by Summer D Clemenson | Apr 25, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Reading is a great way to build our character and knowledge base. It is an excellent way to build community and relationship, whether you are reading to children or sharing books with your friends, you are sharing parts of yourself with someone. In the chaos of the world the quiet you can find in a book is so important to our mental and spiritual health. I hope you can find time for that. When I am super blue, I know I have waited too long time get lost in words.
Now without further ado 5 Books for April 2025:
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Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle
Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In the story Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle, Little Blue took a trip to the city where things are bigger and faster. Everyone was frustrated that Little Blue was not so fast but he reminded them all that with transport, one at a time was a must. When the mayor’s limousine needed repairs, Little Blue gave the mayor a ride before he headed on home.
The colorful illustrations by Jill McElmurry give lots of opportunities to work on vocabulary with your children in this board book.
I got this picture book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle on Amazon.
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Father Bear Comes Home by Else Holmelund Minarik
Father Bear Comes Home by Else Holmelund Minarik
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Father Bear Comes Home by Else Holmelund Minarik is a wonderful collection of 4 family stories: 1) Little Bear and Owl, 2) Father Bear Comes Home, 3) Hiccups and 4) Little Bear’s Mermaid. Out of all the stories in this book, Little Bear and Owl is my favorite because Little Bear gets to help Mother Bear do something that Father Bear usually does. Right now, Father Bear is away at sea, fishing, so Little Bear gets to go to the river and be a fisherman. When he gets there, he finds Owl. They pretend to catch an octopus and a small whale, but really Little Bear caught a small fish, which is exactly what Mother Bear wanted.
The rest of the fiction stories are related to Father Bear coming home and the fun that Little Bear has with his friends.
The illustrations are simple and classic and add to the nostalgia of these stories. I had this book as a child and I am enjoying them again.
I got this adorable book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Father Bear Comes Home by Else Holmelund Minarik on Amazon.
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Frog and Toad Together by Arnold Lobel
Frog and toad together / by Arnold Lobel by Arnold Lobel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel is a sweet collection of 5 short stories about Frog and Toad. These fantasy stories include: 1) A List, 2) The Garden, 3) Cookies, 4) Dragons and Giants, and 5) The Dream. After reading all the stories, my all time favorite is Cookies. My best friends and sister, Jamie Holloway and I love to cook and eat and this story reminds me us trying to have self-control, or will power as Frog and Toad call it. The boys give it their all but finally offer the rest of their cookies to the birds. However, Toad, who made the cookies, decides that he doesn’t like all this will power, and he decides to go home to bake a cake.
These two friends are as supportive of each other as they can be. This story shows how creative they were to make good choices about not over-eating and being helpful with each other. I think this a great story time book.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel on Amazon.
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Curious George Learns the Alphabet by H. A. Rey
Curious George Learns the Alphabet by H.A. Rey
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Curious George is a monkey known for getting into mischief and having adventures but this story, Curious George Learns the Alphabet by H. A. Rey is pretty mild. In fact, it was so long, I should have taken a break. The alphabet can be tedious to learn in one sitting and even Curious George, The Man in the Yellow Hat and all the animals didn’t make it very fun for me.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Curious George Learns the Alphabet by H. A. Rey on Amazon.
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In the Night Garden by Carin Berger
In the Night Garden by Carin Berger is an amazing book with captivating poetry. I have read this book before and had to add it to my personal collection. I imagine if my Nana, who loved to read stories to her grandchildren, were still with us, she would love to look at the amazing collage like art and let the beautiful words dance on her tongue. She would have loved this book as much as I do.
This one is worth owning and sharing.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of In the Night Garden by Carin Berger on Amazon.
This is my original review on GoodReads:
In the Night Garden by Carin Berger
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book! It was relaxing but inspiring. The art seemed like it should be multi-dimensional. I think I will be adding In The Night Garden by Carin Berger to my personal collection.
View all my reviews
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With the climate of political, financial and civil unrest our world is in, I want to encourage you to find peace anywhere you can find it. These books brought me moments of joy and peace. I encourage you to find something that helps you find those things too. I hope you enjoyed this book reviews and maybe you have some of your own. If you want to suggest or share some of your own, Please Contact Me.
Be blessed.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Apr 18, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
March went by so fast, I forgot to post my children’s books for the month, but doesn’t mean I didn’t read them. I did.
Now without further ado 5 Books for March 2025:
Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle
Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle is a picture book about friends. Little Blue Truck is friends with all the animals on the farm and this really comes in handy when he gets stuck in the mud and teaches the not so friendly dump truck the importance of being kind.
The charming illustrations by Jill McElmurry really make this transport book fun. I think this cardboard book is perfect for story time or just talking about the animals, colors, trucks and nature.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle on Amazon.
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Little Bear’s Visit by Else Holmelund Minarik
Little Bear’s Visit by Else Holmelund Minarik
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Little Bear’s Visit by Else Holmelund Minarik is a wonderful read. I have read it before, as a child, and it was nice to be reminded of this family classic. This book has 4 stories in it: 1) Grandmother and Grandfather Bear 2) Mother Bear’s Robin 3) Golden Story 4) Not Tired.
I must say Mother Bear’s Robin is my favorite because Mother Bear had raised her bird but she knew she had to let it go in order for it to be happy. Even though she loved the bird and the bird loved her, the bird was meant to live outside as before. This is an important lesson for us all to learn.
The illustrations by Maurice Sendak are beautiful, yet simple. I think this fiction story is perfect for bedtime routines.
I got this adorable book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Little Bear’s Visit by Else Holmelund Minarik on Amazon.
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Corduroy’s Easter Party by Grosset & Dunlap, Publishers
Corduroy’s Easter Party by Don Freeman
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Unlike most other Corduroy children’s stories, Corduroy’s Easter Party by Grosset & Dunlap, Publishers, did not include his normal adventures or Lisa, Corduroy’s best friend. I missed both. It was nice that Corduroy could have a nice time preparing for an Easter holiday party but this story just doesn’t have the same magic that most stories based on the character created by Don Freeman have.
The Illustrations by Lisa McCue are well-polished but maybe too polished for a traditional Corduroy adventure.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Corduroy’s Easter Party by Grosset & Dunlap, Publishers on Amazon.
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Babar the King by Jean De Brunhoff
Babar the King by Jean de Brunhoff
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I really want to like the fantasy story, Babar the King by Jean De Brunhoff but I don’t. It is a very long story about an elephant society and their king and I can’t imagine getting a child to sit through all the crazy (and not in a good way) things that happen in this book. The illustrations are attractive but the story line about building their kingdom is completely unbelievable.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Babar the King by Jean De Brunhoff on Amazon.
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Disney Bedtime Favorites by Disney Press
Disney Bedtime Favorites by Walt Disney Company
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
My sister Jamie Holloway gave me this Disney Bedtime Favorites by Disney Press full of bedtime story time. I enjoyed them all. This book has 18 short stories in all:
- Bedtime for Max by Rebecca Smidt – based on characters from Tangled
- Good Night Thumper by Megan Ilnitzki – based on characters from Bambi
- The Spooky Sleepover by Kim Ostrow – based on characters from Monsters, Inc
- Nighttime of Fires by Gail Herman – based on characters from Big Hero 6
- Sweet Dreams at Last by Lara Bergan – based on characters from The Little Mermaid
- Power Outage by Rebecca Smidt – based on characters from Wreck it Ralph
- The Big Campout by Wendy Loggia – based on characters from Toy Story 3
- Piglet’s Night Lights by Lara Bergen – based on characters from Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne and E.H. Shepherd
- A Trusty Babysitter by Lara Bergen – based on characters from Lady and the Tramp
- Captain Hooks’s Shadow by Jasmine Jones – based on characters from Peter Pan
- Night Games by Elizabeth Rudnick – based on characters from Finding Nemo
- Watch Dug by Jennifer Arena – based on characters from Up
- Aurora’s Slumber Party by Mary Man-Kong – based on characters from Sleeping Beauty
- A Wild Night Out by Lara Bergen – based on characters from The Lion King
- Thunderbolt Patch by Melissa Lagonegro – based on characters from One Hundred and One Dalmatians
- Mowgli’s Great Story by Suzanne Francis – based on characters from The Jungle Book
- Mickey’s Campout by Megan Bryant – originally published in Mickey and Minnie’s Storybook Collection, 2015
- The Light-Up Night by Ellie O’Ryan – based on characters from Bambi
My favorite story has to be The Light-Up Night by Ellie O’Ryan. The characters from Bambi come to life as it is just about bed time for everyone except Owl. He is nocturnal, which means he sleeps during the day and hunts at night. He is excited because tonight there should shooting stars. When he shares this with young Bambi and Thumper they want to see the shooting stars too. They have never seen shooting stars before. After Owl promises to keep the boys safe, the trio head off to the meadow. On their way they see fireflies. Those are not shooting stars. When they get to the meadow, it begins to rain and they also see and hear lightening and thunder. This is not shooting stars. When the rain stops, finally the sky is filled with sparks of light. Bambi and Thumper are so excited to finally see shooting stars, that when they are done, they are sad. But when they time is right, they will be able to see more shooting stars.
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Disney Bedtime Favorites by Disney Press on Amazon.
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I hope you enjoyed this book reviews and maybe you have some of your own. If you want to suggest or share some of your own, Please Contact Me.
Be blessed.
~
Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Feb 19, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Books are so important. If there is one thing that stands out that my wife, Karen G Clemenson, and I have in common in our upbringing it is that our families ensured that we could read and they were serious about it. The books I grew up with were part of my childhood and part of me. They took me places when there was no one around to take me anywhere. Even as an adult, I am still traveling through books and learning and growing and reading children’s books is saving me from the stress of adult life; I really need this right now. I encourage you, even if you don’t have children that live with you to dig out your favorite children’s books and read them. Let the stress of the day melt off and be reminded of an easier time.
Now without further ado 5 Books for February 2025:
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Standing in the Need of Prayer by Carole Boston Weatherford
I have read and reviewed Standing in the Need of Prayer by Carole Boston Weatherford in the past. It was such an outstanding and powerful, poetry book based on the words of a gospel song and brought to life with the meaningful and strong illustrations by Frank Morrison, that I had found at the Longview Public Library, that I chose to add this book to my personal collection. As I opened the package, last week, I realized that the timing was perfect to share Standing in the Need of Prayer again for Black History Month.
I love this nonfiction book because it doesn’t hide the slave ships that first began bringing stolen people to the United States in 1619, before we were ever the United States of America, yet the artist doesn’t go so far that young children will be too frightened. The chains of oppression are right out in front, but so is hope. The book illustrates how Black people made themselves heard through speeches, music, art, military service, politics, sports, and being willing to stand where others had not before. Within these pages, growth is celebrated.
I also find the resources in the back of this picture book to be helpful and inspiring. We may have more to do, but we have come so far.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Standing in the Need of Prayer by Carole Boston Weatherford on Amazon.
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Little Bear by Else Holmelund Minarik
Little Bear by Else Holmelund Minarik
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
When I was a little girl, I enjoyed Little Bear by Else Holmelund Minarik. This book actually has four stories in it: What will Little Bear Wear?, Birthday Soup, Little Bear Goes to the Moon, and Little Bear’s Wish. Although I enjoyed all of the stories, and I had a hard time choosing between the last two, Little Bear Goes to the Moon is my favorite story because I love when children use their imagination.
Armed with his homemade space helmet, Little Bear, insists he can fly like a bird to the moon, even though his mother bear says that isn’t true. Along with his imagination, he finds that the moon is just like his world and he makes it home in time for lunch, where he can stop living his fantasy and enjoy the lunch Mother Bear made for him.
The illustrations by Maurice Sendak are simple and endearing and add to this classic fiction story, which has a lot of repetition and rhyme, This is perfect for young children learning to read.
I got this adorable book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Little Bear by Else Holmelund Minarik on Amazon.
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The Story of Babar by Jean de Brunhoff
The Story of Babar by Jean de Brunhoff moves very fast. there are so many things that happen in this book about animals, elephants, family and France, yet there isn’t time to absorb them. The idea of this story is fantastic but very hard to believe. I was shocked to see that I have read this book before and loved it. It is amazing what a few years can do to one’s perspective.
I do think the illustrations are wonderful and help tell the story quite a lot.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Story of Babar by Jean de Brunhoffy on Amazon.
Read my Review on GoodReads from a few years ago:
The Story of Babar by Jean de Brunhoff
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Story of Babar The Little Elephant by Jean De Brunhoff, was published in 1933 and must have been quite a hit among children. I know I loved it. Even though Babar loses his mother, his adventurous spirit leads him to the city and new human friends. Later he becomes king. What a sweet story that I believe can stand the test of time.
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Days With Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel
Days with Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In the book Days with Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel, I found a total of 5 stories: Tomorrow, The Kite, Shivers, The Hat, and Alone. I really had a hard time choosing a favorite but I finally decided on Alone. The reason I chose Alone, is that even the best of friends sometimes needs some time alone and that is what this story is about. Toad went to Frog’s house to find a note telling Toad that Frog was gone and that he wanted to be alone.
Toad spent the day worrying about their relationship, when really Frog was in great spirits and just wanted to spend uninterrupted time being thankful. Being thankful is important, just like spending time with our friends.
I really enjoy the honest and authentic amphibian relationship that Frog and Toad share.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Days with Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel on Amazon.
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Harold’s ABC’s by Crockett Johnson
Harold’s ABC by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I believe I have read all or at least most of Crockett Johnson’s Harold and the Purple Crayon books, but I must admit, Harold’s ABC’s is my least favorite of these children’s classics. The story and the art was tedious and forced to include all the letters of the alphabet in order. This is very unlike the natural flow of Harold’s natural drawing imagination.
View all my reviews
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This month our books traveled through many topics: Black History, Imagination, Family, Friendship, and Learning. That is what books do. They are always moving us. I hope you let yourself be moved by books.
Be blessed.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Jesus Follower, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Jesus Follower…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jan 27, 2025 | Book & Product Reviews, Cancer, Opinions, Queer Community
January has been quite the month. It is the start of a new year and the start of a new presidency. I have been having some dental work done. There are many reasons to turn to children’s books. As I have written before, children’s books are great stress reliever. We don’t have children in our house, but we sure do own a lot of children’s books, not just so I can write this blog, but in case my great nephews come over…or any other amazing short people or just anyone that wants to have a light read wants to grab one.
Now without further ado 5 Books for January 2025:
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The Berenstain Bears Count Their Blessings by Stan and Jan Berenstain
The Berenstain Bears Count Their Blessings by Stan Berenstain
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Berenstain Bears Count Their Blessings by Stan and Jan Berenstain is just another sweet story, in a long line of high morale children’s classics that help teach positivity. In this story, Mama Bear is a bit stressed because every time Brother and Sister go to visit a friend, they come back, excited about what their friends have, they they don’t have. But on this day, there is thunder and lightening storm that knocks out the electricity. This is the perfect time for Mama and Papa to talk about the weather and counting their blessings as the family huddles around the fire with their hot chocolate.
I find this fiction animal picture book to be endearing and educational.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Berenstain Bears Count Their Blessings by Stan and Jan Berenstain on Amazon.
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Harold’s Fairy Tale by Crockett Johnson
Harold’s Fairy Tale by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Harold’s Fairy Tale by Crockett Johnson is a fantasy that begins in an enchanted garden with no flowers. Of course Harold must find out why that is, so on his art adventure he ends up in a castle with a sad king. There Harold meets with a witch with giant feet, a swarm of mosquitos, fire, rain and then a beautiful enchanted garden full of flowers and a fairy that gives him one wish, that he trades for a flying carpet that brings him home. When he finds his mother, he asks her to read him a bedtime story.
I got this adorable book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Harold’s Fairy Tale by Crockett Johnson on Amazon.
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Curious George Flies a Kite by Margret Rey
Curious George Flies a Kite by Margret Rey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Curious George is a monkey that always finds himself in an adventure. In Curious George Flies a Kite by Margret Rey, the man in the yellow hat has work to do so George has the day to amuse himself. His new ball is a lot of fun, until George gets distracted by the window and must see who would live in the tiny house next door. This is George’s first experience with rabies and he really enjoys them until he sees a man going fishing. He tries to go fishing on his own but has no success and luckily his friend, Bill, is there to help get George out of the water. Bill has a kite, which turns out to be great fun until George attempts to fly the kite by himself. Fortunately, the man in the yellow hat is able to catch George in a helicopter and bring George and the kite back home.
This fun fiction children’s classic with animals is brought to life by the colorful pictures by H. A. Rey. This picture book is full of humor, morals and the innocent whims of Curious George.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Curious George Flies a Kite by Margret Rey on Amazon.
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Frank the Farting Flamingo by Humor Heals Us
Frank the Farting Flamingo: A Story About a Flamingo Who Farts by Humor Heals Us
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Frank the Farting Flamingo by Humor Heals Us is just another children’s fiction picture book that gives us another reason to talk about farting. I don’t think most kids need a reason for this, but they will enjoy it. Frank is adorable though…and who doesn’t like to fart anyway?
I originally bought a copy of this book for my friend Linea, who insists she has the soul of a 10-year-old boy living inside of her. She loves flamingos and it made her laugh so much that I bought a copy for myself.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Frank the Farting Flamingo by Humor Heals Us on Amazon.
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Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel
Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I had Frog and Toad books as a child and I was glad to recently obtain the collection. Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel is a delightful collection of 5 stories about amphibian friends, Frog and Toad: Spring, The Story, A Lost Button, A Swim and The Letter. I enjoyed all of the stories about Frog and Toad and their animal friends but my favorite is The Story.
Frog had come to visit Toad and he did not feel well. Toad offered Frog his bed and Frog asked Toad for a story. Toad, not able to think of a story, did all sorts of things to try to make his brain come up with one. He was not successful. But just as Frog felt better, he and Toad switched spots, because Toad no longer felt well. In turn, Toad asked for a story and Frog told Toad a story about a friend that did all sorts of silly things to help him come up with a story to tell his sick friend. By the end of the story Toad was sound asleep.
When I read this classic children’s story, my wife, Karen G Clemenson, had come home for lunch and she very much enjoyed these stories too. She told me that she enjoyed The Letter the most. It was about Toad and how he got sad waiting for the mail because he never got anything. When he told Frog about this, Frog immediately went home and wrote him a letter about how much he enjoyed his friendship. Frog gave the message to a snail to deliver. Four days later, as they were waiting for the mail, both Frog and Toad were overjoyed that Toad got such a lovely letter. I enjoyed this story too because it reminded me of my sister, Jamie Holloway, and I because even though we communicate daily, we also send letters to each other.
I enjoy how these two friends truly love and accommodate each other in this book. What a lovely example of friendship.
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel on Amazon
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Oct 28, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Books can take you all sorts of adventures. Some of these books I am sharing this month were books I read as a child. Some of them I read to my preschool students or nieces and nephews. Some of them are brand new to me but they remind me of other people in my life. Books are so important. I love to watch children fall in love with books because I know that books not only increase our ability to imagine new places but they teach us self reliance and resilience. If you can imagine yourself doing something, you can make it happen. I hope you are fostering love for books with the young people in your life.
Now without further ado 5 Books for October 2024:
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The Raggedy Andy Stories by Johnny Gruelle
The Raggedy Andy Stories: The Very First Raggedy Andy Stories by Johnny Gruelle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I grew up with Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy and I had The Raggedy Andy Stories by Johnny Gruelle as a child. Reading this collection of children’s classics fiction stories was heartwarming and nostalgic. Out of the 8 stories: How Raggedy Andy Came, The Nursery Dance, The Spinning Wheel, The Taffy Pull, The Rabbit Chase, Raggedy Andy’s Smile, The Wooden Horse, and Making Angels in the Snow, I have to say the 6th story, Raggedy Andy’s Smile is my favorite. I loved my dolls. I loved to help them or other children’s dolls or blankets when their smile wore off or some other repair needed to be made. I love that Santa came to the rescue of all of Marcella’s dolls and repaired them all because she loved her dolls and played with them every day.
This beautiful fantasy picture book is filled with love and friendship and is perfect for any story time. I really enjoyed reading this book.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Raggedy Andy Stories by Johnny Gruelle on Amazon.
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Harold at The North Pole by Crockett Johnson
Harold at the North Pole by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Harold at the North Pole by Crockett Johnson is another children’s classic fantasy about Harold and his crayon and how he solves a problem though art. This time, Harold needs a Christmas tree before Santa comes to his house. While he is out looking and drawing, there is a snow storm and he gets a little lost, but ends up at the North Pole where Santa is snowed in. Although Santa can jump up the chimney, his sleigh and all his reindeer cannot, so Harold helps him out. Harold also finds the perfect tree, just in time. This beautiful children’s holiday fiction picture book is perfect for any story time.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Harold at the North Pole by Crockett Johnson on Amazon.
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Fairy the Farting Unicorn by Humor Heals Us
Fairy the Farting Unicorn : A Funny Kid’s Book About a Unicorn Who Farts by Humor Heals Us
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Fairy the Farting Unicorn by Humor Heals Us is so fun to read. It book every rule about bodily functions my nana ever taught me, but I think, even Nana would have laughed at Fairy’s floral scented flatulence, especially when she blasted the animal poachers to France! Even though the word fart was consider the “F” word when I was growing up, I have found that farting happens and children, especially my nephews, love books about farting, so I was excited to add this book to my collection fiction picture books and I have laughed through my first reading of this great fantasy. The rainbow colored illustrations are exceptional too!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Fairy the Farting Unicorn by Humor Heals Us on Amazon.
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A Treasury of Curious George by Margret & H.A. Rey
A Treasury of Curious George by Margret Rey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Treasury of Curious George by Margret & H.A. Rey is a collection of 8 stories that include: Curious George Takes a Train, Curious George Visits a Toys Store, Curious George and the Dump Truck, Curious George and the Birthday Surprise, Curious George Goes Camping, Curious George Goes to a Costume Party, Curious George Visits the Library, and Curious George in the Big City. All stories were fun and educational as we watch a little monkey, named George, be curious and get into all kinds of adventure, but if I had to pick one favorite, it would be Curious George and the Dump Truck.
In Curious George and the Dump Truck the story starts out with ducks and ducks are one of my favorite animals. George likes them too and since he had never seen ducks before, he followed them to the park where he found a dump truck. The workers were on their lunch break. George really reminds me of my nephew, Kaison, who doesn’t have a lot of words yet, but he has enough energy and curiosity for 10 children and that can lead to anything, much like the creative situations that George often finds himself in. He doesn’t mean to cause trouble, but messes often happen and there always some fun.
The illustrations in this classic fiction picture book are in the style of H.A. Rey, by Vipah International and Martha Weston and they are heartwarming and fun. George makes any story time fun.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of A Treasury of Curious George by Margret & H.A. Rey on Amazon.
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Walter the Farting Dog Goes On a Cruise by William Katzwinkle, Glenn Murray & Elizabeth Gundy
Walter the Farting Dog Goes on a Cruise by William Kotzwinkle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I always wonder why Walter’s family take him on adventures since his atrocious gas always gets him alienated from society, but I love that they adore him enough to try to include him. Although one might see Walter’s horrendous gas as a handicap, it always turns out to save the day, just as it does in Walter the Farting Dog Goes On a Cruise by William Katzwinkle, Glenn Murray & Elizabeth Gundy. As always Walter is isolated because no one, not even the other animals, can stand the smell of his farting, but when the computer system goes out on the cruise ship, leaving Walter on a dingy attached to the back of the boat worked out for everyone as some especially powerful farts project Walter and the ship directly into port right on time, saving the day even with some humor.
The fun and colorful illustrations by Audrey Colman really add to the enjoyment of this children’s fiction picture book.
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Walter the Farting Dog Goes On a Cruise by William Katzwinkle, Glenn Murray & Elizabeth Gundy on Amazon.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Sep 17, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I believe that Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier is one of the saddest stories I have ever read. The first time I ever heard about this book, I was reading The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams. This classic fiction novel was on the reading list in this book; since then I have also seen it on a couple more literary must read lists, so I purchased it and made sure to read it. I don’t believe the book mentions any dates for reference, but it must take place around the time it was written, 1938. I suspect this because people had cars but no TVs in their homes, women were educated but men still did most of the talking.
“I believe there is a theory that men and women emerge finer and stronger after suffering, and that to advance in this or any world, we must endure ordeal by fire.” Chapter 2
Rebecca was the name of the first wife of Mr. de Winter. Although Rebecca is dead, she is still the main character throughout this mystery. Although the narrator and secondary character is the second Mrs. de Winter and we never hear her first name throughout this entire romance thriller.
Rebecca is an intense book. It is well written. I was compelled to continue reading it. There was growth in the characters, especial the second Mrs. de Winter, but it was a stressful story. I am not in love with the ending. It doesn’t feel finished.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I related a lot to the narrator of this book. As a young woman I was very shy and not able to communicate or feel capable of knowing how to make myself known. The second Mrs. de Winter was a very young lady when she married her much older husband and she had no idea the history of the family she was marrying into or even the history of her husband. She had a lot of learning and growing to do and she was forced to do it or lose him. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier is a complicated and sad story of mystery and manipulation.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 29, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I can’t believe that summer break is over and school has begun again. Summertime flew by. It seems to go faster every year. I hope you got your reading in. I read 24 books over the summer. I think that is pretty good for me, considering only 9 of them were adult books. I love to read. If you have any books you would like me to review just let me know! Now for the 5 Books for August 2024:
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Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Cricket Johnson
Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love Harold and I love his adventures. Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Cricket Johnson is a sweet and classic children’s fiction story that takes you along with Harold and his purple crayon as he attempts to visit the moon, but misses and lands on Mars instead. Don’t worry, in this space fantasy Harold still makes it home in time for breakfast. I love how Harold talks about what people are afraid of and he bravely faces them with his art. I think this is my favorite Harold and the Purple Crayon picture book.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Cricket Jonhson on Amazon.
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Make Way for the Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I remember having Make Way for the Ducklings by Robert McCloskey on my bookshelf when I was a child. I had an aunt and uncle who lived in Boston, where this fiction story takes place and they had sent the book to us. I don’t remember the story though. It made reading this children’s classic, like new today and I am glad I have this book to share with my great niece and nephews. I love how this bird family, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard looked for the perfect place, free from foxes, turtles and other animals, bicycles and other things with wheels to raise their ducklings. I also love how when the ducks were ready for their first adventure, the police were ready to make way for the ducklings. This is a perfect family picture book.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Make Way for the Duckling by Robert McCloskey on Amazon.
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Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G. Hennessy
Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G. Hennessy
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G. Hennessy is an adorable bear adventure just like the fiction animal adventures had by the character created by Don Freeman. It is great to see Corduroy continue on with new artists! In this children’s classic story, Corduroy finds out that Lisa’s birthday is coming and he wants to find the perfect gift for her. But on the way he gets lost. With the help of new friends, Lisa finds him, which is she really wanted all along. This precious family story is the perfect addition to story time. The illustrations by Jody Wheeler really bring this fantasy picture book to life.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G.Hennessy on Amazon.
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Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang
Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Jim Panzee woke up in a bad mood but he doesn’t know it, but luckily all his animal friends in the jungle are there for him and help him understand his feelings. It’s ok to feel what your feel, even if its s a beautiful day. Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang is a wonderful children’s fiction book that examines emotions with the use of humor. The illustrations by Max Lang are fun and inviting to any story time.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang on Amazon.
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Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale by William Katzwinkle and Glenn Murray
Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble At the Yard Sale by William Kotzwinkle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Surprisingly, Walter’s family brought him to the yard sale and wondered why no one came to their yard sale, not even other animals. If you know about Walter, you know he is a dog with terrible, smelly gas. Walter probably should have stayed inside for the day but where is the humor in that? Walter’s amazing farting was so powerful, he only caught the attention of a wannabe bank robber with extra stinky crime on his mind, in Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale by William Katzwinkle and Glenn Murray. I was shocked that Father was willing to part with Walter for only $10 but in the end, Walter made his way home and saved the day. The fun illustrations by Audrey Colman really make this children’s fiction picture book extra fun!
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale by William Katzwinkle and Glenn Murray on Amazon.
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You learn such amazing things when you read. Sometimes you just learn about yourself and what you like. Reading is one of the best things I ever learned. I hope you make time to read.
Be blessed.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 26, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg takes place between 1924 and 1988. It is a compilation of stories told by Mrs. Ninny Threadgood to Evelyn Couch when she comes with her husband to visit his mother at Rose Terrace Nursing Home. Evelyn is not welcomed by her mother-in-law so she finds herself visiting with a lively lady; Mrs. Threadgood, who loves to tell her about the amazing stories of Whistle Stop, Alabama, where she grew up and would like to return, as soon as her roommate Mrs. Otis gets comfortable and can handle her leaving.
For years, Fried Green Tomatoes has been my favorite movie. People have always told me that it was a queer friendly movie and I never saw it. But I have finally purchased the book and the book is now one of my favorites. Idgie (one of the main characters) was a lesbian and her mother knew it and if it bothered her, she didn’t let it show. She loved her daughter. she had a suit made for her to wear to her sister’s wedding instead of fighting her over a dress. When she saw that Idgie loved Ruth, she announced it at the family dinner table and sent the kids away for laughing at her. When Ruth came back to be with Idgie, leaving her abusive husband, pregnant, Idgie’s father gave her $500 to buy a business to support her family. To have the love and support from their family and community must have been amazing.
The nice thing about books is they have time to develop characters that movies don’t and even though it is fiction, I love how Flagg showed us the depth of each character and even brought us to the end of their life. Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe is a classic contemporary story of love, empowerment, humor and southern flare. It is properly based in a historical fiction setting that is interesting all on its own but also relevant to all female literature readers as well. The book has everything in it to keep the pages turning mystery, murder, social injustice and lots of friendship. I highly recommend this book to anyone!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I LOVE THIS BOOK! I have seen the movie several times. It is one of my favorites but the book, as always, has caught my heart and will be on my shelf for when I need to go to a more simple time. Fannie Flag wrote a masterpiece about topics that are not always easy to talk about but she did it so smoothly that I was overwhelmed with all kinds of emotions. People had always told me that two of the main characters, Ruth and Idgie were a couple, but I didn’t think they were more than great friends. The movie was not specific enough for me, but the book was blatant and I needed that. The entire book takes place between the 1920’s and the 1980’s while Mrs. Threadgood, a resident at the home where Evelyn Couch’s mother in law lives, tells Evelyn about her life in Whistle Stop, Alabama. Through the powerful stories, their relationship brings Mrs. Threadgood a new friend and helps Evelyn come to terms with middle age, menopause and herself. I could hardly put this book down!
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 24, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
The best times I had as a kid were under the apple trees in my back yard. I would steal my mom’s old sheets and find some string or yarn and make a tent and live in there until I had to come out. When I wasn’t doing my doll’s hair I was reading. It was a great way to find shade and let my imagination run wild. I hope you are finding times with your kids making forts and reading piles of books. It is the best way to take adventures without going anywhere, especially when parents have to work and kids need something to do. I hear Longview Public Library has some great programs this summer too! Now for our 5 books for July 2024:
The Grouchy Lady Bug by Eric Carle
The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have to admit I was a little grumpy when I started to read The Grouchy Lady Bug by Eric Carle and the art in this colorful children’s picture book really cheered me up. The grouchy lady bug has terrible manners and big emotions and feels like fighting but can’t seem to find the perfect animal to fight no matter where she goes on her adventure. This great classic family fiction book talks about time, size, shape, mathematics and manners and is even a board book so it can be washed a bit, making it a perfect story time book.
This is definitely a book to read again and again. In fact, apparently I read and reviewed this book last summer too! 🙂
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Grouchy Lady Bug by Eric Carle on Amazon.
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A Picture for Harold’s Room by Crockett Johnson
A Picture for Harold’s Room by Crockett Johnson
A Picture for Harold’s Room was written in 1960 by Crockett Johnson. It is a wonderful adventure story as Harold, wanting to create a picture for his room imagines an entire world where he becomes very large and also very small. This fiction children’s classic is the perfect pace for family story time before bed while Harold explores and explains the fantasy world he creates in this picture book. I really enjoyed it.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of A Picture for Harold’s Room by Crockett Johnson on Amazon.
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Dandelion by Don Freeman
Dandelion by Don Freeman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Dandelion by Don Freeman is a story about a lion that is invited to a party and wants to change his look but his friends like him the way he is and don’t recognize him. This classic fiction book is full of different animals who all help Dandelion with his day of fashion or enjoy him at the party after they finally let him in. I think this picture book is a little short-sighted because no one lets Dandelion explore his new look but only likes him when he stays the same. Sometimes that happens in real life so maybe this book also brings value to story time.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Dandelion by Don Freeman on Amazon.
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Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson
Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson is a colorful children’s fantasy picture book that reminds us that no one is perfect. We all color outside the lines sometimes or make mistakes and it is ok. With wonderful words that rhyme, Stinson uses poetry to liven up story time with fiction that is as real as true life and farting. The illustrations by Rebecca Ashdown add humor and aid our imagination to take us to fun places. I recommend this book.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson on Amazon.
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Layla the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish and Jerdine Nolen
Layla, the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Layla is about to start school for the first time and she is a little nervous. She has spent all her life in the Overlook Woods with her animal friends and that is where she is comfortable. But as fall comes, it is time to go to school at Unicornia with all the other unicorns. Layla the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish and Jerdine Nolen us a fantasy children’s story about learning how to find your way in a new place. This fiction picture book is brought to life by illustrations by Jessica Gibson. This book, about how our differences can be our strength, will be a great addition to your story time.
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Layla the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish and Jerdine Nolen on Amazon.
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I had a great time reading this books. Let me tell you, it was what I needed to get my mind off of politics!
Be Blessed!
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jun 28, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
It is officially summer time and the kids are home. There is no better reason to be reading children’s books. I hope you are enjoying time in any book you enjoy but if you have kids, there is no better time than time spent reading with your kids. When you read to kids to teach them that learning and loving is important, you encourage communication too and that is so important. With out much further ado…here are our 5 Books for June 2024.
Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson
Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson is an amazing adventure for Harold as he draws his way through his visit to the circus. With humor he tells us about the animals and dogs, clowns and even the treats in this fiction children’s classic. Harold is endearing and charming and provides many ways to talk about all kinds of things in this picture book. Harold’s Circus is an outstanding addition to any family story time.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson on Amazon.
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Curious George Rides A Bike by H.A. Rey
Curious George Rides a Bike by H.A. Rey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
George is a little monkey that is known for humor and getting himself into adventures and Curious George Rides a Bike by H.A. Rey does not disappoint. It is George’s 3rd anniversary with the Man in the Yellow Hat and he has given George a beautiful bike as a gift. While his friend finishes work, George explores the town in this picture book and finds ducks and other animals at the zoo. In this fiction children’s classic, George even gets to play a part in the zoo performance that night. This story book is super fun!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Curious George Rides a Bike by H.A. Rey on Amazon.
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Walter the Farting Dog Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle, Glen Murray and Elizabeth Gundy
Walter the Farting Dog: Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Walter always makes me laugh and the fact that his family loves him in spite of his terrible gas is very endearing. Yet not everyone can, as seen in this fiction family story, Walter the Farting Dog Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle, Glen Murray and Elizabeth Gundy.
First Walter is banned from the beach and then he is banned rom the village because of his bodacious farting but it is that same gargantuan gas bombs that ends up saving the day, finding buried treasure and helping the family afford their own private beach house where Walter is free to fart and not be condemned.
The illustrations by Audry Colman make this story book even more hilarious! I highly recommend this book that is exploding with humor!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Walter the Farting Dog Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle, Glen Murray and Elizabeth Gundy on Amazon.
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The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale Retold by Angela Elwell Hunt
The Tale of Three Trees : A Traditional Folktale by Angela Elwell Hunt
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale retold by Angela Elwell Hunt is a beautiful children’s fiction picture book. Based on religion folklore, the story tells us how three trees grow up to become tools that serve Jesus through His life on earth. The illustrations by Tim Jonke are stunning and really bring the book to life. This is a special story to add to any book collection.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale retold by Angela Elwell Hunt on Amazon.
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Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett is a fun family story filled with humor and fantasy, told by a grandfather to his grandkids about a place called Chewandswallow where all the food came from the sky. This was a great place to live until it got out of hand and everyone had to escape for their lives. This children’s fiction picture book is brought to life by illustrations by Ron Barrett. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs will make any story time more tasty!
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett on Amazon.
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I had so much fun picking out these book. I hope you enjoyed reading the reviews. If you want to hear about any books you have heard about please send me a message with the form below and I will make sure to try to find that book.
Be blessed.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Apr 2, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I do know that I am at least 3 days late with this article but I do believe that wonderful things can happen in only 3 days…which is why so many people celebrate Resurrection Sunday. In reality my family was really busy in the month of March which is why I am late but the books I chose for this month were really great and worth the wait.
I am wondering, did you ever get a chance to check out any of the other books I have reviewed? Let me know!
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Just You and Me by Jennifer Ward
Just You and Me: Remarkable Relationships in the Wild by Jennifer Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Just You and Me by Jennifer Ward is a nonfiction book about symbiotic relationships in nature, on land and in the sea. These relationships have been created by what seems to be unlikely animal friends but they have learned to work together to take care of each other.
For instance a Nile crocodile can’t clean their own teeth so they allow an Egyptian plover bird to hop, safely into their mouth to eat the leftover food in their teeth and gums. The crocodile gets a clean mouth and the bird gets a full belly.
The colorful illustrations by Alexander Vidal add great interest in this picture book and help showcase the relationships of these unlikely friends. I think they also make for great conversations starters for children and grownups alike.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Just You and Me by Jennifer Ward on Amazon.
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Homeless by Bernard Wolf
Homeless by Bernard Wolf
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Homeless by Bernard Wolf is a very touching nonfiction story told in the voice of Mikey, an 8-year-old boy. Mikey and his family are homeless and are living in a very hard and real scenario. This book was published in 1995, but there are still a lot of similar stories like Mikey’s
I don’t think this book is meant for very young children because they just won’t have the attention span, but for children 7 and older, I think this would be a powerful way to help children learn to empathize with people experiencing homelessness.
Wolf didn’t just write this biography, he also showcased the story with powerful photography that illustrated the family’s life. Both the writing and photography help to illustrate the difficulties of families that need help.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Homeless by Bernard Wolf on Amazon.
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Rabbit and Squirrel A Tale of War and Peas by Kara LaReau
Rabbit & Squirrel: A Tale of War and Peas by Kara LaReau
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The illustrations by Scott Magoon are adorable. This is my favorite thing about the picture book Rabbit and Squirrel A Tale of War and Peas by Kara LaReau. I really wanted to love this book but the animal characters: Rabbit and Squirrel loved gardening but never tried to share their produce. They were quick to judge each other and when the farmer kicked them out of their garden, they continued to blame each other.
The thought of them getting sick of blaming each other and growing a garden together is not enough for me. I realize this is a fiction book but I want a better moral to the story, not just for me but for the children that would be inspired by this book. I will be choosing a different book for storytime at my house.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Rabbit and Squirrel A Tale of War and Peas by Kara LaReau on Amazon.
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Corduroy Takes a Bow by Viola Davis
Corduroy Takes a Bow by Viola Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I haven’t read about Corduroy for years but I have already ordered Corduroy and A Pocket for Corduroy by Don Freeman, the original creator of this fiction series, for my personal children’s book collection. These books will be in my next review. I so enjoyed Corduroy Takes a Bow by Viola Davis and it is in my shopping cart right now!
Lisa and her mother have gone to the theater for the first time. They are excited to see Mother Goose and of course Lisa has brought along her teddy bear, Corduroy. In true form, Corduroy has found a way to have an animal adventure while at the theater but still make it back into Lisa’s arms.
I love the illustrations by Jody Wheeler for this picture book. I love that both Davis and Wheeler stayed faithful to the original character of Corduroy, who is always lovable and heartwarming.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Corduroy Takes a Bow by Viola Davis on Amazon.
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Fred’s Big Feelings The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld
Fred’s Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I loved Mr. Rogers Neighborhood all my life. I would still watch reruns if I could find them. Mr. Rogers knew how to talk so I could understand my emotions and good ways to express them. Fred’s Big Feelings The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld is a very children’s-sized version of another nonfiction biography I have read and reviewed: The Good Neighbor The Life and Work of Fred Rogers by Maxwell King.
I am not sure a young child would have the attention span for this book because of the amount of history in it, but a child of 7 and up would appreciate this book. Especially the parts that talk about Mr. Rogers as a child. Parents will appreciate knowing how much time Mr. Rogers studied mental health as part of his spirituality journey so that he could project honesty and care into all of his programming. The illustrations by Brigitte Barrager add a lot to this picture book as well.
View all my reviews
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Fred’s Big Feelings The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld on Amazon.
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I really enjoyed the books I found for March. Reading children’s books has become something I am really enjoying and collecting them for the children in my life is become a small hobby that makes me happy as well.
What are some things that bring you joy?
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
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