We all know that cleanliness is important for healthy living. Not only is it important to have good, clean water, but it is highly important to have quality soap products that help flush away the by-products of living and the environment that causes disease.
Purposeful bath products that cultivate prosperity around the world. All natural and cruelty free.
The Pacha Soap company has a mission. That mission is ....
Support clean water initiatives and hygiene education for healthier communities.
Create prosperity for others and our Earth by practicing transparent and ethical commerce through our supply chain.
Invest in communities and people through skill development and entrepreneurial opportunities to establish self-sustaining commerce.
Instill confidence, strength and liberate people through economic
SHOWER WHIP - WHIPPED SOAP & SCRUB EXFOLIATING FRENCH LAVENDER
Pacha’s Whipped Soap + Scrub is a luxurious soap that cleanses your skin from head to toe. It gently exfoliates with pumice and organic, fair trade sugar. Great for use in the shower as a body wash, or foot scrub. Make Whipped Soap + Scrub a part of your everyday bath routine! Your Pacha Soap purchases help fuel clean water initiatives, small-scale soap shops and other sustainable ventures in developing countries! Lavender Essential Oil mixed with nourishing, unrefined shea butter will leave your skin feeling relaxed and refreshed.
My thoughts: The Whipped Soap + Scrub in French Lavender is absolutely glorious with a beautiful lavenden fragrance that doesn't overwhelm. The soap provides a soothing, cleansing wash that is really quite pleasant to the skin and leaves me feeling so clean and refreshed. And the scrub aspect of this product is a very gentle, mild exfoilant that doesn't abuse my skin. Love that it is from organic cane sugar and a bit of pumice and doesn't leave a residue in the bath when finished.
Highly, highly recommend!
Say goodbye to dry skin and hello to glowing skin!
SOAP COCONUT MILK
The perfect warm and cozy blend, our Coconut milk soap is crafted with organic coconut milk and natural vanilla extract. Enjoy an indulgent bath experience that will leave your skin smelling splendidly sweet!
Your Pacha Soap purchases help fuel clean water initiatives, small-scale soap shops and other sustainable ventures in developing countries!
You can help fulfill their mission of helping when you purchase the Pacha Soap products.
GoodEarthBeauty.com is now carrying the Pacha brand and offers a nice DISCOUNT CODE - SKINCARE10 which nets you 10% discount. And as always, FREE SHIPPING in USA.
Your Pacha Soap purchases help fuel clean water initiatives, small-scale soap shops and other sustainable ventures in developing countries!
GIVEAWAY
2 Mini Size Whipped Soap + Scrubs
Begins February 1
Ends February 28 at 12:01 a.m. EST
Open to USA addresses
a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received sample sized products to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine and are freely given. Prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by Good EarthBeauty.
My thoughts: Shortly, Valentine's Day will be front and center and kiddies will be filling out little Valentine cards for classmates. Sweethearts will rack their brains to find a special way to show their "love" for their sweetheart. Husbands will descend upon florists, sellers of chocolates, and card displays hopeful of getting the just right item to tell their wife he loves her. And the story of love and Valentine go on and on. But just what IS LOVE, really?
The author and illustrator have shown in this beautifully executed children's picture book what love is. And the gist is that love is being nice, being kind, giving a card, sharing some flowers. And it all boils down to the joy and happiness that is shown in the expressions of the characters as they go about showing their love.
...... Because nothing else matters without love.
It can be seen every day.
It can be seen everywhere....
The illustrations are charming. They capture the very heart of love (pun definitely intended). From "Facetime" video hugs from a mommy afar off in the military to two children communicating in sign language. The book exudes joy, happiness, and - yes - love.
About the book: From award-winning author Stacy McAnulty comes a sweet story about love and what it's really all about.
What is love? Can you only express it in fancy meals, greeting cards, and heart-shaped chocolates? Kids will find love everywhere in this delightful book. It can be found in everyday moments such as baking cookies with grandma, notes from Mom in your lunchbox, or a family singing together on a car trip, and it isn't always what you expect!
With delightful illustrations by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff and sweetly simple prose by award-winning author Stacy McAnulty, this is the perfect book to teach children what love means, why it's important, and how they can spread the love in their daily lives.
💖💝 Why not purchase one for your child or a grandchild?
What a lovely Valentine to give them! 💖💝
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from MMPublicity on behalf of the author and publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone and are freely given.
When I shop online I ALWAYS first check with EBATES to see what the "cash back" percent is via their portal. Then I look at the store's coupons or special orders. Today I placed an order and received $13+ cash back. That brings my quarter's cash back earnings to $48+.
I look forward to getting this special money back.What about you? Click here and sign up & when you place your first order via EBATES you get a $10 Welcome Bonus. That is pretty nice!
My thoughts: Not being a "Star Wars" fan or follower, this is a bit out of my element. However, for those who relished the out-of-world experiences brought forth by this genre, this might be just the item to tuck into your arsenal of remembrance items. Or more realistically, if you were a fan during the early years and are now a parent and want to share those experiences with your own crew, read on.....
This item is two-part in that it comprises a book with images that take you back to the episodes or movies and facts that tickle you mentally to recall. The major part of the item or book is a kit to punch out or use a crafting knife to cut out parts to put together your model of the Falcon ship.
I didn't take the kit apart since I'm not a "kit type person" and I think I'll pass this along to a grown grandson who has his own kiddie. Perhaps they will relish the challenge to construct the ship and travel through the universe in the mind trips aboard their mini Falcon.
Is it a good kit? I don't know. But it looks like a well put together product and I can't wait to pass it along to see what my folks make out of it and how it brings them back to the future.
What does the web say about the Millennium Falcon? Check it out on Wikipedia. Have fun remembering! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Millennium_Falcon About the book: Read about and build the fastest ship in the galaxy with this out-of-this-world kit: Star Wars Build Your Own Millennium Falcon (Studio Fun International; ISBN: 9780794442071; $10.99; Ages 6-8). Find & buy it on Amazon
Join Han and Chewbacca aboard the fastest bucket of bolts in the galaxy. Packed with amazing puzzles and a Millennium Falcon of your own to build, there are hours of Star Wars fun to be had. Work out complete mazes, code words, and puzzles in the uniquely illustrated, full-color activity book. Then press out the pieces to create your very own mini Millennium Falcon model, perfect for re-creating famous scenes from the Star Wars saga. The model is made from a sturdy foam core. Press out the pieces to build the Millennium Falcon—with no glue required!
GIVEAWAY
Begins January 30
Ends February 22 at 12:01 a.m. EST
Open to USA and CANADA addresses only.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review and these are my own opinions. I was not compensated to do this. Giveaway prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by publicist or publisher.
My thoughts: It is always good to see non-fiction in works for young readers and to have it presented in an entertaining way that captures their attention and encourages them to pursue reading.
Girls growing up need to see that girls and women who live long ago and who are currently living have been able to pursue careers and achieve greatness. They need to see that they, too, can reach for the stars in their life.
Each short, very limited biography of these women has an activity that helps the young reader think about the achievement of the individual. This is definitely a "hands on" book; or if that is not quite what the reader wishes to do, they can simply read the short bios.
An interesting book. The illustrations are quirky or simplistic.
I like the quote on the back cover.....
"There has never been a more important time for girls and women to feel valued and empowered." —Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock, MBE, Space Scientist.
About the book: This is an entertaining and inspirational look at some of the most influential women in history, from ancient times to the modern day, including lesser known visionaries such as Annie Londonderry and Britta Tott, to household names like the Brontës, Cleopatra, Hellen Keller, J.K. Rowling, and more. Each page is filled with amazing stories about the women who have shaped the world and inspired others to follow in their footsteps. Readers can step into the lives of these pioneers by completing unique activities and answering thought-provoking questions for themselves. Quirky artwork throughout helps bring each woman’s story to life.
GIVEAWAY
Begins January 29
ENDS February 22 at 12:01 a.m. EST
Open to USA & CANADA addresses only.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.
My thoughts: This is a brown liquid that doesn't seem to have any particles in it. It dispenses easily through the bath water creating a greenish-brown clear bath. The fragrance is not unpleasant and is slightly "earthy." There don't seem to be flora undertones.
This is a therapeutic bath detox soak and not meant, in my opinion, to provide a floral experience. Was it therapeutic for me?
I soaked for about 20 minutes in very warm water with half the bottle dispensed into the water. It was not unpleasant. It was mildly pleasant. Was it better than soaking in simply warm water? I don't know. I felt relaxed. I had exercised at the gym earlier in the day and my joints and muscles were a little achy. They did not ache after the detox soak nor later in the evening as I went to bed. Was it the Jadience Soak? I don't know. But it certainly did not impede my relaxation and it was perhaps helpful.
There is no oily residue nor feeling of substance left behind though the instructions say to leave the watery soak on the skin and simply pat dry.
I look forward to trying the second half of the bottle. This is an expensive "soak" since the bottle costs in the neighborhood of $15-$16 and you only achieve two soaks per bottle.
Product information (from brand website):This centuries-proven stress-relieving formula consists of the finest organic and wild-crafted herbal ingredients for the most effective and immediate results. This formula powerfully increases chi (energy), detoxifies, and calms the mind. By increasing chi your condition will become harmonized, your mind will attain clarity, and muscles and joints will become relaxed. Feel the difference for yourself! Find it at https://naturalskinrx.com/products/stress-relieving-soak Made in the USA.
Directions: For an unforgettable experience shake well and pour desired amount of contents into a very warm bath (at least 1/4 of bottle). Fill bath so that the water level falls just below your chest. Immerse yourself in the herb infused water to remove toxins and to calm your mind and body. Relax, breathe deeply and rejuvenate your senses. For best results, remain in bath for at least 20 to 30 minutes, as long as you are comfortable. After bathing, allow the herbal water to remain on your skin and simply pat dry with a towel. Discover the difference for yourself. Use 2-4 times a week for immediate relief and 2-4 times a month for maintenance.
DISCLAIMER: I received the product reviewed at no cost to me to facilitate evaluation and review. This is a #sponsored review but I was not compensated for the review.
Arbordale publications are noted for their great educational materials and kid-appeal. Each publication routinely includes a For Creative Minds section in the back of the book and an online cross-curricular Teaching Activity Guide. All material is vetted by experts and designed to encourage engagement.
Many of the books by Arbordale are either dual-language published (English and Spanish) in the book or separately published English and Spanish editions.
Also, most books have printable online activities that are suitable for home, teacher in classroom, or student use. Highly vetted materials.
Cheetah Dreams by Linda Stanek & illustrated by Shennen Bersani - ISBN: 9781607187417
My thoughts: The author uses a hybrid-poetic prose to tell the Cheetah's story in terse language. The non-fiction book is beautifully illustrated capturing the cheetah's fleetness and sculptured body of the cheetah. The cheetah is a beautiful cat and it's markings are stunning.
The sidebars tell in evidential prose the story of the endangered cheetah and how it is loosing its land. This is strongly cued to environmental and endangered species enlightenment, and the back pages material highlight the characteristics of this member of the cat family and its chance of survival. About the book: Cheetahs are the most rapidly vanishing cat in Africa. Share the dreams of a bright future for cheetahs while engaging sidebars provide a wealth of natural history information. From cleat-like feet to tear-marked faces, these majestic cats are well adapted to life on the African plains. The fierce predators sprint after their prey at high-speed, an exhausting dash that leaves them ready for a nap! This rhythmic text will lull readers into cheetah dreams of their own.
Baby Bear's Adoption by Jennifer Keats Curtis, Illustrated by Veronica V. Jones - ISBN: 9781607187400
My thoughts: This is a fictional story about a real program where abandoned bear cubs are relocated or adopted by different mother bears. The technique used is quite interesting and was a real eye opener for me to read about. I would, though, strongly encourage any adults or kids to NOT try this charming and fun-sounding program on their own. Leave it up to trained personnel to handle!
Bears are not animals with which one should trifle and strong caution must always be exercised around them. All that being said, children can learn greatly from this story and the program. Also, the entertaining story provides occasion to entertain, educate, and caution young children. The back material details bear life cycle and hibernation of bears.
About the book: One winter day, Braden and Finley hike into the woods with their wildlife scientist dad and his team to tag a mamma bear who just had cubs. The tag makes it easy to find the mamma bear in the summer when the team gets a call about an orphaned bear cub that needs a new family. But will the mama bear adopt this new cub as one of her own? The story is based on orphaned black bear cub rescue efforts by Michigan DNR. This fictional story based on true events.
Which Animal is Fastest? by Brian Rock and illustrated by Carolyn Le - ISBN: 9781607187455
My thoughts: Brian Rock has a reputation for bringing math front and center in kid's books showing in an entertaining method that math is everywhere and in everything and he turns it into a fun romp in story-land. This is evidenced by his book The Deductive Detective which I totally enjoyed reviewing. Another of his books I reviewed, though not math-focused, was Martian Mustache Mischief..
In Which Animal is Fastest he goes back to thinking about math or relationships. How do you measure which is fastest? Simply by who gets to the end first in a given amount of time? Not so, according to the different animals who are participating in a fictional animal olympics. Which is fastest on land? Which is fastest in the water? Which is fastest traveling on four legs? Which is fastest traveling on two?
It is interesting to pursue this relational concept of fast and fastest. And the back pages material asks questions that will engage the reader in conceptional thinking - "Why do you think so many fast land animals live in flat, grassy habitats?" "Which do you think is more important to an animal, speed or strength? Why?" And the "Speed Sequencing" section is really food-for-thought.
The storyline is fictional but the ideas and concepts interestingly factual. I highly recommend.
About the book: Quick, name the world’s fastest animal! Did you say cheetah? If so, you’re right – sort of. Sure, the cheetah can reach speeds over 70 miles per hour (mph); but did you know that there is a species of bird that can fly faster than a race car? Did you know that that’s not even the fastest animal there is? This “dashing dozen” of nature’s speediest species examines the fastest on land, air, and sea. This story will resonate with children taking standardized tests…one size does not fit all!
A Day in a Forested Wetland by Kevin Kurtz, Illustrated by Sherry Neidigh - ISBN: 9781628559132
My thoughts: North Carolina is my home and it is also home to many of the critters that populate the wetlands. You see, we have lots of water and lots of wetlands in North Carolina. So this book is particularly appropriate for a child growing up in North Carolina. If he or she has the opportunity to venture into the wetland areas of our lovely state, they might be privileged to see some of these creatures first hand in their own habitat. What a grand opportunity.
The wetlands are important for our entire global ecological system. So knowledge about them and the habits of the wild inhabitants is particularly important as well.
This book is written in a lovely cadenced poetic prose that was a delight to read. The illustrations while rich with browns and greens of the natural elements is also awash with splashes of beautiful colors depicting night fall or sun rise, etc.
It's sunrise in the wetland.
An owl flies to the ground.
Though its wings are flapping,
they do not make a sound.
The barred owl wades in water,
and looks for prey to eat.
It spots a tasty crayfish
and grabs it with its feet.
About the book: Come along on a journey through the aquatic habitat of a forested wetland. Meet birds and bobcats, along with the beavers and beetles that call the soggy forest home. Kevin Kurtz continues his award-winning “A Day In” series, and once again delights readers with a rhythmic, nonfiction look into a typical day for the animals that live in this wet habitat.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each of the books reviewed (4) to facilitate a review. Opinions are solely mine and are given without compensation.
Serving tea is culturally important in many countries. Each has its own unique traditions and many have their own unique style of teapots and teacups. The Japanese probably have a host of teapot styles from which they pour their lovely teas.
Today we're looking at a lovely Japanese Geisha Tea Set. Is it a style used by Geisha ladies past and present? I don't know. The set has a picture of a beautiful Geisha lady gracing each cup and the teapot as well.
Product information: Find it - click here - This ceramic tea set is the perfect companion for enjoying tea. On the body of the tea set is picture of Japanese Geisha. In Japan Geisha are traditional female entertainers who perform various classical music and dance. The tea set includes the following:
1 teapot (approximate capacity: 500ml or 17 fl oz; 4 1/4" h x 4" w x 6" l)
And the Enjoying Tea Company has a fabulous assortment of high quality, delectable teas. I have tried many of their teas and always found them to be a totally enjoyable tea drinking experience. I highly recommend their teas.
DISCLOSURE: I received a Japanese Tea Set to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Prize is provided by and shipped directly to the winner by the EnjoyingTea.com.
My thoughts: This is a colorful and quite cheery modern take on the Biblical story of The Good Samaratin. It isn't just about diversity though it can easily be used to teach it. Primarily, it is about compassion, social interaction, and just plain being nice to one another.
A cute story of the yellows and blues and how the two don't mix... until one day a need of compassion comes into the mix and then you get a bit of mixing. The illustrations are cute and I think kids will thoroughly enjoy them.
A good book for church and libraries as well as the Christian home.
About the book: Blues and Yellows just don't mix, and that's how it's always been. No one remembers why. But then comes the day Midnight Blue takes a tumble along the road. His friends Navy and Powder Blue don't even stop to help! It's only when a Yellow comes along that everything changes—forever.
This creative story is sure to prompt rich conversations, encouraging new ways of seeing our neighbors and ourselves. A note for parents and educators is included.
Disclosure: I won an uncorrected, advance reader copy in a draw on LibraryThing.com contest. Review is complimentary and my own opinions freely given.
ISBN: 97807180801836 Softcover $16.99 Thomas Nelson Publishing Buy on Amazon
My thoughts: War! Terrible! Gut wrenching horrible! Emotionally exhausting to experience and to read about 150 years after it torn through the land, the armies, the people. That is what author Tamera Alexander has so beautifully written into the early part of With This Pledge. And while the immediate horror of the battle of Franklin or Spring Hill was quieted, the torn and broken bodies, spirits, and hearts of the men who fought and the local residents continued to wage a war of healing. Healing of body. Healing of spirit. Healing of the mind. And a healing of the social ills.
I read this book slowly so as to absorb the beauty of the writing of Ms. Alexander. She quite gracefully took the reader through the Civil War surgeries performed on surgical tables made from hastily removed doors and through the rooms of Carnton Place to see the blood ruined walls and floors of the mansion.
Characters are beautifully fleshed out and move through scene after scene of physical and emotional turmoil gracing the pages with words and actions that endear them to your heart. You can readily see why the two main characters ultimately have a blossoming romance that is portrayed gently and beautifully.
You'll love the children of Carnton Place. You'll love the nanny/governess just as the children and wounded soldiers do.You'll love Tempy and George, the "slaves" who are part of the story.
This is a must read book if you care about historical fiction that is painstakingly researched and artfully woven into a beautiful story. I previously read the novella Christmas at Carnton that took place about the same time as With This Pledge. You don't want to miss these stories.
Published by Thomas Nelson Publishing as Christian historical fiction, it deals defly with spiritual issues faced by the characters.
About the book: History takes on vivid life in the stunning first full-length installment of Tamera Alexander's new series, The Carnton Novels.
On the night of November 30, 1864, a brutal battle in Franklin, Tennessee, all but decimates the Confederacy and nearly kills Captain Roland Ward Jones. A decorated Mississippi sharpshooter, Jones has a vision on the battlefield and, despite the severity of his wounds, believes his life will be spared. But a life without his leg, he can't abide. He compels Elizabeth "Lizzie" Clouston—governess to the McGavock family at the Carnton mansion—to intervene should the surgeon decide to amputate. True to her word, Lizzie speaks on his behalf and saves not only the captain's leg but also his life.
When a fourteen-year-old soldier dies in Lizzie's arms that night, the boy's final words, whispered with urgency, demand that Lizzie deliver them to their intended recipient. But all she has is the boy's first name. And, as she soon discovers, there's no record of him ever having enlisted. How can she set out alone across a land so divided by war and hatred to honor her pledge? Even more, does she dare accept Captain Jones's offer to accompany her? As he coalesces at Carnton, romance has blossomed between him and Lizzie—a woman already betrothed to a man she does not love.
From the pages of history and the personal accounts of those who endured the Battle of Franklin, Tamera Alexander weaves the real-life love letters between Captain Roland Ward Jones and Elizabeth Clouston into a story of unlikely romance first kindled amid the shadows of war.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy Advanced Reader's Copy from Thomas Nelson Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone, and are freely given.
My thoughts: From the treasure trove that is "Tommy Nelson" an imprint of Thomas Nelson Publishing another delightful children's picture book is available. This treasure takes the little ones down on the farm and meets with animals of all sorts. But the farmer has to deal with such confusion amongst his farm critters.
It is a funny story. The rhymes rollick along teasing joy out of each scene and animal miss-sound. Of course, this is a take on the "grass is greener on the other side" or "I could be better if I were like them." So the story provides fun opportunity to create a teachable moment with the child or children to whom the story is being read.
This will undoubtedly be a lot of fun to read aloud with the kiddies. A nice book. Real cute illustrations.
About the book: From New York Times bestseller Rory Feek, one half of the singing duo Joey+Rory, comes The Cow Said Neigh!, a fun and humorous tale of farm animals who wish they were like the other animals . . . which leads to a farm-full of confusion! This delightful book will be a family favorite for years to come.
The Cow Said Neigh! is the story of some peculiar farm animals who wish they were like other animals on the farm. The cow wants to run free like a horse, the sheep wants a snout like a pig, the dog wants to be inside like the cat. Soon the entire farm is in chaos!
With silly farm animal sounds, clever rhymes, and adorable art, The Cow Said Neigh! will have kids of all ages laughing out loud as they celebrate the unique strengths in each of us.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine and are freely given.
Book companies have branches in various countries tapping into an innovative and varied plethora of authors and illustrators. This provides the reader a grand assortment of reading materials from which to choose.
Today we celebrate Walker Publishing UK's new beginnings - or expansion - to the US by offering four Walker Publishing children's books to you......
Vivid storytelling and instant reader appeal in fiction, graphic novels, and illustrated books. A bold new direction for the bear! Walker Books U.S. is a division of Candlewick Press.
If you thought the walking bear with a candlestick looked familiar, you're right! Walker Books and Candlewick Press are now "joined-at-the-hip," friends, co-companies. Whatever their joint venture is called - it is a grand, workable set up. And the result is more, more, more books for your kiddies.
Angry Cookie by author: Laura Dockrill, illustrator: Maria Karipidou
Oooohhh . . . not you again!
AGGGHH It’s so bright! . . . Close this book this very second, you nosy noodle!
Cookie has woken up on the wrong side of the bed and is very angry. You want to know why? Well, you’d have to keep reading to find out, but now Cookie’s calling you annoying and telling you to mind your own business. If by chance you do stick around, you might hear about a certain roommate’s terrible musical skills, why you should never let your barber try out a “new look,” how it’s impossible to find a hat that fits a cookie, and why an ice-cream parlor that’s out of your favorite treat can be a source of desolation. Then there’s the matter of a hungry bird who tries to snack on you. . . . Propelled by quirky humor and woes that every young child can relate to, Angry Cookie suggests that sometimes the best way to cheer up a grumpy lump is simply by being there — and lending your ears.
Famed spoken-word poet Laura Dockrill's hilarious read-aloud about an outraged baked good!
Into the Jungle: Stories for Mowgli author: Katherine Rundell illustrator: Kristjana S. Williams
This wise and witty companion to Rudyard Kipling’s 1894 classic is likewise a series of connected stories about the man-cub Mowgli and his adventures among the animals in the Indian jungle. It includes all the original favorites like Baloo and Bagheera and gives female characters, like Mother Wolf, a more prominent role in Mowgli’s upbringing. The timely theme of the possibility of understanding and empathy across species, cultures, and genders will resonate with contemporary readers.
Costa Children’s Book Award–winning author Katherine Rundell pens Kipling estate–approved Jungle Book origin stories.
Soccer School Season 1: Where Soccer Explains (Rules) the World authors: Alex Bellos; Ben Lyttleton illustrator: Spike Gerrell
At Soccer School, every lesson revolves around one thing: soccer!
Coaches (and authors) Alex Bellos and Ben Lyttleton cleverly use the lens of soccer to immerse kids in math, geography, biology, and more. Loaded with awesome true stories and science, the first book in the Soccer School series is illustrated throughout with cartoons that will have young soccer fans laughing out loud. Quizzes at the end of each chapter keep readers on their toes as they learn some truly weird trivia, like the hidden meaning behind a team’s uniform colors, how you might play soccer on Mars, or even the most opportune time for players to go to the bathroom. Entertaining and informative, this book is sure to score a goal with soccer fanatics everywhere (when they’re not on the field, of course).
Soccer School Season 2: Where Soccer Explains (Saves) the World authors: Alex Bellos; Ben Lyttleton illustrator: Spike Gerrell
Coaches Alex Bellos and Ben Lyttleton return with even more proof that soccer can be used to teach kids about pretty much anything. The second book in their funny, fascinating series is full of facts about the most popular sport in the world, from history to language, design to psychology. When did women begin playing soccer? Why do lefties have an advantage on the field? Which soccer stadium was built in the shape of a crocodile? Perfect for soccer players, fans, or just plain curious kids, this series is packed with information and amusement in equal measure. Goal!
DISCLOSURE: I received a set of 4 Walker Books to facilitate this post. Any opinions expressed herein are mine, alone and are freely given without compensation. Prize Packs of books are provided and sent directly to the winner by the publisher or publicist.
ISBN: 9780884486268 Hardcover $17.95 US Tilbury House Publishers Buy it on Amazon
My thoughts: Isn't Miss Pinkeltink the cutest rotund little old lady (homeless old lady) you have ever seen? As she wanders around carrying her purse she gathers all kinds of stuff. Stuff she shares or tries to use to help others. She was a bumbling mess with her oversized bag of stuff; but she was a caring, giving person, too.
As a young children's story book the pictures and rhyming story or text are really great. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the rhyming story about Miss Pinkeltink. The opportunity to share with children the fact of homelessness and how they have no place to escape the cold and rain or to put their stuff is superbly presented. There is even some information about homelessness and action groups in the back pages materials.
I do, however, believe that while young children should be educated to the plight of homelessness of all types and ages of individuals, they also need to be made aware that all are not sweet little old ladies like Miss Pinkeltink. So the child should be made to understand that he or she should love and care for the homeless. They should provide what they are able to provide for the care and help of homeless individuals. But that they should also exercise care, be cautious, and go through the directions and support of a trusted adult.
I recommend this book but, as pointed out, stress that care of interpretation should be exercised.
About the book: "Rosy-cheeked and quite antique, Miss Pinkeltink / carried everything but the kitchen sink. / Her purse was so big that it dragged on the floor. / When she rode on the bus it got stuck in the door."
Generous and eccentric, Miss Pinkeltink fills her huge purse with everything from a toilet plunger to roller skates, and then gives it all away. She offers tape to fix a flat tire and a bone to a kitty: Miss Pinkeltink’s gifts never quite hit the mark, / but she gave what she had, and she gave from the heart. And then, with nothing left to give or to shelter herself, she huddles on a park bench, trying to sleep in the rain. And that’s where Zoey sees her from her bedroom window and knows that something must be done.
GIVEAWAY
Begins January 18
''Ends February 15 at 12:01 a.m. EST
Open to USA & CANADA addresses.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from MMPublicity on behalf of Tilbury House Publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and shipped directly to the winner by publicist or publisher.
Guest blogger - Rebecca Roddenberry Smith shares her opinion of Nature's Paradise Baby Organic after a happy bathtime with Baby Caleb......
Our little one always enjoys bath time, but this product added a new element of foamy fun! Not only does it smell like a hint of fresh coconut, it left his skin soft and clean. The paired oil will be nourishing year-round, but it was especially soothing during the dry winter weather we’re experiencing now. Above all, knowing these products are made from organic ingredients gave me peace of mind as a new mom.
Read Chat With Vera's recent spotlight review of Nature's Paradise Baby products. CLICK HERE
Disclosure: I received the products from GoodEarthBeauty.com and previously posted comments. I then gifted the products to Rebecca who is giving her unbiased comment on the products. No compensation received.
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, you don't want to be "caught short" and not have something for those special ladies in your life. Be it a mom, a wife, a sweetheart, a teen daughter or a younger daughter to whom you want to show your love. Good Earth Beauty has a plethora of sweet items that won't add pounds to the waist and will show your love.
Having a Valentine's Party and want some goodies to hand out (that are NOT CANDY)? How about ordering individual Lip Balms for your guests? Priced at $6.25 each.
For those youngsters or young at heart, there are two delightful new Lib Balms - Bubble Gum and Candy Hearts. The Lip Balm is soothing and protective and especially tasty. I highly recommend these lip balms (and the other "flavors" as well).
Candy Cane Perfume & Candy Cane Mint Lip Balm gift set $24.75
And for a dab of sweetness to provide that sweet aroma around your sweetie, there is the new Candy Hearts Perfume. All natural and never heavy. This is nice for those youngsters that want to wear perfume and for the young at heart that wish to exhude an aroma of sweetness without overpowering.
Go ahead and enter the #giveaway and try to win the lip balms. But they might not reach you by Valentine's. So why not go to the website and find some you want - these or others from their assortment - and order.
As always SHIPPING IS FREE IN USA and you can use the DISCOUNT CODE of LOVE10 to take 10% off your entire purchase.
DISCLOSURE: I was provided sample products to facilitate a review. Opinions and ideas expressed are mine alone and freely given. Prize is provided by and shipped directly to the winner by Good Earth Beauty webstore.
ISBN: 9783791373541 Hardcover - Ages 5-9 Years Prestel Junior Publications US $25.00 | CA $34.00 Buy it on Amazon
My thoughts: This is an oversized picture book that is stunning. What an opportunity for children to see these beautifully drawn creatures that abound in nature. This is an opportunity for them to see the creatures themselves and to see how an artist has creatively and painstakingly drawn their images. See close up their antenna, their wings, their tentacles. See their diversity and their colors. Art departments in schools need this book. School and public libraries need this book. Homes that have children who want to explore the intricacies of this World's creatures will want this book to look through and then to take out their own art supplies and replicate the images. Is this a "drawing" book? No. It is an informational treatise with lots of fantastic information and grouping by the author that teaches and fascinates. Yet, it is an "art" or "drawing" book in that the detail is so grand that budding artists will want to try their own hand at creating the same or similar pictures of the creatures a nd wonders they find in nature. And it is refreshing to see the fun side of the author/artist in that the animals have deliciously delightful and fun expressions. Look for it! It makes the book even more fun. I highly recommend.
About the book: A stunningly illustrated treasury of animals, this book will entrance and delight young children interested in the world of nature. Bright-eyed birds, evanescent butterflies, tropical fish and other pleasures await the readers of this large format book that will appeal to young children's curiosity about the natural world. Reminiscent of the watercolors of Ernst Haeckel, John James Audubon, and Maria Sibylla Merian, these charming and expertly rendered pictures of birds, insects, and fish will provide hours of exploration. Presented in double-page spreads, interspersed with informative texts, Guiraud's illustrations capture the wondrous beauty that populates our oceans, forests, and fields. Her expressive illustrations create a sense of intimacy and empathy with the natural world and their exquisite detail rewards close investigation. Certain to captivate both children and adults, this magnificent book will instill in its readers a connection to the world around them and ignite a sense of wonder about all living things.
GIVEAWAY
Begins January 13
Ends February 7 at 12:01 a.m. EST
Open to USA & CANADA addresses only.
a Rafflecopter giveawayDISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone, and are freely given. Prize book is provided by and shipped directly to the winner by Prestel Publising or the publicist.
My thoughts: If you or your child are fans of the search and find books where the illustrations offer opportunities to find objects or people hidden in a mass of images, and you are at all interested in the famous architectural buildings of historical importance, then this oversize book is something you should investigate. It will afford you and the child the beginnings of understanding the who, what, and where of structures such as the pyramids, the Eiffel Tower, and the Tower of London.
This is not an extensive study on architecture. It is a children's book intended for ages 4 to 8 and introduces, in a fun and enjoyable methodology the famous structures. A few look and find or search and find objects throughout the intricately illustrated book and the glossary and information treasure trove at the back of the book lend themselves to great teaching moments.
This introduction of structures from ancient times to today's world is pictured in minute, very detailed illustrations. There is a wealth of information from the art work, to the factors on each two-page spread and to the more expansive information at the back of the book.
Libraries should add this to their collections and it would make a nice gift.
About the book: Where’s the Architect?: From the top of China’s Great Wall to the base of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, this journey through the world of architecture stops in nearly every continent and travels through centuries. Annabelle von Sperber populates her dynamic and intricate double-page spreads with many details and a hidden architect or important figure on every page that kids will have fun trying to locate. Along the way they’ll learn about the iron workers who built the Empire State building, how many bulbs it takes to light the Eiffel Tower, where the royal jewels are kept at the Tower of London, and why there is so much red and yellow in Beijing’s Forbidden City. Young readers will find themselves fully immersed in this large format book while learning about the incredible architectural wonders that continue to amaze us today.
~|~ GIVEAWAY ~|~
Begins January 11
Ends February 4 at 12:01 a.m. EST
Open to USA addresses only.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review of my personal opinion which is freely given. Published by Prestel. The winner's copy is provided and shipped directly to the winner by the publisher.
My thoughts: Lovely! A gentle, sweetly flowing text that while not directly connected to the pictured story of ending the day and settling into bed it does set the stage with calm thoughts and tender words.
The illustrations are bold and yet simple and are colorful and yet muted with the setting of the sun and approaching darkness. Some might see impressionist art in the style. Me, I see lovely children's illustrations.
And who doesn't love the bunnies that always populate a story book by Rosemary Wells? This particular little book takes me reminiscing back to when my youngest child was a little one. We happened upon a "bin" of highly discounted (and somewhat marred) bunnies, and she selected a little blue bunny. That little blue bunny saw her through many "scary" nights, sicknesses, heartaches, and even later it had a place in her grown up life. So..... little bunnies matter and this lovely bedtime bunny book is a joy.
The tiny sketches under the text can be found in the full illustrations on the adjacent pages providing opportunity for search-for-the-object and seek 'n find activities. There is a lot of detail in Ms. Wells illustrations capturing the essence of home life and preparations to end the day and get ready for quietly settling into bed.
A good choice for homes with young children and a must have for all libraries.
May the noises of evening be gentle and airy.
About the book: Sleep, My Bunny (pub date 11/13/18; Ages 2-5; 24 pages; $14.99) is a soothing lullaby of a story, meant for the very young and their caregivers. With an expressionistic style reminiscent of Vincent van Gogh, the small book shows parents guiding their little bunny through the universal steps of bedtime: supper, clean up, bath time, and reading. Wells’ simple, poetic narrative pairs with her gorgeous artwork to create a bedtime read aloud – a perfect script for a reassuring voice – sure to lull a small child to slumber.
~❣~ GIVEAWAY ~❣~
Book and limited edition print, signed by Rosemary Wells Begins January 9
Ends February 2 at 12:01 a.m. EST
Open to USA addresses
NO P.O. Boxes, please.
About the author: Rosemary Wells has written over 120 books for children, including the beloved Max & Ruby series and she illustrated the bestselling My Very First Mother Goose and Here Comes Mother Goose, both edited by Iona Opie. a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book and a signed print to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own alone and are freely given. Prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by Candlewick Press.
