What a darling picture book!

Title: MRS. BETSY FIELDMOUSE BORROWS AN EGG

Author: Barbara Bockman

Illustrator:  Elexis King

Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc.

Published: August 2016

Paperback ISBN: 9781616337841

eBook ISBN: 9781616337858

MRS. BETSY FIELDMOUSE BORROWS AN EGG, written by Barbara Bockman and illustrated by Elexis King, is an endearing picture book perfect for children ages 3-7.

The best laid plans often go awry as Mrs. Betsy Fieldmouse finds out when her mission to bake a birthday cake for a friend, Mrs. Tillie Beaver, runs into a snag…she doesn’t have an egg.  So begins a circular process of calling on friends in a time of need with a nice little surprise at the end.  Mrs. Bockman uses lively language (“twitchy whiskers,” “button nose,” “bushy ring tail”) and a repetitive manner in story telling that children will enjoy reading over and over again. 

Ms. King’s creative and colorful illustrations engage children and give life to Mrs. Bockman’s text.  MRS. BETSY FIELDMOUSE BORROWS AN EGG is a fun picture book which teaches children about the joy of helping others and taking pride in doing so.  Highly recommended!

Author information can be found at www.barbarabockman.com

Illustrator information is available at www.elexisking.com

** Disclosure:  I received a copy of this book free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.  This review consists of my truthful opinions, not influenced in any way by the author or publisher.

A Delightful Read

Title: In and Out, All ‘Round About—Opposite Friends

Author: Penelope Anne Cole

Illustrator: Agy Wilson

Paperback: 32 Pages

Publisher: Magical Book Works (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform)

Published: January 2016

ISBN: 978-1943196-04-3

Penelope Anne Cole’s newest release, In and Out, All ‘Round About—Opposite Friends, illustrated by Agy Wilson, is an endearing rhyming book that teaches of enduring friendship despite differences and distance. 

In and Out is a great read-aloud for children which may also be used in the classroom to teach about opposites and cultural diversity.  It will be a terrific tool for generating conversation and open dialogue regarding differences amongst all of us.  It proves that differences between kids are not an obstacle but can and should be something to celebrate and build solid friendships upon. 

As is typical of Penelope Anne Cole’s writing style, she teaches solid values in such a storytelling way that kids will not even be aware of all they are learning.

Ms. Wilson’s vividly colorful and beautiful illustrations give life to Cole’s voice.  A must read for all children ages 5-8!

Learn more or contact Penelope Anne Cole at:

www.penelopeannecole.com

www.pennyreviews-chat.blogspot.com

pennyannecole@gmail.com

Learn more about Agy Wilson at:

www.agywilson.com

The Final Chapter

Title: Magical Max and Magical Mickey’s Big Surprise

Author: Penelope Anne Cole

Illustrator: Kevin Scott Collier

Print & eBook: 36 Pages

Publisher: Magical Book Works (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform)

Published: April 2016

ISBN-13: 978-0692660300

ISBN-10: 0692660305

Magical Max and Magical Mickey’s Big Surprise, written by Penelope Anne Cole and illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier, is the fifth and final book in Ms. Cole’s Magical series and is another terrific example of the importance of doing good for others. 

The twins, Max and Mickey, are now 9 years old and know their magic is on borrowed time.  Their siblings, Matthew and Mea, both lost their magic when their final baby tooth fell out which is looming for both Max and Mickey.  They work as often as they can on creating the perfect gift to mark the big graduation milestone for Matthew, Mea and Matthew’s best friend, Lily.  But what is the big surprise and will they finish on time?  Max and Mickey prove anything is possible with determination and persistence (even without much magic).

As always, Penelope Anne Cole shows the importance of doing good deeds for others and the satisfaction gained in doing so.  Kevin Scott Collier’s beautiful illustrations are the perfect partner to Ms. Cole’s writing, and the final result is a fun adventure that will draw readers of many ages. 

I, for one, am sad to say good bye to all of the Magical family!

Learn more or contact Penelope Anne Cole at:

www.penelopeannecole.com

www.pennyreviews-chat.blogspot.com

pennyannecole@gmail.com

Learn more about Kevin Scott Collier at:

www.kevinscottcollierhomepage.blogspot.com