"This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!" Psalm 118:24 My BFF writing partner emailed me this verse today. I AM rejoicing in all that the Lord did to help me get to my publication day. One of the ways I am celebrating is by sharing… Continue reading Launch Event for Half-Truths: Join the Celebration!
INTRODUCING A NEW GUEST BLOGGER and INTERNATIONAL CONNECTIONS I "met" Isabelle when I saw her interview with Irish children's fantasy author, Valinora Troy and read her review on Greg Pattridge's MMGM blog. I was so impressed with her maturity and love for books, that I asked if she would be interested in sharing her reviews… Continue reading Why ‘The Potion Experiment’ Is a Must-Read for Kids
Bowers and Shady by Margaret Dardess is an entertaining and thought-provoking historical adventure. In the aftermath of the Civil War, times are hard for everyone. Thirteen-year-old Bowers Jamison embarks on a trip from Iowa to Colorado to track down his uncle, who stole his father’s magical pocket watch. The watch is believed to bring good luck… Continue reading Bowers and Shady: A Middle-Grade Book Review by Kathryn Dover
I don't think I've every posted two reviews of the same book on my blog, but I'm making an exception this time. The first review of Heartsmith by Stephanie Cotta was by Kate Lundeen. Since then, I read it and wanted to share with all of you why I loved it. REVIEW I confess. I… Continue reading Heartsmith–A Dynamic Steampunk Fantasy, an Author Interview, and a Great Giveaway
T is for Trails: A Hiking Alphabet written by Judy Young and Illustrated by Sharisse Steber, (Sleeping Bear Press) is an engaging and educational book that introduces young readers to the wonders of hiking and the natural world through an A-to-Z exploration of hiking-related themes. The structure of the book is fun in that it combines both informational… Continue reading T is for Trails: A Comprehensive Book Review by Lori Keating
Introduction It's a delight for me to share the cover for Stacey Bartlett's forthcoming middle-grade novel, MONSTER MOUNTAIN (Monarch Press: 2025). For those of you who can't wait, you can scroll down to see it and read about the giveaway. For the rest of you who know how to bide your time and wait a… Continue reading You Can See It Here First: A Cover Reveal and Giveaway for Stacey Bartlett’s New Middle-Grade Novel
Just One Girl: A Fight for Equal Rights, authored by Trinka Hakes Noble and illustrated by Amanda Calatzis (Sleeping Bear Press), is a compelling and uplifting picture book that tackles the powerful themes of gender equality and the importance of standing up for one's rights. The book is set in a world where social structures are still heavily influenced… Continue reading JUST ONE GIRL: An Inspiring Picture Book Review by Lori Keating
REVIEW Monarch Publishing welcomes a new middle grade novel to the reading repertoire called Angels in the Sand by Lori Keating. This novel is a touching story about a contemporary family choosing joy amid hard circumstances. Jess and her mother Darlene make the annual East Coast trek to Grandma’s house during the Christmas holidays. Jess and Grandma… Continue reading Angels in The Sand: A Great MG Review by Kate Lundeen
Check out an older teen thriller from Monarch Books: Heartsmith by Stephanie Cotta. Be prepared to lose track of time with this mystery which is the first in a series. Review Aaren Lockett is a 16-year-old in search of a new start after life in an orphanage. He travels to the city of Rexanberg and plans to… Continue reading HEARTSMITH: An Upper MG/YA Book Review by Kate Lundeen
REVIEW JUNIA, written by New York Times bestselling author Kim Michele Richardson, and illustrated by David C. Gardner, (Sleeping Bear Press) follows the story of Junia, a mule with the important task of carrying the Pack Horse librarian, Book Woman, through rugged terrains in Kentucky to deliver books to remote communities. Despite challenging conditions, Junia remains steadfast,… Continue reading JUNIA: A Heart-Warming Picture Book Review by Lori Keating