).

Your favorite place on earth? Why?

Home because the outside world becomes overwhelming at times.

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

Martial arts, football and Magic the Gathering.  I do find time for my hobbies, but I wish I got to do them more.

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

Life is amazing.  I hope I never die, as I am and have always been very blessed.  

Your favorite quote?

You miss 100% of the shots you do not take.

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

I would be very happy and do good with the money after I had a little bit of fun (traveling etc.).

 Thank You!

Hemdiva: I’ve been lucky to read Chumbalina by Christopher and it was such an amazing read! Here’s my review -

Chumbalina! I just loved her. The author smartly handles a very deep topic. It clearly states that you can't judge someone from how they look. The inner self is what matters. I also liked the fact that, despite everyone not appreciating her body, Chumbalina herself was proud of herself. We often feel bad about ourself because others make us feel so. I liked the end as well, the message of eating what is right and also what you like is awesomely combined. Illustrations are nice too. A modern story in fairy tale style with a very good message!! Kudos to the author :)

Author Interview: Jennifer Berry

Let’s welcome Jennifer Berry!

Tell us about your books. 

"The Prayer Box" is my first book. However, I’ve written eight plays and have been working as a playwright for years.

my website is www.Jenniferberry.net for press on my plays etc.

The day you decided you will be a writer?

I can’t remember the day but I always kept a journal. And  I always wrote stories. Then I put writing away as my high school English Teacher said I could never be a writer. It wasn’t until college when I had an incredible creative writing professor who encouraged me.

Who helped you with your dream? Your support?

My husband is my biggest support and I have a circle of very supportive friends who make up my creative family. I also have to add my nine year old twins are my biggest cheerleaders.

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

I take many breaks during the day. And I exercise to release stress.

What profession you’d choose if not an author?

Probably a visual artist.

Why did you choose this particular genre/s?

I thought this particular story was best written as a children’s book. 

Do you think it’s easy/ difficult to write for children?

As a playwright, I write a lot  of dialogue. With “The Prayer Box”  I had to flex a different mussel. Less is definitely more with a children’s book.  You must make children’s books simple or you loose your reader.

Have you ever met a fan/reader?

I have met many audience members of my plays. It is always fun.

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

I think any way to get your story out in the world is just fine.

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

I do. I have a writer’s group that I meet with once a month. Other writers inspire me.

Your favorite food/dish/cuisine?

Anything my husband cooks?

Your favorite place on earth? Why?

My home or the Southern California coast line. Why? Because it’s home and I'm  there with the people whom I love.

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

I’m a killer baker. Yes, I find time for it about three times a week. It gives me a nice break from words. I also get to give my twins some yummy treats after school.

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

Oh, gosh! Life? My first thought is:  life is a gift. I love life and being alive. 

I was really sick a year ago and it gave me a perspective to enjoy every day. Even if you are having a bad day, there is still something to focus on that will bring out your attention. My children’s laugh, the view from my kitchen window, dawn breaking with my favorite cup of tea. 

When I get really down, I call my best friend. Having a strong community of friends, neighbors and family gets me though the down times.

Your favorite quote?

Aristotle: The definition of happiness is the exercise of one’s vital talents along the lines of excellence in a life that gives them scope.

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

I would probably make sure everyone I love had enough money to be safe and secure.  

Special question- How do you think does prayer/ praying help us?

There have been so many studies that prayer elevates pain or stress in the mind.

But more important than that, it taps into our biggest wishes, our most heartfelt concerns, and our sincerest gratitude.

Prayer is personal. It can be different things to different people. But children’s prayers are so often prayers for the world and we should listen to that!

Thank You so much for the interview!

The Prayer Box by Jennifer Berry