Kristi's Book Nook

Apples for All by Mary Peterson

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:48:00 +0000

Title: Apples for All

Author: Mary Peterson

Illustrations: Mary Peterson

Publisher: Feeding Minds Press

ISBN: 9781948898201

Review:

Bobbi just loves applesauce and really wishes her Grandpa would grow an apple tree on his farm. Even though he already has lots of other fruit trees, he tells her that growing an apple tree can be a bit quirky. Curious, Bobbi learns all about grafting and how long it takes for the tree to start giving fruit. When they finally plant the tree, Bobbi and her family work together, caring for it and learning everything they need to know to grow lovely Granny Smith, McIntosh, Crab, and Gala apples.

Mary Peterson, a talented author and illustrator, has created a fun and educational story that gently introduces kids to the fascinating process of growing an apple tree. The colorful pictures show teamwork, the different plants, and the bugs that help keep the tree healthy. Plus, this handy guide features step-by-step images, answers to common questions, and even a simple recipe to make your own applesauce!

Courtesy of Publicity Prose

Rediscovering the Magic: Why Your Soul Needs a Book Right Now

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 23:22:00 +0000

Let’s be real: between endless scrolling and the latest "must-watch" streaming series, our attention spans are fighting for their lives. But there is something a screen just can’t replicate—the quiet, immersive magic of a physical book (or a well-loved e-reader).

If you’ve been in a reading slump, or your "To-Be-Read" (TBR) pile is starting to look like a structural hazard, this is your sign to dive back in.

Why We Read (Beyond the Plot)

Reading isn't just a hobby; it’s a workout for your brain and a spa day for your stress levels.

The Ultimate Escape: Unlike a movie that shows you a world, a book lets you build one. You’re the set designer and the casting director.
Empathy in Pages: Research shows that reading fiction increases our ability to understand others. It’s the closest we get to living a thousand different lives.
Mental Clarity: Just six minutes of reading can reduce stress levels by up to 68%. It’s literally cheaper than therapy!

3 Tips to Reclaim Your Reading Habit

The 10-Page Rule: Don’t pressure yourself to finish a chapter. Just commit to ten pages before bed. Usually, by page eleven, you’re hooked.
Ditch the "Shoulds": Stop trying to read "important" books that bore you. If you want to read a cheesy romance or a fast-paced thriller, do it! Life is too short for boring books.
Create a Ritual: Grab a specific mug, a fuzzy blanket, and put your phone in another room. Make the environment as inviting as the story.

"A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one." — George R.R. Martin

Join the Conversation!

I want to know what’s on your nightstand. Are you a "one book at a time" purist, or are you currently juggling three different stories?

Drop a comment below with your current read or a book that changed your life!

Kofi Goes to the Bank by Dr. Artika Tyner

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 01:45:00 +0000

Title: Kofi Goes to the Bank

Author: Dr. Artika Tyner

Publisher: Planting People Growing Justice

ISBN: 9781959223665

Review:

Every Saturday, Kofi loves hanging out with his Grandpa. They spend time reading books, playing music, and playing checkers. But this Saturday was a little different. Kofi had been saving up for a new djembe drum, and today they were headed to the bank to deposit the money he had saved in his piggy bank. Kofi was so excited to visit the bank and even learned how to fill out a deposit slip! He felt happy knowing his money was safe, and soon he’d have enough to buy his drum.

This easy-to-read book is perfect for kids just starting to read. Parents and teachers will appreciate this fun guide to teach children about money, saving, and giving. The colorful illustrations show the fun story and special bond between Kofi and his Grandpa.

Courtesy of Planting People Growing Justice

Oh No! My Hedgehog Is Gone by Pearl Gifty Alimo

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 01:57:00 +0000

Title: Oh No! My Hedgehog Is Gone

Author: Pearl Gifty Alimo/Meghan Kaki Alimo

Illustrations: Sayani Mukherjee

Publisher: Greight Company, LLC

ISBN: 97819648150406

Review:

Meggie is a sweet little girl who loves to sing and twirl around, and she has a cute hedgehog named Peggie as her pet. They’re always playing together and having fun! One day, Meggie even threw a “Peggie party” and invited all her friends. But Peggie wasn’t a fan of being touched so much, so she just curled up into a tiny little ball. The next day, Meggie and Peggie spent time playing again, and Meggie even drew a adorable picture of her furry friend. Later on, Meggie was so busy at her desk that she dozed off, and when she woke up, Peggie was gone!

Without hesitation, Meggie started searching for Peggie. She felt a bit nervous at first, but she bravely made her way through the bushes and into the woods. Along the way, she met all kinds of bugs and woodland critters. Before long, she realized she wasn’t scared anymore — she was brave and determined to find her little buddy. This is a lovely story about a girl who finds her own courage, all for the sake of her furry friend. Do you think she managed to find Peggie?

Authors Pearl and Meghan have created a charming story about pet care and friendship. It’s also a wonderful way to introduce young readers to the responsibility involved in caring for a pet. The bright, colorful illustrations invite kids to keep turning the pages. Parents and teachers can share this story to help teach children about caring for their very special pets.

Courtesy of Pearl Gifty Alimo

The Whisker City Air Race by JM Chrismer

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Sat, 25 Oct 2025 15:47:00 +0000

Title: The Whisker City Air Race

Author: J.M. Chrismer

Illustrations: Ilya Fortuna

Publisher: BookBaby

ISBN: 9798987566091

Review:

Whisker City is buzzing with excitement for its annual air race! Our favorite duo, the brave Miso and his best friend Kili, are all set to take to the skies in their trusty Red Rider. They're ready to take on some lively rivals, from the mischievous Alley Cats—who love to play tricks—to the reigning champions, the Whisker City Fliers. Together, they’ll soar over the wavy Catfish Ocean, cross the sandy Golden Paw Desert, and fly through the swirling Yarn Ball Rolling Hills. As the race heats up, Miso and Kili’s skills are really put to the test, but the real fun—and challenge—comes from navigating unexpected twists, turns, and playful rival antics.

This charming story captures the joy of good sportsmanship and sticking with it. Chrismer keeps the story moving quickly, so little readers stay engaged from start to finish. It shares important lessons about friendly competition and the value of loyal friends— but in a fun and exciting way, without ever feeling heavy-handed. Ilya Fortuna’s colorful illustrations bring the race to life, with expressive characters and lively scenes that make the excitement jump off the page and add real charm to all the different cat teams.

Parents and teachers can have fun using this book, which has won a Mom’s Choice Award, for activities about friendship, sportsmanship, and getting ready for challenges. It’s also a great choice for read-aloud time with younger kids. And for more advanced readers, it’s a perfect story to kick off a love for reading!

Courtesy of J.M. Chrismer

Unlock Your World: Why Reading Isn't Just a Hobby, It's a Superpower

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Sun, 05 Oct 2025 01:33:00 +0000

Welcome back to Kristi's Book Nook! Today, I want to talk about something incredibly close to my heart, and something that underpins everything we celebrate here: reading.

In our fast-paced, digital world, it’s easy to view reading as just another pastime, something we do when we have "free time." But the truth is, reading is so much more profound than that. It's a fundamental superpower that enriches every aspect of our lives, connects us to worlds beyond our own, and shapes who we become.

Here’s why fostering literacy and embracing reading is more important now than ever:

1. It Expands Your Universe (Without Leaving Your Chair)

Through books, we can travel through time, explore distant galaxies, walk alongside historical figures, or delve into the minds of complex characters. Reading offers an unparalleled form of escapism and adventure. It broadens our horizons, introduces us to new cultures, ideas, and perspectives, and challenges our preconceived notions—all from the comfort of our favorite reading spot.

2. It Builds Empathy and Connection

When you step into a character's shoes, you begin to understand their struggles, joys, and motivations. This act of immersive storytelling is a powerful builder of empathy. Reading helps us connect with experiences far removed from our own, fostering compassion and understanding for others in the real world. It reminds us that despite our differences, there are universal threads that bind humanity.

3. It Sharpens Your Mind

Reading is a workout for your brain! It improves vocabulary, enhances critical thinking skills, boosts memory, and even reduces stress. Engaging with a complex narrative or a challenging non-fiction topic keeps your mind agile and active, building focus and concentration that can be applied to all areas of life.

4. It Fuels Your Imagination and Creativity

Books are the original virtual reality. They require you to visualize characters, settings, and events, actively engaging your imagination. This constant exercise in mental imagery spills over into other creative pursuits, helping you to think outside the box, innovate, and find unique solutions to problems.

5. It Empowers You

Literacy is the key to knowledge. The ability to read empowers you to learn, to question, to understand, and to participate fully in society. It opens doors to education, employment, and informed decision-making. For children, it lays the groundwork for all future learning. For adults, it's a continuous journey of growth and discovery.

Let's Champion Reading Together!

Whether you prefer the weight of a physical book, the convenience of an e-reader, or the soothing voice of an audiobook, the important thing is to read. Dedicate time each day, however short, to dive into a story or learn something new. Share your favorite books with friends, read aloud to children, and visit your local library.

Every book you pick up, every page you turn, is a step towards a richer, more informed, and more imaginative life. Let’s make reading a habit, a passion, and a shared joy.

What are you reading right now that has opened your world? Share in the comments below!

The Very Hungry Dinosaur by C.B. Maria

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Title: The Very Hungry Dinosaur

Author: C.B. Maria

Illustrations: Innerchild Studio and SG Studio

Publisher: Cutesimplestories

ISBN: 9781738717101

Review:

A mama dinosaur and her adorable baby are feeling super hungry. So, they decide to embark on a fun little adventure to find something tasty to munch on. They’re eager to get back home in time to catch the sunset together. Along the way, they discover some yummy passion fruit, tasty dragon fruit, and beautiful mangoes. They enjoy filling their bellies before heading home to watch the sunset and share a cozy moment.

If you have young readers who love fun dinosaur stories, this one is just perfect! It’s bright and lively with colorful illustrations that really catch the eye. The story uses bold, lively words that make reading it together so much fun. Parents and teachers will love sharing this lovely story with kids of all ages—it’s a sure way to spark their imagination and love for stories! An added bonus is the coloring pages in the back of the book.

Courtesy of C.B. Maria

Dreams Come True Be Happy, Be You! by C.B. Maria

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 00:40:00 +0000

Title: Dreams Come True Be Happy, Be You!

Author: C.B. Maria

Illustrations: Inner Child Studio

Publisher: Cutesimplestories

ISBN: 978198168149

Review:

Little ones, remember, you have the wonderful power to follow your dreams. Just like a curious little mushroom learns from her mom that choosing what’s best for you is always okay. You can be happy, joyful, and anything you imagine—whether that’s a mathematician, an explorer, or a champion! This little mushroom knows that love and what feels right in your heart can help you make the best choices.

This sweet story is perfect for young readers who love to dream big and imagine all the amazing things they can become someday. Parents, teachers, and caregivers can enjoy sharing this story and chatting with little ones about what they’d love to be when they grow up. Bright, colorful pictures bring the characters to life, and simple sentences make it a fun, easy read for everyone!

Courtesy of C.B. Maria

Little Bird Big Moon by C.B. Maria

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 23:14:00 +0000

Title: Little Bird Big Moon

Author: C.B. Maria

Illustrations: Vajihe Golmazari

Publisher: Cutesimplestories

ISBN: 9781738717156

Review:

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to visit the moon? Well, there’s a cute little baby bird who did just that! This tiny bird was really curious about why the moon hangs so high up in the sky. When it finally reached the moon, it asked her all kinds of questions. The moon was so gentle and kind, and she took the time to explain her special role—being a bright, beautiful light in the night sky and hanging out close to the stars.

Along the way, the story also shares sweet moments of a young girl named Melia who loves to play, paint, swim, dance, and do so many fun things.

The calming and rhythmic style of the story makes it a perfect bedtime read. For little readers, the sentences are simple and easy to understand, and the lively illustrations help them follow along with the words. It’s a wonderful way for parents and teachers to start conversations about the moon, stars, and the wonders of the night sky.

Courtesy of C.B. Maria

Captain Courage And The Fear-Squishing Shoes by Stacey Marshall

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 01:05:00 +0000

Title: Captain Courage And The Fear-Squishing Shoes

Author: Stacey Marshall

Illustrations: Andy Catling

Publisher: Warren Publishing

ISBN: 9781966343035

Review:

Katie is new to her school and pretty shy when it comes to chatting with others. The classroom is buzzing with kids who love to raise their hands, answer questions, and share exciting news. Katie wants to join in too, but sometimes she feels like she’s glued to her seat, stuck and unable to move. During lunch and outside playtime, her classmates invite her to join their fun, and she really wants to say yes, but she just can’t quite find her courage.

One day, the principal, Mr. Magico, paid a surprise visit. But this time, he wasn’t dressed like usual—he was dressed as a superhero, calling himself Captain Courage! He wore dazzling, bright magical shoes that, according to him, could help anyone squash their fears. When Captain Courage took a giant leap into the sky, something special happened to Katie—it was like magic awakening inside her.

This heartfelt story about overcoming shyness and discovering your voice is truly inspiring. Parents and teachers will find helpful tips in the back pages to encourage children to stand tall and speak up. The colorful illustrations beautifully depict both moments of gloom and bursts of hope, reminding us all that courage can shine through.

Courtesy of Spark Point Studio

Charlotte & Penelope and the Neighborhood Stage by Teresa Argenbright

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 22:02:00 +0000

Title: Charlotte & Penelope and the Neighborhood Stage

Author: Teresa Argenbright

Illustrations: Dan McGeehan

Publisher: Brown Books Kids

ISBN: 9781612547008

Review:

This delightful story starts with the two sisters, Charlotte and Penelope, waking up feeling a bit under the weather and unable to head outside for fun. But guess what? Their lively and loyal friends from the Menagerie are ready to cheer them up! They decide to put on a fantastic neighborhood show to make everyone smile.

From a dolphin bandleader to a lively chorus of rabbits and even the loudest geese you’ve ever heard, the animals really pull out all the stops. The story is told in clever rhymes, and each animal friend adds their own special touch to the performance. It’s a joyful and imaginative tale celebrating friendship, creativity, and how a little community support can brighten even the gloomiest day—even from bed!

Dan McGeehan’s vibrant illustrations are full of energy and charm, making this book as fun to look at as it is to read aloud. It’s perfect for kids ages 4–8, especially those who love animals, music, and a splash of theatrical fun!

Courtesy of Smith Publicity

Adorable by Ron Kinscherf

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Sat, 14 Jun 2025 14:42:00 +0000

Title: Adorable

Author: Ron Kinscherf

Illustrations: Holly Brogaard

Publisher: Morgan James Kids

ISBN: 9781636986098

Review:

At the Baker’s house, there’s a charming little colony of ants living peacefully under the patio. Leading the colony is Queen Antasia, who keeps everything running smoothly with her busy team of ants—digger ants, police ants, gatherer ants, and even flyer ants! Her son, Prince Andrew, is in charge of the flyer ants. As he begins his day walking through the colony, he receives cheerful congratulations from his fellow ants. He’s a bit curious about why everyone’s so excited, but he happily says thank you to each of them.

Later, when Prince Andrew visits the Queen at the palace, he finds out what all the fuss was about—his mom has had a baby, and now he’s a big brother to an adorable little sister named Adorable! At first, the prince feels a little unsure about having a new baby in the colony. He wonders if his mother will have enough love for both of them. But after talking with a wise old owl, he begins to see things in a different light.

This delightful and colorful story is full of heart, teaching about love, jealousy, and what it means to be a caring sibling. It’s a wonderful book that parents, teachers, and caregivers can share to help kids understand and welcome new family members.

Courtesy of Morgan James Books

Like That Eleanor by Lee Wind

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Sun, 11 May 2025 20:46:00 +0000

Title: Like That Eleanor

Author: Lee Wind

Illustrations: Kelly Mangan

Publisher: Cardinal Rule Press

ISBN: 9781945369735

Review:

Eleanor, named after the inspiring Eleanor Roosevelt, dreams of making the world a kinder, fairer place—just like her namesake. But she's still figuring out how to do it! She notices times when some classmates are left out or treated unfairly at school, and it makes her feel really sad. When their teacher excludes Star from a game, Eleanor decides to make a change by sitting right in the middle of the game. Her message? When everyone is in the middle, everyone belongs!

This heartwarming story is a friendly way to introduce young readers to the idea of standing up for what's right. It encourages kids to spot unfairness and take action. Plus, it shares fun facts about the amazing things Eleanor Roosevelt achieved. There are also helpful reading guides and tips on how to be an ally, making it a great resource for talking about kindness, fairness, and social justice with kids.

Courtesy of Cardinal Rule Press

The Waste Rangers by Blake Early

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Sun, 11 May 2025 19:43:00 +0000

Title: The Waste Rangers

Author: Blake Early

Illustrations: Victor Tavares

Publisher: Chocolate Stories

ISBN: 9798987815465

Review:

Recycling holds a special place in the hearts of Alex and Lily, especially since they creatively use garbage to fuel their spaceship! These two adventurous Waste Rangers hail from the vibrant planet Starlight. They love traveling to various planets to lend a hand with recycling and tidying up trash. When they touched down on Earth, California caught their eye—it needed some serious cleanup! But that didn’t faze them at all. In fact, they rallied a fantastic team of Honorary Waste Rangers to help keep California sparkling clean!

Author Blake Early has crafted a fun and engaging story for kids to discover the importance of recycling. With the colorful and futuristic illustrations by Victor Tavares, this book is a visual treat for readers of all ages. Plus, the back pages are packed with exciting facts and handy tips on how everyone can pitch in and recycle in their own homes and communities.

Courtesy of Clevercrest

This Sure Thing by Sarah Mayfield

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 15:49:00 +0000

Title: This Sure Thing

Author: Sarah Mayfield

Illustrations: Dennis Auth

Publisher: Brandylane Publishers, Inc.

ISBN: 9781962416610

Review:

This touching story beautifully captures the bond between two brothers. They have a blast playing catch with a football, sharing laughs over each other’s jokes, and enjoying games of hide and seek and video games. Their love for one another is evident. But then, something unexpected happens, and the older brother is no longer around. To cope with the loss, the younger brother finds solace in writing notes to his brother, a heartfelt way to heal. Even if he never receives a reply, he continues to do all the things they enjoyed together, feeling a sense of pride in keeping their connection alive.

Everyone experiences grief in their own unique way, especially after losing someone they care about. This book serves as a thoughtful guide for navigating those feelings. It emphasizes that even though a loved one is gone, you can still reach out and let them know they're on your mind. It’s a wonderful resource for parents looking to help their children through the grieving process.

Courtesy of Brandylane Publishers, Inc.

Naga's Wings by G.P. Fripp

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 23:43:00 +0000

Title: Naga’s Wings

Author: G.P. Fripp

Illustrations: Ferlina G.

ISBN: 9798991683326

Review:

Naga is a smart young girl who really knows who she is and feels confident about it! She’s always thoughtful about how her words might affect others, which is such a wonderful quality. Even when some kids poke fun at her clothes or her long legs, she handles it like a pro and keeps her cool. But here’s the fun part: Naga has a secret she has wings! Plus, she has a knight who helps her take deep breaths to calm down when she’s feeling a bit angry. Over time, Naga felt brave enough to share her special truth at school. Can you guess how her classmates reacted?

This charming story is beautifully illustrated and packed with clever insights. It encourages kids to embrace their true selves and appreciate everyone for who they are. While it touches on the topic of bullying, it does so in a lighthearted and creative way. It’s a great resource for parents and teachers to promote acceptance and kindness to all, no matter their differences!

Courtesy of G.P. Fripp

I Love Blueberries by Shannon Anderson

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 15:12:00 +0000

Title: I Love Blueberries

Author: Shannon Anderson

Illustrations: Jaclyn Sinquett

Publisher: Feeding Minds Press

ISBN: 9781948898195

Review:

Jolie has had a blast growing strawberries, and now she's all about blueberries! With a little help from Mrs. Clover, a blueberry farmer, Jolie learned the magic of germinating blueberry seeds. When school kicked off, she was thrilled to see her teacher, Mr. Clover, cultivating strawberries right in the classroom using hydroponics. It was so impressive that Jolie couldn't help but want to grow her blueberries indoors too! Together with her best friend Margot, they put their heads together and came up with a fantastic plan to gather donations for their own hydroponic setup, and it turned out to be an amazing success!

This charming tale takes readers on a delightful journey into the wonders and joys of blueberries, filled with heartwarming storytelling and whimsical illustrations. Shannon Anderson beautifully blends engaging storytelling with educational insights, making the book perfect for both kids and grown-ups. The vibrant images and playful language spark imagination while sharing fun facts about this beloved fruit!

Book courtesy of Publicity Prose

Find more resources at Feedingmindspress.org

See my reviews on other books from Feedingmindspress.com

I Love Strawberries!

Farm Boots

Potatoes for Pirate Pearl

The Amazing Foods of Africa: A to Z by Dr. Artika R. Tyner and Dorthy Gbolo

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 22:49:00 +0000

Title: The Amazing Foods of Africa: A to Z

Author: Dr. Artika R. Tyner and Dorthy Gbolo

Illustrations: Reyhana Ismail

Publisher: Planting People Growing Justice

ISBN: 9781959223535

Review:

This book is a vibrant celebration of the diverse and flavorful foods found across the African continent. From attiéké to zobo, the book introduces readers to a wide array of traditional ingredients and dishes enjoyed in many African countries. Each letter of the alphabet is paired with a unique food item, providing a fun and engaging way for young readers to learn about African cuisine. The descriptions are accompanied by colorful and detailed illustrations that bring the foods to life, making the book visually appealing and informative.

It is a wonderful resource for parents and educators looking to introduce children to the diverse and delicious world of African cuisine. The back pages share famous African chefs and proverbs.

Courtesy of Planting People Growing Justice

Shirley Chisholm: Champion of Change by Dr. Tonya Allen

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 22:11:00 +0000

Title: Shirley Chisholm: Champion of Change

Author: Dr. Tonya Allen

Publisher: Planting People Growing Justice

ISBN: 9781959223580

Review:

This inspiring biography delves into the life and legacy of one of America's most trailblazing political figures. The book beautifully captures the essence of Shirley Chisholm's journey, from her early days as an educator to her groundbreaking achievements in politics. Chisholm's story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. As the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress and the first woman to run for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination, Chisholm broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of women and people of color.

Allen's writing is engaging and accessible, making complex historical and political concepts understandable for young readers. The narrative is enriched by Hampton's vibrant illustrations, which bring Chisholm's story to life and add a visual dimension to her remarkable achievements.

Courtesy of Planting People Growing Justice

Kojo Goes to the Library by Dr. Artika Tyner

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 18:42:00 +0000

Title: Kojo Goes to the Library

Author: Dr. Artika Tyner

Publisher: Planting People Growing Justice

ISBN: 9781959223795

Review:

Kojo is super excited to go on an adventure with his dad to the library! He proudly holds his very own library card as they step inside. While there, he bumps into some of his friends and has a blast during story time with a local author who shares a wonderful book about Ghana. Kojo is curious and asks the librarian for help in discovering more books about Africa.

This delightful story is perfect for parents and teachers who want to inspire kids to explore their local library. Reading is such a valuable skill, and the library is a treasure trove of knowledge! Plus, there are always fun events and programs to help kids dive into the world of literacy. At the end of the book, you'll find some handy tips for parents on how to spark a love of reading in their children.

Courtesy of Planting People Growing Justice

Akua Goes to the Post Office by Dr. Artika Tyner

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 17:22:00 +0000

Title: Akua Goes to the Post Office

Author: Dr. Artika Tyner

Publisher: Planting People Growing Justice

ISBN: 9781959223788

Review:

Going to the post office can be such a delightful adventure! Akua is getting ready to leave for the summer and is really going to miss her friends. To help them stay connected, her mom takes Akua and her friends to the post office to show them how they can send letters to each other.

Even though it's a simple story, it carries a big message and is packed with handy tips on the back pages, guiding young readers on how to mail a letter. Parents and teachers can use this fun resource to spark kids' interest in writing for pleasure and to discover how the post office works its magic to get letters from one city to another. Plus, this easy read is perfect for beginners, and the bright, cheerful illustrations make it even more enjoyable!

Courtesy of Planting People Growing Justice

Difference Makers Carl Walker: The Sound of Justice by Majeste Phillip

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 14:45:00 +0000

Title: Difference Makers Carl Walker: The Sound of Justice

Author: Majeste Phillip

Illustrations: Whimsical Designs by CJ

Publisher: Planting People Growing Justice

ISBN: 9781959223603

Review:

When Carl Walker was a young boy, he dreamt of playing the piano and positively impacting the community, drawing inspiration from the musical traditions of his father and grandmother at church. As he grew older, he realized that a formal education would be essential in realizing his dreams. With the help of a scholarship, he happily enrolled at McKendree College in Illinois to study music.

He enrolled at North Central University in Minneapolis, and by 1983, he was preaching at Camphor Memorial United Methodist Church in Saint Paul. By 1992, he took another bold step by founding his congregation, Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, which became well-known for its impactful shelter program.

Wanting to extend his reach even further, Carl teamed up with Grant West to establish the Walker West Academy, a place where aspiring musicians could take piano lessons and grow their talents. Through his vision, Carl has turned his dream into reality, using music as a powerful tool for healing and empowerment within the African American community.

In her work, author Majeste Phillip invites readers to embrace new experiences, delve into their heritage, seek help when needed, and show compassion. This book is a fantastic resource for parents, educators, and guardians looking to learn more about music, African American culture, and history. Plus, the back of the book offers additional resources for those eager to continue their learning journey, along with a glossary filled with insightful historical nuggets.

Courtesy of Planting People Growing Justice

Stella and Her Magic Wand – Paris by Philip Russotti

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 16:25:00 +0000

Title: Stella and Her Magic Wand – Paris

Author: Philip & Stella Russotti

Illustrations: Handowin He

Publisher: BookBaby

ISBN: 979-8890343192

Review:

Stella and her family found themselves at home in Paris, just like everyone else around the globe, due to a scary virus that kept everyone off the streets. One evening, while enjoying a delicious caramel apple, Stella accidentally broke a tooth! She excitedly tucked her tooth under her pillow, dreaming that the Tooth Fairy would pay her a visit. When morning came, she discovered that instead of money, the Tooth Fairy had left her a wonderful magic wand. With a twinkle in her eye, the Tooth Fairy whispered to Stella that the wand was meant for good deeds only.

Inspired, Stella had a fantastic idea about how she could use her new wand for some good. She decided to enlist Mr. Tweet Tweet's help to take a magical trip all the way to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Can you guess what happened next?

This enchanting tale is the first in the “Stella and Her Magic Wand” series, lovingly crafted by Mr. Russotti and his grandchildren. The charming illustrations capture the magic and are sure to delight children of all ages. It’s a wonderful read for parents and teachers looking to lift spirits during these challenging times, as they can chat with kids about creative ways to brighten up their days!

Courtesy Pubvendo

Stella and Her Magic Wand – New York by Philip Russotti

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 22:55:00 +0000

Title: Stella and Her Magic Wand – New York

Author: Philip & Stella Russotti

Illustrations: Handowin He

Publisher: BookBaby

ISBN: 979-8988612186

Review:

Stella and her family took a delightful trip to New York to spend some quality time with her grandparents. Guess who else joined in on the fun? Mr. Tweet Tweet! While they were there, Stella’s friends from London happened to be in the city too, and they all made plans to meet at the iconic Rockefeller Center, right by the stunning Christmas tree. They had a blast skating around the rink and even had an amazing surprise—meeting the fabulous figure skater, Alice Gideon!

Just when the fun was in full swing, big fluffy snowflakes began to fall hard, and soon the beautiful tree started to lean under the weight of the snow. Quick as a flash, Stella grabbed her magic wand and worked her charm, making the tree stand tall and proud once again! The crowd erupted in cheers! As a special thank-you for her quick thinking, Alice invited Stella to the National Skating Championship games. Can you imagine what happened next?

This charming and enjoyable read for beginners follows Stella on yet another fantastic adventure. It’s perfect for parents and teachers to share with young readers, embracing the magic of the holiday season. Plus, the illustrations are vibrant, fun, and sure to capture everyone’s attention!

Courtesy Pubvendo

Stella and Her Magic Wand - London by Philp Russotti

noreply@blogger.com (Kristi's Book Nook) — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 20:22:00 +0000

Title: Stella and Her Magic Wand - London

Author: Philip & Stella Russotti

Illustrations: Handowin He

Publisher: BookBaby

ISBN: 979-8988612117

Review:

Stella was feeling pretty good now that things had settled down after the pandemic. She thought it would be fun to take a ride with Mr. Tweet Tweet to London! Once they arrived, they zipped past a school and made some new friends who had an amazing story to share. They told her about a whale that had gotten stuck in the river, and Stella knew just how to help! With a wave of her magic wand, she reminded the whale of his happy days in the sea, and before long, he was free! However, during the excitement, her wand accidentally broke. But no worries! The Queen was so grateful for Stella's help that she invited her and her friends for tea. How lovely! Do you think the Queen might be able to help Stella fix her wand?

This charming tale is just one of many that showcase Stella's incredible imagination and her trusty wand. The vibrant colors on each page bring the story to life, making it a delightful read. Parents and teachers can use it as a fun way to talk about the pandemic or inspire kids to explore their own magical imagination!

Courtesy Pubvendo