Tag: Middle Grade Readers
Illustrated by D. FRONGIA
SUMMARY
The Grumpface is a poetic fairy-tale that tells the story of Dan, an inventor who ventures into a forest looking for a rose. Instead he is finds the mysterious Grumpface who threatens to hold him captive unless he passes some difficult challenges. What follows is a humorous adventure that neither Dan nor the Grumpface could have anticipated.
It is a tale in the spirit of any grand adventure. It is about a clumsy young inventor’s quest for love, and the challenges he must face to find it. But it is also a tale of bravery, absurdity and happiness, and the power of these qualities over negativity and sheer grumpiness.Every parent will be acquainted with their own little ‘grumpface’ now and then. This story stands as a small piece of hope – that no matter how ingrained the grump, there will always remain in every one of us a smile or a laugh just waiting to come out.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF READ REVIEW
The Grumpface is a remarkably ilustrated romantic fantasy picture book for kids. It takes you on a—. Ewww, what do you mean ewww? What? You don’t like kissy stuff? Yes you do, remember, The Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty, Beauty and the Beast, The Princess and the Frog, not to mention Lilo and Stitch…. Okay, that last one was a little stretch, but as I was saying, The Grumpface takes you on a wild adventure. You see Dan falls in love with—. Hmmm… Well, he goes to the forest and that’s where he meets The Grumpface, he’s a grumpy old creature (actually, he reminds me of a troll) who lives in these woods. Let me tell you about the things he does. Oh, I can’t. As always, I won’t spoil your enjoyment of reading this hilarious (funny) book.
The UNIQUE thing about The Grumpface is that the evil wicked witch isn’t a witch.
RECOMMENDATION
The Grumpface is recommended for Children ages 1 – 9. It is a great First Time Reader as well as a Bedtime Story. But, let’s not forget those Middle Grade Readers age 9 who love to have fun.
BUY IT HERE: AMAZON BARNES AND NOBLE KOBO
BIO
BCR Fegan is a multi-award-winning author who has written a number of fairy tales and fantasies for children and young adults.
Raised on a small hobby farm only minutes from some of Australia’s greatest beaches, Fegan grew up inspired by the power of natures ambience. From the intensity of the frequent summer storms, to the overwhelming serenity of a lonely beach in the early hours of the morning. His ravenous appetite for both reading and writing soon saw him drawing on the transformational influence of the world around him to craft short stories, poems and picture books
As time wore on, Fegan also found inspiration in the magic and depth of authors and compositors like Hans Christian Andersen, the Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault. He was mesmerised by the potency of small but beautiful phrases that were carefully carved from the minds of Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Alfred Lord Tennyson and Robert Frost. He grew to appreciate the worlds meticulously created by David Eddings, JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis.
Eventually, he began to forge his own complete works. Weaving his own magic, piecing together his own phrases and crafting his own worlds. Agonising over plots that would inspire, characters that would be loved and circumstances that would delight. In time, his efforts saw a number of children’s books and young adult fiction produced. Through the efforts of TaleBlade Press, these works are now being published with that same careful dedication.
SUMMARY
Kids on Trump: America’s Children on President Trump explores the question “Who is President Donald Trump?” through a collection of children’s views on Trump along with exercises parents and kids can do together to get involved and create change in their communities. It is a unique publication that is not only an insightful look at how kids really feel about President Trump, but also a humorous read for adults (kids or no kids). The mission of “Kids on Trump” is to empower kids everywhere by aiding them in learning how to have their voices heard. Kids can do anything! You are NEVER too young to make a difference! Whether it is writing a book (Gordon Korman’s 8th grade English Project), winning the Nobel Peace Prize (Malala Yousafzai) or influencing the President of the United States, Kids of all ages CAN make a difference!
So regardless of how you feel about Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton or anyone else who ran in the 2016 presidential race, fasten your seat belt and enjoy the roller coaster ride, as you discover if kids think Donald Trump is “Tremendous” or a “Total Disaster”!
A DIFFERENT KIND OF READ REVIEW
In Kids on Trump, ten kids ranging in age from seven to sixteen were asked a series of questions regarding their impression of the newly elected President of the United States, Donald Trump. What was discovered was that kids do say the darndest things, and their comments were funny, wise, and on point!
The UNIQUE thing about Kids on Trump was the exercise at the end of each chapter which gave children a step-by-step guide in how they could make their voices heard. The ETHNIC thing about Kids on Trump was the diversity of the children who participated. Their drawings that were included in the book were downright darling.
RECOMMENDATION
Kids on Trump is recommended for readers between the ages of 5 – 16. But I think it will be an interesting read for all ages.
BUY IT HERE: at Amazon or at Kids on Trump Website
BIO
Marie Korman has an undergraduate degree in Humanities/Film and a Doctorate of Jurisprudence (J.D.). In her early years she worked as a journalist writing entertainment articles for local newspapers. She is a mother of two and devoted sister to four younger brothers.
Freida Raj holds a degree in Computer Science. She is a wife and mother and very active in her community.
SUMMARY
Little Bear struggles to understand what it means when he is told he would no longer be able to see his Papa. He questions those around him as he tries to bring meaning to why his Papa is gone. Through his memories and dreams, Little Bear goes on a journey to realize his Papa will always be with him.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF READ REVIEW
A little bear wants to see his father, but he doesn’t know where he is. His mother gently reminds him, that they can’t visit papa any longer because he’s in a place where none of them can be. This beautiful rhyming/illustrated story brought tears to my eyes. And answered all the questions In a good and gentle way. It is the most remarkable presentation of loss that I have every seen.
The telling of the little bear’s story makes I Want to See My Papa a UNIQUE read. The subject makes it a SPECIAL NEEDS for any person going through this life altering experience.
RECOMMENDATION
I Want to See My Papa is recommended by the author for children. I disagree, I Want to See My Papa is recommended for All Ages.
BUY IT HERE: I Want to See My Papa Website Amazon
BIO – At a young age Angela relocated to Windsor, Nova Scotia from her birth place in Brampton, Ontario. Currently she lives in Halifax with her husband and three daughters – Mackenzie, Alexis, and Skylar, and two adorable but mischievous Yorkshire Terriers.
A graduate from Dalhousie University, former Fashion Designer, and Executive Director of Atlantic Fashion Week, Angela was the 2016 Winner of the Women of Spirit Award, and was listed in Canadian Living Magazine as a Top 40 Change Maker. “I wrote this story as a way to self-heal after losing my father at a young age. I hope it will help children going through similar devastating loses,”
ILLUSTRATED BY TJAART & DANIEL LEHMACHER
SUMMARY
A Moonling longing for the earth, and a ten-year-old Earthling, named Karl, wanting nothing more than to explore the moon and the stars… By a happy chance these two kindred beings find each other, as well as a sense of awe for life around them. But the more The Moonling sees of this green and blue planet the more homesick he gets. To him it is clear that the earth is far more beautiful from far away… As their friendship grows, so do the questions. And as Karl figures out a plan to get The Moonling back to the moon, one has to wonder: Is it possible for a little creature of stone, to awaken in hearts of flesh, a love for this place we call home.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF READ REVIEW
The Moonling is a story about a creature who lives on Earth’s Moon. In this science-fiction, fantasy adventure, a moon creature made of stone hitches a ride to Earth with the first astronauts who have collected moon rocks. Get it, the stone creature hitches a ride with a bunch of rocks. No? Oh well it seemed funny at the time. You see, Mond as he later becomes known is the only living creature on the Moon. For years he has looked upon and wanted to visit the blue and green planet below him. What? Oh, you’re excited about life on the Moon. Yes, there is life on the Moon, and he wanted to come and see all of the Earth’s beauty and grandeur up close. It makes you proud, doesn’t it? Now the most astonishing thing about The Mooling is…. Oh, here I go again. About to spoil everything. I won’t do that—it’s just too good to miss.
The UNIQUE thing about The Mooling is the plot and the main character’s point of view and the design of their illustrations. Hey, with Mond, there’s even a little ETHNIC flare. Ha ha.
RECOMMENDATION
The Moonling is recommended for First Time Readers (1 – 8) with Parental Assistance and Middle Grade Readers to age 10
BUY IT HERE: Amazon
BIO – To be quite honest, ‘The Moonling’ was a family effort in every sense of the word – to begin with; the story was our late grandmother’s idea, in addition to stumbling upon the story ‘The man from the moon’, the daughter furthermore shared it with her own child and grandchild who saw this simple but compelling story as an opportunity to save this place we call home. ‘The Moonling’ is the grandson and great-grandson’s rendering of a never forgotten Oma Mutti’s idea – A children’s picture storybook almost four generations in the making. themoonlingbook.com
ILLUSTRATED BY PETER BELLINGHAM
SUMMARY
Many children today believe that fame and fortune are the only pathways to happiness. This book shows that even if every desire is achieved in life, happiness can still be elusive. Many adults who know this important life lesson struggle to easily articulate the concept with their children. Sumi’s story of transformation into a joyful, awakened butterfly will resonate deeply within young children who strain to find meaning and fulfillment in a profit-driven, egocentric world.
This is the story of a baby caterpillar named Sumi and her life’s journey to find everlasting happiness. The story unfolds in a gentle, loving way that reveals age-old wisdom about the search for happiness to modern kids.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF READ REVIEW
Have you ever wondered: Who Am I? Where Did I Come From? Why Can’t I Be Like…? Well that’s how Sumi felt when she was first born. She wanted to get to know the other caterpillars around her, but they seemed set in their ways. They didn’t like any of her suggestions, and when she tried to get them to go with her up the tree trunk for more food, they never would. But, Sumi soon realized that sometimes you have to do things on your own. One day, she started out on a solo adventure up that tree trunk. And what did she find. I can’t tell you that, but I can tell you that isn’t what made her enlightened. You have to read The Caterpillar that Became Enlightened to find out.
The UNIQUE thing about The Caterpillar that Became Enlightened is the plot. Who ever knew that a caterpillar could do that?
RECOMMENDATION
The Caterpillar that Became Enlightened is primarily for First Time Readers (1-8). But I think some Middle Grade Readers (9 – 12) dealing with self-esteem issues will find this book helpful.
BUY IT HERE: Amazon
BIO – DARRYL D. DIPTEE is an active duty US naval officer who has spent over twenty years collecting wisdom from various parts of the globe. He attributes much of his success to the valuable experiences gained while supporting those in need, such as helping Tibetan refugees integrate into society in India and teaching Iraqi children valuable life skills in Baghdad, Iraq. Messy, “unsolvable” problems are his favorite challenges, as he applies his worldly knowledge to convert complex concepts into easy-to-digest, inspirational lessons that people use to achieve fulfilling lives. Deeply spiritual at his core, Darryl’s aim in life is to enjoy every moment of the human experience while inspiring others to do the same.
SUMMARY
Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus is not an ordinary bus taking you on a journey. He is a Playbus. Find out what happens when he is invited to an island where the children have never seen a double-decker bus – and certainly not one full of toys!
A DIFFERENT KIND OF READ REVIEW
Last time, when we visited Jay-Jay, he had just become a play bus (Click here to see that review). This time he is going on a different kind of adventure to an island across the channel. While, he is eager to get there, he’s a little frightened, but he trusts his driver to keep him safe. “Oh my, the water’s a little choppy!” he notices and again, he isn’t so sure. that he should get on the ferry. Hmm, he can’t turn back now, the only thing left to do is to quickly get on the ferry.
Oh, oh, he got on a little too quickly and hurt his bottom. What? How does bus hurt his bottom? What do you mean a bus doesn’t have a bottom? Patience, let me answer. It’s that part underneath. What does underneath mean? You know that part… Wait, I have to let mommy explain that to you as she reads Jay-Jay and His Island Adventure. Together, you’ll also find out if a bus can get seasick, and let me know what you think about those pirates.
Jay-Jay and His Island Adventure is a UNIQUE read because of the adventure he takes you on. And, it’s an ETHNIC read because of the diverse characters appearing throughout the book.
RECOMMENDATION
Jay-Jay and his Island Adventure is recommended for First Time Readers (1-8) and Middle Grade Readers to age 10.
BUY IT HERE: Amazon
BIO – Sue Wickstead is a Supply teacher working across Sussex and Surrey.
For over 20 years, alongside her teaching career, she worked with a Children’s Charity, a Playbus, which led her to write a photographic history book about its journey.
She soon found that many children had never been on a bus let alone a ‘Playbus’ and they wanted to know more, so she decided to write a fictional tale about a ‘Playbus’.
Jay-Jay the Supersonic Bus came out in print in 2014. From fact to fiction the bus’ journey continues with more stories written and on their way. 
Illustrated by KALPART
SUMMARY
All Cats Go to Heaven is a touching children’s book that deals with difficult yet important topics, such as death, friendship, and accepting others for who they. The story is told through the eyes of Minka the cat, who has just become an angel and returns to earth to protect her friends.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF REVIEW READ
After many years, Minka the cat finds herself in Cat Heaven. She is kind of surprised because she thought that cats had nine lives. Is it because she’s lived a long life? Or, is it a myth? Who cares, she’s now in Cat Heaven and she is given one last earthly wish. What does she do? Hmmm, on the premise (that means pretending) that she wants to help her living friends, she makes a request to return to earth. To her surprise, her request is granted provided she follow the rules. Rules! They have rules in Heaven? There are always rules. They just want you to be safe. Especially if you are going on a great adventure like this. And, that what All Cats Go to Heaven is…a spectacular adventure. There are so many things I would like to tell you about the adventure, but I won’t spoil it for you. Just be ready to sing, dance, and laugh. Plus the pictures are awesome.
The UNIQUE thing about All Cats Go to Heaven is its ETHNIC diversity.
Who would have known that about cats?
RECOMMENDATION
All Cats Go to Heaven is recommended for First Time Readers (6 – 8) Certain Middle Grade Readers (9 – 12), specifically those that tend to shy away from reading and those who love animals, will also like this book. It will also make a great Bedtime Story for those younger than 6.
BUY IT HERE: Amazon
BIO – Valda V. Upenieks received her Ph.D. from the University of Washington and has worked in various nursing leadership and consulting roles throughout the country. “Minka was my first cat and she lived for 17 years,” she says. The author has two daughters, Laura and Lasma, who live i the greater Seattle area with their two dogs and two cats.
Illustrated by LEDA CHUNG
SUMMARY
Hong goes to Taiwan with her dad to visit her grandmother. She finds two BIG problems. First, there is an enormous beetle in the bathtub. Second, her grandmother’s noodle shop is being forced to close. What can she do?
A DIFFERENT KIND OF READ REVIEW
For the first time in her life Hong is visiting her grandmother in Taiwan. Unknown to her, she is about to become part of an exciting fantasy mystery. It all starts with a bug. Eww, a nasty bug. Hong doesn’t want it to fall on her while she is sleeping. Everyone knows that girls hate bugs, well some don’t, but that’s a different story. Let me tell you a little secret, over fifty percent of all boys like bugs, and that’s why they will love Superbeetle. But, I’m getting off the subject. Hong hates bugs, and is crawling over her head. What will she do if he falls. Not gonna happen, she screams and her father takes care of it.
Or does he? She’s afraid it’s going to come back. What does she do? She goes to find it. As she enters the hallway, she hears splashing water coming from the bathroom. Something isn’t right. She creeps towards the door, and slowly peeks inside and, and it’s a…. I really want to tell you what it is. You probably already know. I can tell you that…no, I can’t tell you. Hurry, just read Superbeetle. You’ll get the answers. Please, please, I can’t tell you anymore. What makes Superbeetle an ETHNIC read is Hong, Chi Chi and their families. What makes it UNIQUE read is the way that the author showed you how to say the Chinese words right inside the text.
RECOMMENDATION
Superbeetle is a Chapter book recommended for First Time Readers (1-8) I also think this book will appeal to boys included in the Middle Grade Readers (9-12) because of the bugs. Everyone will be drawn to the fantastic illustrations.
BUY IT HERE: Amazon
BIO
Author S. Michele Chen lives in Southern California but visits her family in Taiwan when she can because the bugs no longer scare her. She has published numerous crime fiction short stories and a novella under a secret identity. Superbeetle is her first children’s book: www.superbeetlebook.com
Illustrator Leda Chung was born and raised in New England. In 2010 life swept her away to Northern California where she currently resides with her boyfriend and their pet pigeon, Olive. When she’s not creating art, you can find Leda experimenting in the kitchen, tending to her small plant-family, and rescuing pigeons and doves in the California Bay Area: www.ledachung.com
BIO – Becky Benishek studied English and Environmental Science at Lawrence University, and always hoped to turn her lifelong loves of writing, animals, and trees into something wonderful. She lives with her husband, Dave, and their guinea pig, Teddy.