January is a big month for independent book reviews for me! Ranging from picture books to adult non-fiction, there are a variety to read about. If you know of an independent book I should include in my blog, please send me a message by clicking here!
Babies Build Toddlers (Reedsy) - Nonfiction
After co-authoring a book on a similar subject, I was excited to get to review this book for Reedsy. Written for parents, Babies Build Toddlers helps teach the importance of every moment of time from birth to enhance success in school and in life. This is a vital read for parents whether they have one child or many and even if Montessori learning is not the first choice. Employing the lessons taught in this book will help children become lifelong learners. You can read my full review here.
Escape (independent request) - YA
Mental illness is a heart wrenching reality for many, with more and more teens feeling the impact themselves. Because it is not often discussed, people tend to keep these emotions hidden, preventing them from getting the help they need. Stories like this one help people better understand anxiety and depression in a safe and non-judge mental way. This is an important story for teen readers! You can see my full review here.
Esme Zur and the I of the Age (Reedsy) - Middle Grade
When I review Indie books especially, I sometimes find that the ideas are great but that the writing could use some improvement. Such was the case in Esme Zur, which reminded me a lot of Ender’s Game in a futuristic, dystopian Earth that has been ravaged by global warming. I hope that this book gets some revision, because the story itself is very compelling! You can read my full review here.
Guardian of the Groceries (Reedsy) - Picture Book
If you’ve ever had to find a way to get a child out of a boredom slump, you’ll appreciate the story in Guardian of the Groceries. A mom and helpful store employee encourage a young boy’s imagination to make a trip to the grocery store feel more exciting than it might otherwise. You can read my full review here.
I Can’t Reach It! (Reedsy) - Picture Book
I loved the appearance of this book from the moment I opened it up. The friendly, colorful illustrations are immediately welcoming, and the accessible, repetitive text makes the story well suited to young readers. The lessons Moyo the giraffe learns throughout the story will resonate with readers of all ages. Please see my full review here.
King Genghis I (Independent request) - YA/Adult
Though Genghistan is a fictional place, the political tone of this book is immediate nonetheless. Ruled by a benevolent, self-appointed dictator named King Genghis I, Genghistan is famed for its abundant wealth. Romance, adventure, and political satire are the primary themes of this book. You can read my full review here.
Little Hoo Gets the Wiggles Out (Book Sirens) - Picture Book
As someone who has both experienced anxiety her entire life and presented hundreds of Storytimes, this book was a perfect storm. At once silly and educational, young children and their caregivers will love reading this new addition to the Little Hoo canon together. It’s especially motivational to encourage movement in readers of all ages! You can read my full review here.
Pigsy the Rainbow Piglet (Reedsy) - Picture Book
Pigsy misses her friends and often feels sad because of it. During COVID times when so many children (and adults!) are suffering the effects of isolation, books like this one help give them actionable tools to ease their emotional burden. This is an especially good story for young children who are learning the benefits of breathing and grounding. Please see my full review here.
Shadow’s Adventure Home (Reedsy) - Picture Book
Shadow the cat gets lost one day in his attempts to chase a bird. Much like the movie Homeward Bound, Shadow must overcome challenging obstacles to find his way back to his family. This picture book contains lovely illustrations and is a delightful story for children who love animals. You can read my full review here.
The Twice-Drowned Prince (Reedsy) - YA
I received a copy of this book through Reedsy and I LOVED it. Rarely do I find a book that resonates with me as deeply as this one did. On the surface, it is a retelling of The Little Mermaid from the perspective of the prince. Looking deeper, however, there are layers of love and secrets and loyalty that strike chords with readers long after the book ends. You can read my full review here.
Zoo-Zoo and Zee-Zee Fly to Honeyland (independent request) - Picture Book
Zoo-Zoo and Zee-Zee are twin sister bees but, while they look mostly alike, Zee-Zee is much smaller. Together, they set out to find Zee-Zee some nectar she will enjoy eating so she can become bigger. This story is sweet in both content and appearance and is best suited to readers aged 6 and under. You can read my full review here.
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