Book Zone

A Little Review Update from Book Zone

2026-10-05T12:14:58.724-04:00

To all the wonderful authors, publishers, publicists, and tour companies who continue to trust Book Zone Reviews with your books—thank you. Truly.

Every review request represents someone's time, creativity, hard work, and heart, and I don't take it lightly when you invite me into that process.

With that in mind, my review acceptance window for 2026 is now closed.

I've been blessed with a wonderfully full reading and review schedule, and rather than continuing to add books to the pile, I want to give the books I've already accepted the time and attention they deserve.

Over the next several months, I'll be focusing on:

• Completing my currently accepted reviews and commitments
• Working behind the scenes on my websites
• Developing and producing my podcasts
• And getting a few other creative ducks back into their proper rows. (They've been wandering. 😂)

Review requests will reopen May 1, 2027.

I'm incredibly grateful to every author, publisher, publicist, and book-tour company who's trusted me with their work this year. Whether we've worked together once or you've been part of the Book Zone Reviews family for years, please know how much I appreciate that trust.

I'm not disappearing—there are still plenty of reviews and other good things coming while I work through everything already on my desk.

But for new review requests, I'll see you next year. ❤️

Until then, thank you for the books, the stories, the opportunities, and most of all, the trust.

Happy Reading!

Dee
Book Zone Reviews

CD Review: The Dead Sea Squirrels: Season 1 (Original Soundtrack)

2026-08-11T22:28:20.087-04:00

22 Songs | Approximately 38 Minutes

Disclosure

Many thanks to Wander Creative for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

About

Created by Mike Nawrocki, co-creator of VeggieTales and longtime voice of Larry the Cucumber, The Dead Sea Squirrels brings his trademark mix of humor, memorable characters, and biblical storytelling to a new generation.

Steve Taylor serves as a producer on the animated series and is also a performer and co-writer of the theme song.

My Thoughts

I expected The Dead Sea Squirrels: Season 1 (Original Soundtrack) to be cute and quirky.

I did not expect to love it this much.

The soundtrack features all 22 songs from Season 1 of The Dead Sea Squirrels, the animated series. The approximately 38-minute soundtrack accompanies a season that takes children through biblical lessons including kindness, honesty, mercy, self-control, trusting God and overcoming worry, as well as the birth, baptism, ministry, Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus.

I know that sounds like a lot to pack into 38 minutes, but somehow, they do it.

And they have a whole lot of fun along the way.

You Really Don't Know What's Coming Next

One of the first things I noticed was that the titles don't necessarily give you a clue about what you're about to hear. Then the music starts and you're like, ok...I know that story.

I'm a music lover so when I realized the soundtrack moves through rock, country, gospel, children's music, theatrical numbers, VBS-style music and even a little banjo twang. I was really happy, not about the banjo twang. Lol.

Some songs have the big, theatrical, story-driven sound that immediately made me think of a Sight & Sound production.

Other songs rock. And I mean rock!

Matthew West and Mac Powell bring that sound to “The Water's Fine (But You're Not),” while Steve Taylor brings a quirkier style of rock to other parts of the soundtrack.

Then there are songs like “Do Unto Others,” which starts with a banjo/VBS-style feel before opening into that fuller Sight & Sound-style theatrical sound.

“We're Thessalonians” changes things again with a faint island-inspired beat that falls somewhere in the calypso/reggae neighborhood.

Normally that much genre-hopping could make an album feel scattered.

Here, it doesn't. It's music lover heaven!

The music is doing storytelling work.

The sound changes to fit the scene, emotion or biblical lesson rather than changing simply for the sake of variety.

Then Came “Celebrate Your Face”

I didn't know what to expect from a song called “Celebrate Your Face.”

I certainly didn't expect it to become my favorite song on the album.

It begins with the feel of a CeCe Winans-style gospel ballad, with an adult lead and children's choir, and sounds almost like a sincere love song to the face God gave you.

It's warm. It's beautiful. And beneath that quirky title is a message about appreciating how God created you.

The only problem?

It ended way too soon.

I wanted more.

And that's how “Celebrate Your Face” worked its way right into my #1 spot.

Fun Songs. Serious Truth.

That may be what impressed me most about this soundtrack.

The music is fun enough for children, but they aren't avoiding substantial biblical themes just because their audience is young.

Children encounter themes including the Fruit of the Spirit, self-control, being made in God's image, Jesus' birth, His baptism, the Kingdom of God, the Crucifixion and the Resurrection. The series itself uses each episode to connect biblical lessons with the characters' everyday situations.

And I know from experience that music helps us memorize.

A child may not remember every explanation they've heard about a biblical truth.

Put that truth into a catchy song they sing over and over?

Now it has a way of sticking.

The songs aren't simply teaching facts, either. They're bringing children into the biblical story.

The Music Follows the Story

“The Water's Fine (But You're Not)” is a great example.

Matthew West and Mac Powell give the song a rock sound, but then the story segues into the baptism of Jesus and God's declaration that Jesus is His beloved Son.

Then “Kingdom of God,” led by Matthew West, moves back into that big Sight & Sound-style theatrical territory.

And when the story reaches the Crucifixion in “Here He Comes,” the music takes on a darker theatrical-rock edge.

It fits.

That's important because they're dealing with one of the most serious moments in Scripture without suddenly abandoning the musical language they've established for children.

Then comes the Resurrection.

“He's Alive”

This one got me.

“He's Alive” features Bart Millard, Katy Nichole and Matthew West.

It moves into the Resurrection through Mary's grief and her search for Jesus before opening into the realization and celebration:

He's alive.

The simplicity of the storytelling works.

Children can understand the sadness of looking for someone you love and the joy of discovering that Jesus is alive.

That became my third favorite song on the album.

And My Other Favorite...

“Time to Get Counted.”

This one begins within the story surrounding the census and then moves into a medley incorporating familiar Christmas music.

I love medleys anyway, so they already had me.

But I especially loved how the song moved from upbeat, playful, kiddie fun into a sweet, soft celebration of Christ's birth.

The transition was beautifully done.

My Top 3

After listening through the soundtrack twice, my favorites are:

1. “Celebrate Your Face”
2. “Time to Get Counted”
3. “He's Alive”

And yes, I realize my #1 choice may be showing my grown-up side.

I'm okay with that.

This Isn't Just for the Kids

Here's one of the biggest compliments I can give this soundtrack:

I'll be listening to it for myself on Spotify and I'll send the CD to my grandson.

This is perfect music for kids in the car, but it's also something Mom can put on while she's cleaning the house and actually enjoy.

That's not always the case with children's music.

Sometimes adults are very aware that they're listening to something for the children.

This didn't feel that way to me.

The soundtrack includes an impressive lineup of Christian performers, including Matthew West, Bart Millard of MercyMe, Katy Nichole, Ellie Holcomb, Mac Powell of Third Day, Steve Taylor, Ashley Cleveland, Matthew Ward and others.

Those different voices and musical styles give the soundtrack enough variety to keep adults engaged while the humor, memorable lyrics and characters keep it accessible to children.

Even when a particular musical style wasn't necessarily my favorite—and yes, I'm looking at a couple of those banjos—the album as a whole won me over.

Final Thoughts

The Dead Sea Squirrels: Season 1 (Original Soundtrack) is cute and quirky, but there's much more happening here than cute children's music.

The songs are funny and catchy without treating biblical truth like an afterthought.

The genre changes serve the storytelling.

The lyrics break down substantial biblical ideas to a child's level.

And the music is memorable enough that those truths have a good chance of staying with them after the song ends.

The creators describe the soundtrack as a screen-free way for families to carry the lessons of the series into car rides, school drop-off, playtime, family time and church settings.

I'd add one more:

Cleaning the house.

Because the children don't have to be around for parents to play this one.

I absolutely loved it.

Watch

Where to Listen or Buy

The Dead Sea Squirrels: Season 1 (Original Soundtrack) is available on major streaming platforms, including Apple Music and Spotify, and is also available as a physical CD through the Dead Sea Squirrels shop. The album is currently featured on Apple Music Kids' Sunday School Kids playlist and Spotify's Christian & Gospel Kids playlist.

Take home the soundtrack! Buy now at DeadSeaSquirrels.com.

Connect

Facebook: https://facebook.com/thedeadseasquirrelsofficial
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedeadseasquirrels
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thedeadseasquirrels
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thedeadseasquirrelsminno

#DeadSeaSoundtrackMIN #DeadSeaSquirrels #DeadSeaSquirrelsSoundtrack

Look What I Found!

2026-07-13T16:29:32.782-04:00

Hello folks,

It has been a minute. I was scrolling through Bookstagram and found this profile:

Clicking on gnmkids.com/tay brought me to this awesome website, the home of the "With Jesus" series by G.L. Charles. What I love about this series is that it teaches Godly character to kids ages 3-8.

Using Tay's link you will get 20% off your purchase.

In Theaters Nov. 1st: Lost On A Mountain In Maine

2024-10-30T12:49:00.002-04:00

ABOUT:

Lost on a Mountain in Maine tells the inspiring true story of 12-year-old Donn Fendler, who becomes separated from his family by a fast-moving storm atop a treacherous mountain. For nine days, Donn fights to stay alive as he attempts to survive the unforgiving wilderness of northern Maine without food, proper clothing, or the knowledge of how bad his situation really is. His disappearance sparks a massive search effort that captures national headlines and attracts hundreds of volunteers, including his father, who fears he may never see his son again. Rated PG

Directed by: Andrew Boodhoo Kightlinger
Produced by: Sylvester Stallone, Braden Aftergood, Dick Boyce and Ryan Cook
Written by: Luke Paradise (screenplay) - based on the book by Donn Fendler
Cast: Luke David Blumm, Paul Sparks, Caitlin FitzGerald, Ethan Slater, Griffin Wallace Henkel

TRAILER

Visit Lost on a Mountain in Maine on the web to view stills and more trailers:

DISCLOSURE:

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Review Wire Media for Blue Fox Entertainment.

NOTE: I will be watching the movie tonight, so I'll be back with my thoughts tomorrow.

Review & Giveaway: Guess Who's In God's Family by Karen Ferguson

2024-08-02T11:49:00.010-04:00

Welcome to BookZone's stop on the Blog Tour for Guess Who Is in God's Family by Karen Ferguson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Guess Who is in God's Family
Series: Questions for Kids #2
Author: Karen Ferguson
Publisher: Ambassador International
Release Date: June 4, 2024
Genre: Children's Picture Book

When Lucy comes across some old family pictures, she has a lot of questions for Papa Joe. Who are these people? Why doesn’t she look like them? As Papa Joe tells Lucy about her family, he shares with her the uniqueness that God created in each of us from the very beginning, all the way back to our first ancestors, Adam and Eve. What follows is a wild adventure through the Bible, where Lucy and her papa discover God’s love and faithfulness for all people throughout all of history. In this second book in the Questions for Kids series, discover how much God loves diversity and how God created your family in the most beautiful and perfect way.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Excerpt

Papa slowly closed the Bible, while Lucy sat quietly. She had been excited to learn about this first family, but now she felt sad thinking about all that had been lost in the garden and about all the times she didn’t do what was right. Papa Joe could see she was troubled.

“Lucy, don’t be sad. God still had a good plan for the family He created. That includes us! People may look different, come from different countries, and speak different languages; but we all have some important things in common. We are all created in God’s image, and we all mess up. We struggle to obey God sometimes, but He never stops loving us.

“Lucy, always remember and don’t ever forget: we are all related, and we are all created by God, Whose love for us is never-changing, never-failing, and never-ending. And
the great news is that from the very beginning, God had a rescue plan. Someone special was coming, Lucy, and He would save the world!”

My Thoughts

I have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of this book by Karen Ferguson.

Guess Who is in God's Family is a strong follow-up to Guess How Much God Loves You, which I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing in 2022.

The cover is lovely and has the same feeling of peace and calm as the previous one.

The story of creation is shared in a way that highlights how we were initially blessed and the origin of sin. It paves the way for discussion and further study. It also makes you feel as if you are in the garden.

I do so love the relationship between Lucy and her Papa. It makes me picture myself having such a relationship with my grandson. This beautifully highlights the role that grandparents play in the family.

Key Takeaways

So often we sacrifice something invaluable for something that lacks value.
There is common ground for us all. We are all created in God's image and likeness.
I'm glad the book didn't only list the problem but gave hope. God already had a plan prepared because He would not be God if He didn't know the choice that would be made and prepared for it in advance. That's the beauty of free will. As Spiderman says, "With great power comes great responsibility." The weight of choice is heavy but necessary or we would then be robots.

I rated this book 5 out of 5 stars.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

More Books In This Series

Read my thoughts on Guess How Much God Love's You

About the Author

Karen Ferguson is a freelance writer and the author of the Questions for Kids picture book series. A lover of words, family, animals, and Jesus, Karen is a passionate advocate for truth that transforms lives. Her faith in God and background in K-8 education inspires her mission to write stories that grab and hold young readers’ attentions, teaching them all about God’s unchangeable truths and His unchanging love for them.

Connect with Karen at karenferg.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a $25 Amazon gift card, print copies of Guess How Much God Loves You and Guess Who Is In God's Family, and a book tote!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight July 31, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 7, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Introducing: The Little Donkey and God's Big Plan

2024-07-02T23:13:00.010-04:00

Today it gives me great pleasure to introduce The Little Donkey and God's Big Plan written and illustrated by Izabela Ciesinska.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Little Donkey and God's Big Plan

Author/Illustrator: Izabella Ciesinska
Publisher: Ascension
Genre: Children's Christian Education
Published: February 6, 2024

ISBN 13: 978-1954882294

Many years ago, a little donkey lived in a small town near Bethany. He dreamed of going places. But the little donkey spent most of his time tied to a post, and he was not allowed to do much. A friendly girl assured him that God must have a special purpose for him. But the donkey wondered whether this was so. One day two men came and told his owner he was needed.

Had the little donkey's time finally come?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR

From her earliest days, Izabela Ciesinska immersed herself in the world of picture books, relishing every story, savoring every illustration, and taking in the scent of each page.

Her childhood was filled with the gorgeous illustrations of classical European folk tales and the lively colors of traditionally animated films, which inspired in her countless hours of drawing and sketching. Many broken pencils later, she embarked on a career as an illustrator, creating artwork for picture books, activity books and educational materials. Izabela also had the opportunity to do character design for the animated film, The Adventures of Tikki the Wonder Dog. In February of 2024, she celebrated her authorial debut with The Little Donkey and God’s BIG Plan, a picture book published by Ascension Press, which she both authored and illustrated.

In her free time she likes exercising, taking (very) long walks, reading good books, and watching cute animal videos on YouTube.

If you want to learn more about her illustration work, check out her interview with childrensillustrators.com. If you’re looking for an illustrator, please contact her via email to discuss your book or project.

Purchase a copy on Amazon!

April's Reading Wrap-Up

2024-05-15T11:24:00.003-04:00

Rating: 4-1/2 Stars

Publisher’s Book Summary: This board book series invites young readers to take part in a playdate activity of their choice, thereby empowering them with autonomy and validation. The picnic playdate models balanced and shared play, creating a positive experience that will provide readers with a reference for what caring and considered friendship looks like. Many toddlers and preschoolers consistently ask for someone to play with them, and this book provides just that for the quieter moments of the day. Simple language and gentle questions will help children develop their social skills by practicing conversations, all while engaging them in fun and familiar topics.

Rating: 5 Stars

Every person matters to God. And that means every person should matter to us.

Zion has no idea what she's getting into when she decides to join her dad at his work on Saturday. But she quickly discovers that a day at the community center brings new and wonderful people into her life. Join Zion as she learns about people experiencing homelessness, and see how she is moved to respond as she recognizes that all people matter to God.

Inspired by real-life events, this story written by Terence Lester and Zion Lester, and illustrated by Subi Bosa, will be enjoyed by children and the adults who read with them. Also included is a note from the author to encourage further conversation about the content.

Discover IVP Kids and share with children the things that matter to God!

Rating: 4-1/2 Stars

In this modern mashup between Little Red Riding Hood and Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Little Red dares to be different and takes bold risks as she ventures into a field that is out of the norm for girls. Perfect for girls and boys ages 5 to 10 who love cars, fixing things, and fairy tales.

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Click the images to read the reviews. My favorite from this batch is Zion Learns to See.

To receive notifications when I post reviews follow me on Google Follower, Bloglovin' or Goodreads.

Review & Giveaway: Jo's Special Gifts by Mariam Shapera

2024-05-08T19:19:00.003-04:00

This post is sponsored by Mariam Shapera and hosted by The Children's Book Review. Learn more about the book, the author, the illustrator, and my thoughts below then take a chance and enter the giveaway!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Jo’s Special Gifts

Written by Mariam Shapera

Illustrated by Lorna Humphreys

Ages 4+ | 39 Pages

Publisher: Mariam Shapera | ISBN-13: 979-8-9896337-0-8

Rating: 4 of 5

Publisher’s Book Summary: Join Jo, an enthusiastic, curious, and sensitive boy, as he shares his autistic joys and challenges with you. This is an emotional journey that celebrates neurodiversity and embracing one’s own gifts. This heartwarming rhyming story celebrates the unique gifts that each person can bring to the world. You will love entering this amazing autistic brain as we celebrate Jo’s special gifts.

MY THOUGHTS

Jo's Special Gifts by Mariam Shapera, illustrated by Lorna Humphreys is a touching educational book. It is the first book I can recall reading that helps one understand the complexities of being on the spectrum or the parent of a child on the spectrum.

With a soft huggable matte cover in the most beautiful shade of yellow, it opens up onto the cutest little "This book belongs to _______ page" I immediately had a 'Little Golden Book" flashback. The book is well articulated. Written from Jo's viewpoint, it invites you into the intimacy of his mind.

He shares his story straightforwardly and adorably so that what would normally make you uncomfortable because you don't know what to say or how to react, turns into an "Oh. I get it."

By no means am I saying that the book is an exhaustive reference source that makes the reader all-knowing? It is, however, a wonderful introduction that piques your interest and prompts you to want to learn more.

At the end of the book, Mariam shares some information to aid adults.

What I liked

The book caters to kids and adults
The whole idea of the book
Jo does not feel sorry for himself, he just is
The emphasis is on what he brings to the table with his multiple gifts like playing music by ear and perfect pitch. As a singer, those are two huge talents.

What Gave Me Pause

I was not a fan of some of the rhyming

Key Takeaway

Everyone has worth, and everyone is born with at least one gift.

My Recommendation

Check out a copy of this book it would be a great addition to classrooms, libraries, and homes. It turned out to be the book that I didn't know I needed to read. Well done, Mariam!

If you liked Zion Learns to See: Opening Our Eyes to Homelessness by father/daughter team Terence and Zion Lester, you will love Jo's Special Gifts.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and purchased a copy via Kindle Unlimited all opinions shared are my own.

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mariam Shapera who is a family doctor and Autism advocate, was raised in the United Kingdom but now lives in California with her husband and three children. ‘Having to learn to advocate for my autistic son, Jo, I wanted to combine my love for writing children’s books with my goal of increasing autism acceptance. I have observed countless times the way Jo pursues his interests and passions and the autistic joy they bring him. So this book was born.’

For more information, visit:

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Lorna Humphreys lives in the United Kingdom with her partner, her two daughters and her cat. She works with authors all over the world and, through her illustrations, helps bring many wonderful stories to life. ‘My eldest daughter, Olivia, is autistic and struggles with social interaction and emotional regulation. When Mariam asked if I would collaborate with her, I was delighted to have the opportunity to illustrate a book that would mean so much to children like Jo and Olivia, to remind them of how special and gifted they are!’

https://www.instagram.com/lornascobie/

TOUR SCHEDULE

GIVEAWAY

Enter for your chance to win a signed hardcover copy of Jo’s Special Gifts, a signed copy of Mariam’s first book, Up Up You Go, Jo!, and a $25 Starbucks gift card.

Jo's Special Gifts: Book Giveaway

Review & Giveaway: Else B. in the Sea: The Woman Who Painted the Wonders of the Deep

2024-05-01T00:00:00.003-04:00

This post is sponsored by Jeanne Walker Harvey and hosted by The Children's Book Review. Learn more about the book, the author, illustrator and my thoughts. Also, don't forget to enter the giveaway!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Else B. in the Sea: The Woman Who Painted the Wonders of the Deep

Written by Jeanne Walker Harvey

Illustrated by Melodie Stacey

Ages 5-7 | 32 Pages

Publisher: Cameron Kids/Abrams Books | ISBN-13: 9781949480283

Publisher’s Book Summary: A poetic picture book biography about a daring and pioneering woman artist that combines themes of art and science. A perfect STEAM book!

Else Bostelmann donned a red swimsuit and a copper diving helmet and, with paints and brushes in hand, descended into the choppy turquoise sea off the coast of Bermuda. It was 1930, and few had ventured deep into the sea before. She discovered a fairyland six fathoms below the surface—fantastic coral castles, glittering sunbeams, swaying sea plumes, and slender purple sea fans. And fish! Flashy silverfish, puckering blue parrotfish, iridescent jellyfish. Else painted under the sea! She painted what she saw with her own eyes.

Back on land, Else painted the never-before-seen deep-sea creatures described by world-renowned scientist William Beebe on his momentous 1930s bathysphere expeditions for the New York Zoological Society’s Department of Tropical Research. It was a daring and glamorous adventure and a dream come true for Else B., who shared this new, unfathomable world with humankind.

MY THOUGHTS

Else B. in the Sea: The Woman Who Painted the Wonders of the Deep is an amazing picture book biography. This biography charts how Else B., a classically trained artist, embarks on a courageous journey from America to Bermuda to attempt to make her dream come true.

She was probably prompted by the findings of William Beebe, an oceanographer who created a bathysphere in order to descend into the depths of the sea to observe the wonders of sea and plant life.

With just a diving helmet, an air hose, a bathing suit, and art supplies, Else B. descended six 6-foot-tall persons (6 fathoms) into the sea to encounter all the beautiful colors.

What I Liked

The entire book was painted as an homage to Else B.
Else B.'s artistic eye and attention to details
Her courage, persistence, and problem-solving
This is 1930 when women's opinions were not counted as much, but their dreams and desires were more important.
The information the book provides is a lot, but not overwhelmingly so. The parent will learn something as well as the child.

What Gave Me Pause

Not a thing

Key Takeaways

Achieving our dreams may take courage, stepping outside the norm, and a few failures. That is just an incentive to persevere. There's a scripture that says that perseverance in the face of difficulties strengthens our faith. Believe in your dream and go after it.

My Recommendation

This is the perfect science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) book for PreK- 3 classrooms.

Disclosure

I received a complimentary copy of Else B. in the Sea: The Woman Who Painted the Wonders of the Deep. This review was written voluntarily.

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jeanne Walker Harvey is the author of many award-winning picture books, including Boats on the Bay, as well as the well-received picture book biographies Ablaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas and Maya Lin: Artist-Architect of Light and Lines. She lives in Sonoma, California.

For more information, visit https://www.jeanneharvey.com

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Melodie Stacey is a fine artist and illustrator whose work can be found in the picture book Beautiful Useful Things. She lives in Brighton, United Kingdom.

TOUR SCHEDULE

Thursday, April 18, 2024

The Children’s Book Review