Sheri Fink (2)

A monster and that with a glow-in-the-dark cover...this is definitely one, I'd grab up and flip through if I saw it on the shelves.

Little Monster's birthday is coming up and while he's super excited about the surprises it might hold, one surprise ruins everything. Since he's now older, his parents decide that it's time him and his brother each have their own room. It's supposed to be great, but Little Monster doesn't really want to leave his brother, especially since he harbors a secret show more fear—the dark. He tries his best to get over it, but night after night, he can't sleep, and it's beginning to wear on him. But maybe, this isn't something he needs to hide after all.

This tale centers around fears and the message that it's better to tell others, so they can offer advice and help. First, I found the monsters very sweet. They have monsterly habits to keep them curious and intriguing, and yet, are super sweet and have a wonderful family dynamic. The brothers do like each other very much, leaving only a positive sibling relationship on display. It's hard not to identify with the Little Monster as he tries his best to be 'big', but still has troubles...it's simply something that many young readers will have no trouble relating to.

This is really a 'story' book, which works great as a read-aloud. Beginning readers might struggle a bit, but those more sure of the words can tackle this one on their own, too. The illustrations follow very nicely along with the tale, enabling younger listeners to explore the tale on their own.
I received an ARC and found his monster adorable. show less

If readers ever wanted a little dragon to be their best friend, the one in this book might just be the one they've been looking for.

The Little Dragon is such a sweet, carefree, and playful creature, who likes to dance with its whole heart. One day, when its dancing is especially carefree, it hears a rustle and a giggle in the trees. Sure enough, someone is there watching but the Little Dragon can't discover who. The embarrassment buries deep into its chest and before the Little Dragon knows show more what happens, its burnt down a tree. The only remedy to solve this emotional drama is to forbid dragons from ever entering its territory. But things are never that easy.

This book radiates happiness and color, fitting perfectly in with the Little Dragon's own personality. When disaster strikes, it's easy to sympathize with him, although his solution will definitely have young listeners shaking their heads and wondering what this little dragon is thinking! It's a wholesome read which brings the message across in an enchanting, fairy tale way.

The illustrations are bright and bold, and have the atmosphere of a cartoon...which kids are sure to enjoy. The happiness streams from every page, and it's easy to follow the story. Even when a reader isn't available, the youngest will enjoy glancing through and accompanying the Little Dragon on their own.

I received a complimentary copy and enjoyed the tale enough to want to leave my honest thoughts show less

Little unicorn fans' hearts will pound faster when they dive into this warming read, one where important messages hide beneath magic's sparkle.

The Little Unicorn lives happily in her forest, surrounded by friends and cheerfulness. But even happy unicorns get curious sometimes. So one day, she decides to explore a darker part of the forest and discovers that things aren't as happy and colorful as her home. Anxious to return home, she soon finds herself lost, but worse yet, she begins to loose show more her sparkle.

The story starts with a wonderfully enchanting and traditional beginning, giving it the immediate flare of a magical journey. The Little Unicorn is introduced as a happy and joyful unicorn, something which immediate draws smiles. Her curiosity isn't a fault, nor does she do anything wrong or really make a bad decision, and it's this which keeps the Little Unicorn easy to love and feel for as things turn against her. The tale seems simple at first, but the author manages to work in messages on several different levels. Younger listeners will see the value of friendship and remembering to look for the best in oneself, while older readers will notice the dangers of self-doubt and depression. It's an unexpected and interesting mix.

The illustrations are bright, bold and simple. While they bring across the story very nicely, a little personal touch would have added to the magic and appeal.

It's an enjoyable read with lovely messages and a fun adventure, one kids are sure to want to hear again and again.

I received a complimentary copy and found the story so sweet and encouraging that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts. show less