tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72533188091376390572024-03-13T04:08:02.719-07:00Little Fiction Fascination
"There are perhaps no days of our childhood we lived so fully as those we spent with a favorite book."
–Marcel ProustCarlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.comBlogger139125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-33308658113215770542014-09-16T23:51:00.000-07:002014-09-16T23:51:02.020-07:00Finding a Voice by Kim Hood - Blog Tour!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6fVElfaVh2w/VBiYs2ADnQI/AAAAAAAABaw/oSbL7L5xIXw/s1600/FindingAVoice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6fVElfaVh2w/VBiYs2ADnQI/AAAAAAAABaw/oSbL7L5xIXw/s1600/FindingAVoice.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Summary from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22732218-finding-a-voice">Goodreads</a></b></span><br />
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<span id="freeText4954273022101038027">Jo could never have
guessed that the friendship she so desperately craves would come in the
shape of a severely disabled boy. He can’t even speak. Maybe it is
because he can’t speak that she finds herself telling him how difficult
it is living with her eccentric, mentally fragile mother.<br /><br />Behind
Chris’ lopsided grin and gigantic blue wheelchair is a real person —
with a sense of humour, a tremendous stubborn streak and a secret he has
kept from everyone.<br /><br />For a while it seems life may actually get
better. But as Jo finds out just how terrible life is for Chris, and as
her own life spirals out of control, she becomes desperate to change
things for both of them. In a dramatic turn of events, Jo makes a
decision that could end in tragedy.<br /><br />This is the story of how an unusual friendship unlocks the words that neither knew they had.</span><br />
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<span itemprop="bookFormatType">Paperback</span>, <span itemprop="numberOfPages">240 pages</span></div>
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Published
August 11th 2014
by O'Brien Press </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Guest Post</b></span></div>
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<b>RESEARCHING FINDING A VOICE </b><br />
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In a way, I have been doing research for Finding a Voice most of my life. It just so happens that many of my experiences in life have involved people with disabilities and challenges of various kinds. <br />
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My ‘day jobs’ have always been very interesting. I’ve taught kids in interesting places—like way up north in Canada and across the globe in Malawi. I’ve also taught interesting kids—kids who had tough times in regular classes because they just didn’t fit. Sometimes they didn’t fit because of mental health challenges, or because reading was a challenge, or because they had a unique way of experiencing the world that made it difficult for others to relate to them. I’ve also supported people with various disabilities to live in their homes. And occasionally, I have had the difficult task of supporting people when they needed the safety of a psychiatric ward in the hospital. <br />
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So when I naively started to write this novel, with no outline whatsoever, the characters that emerged came from those experiences I suppose. I wouldn’t say that they are ‘typical’ though, any more than any character in a novel is typical. Stories, even realistic stories, are supposed to be an exaggeration, aren’t they? Just a little happier, or a little sadder, or a little faster paced than our own lives. <br />
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And yet, I hope that this is a book that kids can ‘see themselves’ in. There are not enough books out there that depict the vastly varying experiences of kids--about ten percent of who happen to have a disability of some kind. I wonder if authors shy away from writing characters with disabilities because they are afraid of ‘not getting it right’. Even with half a lifetime of experience working with people with disabilities and mental illness, now that Finding a Voice is out there, I am afraid that I didn’t capture the experience of having a disability or mental illness correctly. <br />
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The stories that might not be told because of this fear! There are so many ways to find out more about kid’s experiences with disability and mental illness. There is the internet of course, but more importantly, there are real people out there who can share their experience. It’s okay to ask a person with a disability questions (someone you know of course!). There are also people like me—teachers, special needs assistants, therapists, support workers—who would be happy to answer questions about ‘technical stuff’ and maybe even make introductions to someone with a disability who might help with research. <br />
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I do hope that if an author has a great story, with a character who happens to have a disability, that the fear of ‘getting it wrong’ becomes less than the need to write the story, because kids need diverse books that reflect the diversity of their lives. I think we have an obligation to write those books. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span id="freeText4954273022101038027">About the Author</span></b></span></div>
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Kim Hood grew up in a Canada and now lives in Ireland with her family
and a menagerie of animals. Writing is her all-time favourite thing to
do—nearly a tie with reading. Her first novel Finding a Voice has just
been published by O’Brien Press. <a href="http://www.kimhood.com/" target="_blank">www.kimhood.com</a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A0-sLYqZgZg/VBia2cF7MOI/AAAAAAAABa4/G-TEgVNZSxs/s1600/Finding%2BA%2BVoice%2BBlog%2BTour%2BBanner%2Bhigh%2Bres(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A0-sLYqZgZg/VBia2cF7MOI/AAAAAAAABa4/G-TEgVNZSxs/s1600/Finding%2BA%2BVoice%2BBlog%2BTour%2BBanner%2Bhigh%2Bres(1).jpg" height="640" width="153" /></a></div>
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-77952824135328979452014-08-28T00:44:00.001-07:002014-08-28T00:44:39.431-07:00Found by Salina Yoon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.muffandteacake.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/found.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.muffandteacake.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/found.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Found is a very heart-felt and heart-warming tale full of friendship and doing the right thing. I think I quite possibly loved this a little more than<b> </b>an adult should....</span><br />
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Bear is such a lovely fellow, who stumbles upon a lost bunny while out on his travels. Being such a great guy, he makes it his mission to reunite the poor bunny with it's owner - who Bear is sure must be very sad!<br />
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He makes posters and searches high and low. Not having any luck, Bear lets himself have a fun filled day with the bunny he's come to love so much. Bear learns that doing the right thing isn't always the easiest.<br />
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We are huge fans of Salina Yoon's big blocky illustrations. They really are rather marvellous and Bear really is super duper cute.<br />
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Found proves the point that one man's trash is another man's treasure and our hearts just burst with happiness at Bear's happy ending. A really really beautiful story - we simply adored it!<br />
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5 / 5 Stars<br />
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*Special thanks to Bloomsbury for the review copy*<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-80449655829621006612014-08-25T00:23:00.000-07:002014-08-25T00:23:00.821-07:00Specs for Rex by Yasmeen Ismail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://payload201.cargocollective.com/1/0/28040/6329528/Rex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://payload201.cargocollective.com/1/0/28040/6329528/Rex.jpg" height="320" width="307" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
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Specs for Rex couldn't have arrived at a more perfect time for us. My little lady got her very first pair of glasses on the very same day...so it really was meant to be!<br />
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Rex is such a cool dude, who has just gotten a new pair of glasses. But the glassed are big and round...and red. So, they stick out for everyone to see. Rex doesn't want everyone at school to see his specs...so he hides them...in the funniest of places!<br />
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Turns out, having super cool glasses isn't such a bad thing when they help earn him a gold star. Even his friends fancy a pair themselves.<br />
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The illustrations are made up of big bold brush strokes of striking colour and we just didn't know what to feast our eyes upon first.<br />
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Specs for Rex is a super fun story with the most amazing positive message to reassure little glasses wearing folks everywhere. We heartily recommend!<br />
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5 / 5 stars<br />
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*Special thanks to Bloomsbury for the review copy*<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-34586515095013742152014-07-21T19:23:00.000-07:002014-07-21T19:23:44.765-07:00Reading Rocks Blog Tour - Why? by Tracey Corderoy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MmjXerw_lTw/U8tqcCK0iiI/AAAAAAAABYk/HIOpesAxpms/s1600/why_cvr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MmjXerw_lTw/U8tqcCK0iiI/AAAAAAAABYk/HIOpesAxpms/s1600/why_cvr.jpg" height="200" width="175" /></a></div>
<b>Summary from <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Why-Tracey-Corderoy/dp/1848958943/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1405839936&sr=1-1&keywords=Why%3F+by+Tracey+Corderoy">Amazon UK</a></b><br />
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Archie is a rhino with a LOT of questions. He wants to know everything:
"Why glue is so sticky? Why do dropped things go SMASH?" If only finding
out was a little less messy...Everybody's much-loved rhino returns in
this brand-new sequel to No! from the wonderful Tracey Corderoy (Shifty
McGifty and Slippery Sam and The Little White Owl) and award-winning Tim
Warnes (I Don't Want to Go to Bed). Brimming with gorgeous
illustrations, this warm, funny book is guaranteed to become a firm
favourite. A must for all families with curious toddlers who just love
to ask "WHY?"<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
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Why? is a delightful picture book full of fun, adventure and a little bit of frustration...on the parents par<span style="font-size: small;">t</span> anyway. Every child goes through the why stage and while it can be rather cute and funny at times, it can also have some parents pulling their hair out.<br />
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We adored Tracey's last picture book, No! and we were just as pleased with this. My daughter said to me recently "You know, children are allowed to ask lots of questions because that's how they learn about the world around them." I was baffled, who on earth had she been talking to? But it also make me realise that she was exactly right. While an endless stream of questions and whys can be tedious, a child's inquisitive nature is a really great thing.<br />
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This storyline sees the super cute Archie asking why? to just about everything. Not only that, he's making the biggest mess along the way. His parents decide to take him to the museum, because lets face it, that seems to be a good place for asking questions...until he starts asking some embarrassing ones...<br />
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The ending will most definitely put smiles on faces everywhere!<br />
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Tim Warnes' illustrations are so good. They are super vibrant and very busy. We think little Archie is the cutest rhino in rhino history!<br />
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Why? is a wonderful picture book that is not only perfect for inquisitive toddlers but also worn down parents. It really is a must!<br />
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A BIG 5 stars! <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 60px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">“</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 60px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Why?</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 60px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">”</span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 60px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 28px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 28px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">by</span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 28px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Tracey Corderoy</span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 40px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="TextRun EmptyTextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS',Sans-Serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 40px;"></span><span class="WACImageContainer BlobObject SCX39386241" contenteditable="false"><img alt="Image" class="WACImage SCX39386241" src="https://word-edit.officeapps.live.com/we/ResReader.ashx?v=00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000014&n=E2o1073741825.img&rndm=e9500315-b5ab-4051-917b-2f7575d0486e&Fi=SD783146E848ADE29A%21153&C=1__BL2-SKY-WAC-WSHI&ak=m%3Den%2Dgb&usid=40280518-776b-4eff-bf87-5460aaa32bb6&build=16.0.3030.3402" style="height: auto; width: auto;" /></span><span class="TextRun EmptyTextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS',Sans-Serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 40px;"></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="font-family: 'Arial Unicode MS',Sans-Serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 40px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">“</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Why do worms w</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">r</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">iggle?</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">”</span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 46px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">“</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Why is rain wet?</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">”</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 46px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">“</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Why</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">can</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">’</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">t I eat ice-cream forever!</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">”</span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 46px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">When
we are young the world is jam-packed with so very much to find out.
Possibilities are endless, expeditions imperative, and consequences
rarely considered. Finding out is </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">fun</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> and something to be done. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">“</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Now! Let</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">’</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">s go! </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Quick</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">!</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">”</span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 46px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">In </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">‘</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Cider with Rosie</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">’</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">, three</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">-</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">year</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">-</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">old Laurie Lee finds himself dumped in an overgrown garden bursting with whats, whys and wherefores. It</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">’</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">s a place he can neither understand, nor leave alone. A world which is both terrifying and compelling, and one which is</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> his</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> to ma</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">ster:</span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 40px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">‘…</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">The
June grass, amongst which I stood, was taller than I was, and I wept. I
had never been so close to grass before. It towered above me ... thick
as a forest and alive with grasshoppers that chirped and chattered and
leapt through the air like monkeys</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">…</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">From
stone to stone in the trackless yard I sent forth my acorn shell of
senses, moving through unfathomable oceans like a South Sea savage
island </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">–</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">hopping across the Pacific.</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">’</span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 46px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">‘</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Cider with Rosie</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">’</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Laurie Lee</span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 40px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Laurie Lee</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">’</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">s words resonated with me, and Archie in </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">‘</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">Why?</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">’</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">also possesses this urge to understand and become master of his world. He too</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">,</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">like some savage South Sea island, moves across his landscape (from kitchen </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">–</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">to garden </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">–</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">to museum </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">–</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">to parents</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">’</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">bedroom!) with purpose</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">,</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> enthusiasm, and endless, </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">endless </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">questions! </span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="line-height: 40px;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">But of course</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">,</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> these questions are to be encouraged. His parents know that, and we parents know </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">it </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">too. We </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-style: italic; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">want</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> our children to have lively minds,</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> sparkly eyes and muddy fingers – e</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">ven if their never-ending stream of</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">,</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">“</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">WHYS</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">?”</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> keep coming </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">…</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">and coming </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">…</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span></span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman,Serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">and coming! </span></span> </span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="font-family: Times New Roman,Serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 40px;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://word-edit.officeapps.live.com/we/ResReader.ashx?v=00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000014&n=E2o1073741827.img&rndm=9ac886d8-3130-4b9a-9a5d-0970eaed08a6&Fi=SD783146E848ADE29A%21153&C=1__BL2-SKY-WAC-WSHI&ak=m%3Den%2Dgb&usid=40280518-776b-4eff-bf87-5460aaa32bb6&build=16.0.3030.3402" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Image" border="0" class="WACImage SCX252834477" src="https://word-edit.officeapps.live.com/we/ResReader.ashx?v=00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000014&n=E2o1073741827.img&rndm=9ac886d8-3130-4b9a-9a5d-0970eaed08a6&Fi=SD783146E848ADE29A%21153&C=1__BL2-SKY-WAC-WSHI&ak=m%3Den%2Dgb&usid=40280518-776b-4eff-bf87-5460aaa32bb6&build=16.0.3030.3402" style="height: auto; width: auto;" /></a></div>
<div class="Paragraph SCX39386241" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'Segoe UI',Tahoma,Verdana,'Sans-Serif'; font-size: 6pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 15px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">So </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">although</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> Archie is up and asking questions even before the sun rises, would his parents have </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">him </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">any other way? Of course not! </span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> Hooray then, fo</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">r the finders-out of this world!</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> For little Archies up and down this land. For their parents, too </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">–</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">this book is for YOU. </span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="font-size: small; line-height: 40px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">And </span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; font-weight: bold; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;">why</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> not?!</span></span><span class="TextRun SCX39386241" style="color: black; font-size: small; line-height: 46px;"><span class="NormalTextRun SCX39386241" style="background-color: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="EOP SCX39386241" style="font-size: small; line-height: 46px;"> </span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Q1I7thtTi0/U8ttRExc_jI/AAAAAAAABYw/QYZTvm37vFw/s1600/Tracey+Corderoy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Q1I7thtTi0/U8ttRExc_jI/AAAAAAAABYw/QYZTvm37vFw/s1600/Tracey+Corderoy.jpg" height="170" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; color: black;">Tracey was born in South Wales and now lives in
Gloucestershire with her husband, two daughters and a menagerie of animals. She
is a trained teacher and used to run specialist literacy programmes in schools
before becoming a full-time writer. </span><span style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; color: #333333;">Tracey has
always had a passion for wonderful literature and began writing for children in
2006. </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div class="ecxMsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.traceycorderoy.com/" target="_blank">www.traceycorderoy.com</a></span></span></span><br />
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Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-26275208150824099802014-07-21T00:17:00.000-07:002014-07-21T00:17:58.814-07:00The Colour Thief by Gabriel Alborozo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media.bloomsbury.com/rep/bj/9781408847534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media.bloomsbury.com/rep/bj/9781408847534.jpg" height="320" width="286" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Thoughts</b></span></div>
<br />
The Colour Thief is a visual masterpiece that we could of happily stared at all day long. It also has some really great positive messages that truly make it a must read!<br />
<br />
Zot, lives in a dreary far away land that doesn't have any colour. He stares longingly at the super vibrant earth, deciding he must go and get some of that cheeriness for himself. When he arrives, he is overwhelmed with all the wonderful colours. He opens his suitcase, says the magic words and steals the colours from the world. Zot gets greedy but when leaving for home again he has a last moment flash of conscience.<br />
<br />
A little boy shows an act of kindness that fills Zot's heart with joy. One little selfless moment transforms not only Zot's life but also the lives of others in a really beautiful way.<br />
<br />
While we loved the storyline itself, the artwork really is something else. Starting off colourless, to build into a riot of vibrancy awesomeness really shows how much life colour can truly bring. Seeing it all be taken away only proves the point.<br />
<br />
The colour thief is a glorious riot of life and colour! It shows kindness is a thing to be treasured and proves the point that 'a little colour can go a long way.'<br />
<br />
4/5 Stars<br />
<br />
*Special thanks to Bloomsbury for the review copy*<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-24862044647867208912014-07-18T01:17:00.002-07:002014-07-18T01:17:59.777-07:00Harry and the Monster by Sue Morgan & Nick East<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61-ZQuRXrDL._SX385_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61-ZQuRXrDL._SX385_.jpg" height="320" width="278" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
<br />
If you're a parent then you've most probably been disturbed in the middle of the night by a loud 'Theres a monster under my bed!!' This laugh out loud picture book shows little guys how to fight back against those big bad bedroom monsters.<br />
<br />
The little boy in this story, Harry, is awoken night after night by a big nasty monster. His parents give him some super tips, including imagining pink pants on it's head...to try and make him look less scary. But what do you think monsters are really afraid of?<br />
<br />
The ending is hilarious...I think it's hard not to be a little frightened by the thing that frightens our monster!<br />
<br />
Harry and the Monster is a really great read full of fun, adventure and surprises. Nick East's illustrations pop right up out of the page and bring everything to life so vibrantly. A perfect bad dream kicker!<br />
<br />
4 / 5 Stars<br />
<br />
*Special thanks to Little Tiger Press for the review copy*<br />
<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-58819400627688738852014-07-09T00:36:00.001-07:002014-07-09T00:36:36.509-07:00Mr Brown Can Moo! Can You? by Dr Seuss<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EFOxjXXdIUA/U7zvVa_lNtI/AAAAAAAABXk/WIvYvQGRrMo/s1600/Moo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EFOxjXXdIUA/U7zvVa_lNtI/AAAAAAAABXk/WIvYvQGRrMo/s1600/Moo.JPG" height="320" width="230" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
<br />
This has to be the most brilliant book in brilliant book history. It is funny, rhymes in a sing songing way and needs to be read with great booming enthusiasm. Warning - this book is not for the timid reader!!<br />
<br />
Mr. Brown really is quite wonderful and the different sounds he can do are all rather outstanding. As the reader goes through all the different things the text turns into a bouncing song that begs to be read out loud. Little ears and little mouths will revel in learning and trying out these super sounds with Mr. Brown.<br />
<br />
The illustrations are really memorable. They have this old time cartoon feel to them, which is really wonderful.<br />
<br />
This is a sounds adventure that will stick in heads everywhere. It is full on fun and packs a big punch. We simply can't recommend it enough!<br />
<br />
5 / 5 stars<br />
<br />
*Special thanks to Harper Collin's Children's Books for the review copy*<br />
<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-19939209569483537802014-07-03T00:18:00.000-07:002014-07-03T00:18:53.956-07:00Abigail by Catherine Rayner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://catherinerayner.co.uk/images/uploads/Picture_8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://catherinerayner.co.uk/images/uploads/Picture_8.png" height="320" width="319" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
<br />
Aw, what a simply beautiful picture book this is. Abigail is a delicate beauty who is gentle and patient with her friends. Catherine Rayner captures the slow, majestic beauty of the giraffe like no other and it's ever so stunning!<br />
<br />
Abigail loves to count more than anything. Finding something to count proves to be a bit of a tricky business though, as her friends just won't keep still. But Abigail soon discovers that there is an endless supply of things in the world to count and also that she is a rather fine teacher.<br />
<br />
What a really lovely and gentle way to introduce counting to little folks. Everyone needs a copy of Abigail to call their own.<br />
<br />
The illustrations are gorgeous, with only a few subtle colours - they are a real treat.<br />
<br />
Abigail is a truly memorable counting picture book that is full of warmth and beauty! Go grab a copy today!<br />
<br />
5 / 5 Stars<br />
<br />
*With special thanks to Little Tiger Press for the review copy*<br />
<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-33648272198937200992014-06-30T00:50:00.000-07:002014-06-30T00:50:35.172-07:00Mighty Mo by Alison Brown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51owIw9utAL._SX385_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51owIw9utAL._SX385_.jpg" height="320" width="315" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
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Ever have a child who is board, board and more board?
Actually they are so fed up with having nothing to do that they’re sulking?
Yes? Well then, Mighty Mo is the book for you!</div>
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<br /></div>
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You see, Mo is board. He wants to do something marvellous,
so he tries out a few different things. Unfortunately, none of those things are
the right fit for Mo and he has a few…mishaps. When the Golden Dodo Zoo encounters
a disaster though, there really is only one person up to saving the day!<br />
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The illustrations are ever so fantastic and we delighted
watching as Mo had is moment. We also loved seeing some of those rather funny
mishaps.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Mighty Mo is a charming adventure tale with one super cool
hero who has a wonderful group of friends. The message that everyone is good at
doing different things is a really positive one and we would easily recommend
this!</div>
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4 / 5 stars</div>
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<br /></div>
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*Special thanks to Little Tiger Press for the review copy*</div>
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Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-5847547110336518362014-06-22T23:54:00.001-07:002014-06-22T23:54:36.531-07:00Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by James Dead & Eric Litwin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.harpercollinschildrens.com/harperchildrensImages/isbn/large/5/9780062065605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.harpercollinschildrens.com/harperchildrensImages/isbn/large/5/9780062065605.jpg" height="320" width="245" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Thoughts</b></span></div>
<br />
Haha! This is a fantastically funny feel good book that helps everyone to realise that everything is never quite as bad as it may seem.<br />
<br />
Pete the Cat is a cool dude, who loves his white shoes. And why wouldn't he? They look ace...until he steps in some strawberries. But what colour would that turn his pearly white shoes? Not one to get upset Pete carries on in his red shoes singing his song!<br />
<br />
The illustrations are ever so striking. We loved the big blocky colours and of course looking at Pete doing his thing.<br />
<br />
The ending is fantastic and we loved the little moral ' no matter what you step in, keep walking along and singing your song...'<br />
<br />
Pete the Cat is a sing song adventure perfect for sharing with the little folks in your life. It introduces a lot of wonderful colours in an easy and very memorable way. Check Pete out today...he's a dude!<br />
<br />
4 / 5 Stars<br />
<br />
*Special thanks to Harper Collins Children's Books for the review copy*<br />
<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-90765628802456585002014-06-19T23:52:00.001-07:002014-06-19T23:52:22.774-07:00Love Monster and the Last Chocolate by Rachel Bright<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/6192SoCmx5L._SX385_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/6192SoCmx5L._SX385_.jpg" height="320" width="312" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
<br />
Well hello Monster *waves*, it's ever so nice to see your super cute face again!<br />
<br />
We are HUGE fans of Love Monster, so we were obviously delighted to go on not only another Monster adventure...but a chocolate monster adventure - yay!<br />
<br />
In this tale, Monster has a bit of a chocolate dilemma. Finding a box of chocolates should of been a wonderful surprise for Monster...but it turns out to be a bit of a head pickle. What if he shared them with his friends and they ate his most favourite? What if there wasn't enough? Worst of all, what if they only left him...the coffee one!!?<br />
<br />
The ending was so charming and quite simply perfect!<br />
<br />
We always adore Rachel Bright's illustrations, they are so fuzzy, wussy, cuddly, bright and super duper cute!<br />
<br />
Love Monster and the Last Chocolate is a charming tale full of friendship, sharing and thinking of others. It's a real must read!<br />
<br />
5 / 5 Stars!<br />
<br />
*Special thanks to Harper Collins Children's Books for the review copy*<br />
<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-78562366292255088232014-06-18T10:45:00.000-07:002014-06-18T10:45:43.294-07:00The Hueys in None the Number by Oliver Jeffers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images.harpercollins.co.uk/hcwebimages/hccovers/063100/063178-fc222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.harpercollins.co.uk/hcwebimages/hccovers/063100/063178-fc222.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
<br />
Hooray for more adventures with the super kooky Hueys! We adored this!<br />
<br />
None the Number is a super fun counting Huey adventure. It is filled with all the wit and charm you can always expect with a Jeffers book. The Hueys are having a number discussion. It all kicks off with one Huey trying to explain to the other about the number 0.<br />
<br />
Leave it to those quirky little fellows to put a cheeky little bit of confusion into counting. Is none really an number? What do you think?<br />
<br />
Each page is filled with super simplistic illustrations that are just gorgeous to gaze at. We particularly liked the 9 naughty seagulls, that were trying to steal poor Frank's chips.<br />
<br />
The ending is totally smile worthy :)<br />
<br />
None the Number is another fab Huey tale that is full of humour. We can't wait to have some more fun with these little guys!<br />
<br />
4/5 stars<br />
<br />
*Special thanks to Harper Collins Children's Books for the review copy*<br />
<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-47589658800532442182014-06-10T11:49:00.000-07:002014-06-10T11:49:47.270-07:00Father's Day Round-up!<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Peppa Pig: My Daddy</b></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.penguin.com.au/jpg-large/9781409309062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.penguin.com.au/jpg-large/9781409309062.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
This gorgeous little board book is all about Peppa Pig and her daddy! It would make the perfect Father's Day gift and is just wonderful for daddies to share with the little people in their lives.<br />
<br />
In this story, Peppa tells us why her daddy is so special. He is funny, likes to have fun, reads bedtime stories, goes on seaside trips, is super brave but also a tad lazy and a little clumsy. Best of all Peppa knows he loves them more than anything else in the world.<br />
<br />
We adored seeing Peppa, George and their daddy go on super fun adventures. We especially enjoyed the teeny tiny bit clumsy page.<br />
<br />
My Daddy is a lovely little read that is full of fun, humour and a father's love. It really is a must read for Peppa fans everywhere.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Baby Touch: Hello Daddy!</b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello Daddy is a marvellous board book that is all-round charming and perfect for sharing with dad's everywhere.<br />
<br />
Each page has a baby animal and the question - 'where is your daddy?' and on the opposite page is it's daddy animal. Also with a lovely little touch and feel bit to discover and explore.<br />
<br />
Our favourite page has to be the last one as it has an illustration of a baby and a mirror. We all know babies love mirrors - so this is wonderful for them to gaze at themselves and of course their daddies in.<br />
<br />
The illustrations are ever so bold and vibrant. Babies will delight in all of the beautiful colours.<br />
<br />
Another big winner from Ladybird's Baby Touch range. These books are just made for exploring together. We can't wait to have our hands on the next one.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Sorry Dad by Maxine Lee</b></span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51HTITBli5L._SX385_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51HTITBli5L._SX385_.jpg" height="200" width="186" /></a> You know those days, when everything that can go wrong will go wrong? And your children will accidentally push your buttons all day long? Well this book is a bit like that.<br />
<br />
The father and child in this tale are usually the best of friends but seem to be having a bit of an off day. The little person in this story seems to be getting up to a bit too much mischief and his poor dad is anything but happy. The pair manage to make it up in a rather funny way though.<br />
<br />
There really isn't anything better than a father's love and bond with their child - this fab book pushes home that point wonderfully. It even makes parents feel a tad relieved that they aren't the only ones to have these off days. Also, anything can be solved by apologising and some well meaning gestures.<br />
<br />
Sorry Dad is a fantastically illustrated book that is full of fun, mis-hap and great messages - perfect for some daddy time!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Me and My Daddy</b></span><br />
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Looking for something perfect for your child to share with their dads this Father's Day? Then look no further than this fantastic little carry case, complete with card and collection of four books.<br />
<br />
The Fathers Day card is really wonderful and children will delight in decorating their very own card for their dads special day. The card comes with a sheet of super cute stickers to help with the decorating.<br />
<br />
The books are all father themed and are just great for snuggling up and sharing with dad. The four books are called: Oops-a-Daisy, My Daddy and Me, Before We Go to Bed and The Very Happy Hippo. Our personal favourite being the adventurous and very touching My Daddy and Me.<br />
<br />
This fantastic Me and My Daddy carry case is a bright and cheery must have for children everywhere - we love!<br />
<br />
*With special thanks to Little Tiger, Caterpillar & Ladybird for the review copies*<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PQsyAzqInDs/UaPKiDWJxSI/AAAAAAAAAys/OqY6g8XzqE0/s1600/carlysig.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PQsyAzqInDs/UaPKiDWJxSI/AAAAAAAAAys/OqY6g8XzqE0/s1600/carlysig.png" height="125" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-84877651191383772002014-06-08T23:49:00.000-07:002014-06-08T23:49:50.326-07:00How to be a Skullabones Pirate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51XiaAeJgIL._SX385_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51XiaAeJgIL._SX385_.jpg" height="320" width="248" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">Arrrrr! Another fab Skullabones activity adventure to dive into! We adore spending time with these super fun pirates!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">This activity book is jam packed with super fun things to do, including: matching, dress-up, counting, spot-the-difference, dot-to-dot, drawing, puzzles, colouring, treasure hunts, jig-saws and lots and lots of STICKERING - hooray! Did mention the 200 stickers?!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Kids will be entertained for hours on end with this super duper activity book. My daughter particularly enjoyed the dress-up and treasure hunt pages. Also, because this is a Ladybird book you can search for the lovely little ladybird hidden on each page.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">How to be a Skullabones Pirate is an all-round big winner that we loved. Perfect for taking on car journeys or those rainy days.We just can't wait to go on our next Skullabones adventure!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">5 / 5 stars!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">*Special thanks to Ladybird for the review copy* </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-21202535768267132032014-06-05T01:11:00.003-07:002014-06-05T01:11:53.711-07:00My Pop-up World: Weather by Nicola Killen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/517N32NC8cL._SX385_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/517N32NC8cL._SX385_.jpg" height="320" width="316" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
<br />
This fantastic little pop-up weather book is a huge favourite in our house as there is plenty to discover and explore.<br />
<br />
Kids will adore turning each page to find a brand new weather related pop-up. The pop-ups themselves are excellent and really bounce right up out of the page. Our favourite had to be the page with the twirly whirly scarf, as it spr<span style="font-size: small;">ung</span> and boinked right up over two pages.<br />
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The only downside - the pop-ups are very easily ripped, so I would say this book is best shared with those rough little fingers.<br />
<br />
What child doesn't want to learn about the world around them and this is a wonderful little insight into different sorts of weather. We loved that when the weather was really terrible, the little person in this book stayed indoors and read the little book of weather.<br />
<br />
A bright and cherry pop-up book that introduces weather in a really fun filled way - what's not to love?<br />
<br />
4 / 5 stars<br />
<br />
*Special thanks to Egmont for the review copy*<br />
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Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-89322759076017205202014-06-01T23:51:00.001-07:002014-06-01T23:51:31.966-07:00Maisie Hitchins: The Case of the Secret Tunnel by Holly Webb - Blog Tour!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WaydAaNkqBY/U4o60CbIGdI/AAAAAAAABUE/k5kf0YH3ojw/s1600/MH_TCOTSTunnel_C_FINAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WaydAaNkqBY/U4o60CbIGdI/AAAAAAAABUE/k5kf0YH3ojw/s1600/MH_TCOTSTunnel_C_FINAL.jpg" height="320" width="208" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Summary from <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Case-Secret-Tunnel-Maisie-Hitchins/dp/1847154360">Amazon UK</a></b></span><br />
<br />
Maisie Hitchins longs to be a detective. She's sure there are lots of
adventures to be had on the streets of Victorian London. And, together
with her faithful puppy, Eddie, she is determined to follow even the
slightest scent of a mystery - no matter what! In Book 5 of the Maisie
Hitchins series, Maisie is intrigued by a new lodger, Mr Fred Grange,
who isn't quite what he seems...Mr Grange claims to work as a clerk for a
biscuit company, but he's out and about on the London streets at odd
hours, and Maisie soon discovers something very precious hidden in his
rooms. Determined to unmask him as a thief, she soon discovers that the
truth is far more complicated - and dangerous. Before long, Maisie and
her friends are led into a web of mystery lurking underground...<br />
<br />
A
fantastic mystery series from best-selling author Holly Webb, packed
with adventure, Maisie Hitchins is perfect for readers aged six to eight
years.<br />
<br />
<b>Paperback:</b> 176 pages<b> </b><br />
<b>Publisher:</b> Stripes Publishing (5 May 2014)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Character Profile</b></span></div>
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<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span>
<div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jz-SajhPdcQ/U4o8PwUzAzI/AAAAAAAABUU/yOAyKsIWkNU/s1600/MH_blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jz-SajhPdcQ/U4o8PwUzAzI/AAAAAAAABUU/yOAyKsIWkNU/s1600/MH_blog.jpg" height="200" width="166" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Full Name:</b> Maisie Victoria Hitchins</span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Age:</b> 10</span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
<b>Likes:</b> Mint humbugs and people-watching.</span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Dislikes:</b>
Boiled fish, housework (even though she's good at it), stuck-up girls,
cleaning out Professor Tobin's parrot cage (smelly, and Jasper is very
hard to get back in again).</span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Hobbies:</b>
Detecting - Maisie works very hard at the boarding house, so she doesn't
have a lot of time for hobbies but detecting can often be fitted in
when she's out on errands.</span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Favourite
things: </b>Maisie's hero is Gilbert Carrington, the famous detective. There
aren't many books at the boarding house, but Maisie follows Gilbert
Carrington's cases in Gran's newspaper. Her most treasured possession is
the magnifying glass given her by Professor Tobin.</span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Friends:</b>
Eddie, her dog. Eddie is Maisie's Faithful Assistant (all detectives
should have one); Alice - really Maisie and Alice shouldn't have much in
common, as Alice is very rich and spoiled. But they are both a little
lonely, and they struck up a friendship when Alice came to the house for
French lessons with Madame Lorimer; George, the butcher's boy. One of
Maisie's first cases was clearing George's name, when he was suspected
of stealing money from the butcher's shop. George is useful back-up when
Maisie and Eddie need help, and being a delivery boy, he has great
cover as a spy. </span></span></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Holly Webb</b> started writing while working as a children’s books
editor. She lives in Berkshire, with her husband and three sons, and is
the author of many best-selling books. Find out more about Holly at her
website, <a href="http://www.holly-webb.com/" target="_blank">www.holly-webb.com</a><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Some Thoughts</b></span> </div>
<br />
We haven't actually finished reading this book yet so we couldn't review it. To be honest we are taking our time reading these books as they just beg to be savored and adored.<br />
<br />
Maisie is a fantastic heroine who is a wonderful role model. The Victorian London setting is really interesting and we are loving being transported there alongside Maisie while she looks for clues. <br />
<br />
The illustrations are really lovely and break up the book beautifully. My sneaky daughter was skipping ahead to see the next picture.<br />
<br />
Eddie the dog is a wonderful companion and friend to Maisie. My son is called Eddie, much to my daughters amusement.<br />
<br />
We think these books are exciting and a little bit different from everything else out there on the market. We are thoroughly enjoying the mysteries in each book and can't wait to go on more adventures with Maisie!<br />
<br />
Look out for my reviews in the coming weeks! <br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-48031828963699830292014-05-27T23:50:00.001-07:002014-05-27T23:50:52.906-07:00A Day WIth Barbapapa by Annette Tison & Talus Taylor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
<br />
A big hip hip hooray for a chunky Barbapapa tabbed board book! Just perfect for sharing with rough little fingers and making brand new Barbapapa fans!<br />
<br />
My 17 month old LOVES this book and he just adores nothing more than to flip back and forth pointing to his favourite Barbababy - he's a big Barbabeau fan!<br />
<br />
The storyline takes us through a day in the life of the Barbapapa family. We get to see what each Barbababy is good at, they all have their own unique talent. The day even winds down with a family bed-time story.<br />
<br />
There is a lovely little message in any Barbapapa book - that everyone is different and also that everybody is good a doing different things.<br />
<br />
A Day With Barbapapa is a really wonderful story. It's bright, colourful and it's unique illustrations make it stand out from the crowd. Just perfect for any toddler!<br />
<br />
5 / 5 Stars<br />
<br />
*Special thanks to Orchard for the review copy*<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-24147884036627738072014-05-26T01:08:00.000-07:002014-05-26T01:08:48.202-07:00Goodnight Pirate by Michelle Robinson & Mick East<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.parentingwithouttears.com/custom/goodnightpirate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.parentingwithouttears.com/custom/goodnightpirate.jpg" height="320" width="290" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
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We love, love, LOVE Goodnight Pirate! My 17 month old simply adores it, he picks it up at lots of different times throughout the day and brings it over to be read. He sits quietly (shocking!) and his eyes light up. It's fair to say it's his favourite book.<br />
<br />
This Goodnight book is about a little boy, who is tidying up his pirate toys to get ready for bed. While tidying he veers off on a last minute swash buckling adventure before winding down nicely for a sleepy ending.<br />
<br />
The text is really gorgeous and rhymes in a really fantastic sing-songy way. We loved the little build-up bit in the middle - it causes some great excitement.<br />
<br />
The illustrations are quite simply fabulous! The Little boy is ever soooo cute and we adored seeing his pirating adventure unfolding so vibrantly before our eyes.<br />
<br />
Goodnight Pirate is a BIG winner! We wonder if there will be more Goodnight books....<br />
<br />
5 / 5 Stars<br />
<br />
*Special thanks to Puffin for the review copy*<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-38115274744395698052014-05-18T23:51:00.000-07:002014-05-18T23:51:57.966-07:00Scooter Bee & Scooter Bug by Marion Billet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.panmacmillan.com/devpanmacmillan/media/panmacmillan/Books/width140px/scooter-bug-978144725763901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.panmacmillan.com/devpanmacmillan/media/panmacmillan/Books/width140px/scooter-bug-978144725763901.jpg" height="200" width="151" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
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Okay, not going to lie, it wouldn't matter what was inside these books because....they have whizzy wheels!! Hooray! You can zoom and broom them all over the place and it really is such fun!<br />
<br />
Scooter Bug is a lovely little lady bug that goes on a big scooting mission. She goes through the town, past the postman...then arrives at her friends house in time for a birthday tea.<br />
<br />
<br />
Scooter Bee is in the park playing ball when disaster strikes. A naughty dog<br />
steals the ball and he has to go on a big scooting adventure around the park to get it back. We loved trying to find where the naughty dog was hiding on each page.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.panmacmillan.com/devpanmacmillan/media/panmacmillan/Books/width140px/scooter-bee-978144725762201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.panmacmillan.com/devpanmacmillan/media/panmacmillan/Books/width140px/scooter-bee-978144725762201.jpg" height="200" width="152" /></a>Each book rhymes and flows so beautifully. The text is also short, sweet and perfect for twitchy little folks...who just want to whizz on those wheels. Each page is also super duper vibrant and there is so much to discover and explore.<br />
<br />
Scooter Bee and Scooter Bug are fantastic little whizzy board books that boys and girls everywhere will love!<br />
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5 /5 stars<br />
<br />
*Special thanks to Campbell for the review copy*<br />
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Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-16896059866394237192014-05-15T00:12:00.000-07:002014-05-15T00:12:43.604-07:00I Love Cats & I Love Dogs by Emma Dodd<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.hachettechildrens.co.uk/assets/HachetteChildrensBooks/img/book/255/isbn9781408331255-detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://www.hachettechildrens.co.uk/assets/HachetteChildrensBooks/img/book/255/isbn9781408331255-detail.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
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<br />
Aww, I Love Cats and I Love Dogs are ever such cute reads! There is something for everyone nestled among these pages and everyone will have the best of fun finding their favourites.<br />
<br />
Each book takes the reader on a big bouncy rhyming ride filled with either cats or dogs. There are big, small, spotty, snappy, snuffly, loud, soft and cuddly cats and dogs to be found - and many many more.<br />
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Our favourite cat just had to be those puffy, ball-of-fluffy cats! We also loved the greedy...weedy, needy dogs.<br />
<br />
Emma Dodd's illustrations are bold, bright and stand out from the crowd. We oohed and ahhed at all those super cute cats, dogs and of course the lovely little lady in the story.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.hachettechildrens.co.uk/assets/HachetteChildrensBooks/img/book/262/isbn9781408331262-detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://www.hachettechildrens.co.uk/assets/HachetteChildrensBooks/img/book/262/isbn9781408331262-detail.jpg" /></a>I Love Cats and I Love Dogs are both super happy reads that are the best for reading out loud and with great enthusiasm. They are perfect for all those animal loving families out there.<br />
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We always hooray at the arrival of a new Emma Dodd book...can't wait fore the next!<br />
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5 / 5 Stars<br />
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*Special thanks to Orchard for the review copy*<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-62494236376462827392014-05-13T11:53:00.000-07:002014-05-13T11:53:24.206-07:00Red Early Readers!<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Horrid Henry's Wedding by Francesca Simon & illustrated by Tony Ross</b></span><br />
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Horrid Henry's Wedding is a red early reader book and if I'm honest it has taken us quite a while to master. My 5 year old daughter wasn't quite ready to make the move from blue to red early readers yet - but she was very determined to do it herself!<br />
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As you can imagine with anything Horrid Henry related - it's hilarious! This storyline sees Henry become a page boy for his older cousin Prissy Polly's wedding and he's anything but thrilled. There are a lot of tantrums, funny outfits, mishaps and brilliant Horrid Henry antics!<br />
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The ending is rather funny indeed!<br />
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Horrid Henry's Wedding is a great book for children to read or for sharing together. It full of laughs and fantastic illustrations. A must read for Horrid Henry fans everywhere.<br />
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4 / 5 Stars<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Monstar Finds a Home by Steve Cole & illustrated by Pete Williamson</b></span><br />
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Monstar Finds a Home is another fab red early reader and like Horrid Henry's Wedding, my 5 year old found it a little on the difficult side. What child doesn't like a challenge though and slowly but surely she got there - yay!<br />
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Jon and Jen's parents are scientists. Their experiments are a little on the wild side and never seem to go quite as planned. The siblings really want a pet but when their parents suggest inventing them one....they don't know what to think....anything could happen.<br />
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When their parents emerge form their secret lab, they are introduced to....Monstar!<br />
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Monstar is a pet with a difference. He gets up to all sorts of mischief, which makes mum and dad angry. But when disaster strikes she barrels in to save the day!<br />
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Monstar Finds a Home is a great story for sharing with the early reader in your life. It's fun, charming, full of surprise...even peril. We enjoyed going on an adventure with Monstar - who gets into all sorts of trouble.<br />
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4 / 5 Stars<br />
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*Special thanks to Orion for the review copy*<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-48226337303001804002014-05-05T00:50:00.000-07:002014-05-05T00:50:20.239-07:00Kipper's Birthday by Mick Inkpen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nuHqkiYXUxQ/U2X7hgM4b9I/AAAAAAAABP4/ytI7jQU1EN4/s1600/Kipper%27s+Birthday.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nuHqkiYXUxQ/U2X7hgM4b9I/AAAAAAAABP4/ytI7jQU1EN4/s1600/Kipper's+Birthday.bmp" height="320" width="291" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
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Wow! I actually can't believe Kipper's 2<span style="font-size: small;">5</span>! He's as old as me and still as fresh and exciting as ever! I love being able to share my much loved stories with my own children.<br />
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Kipper's Birthday is a truly glorious story that is not only charming, but packs a big punch emotionally. I felt so dearly for Kipper, who's silly birthday invitation mistake had him feeling like none of his friends wanted to come. We loved seeing his friends rally together and try to work out the confusion.<br />
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Our favourite part was the baking of the cake....which Kipper truly done to the best of his ability....well, for his very first attempt anyway. Also the birthday present surprise.<br />
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Kipper's Birthday is a book I could wholeheartedly recommend. It's full of warmth, humour, silliness and the very best of illustrations. So go pick it up today - you'll be in for a treat.<br />
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5 / 5 Stars<br />
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*Special thanks to Hodder for the review copy*<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-33587077800530598992014-05-01T23:51:00.001-07:002014-05-01T23:51:28.457-07:00 Hour of the Doomed Dog by Sam Hay - Blog Tour!<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="ecxApple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="ecxApple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Summary</b></span><br />
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Hour of the Doomed Dog is the eighth and last in the hugely popular spooky but sweet series by Sam Hay, Undead Pets. From budgies to guinea pigs, Joe has helped lots of pets pass to the other side...<br />
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This book tells the story of Frankfurter, a sausage dog who needs Joe's help before he can pass over. Moments before his encounter with a revolving door, Frankie overheard two men plotting to burgle the hotel that is run by his owner. Frankie needs Joe's help to stop the robbery and bring the criminals to justice.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="ecxApple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="ecxApple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ssDJEzAr0xU/U2IsbS-CWzI/AAAAAAAABPg/pKo8POt0xP8/s1600/038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ssDJEzAr0xU/U2IsbS-CWzI/AAAAAAAABPg/pKo8POt0xP8/s1600/038.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b>About the Author</b></span><br />
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Sam Hay is the author of the Undead Pets series, published by Stripes. The latest book in the series - Hour of the Doomed Dog is out now.<br />
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Sam grew up in Scotland and worked as a journalist before becoming a children’s author. She has written more than 20 books and lives in Wales with her family in a not-very-spooky-looking house.<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="ecxApple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="ecxApple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Guest Post</b></span></div>
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SURPRISINGLY SCARY <br />
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There aren’t any creepy old houses or ivy-clad graveyards in the Undead Pets series. There are no jangling skeletons or ghastly ghouls. And the zombie critters who come back to haunt ten year-old Joe Edmunds are more silly than scary. But sometimes, as Joe discovers, it’s the stuff you don’t think will be frightening that turns out to be the creepiest of all! <br />
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I live in a 1970’s house. There are no flagstone floors or low-beamed ceilings. No dark cellars or secret tunnels. It looks absolutely nothing like a haunted house. And yet, we’ve got a ghost. One that snores! <br />
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Okay I know snoring is not as good as chain-rattling. But it’s still a bit spooky. <br />
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We know it’s not us doing the snoring. Or the kids. Or the pets. And it can’t be our neighbours as we haven’t got any. Our loft is titchy - there’s no space for a snoring squatter. And it’s not mating hedgehogs. We had them last year and it’s a completely different noise. <br />
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I lie there in the dark sometimes, wondering whether it’s the ghost of some old man-of-the-road, who used to winter on the land where they built our house. Maybe he’s grumpy that his sleeping-spot’s been gazumped - and he’s come back to haunt us. <br />
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You see, sometimes it’s the small stuff; the things you can’t see, only hear, or perhaps just sense, that can make you the most sweaty... <br />
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Stuff like: <br />
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Your own back garden, at night! <br />
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I’ve always found it odd that the back gardens look different in the dark. Shadows. Strange shapes. The ghastly creak of a swing moving in the wind.... Utterly terrifying! <br />
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Campsites <br />
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Maybe I watched too many teenage slasher movies in the 80s, but campsites have always given me the willies. Try taking a torch and venturing off into the woods at dusk. Rustling leaves. Creature noises. The sound of breaking twigs. It’s like someone’s stalking you! <br />
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Lost! <br />
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If you survive the forest go somewhere busy. Places with lots of people can be super scary too. If you lose sight of your friends in a packed theme park or at a festival it’s un-nerving. Strangers look...well, strange. If you panic you’ll probably lose your bearings... Did I turn left at the port-a-loos or right at the falafel stand? Until eventually you start wondering whether you’ll ever find your way home again? I reckon there’s an army of people who’ve spent years trying to find the exit at Alton Towers. <br />
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Your siblings’ bedroom! <br />
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When I was a kid there was nothing creepier than nosing around in my big brother’s bedroom, uninvited. NOTHING! At any moment I expected to feel a hand on my shoulder. A scream of ‘What are you doing in here!’ followed by a dead-leg, a wrist burn and a skull crunch. Imagining this still makes me shudder. I’m 41. <br />
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Museums <br />
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I think museums should come with a health warning. <br />
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STOP! GO NO FURTHER. THIS PLACE IS VERY, VERY SCARY. <br />
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All museums scare me. I feel I’m being watched. And not by the gift-shop CCTV. The two scariest museums I’ve been to are The House of Detention - a 300 year old prison in Clerkenwell, which is closed now. Thank goodness. It was WAY too scary to stay open. And Usk Rural Life Museum, in Wales, which is quite an unlikely haunt-fest as it’s mostly full of old milk churns and farm tools. But when I stepped inside, there was a sudden blast of cold air, and a deadly hush, like I’d just interrupted a ghostly meeting. All eyes were on <br />
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me! Actually there really were some eyes on me because the museum had quite a few dressed-up dummies. Which brings me on to the ultimate scariest thing in the world.... <br />
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WAXWORKS! <br />
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I can’t stand them. If we go to a museum I have to send my kids in first to check out how scary the mannequins look. I think it’s the eyes; that glassy dead-eyed stare. It’s bad enough when the dummies are just dressed up and not doing anything. But if they move... Noooo! Moving Waxworks SHOULD NOT be allowed. <br />
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And it’s not just me. Lots of people don’t like waxworks. There’s even a name for this fear. Automatonophobia. Apparently it’s the lack of facial expressions that gives us the sweats. And chances are, if you don’t like waxworks, you won’t like dolls or masks much either. <br />
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Adults often tell children they’ll grow out of their fears. But I didn’t. The older I get the more stuff scares me. I reckon your imagination grows up, with you. I’m secretly quite glad because it makes the world a more exciting place. If there was a rational explanation for everything - how dull! That’s why I’m happy to lie in bed at night and listen to our ghostly man-of-the-road snoring. I think I’ll maybe even miss him this summer, if he takes off to go a-wandering again. <br />
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WHAT SCARES YOU? <br />
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Some common fears, as well as some unusual ones! <br />
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The Dark <br />
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Clowns <br />
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Spiders <br />
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Snakes <br />
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Dentists <br />
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Dogs <br />
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Flying <br />
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Storms <br />
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Public Speaking <br />
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Balloons Cotton wool </div>
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</span></span></span>Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-11538867655393640892014-04-24T01:15:00.000-07:002014-04-24T01:15:31.988-07:00Fairy Princess - Holiday & Party Time Activities <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.littletiger.co.uk/image/cache/data/onix/9781848573604-04-600x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.littletiger.co.uk/image/cache/data/onix/9781848573604-04-600x600.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>Wow, these super activity books are bursting with fun things to do on each and every page!<br />
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One is holiday themed and takes the reader through lots of fun holiday themed activities. You can make your own passport, luggage labels, book markers - plus it even has your very own pop-out princess to dress-up and enjoy. There are lots of great activities, from colouring, decorating, stickering, matching, dot-to-dots and other fun games. Did I mention the 850 super stickers?!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tomAe4_tDIU/U1jFyr6SoUI/AAAAAAAABOs/qxZTGd97q1A/s1600/index.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tomAe4_tDIU/U1jFyr6SoUI/AAAAAAAABOs/qxZTGd97q1A/s1600/index.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a>The second book is party themed and again there are lots of fun things to do. There are 2 pop-out <br />
princesses to dress-up and enjoy this time...even a dog! From party invitations, outfits, colouring, sticking, spot the differences, decorating, puzzles and other super activities there really is never a dull moment. There are over 1000 stickers - hooray for more stickering!<br />
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These two activity books are a real must for all those little princesses out there. Girls (or boys?) will be entranced and entertained for hours upon hours on end. Great for imaginative work and promoting creativity! We loved these!<br />
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5 / 5 Stars!<br />
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*Special thanks to Caterpillar for the review copy*<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PQsyAzqInDs/UaPKiDWJxSI/AAAAAAAAAys/OqY6g8XzqE0/s1600/carlysig.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PQsyAzqInDs/UaPKiDWJxSI/AAAAAAAAAys/OqY6g8XzqE0/s1600/carlysig.png" height="125" width="200" /></a><br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7253318809137639057.post-48861269943410732712014-04-21T00:28:00.002-07:002014-04-21T00:28:57.324-07:00Happy Birthday, Hugless Douglas by David Melling<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Review</b></span></div>
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Any Hugless Douglas book has us hip hip hooraying and beaming like idiots. What's not to love about Hugless Douglas?!<br />
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It's Douglas' birthday and he's really excited about his birthday party. But much to his dismay, his overly enthusiastic cousins bomb in and take over everything. Douglas is upset and heads off on his own - and has a bit of an accident!<br />
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We really enjoyed watching Douglas' great group of friends rally together to try and help Douglas and also the efforts they go to, to try and cheer him up. Plus, everything looks a little better with the arrival of cake....right?<br />
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The illustrations are so very wonderful, each page is super busy and has so much to delight in. Douglas' friends are everywhere and we love to watch their antics unfold.<br />
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Happy Birthday, Hugless Douglas is yet again another big winner form the super talented David Melling - who never fails to amaze and delight readers of all ages. It has some fab little friendship positives and is just all round fun with a capital F. We want many more Hugless Douglas books please!<br />
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5 / 5 stars<br />
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*Special thanks to Hodder for the review copy*<br />
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<br />Carlyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06968435613019283463noreply@blogger.com0