So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter

So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter (Paleontologist) by Linda Soules

Reviewed by Diana Coyle

Are you interested in hunting for dinosaurs and making a new discovery? In “So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter (Paleontologist) by Linda Soules readers learn just what it takes to become a paleontologist. This nonfiction career guide is the perfect book for any reader to see exactly what a paleontologist does and just how intricate their job truly is in discovering not only dinosaurs, but other things like shark teeth, or even fossilized plants. Do you have a sense of wanting to discover something no one else has before? Then this job might be the perfect fit for you!  Purchase Here.

In yet another wonderful book by Linda Soules, she meticulously shared details with her readers on just what it takes to become a paleontologist. As an adult, I must admit, when I hear the term paleontologist, I associate it with dinosaurs only. Was I so wrong in that assumption! I walked away learning that paleontologists discover so much more than just dinosaur bones. They study fossilized plants, ancient pollen, prehistoric shark teeth, insects, and even footprints left in the mud that turned into stone. Their job is more well-rounded than I give them credit for. Just the thought of discovering something that is a million years old gave me the excitement to start paying more attention to the ground that I walk on. You never know what you might find if you pay close attention to your surroundings.

This is just another well-written and wonderfully laid out book for children to learn from if they are interested in becoming a paleontologist. This is one of over 190+ nonfiction career books that Linda Soules has devoted her time and research to writing for children. I must admit, I wish there was such a wonderful series of career books back when I was a child. She has covered so many varying field choices that children are lucky to have such valuable information right at the palm of their hands. Plus, in each book, the author adds sections of Fun Facts, Glossary of Terms, and a plentiful section entitled Want To Learn More in which she lists books to read, websites to visit, things to do to prepare you for that specific career, and even organizations you should familiarize yourself with to gather more information if you truly want to be a paleontologist.

The illustrations provided by Linda Soules were also carefully chosen and perfectly tell the story to readers in picture format. The pictures are just as detailed as the storyline itself. As an adult, I found myself stopping to take in the illustrations just as much as I did the written text.

Linda Soules is an award-winning author of the So You Want To Be…series of career-exploring books. This is a continually growing series aimed at informing children of the various careers that might be available to them as they get older.

Overall, “So You Want To Be A Dinosaur Hunter (Paleontologist) is another one of the fabulous additions to the career series for children. The research she has done on this topic shines throughout the pages, and I’m sure it will spark many children into considering if they want to be a paleontologist. This series is one for your child’s at-home library and would be a wonderful addition to school and public libraries. I highly recommend it!

 

So You Want To Be A Zookeeper

So You Want To Be A Zookeeper by Linda Soules

Reviewed by Diana Coyle

A zookeeper isn’t just someone who wants to play with animals. It’s a job of protecting those animals which is thoroughly explained in “So You Want To Be A Zookeeper” by Linda Soules. As the zookeeper devotes their time, knowledge, and energy into taking care of a wild animal, a strong bond of trust and respect forms between the animal and keeper. A bond that is truly unique and special between the two. In this nonfiction children’s career book, young readers will learn about some of the pros and cons of becoming a zookeeper. Do you have the desire to become a devoted zookeeper?  Purchase Here.

This is another book in this delightful series, So You Want To Be…,and this one is special to me as an adult. I have a deep love for domestic and wild animals, and I was fascinated with all the amazing facts and informational tidbits Soules provided in yet another educational book children can use as a future career reference guide. I was learning right along with the young readers just how detailed a zookeeper’s job really is and how dedicated they must be to keep the zoo animals healthy and happy throughout their lifetimes. One fact that truly left an impression on me was the idea that a zookeeper’s ultimate achievement is to love and care for each individual animal to help them not become extinct in the world.

The detailed and interesting facts the author provided her readers with showed just how much time and research she had put into each book in this series so far. Children will easily walk away learning new facts, like I did, of things they didn’t know prior to reading this informative book.

The illustrations were plentiful throughout this book and fit perfectly telling the story in picture format. Each one was vibrant in color and eye-catching to the readers. You can’t help but stop to take in the complete scope of each illustration provided because it perfectly enhances the story the author has written.

Linda Soules is an award-winning author of the So You Want To Be…series of career exploring books. This is a continually growing series aimed at informing children of the various careers that might be available to them as they get older.

Overall, “So You Want To Be A Zookeeper” by Linda Soules is another career informing book that I think children will love. The information provided is meticulously detailed, allowing readers the full scope of what it takes to be a dedicated zookeeper. The illustrations are gorgeous in design and perfectly fit the written words provided. This is another winner in my eyes, and I feel readers will love it just as much as I did. I eagerly can’t wait to read more books in this educational and fun children’s series!

So You Want To Be a Marine Biologist

So You Want To Be A Marine Biologist by Linda Soules

Reviewed by Diana Coyle

In this illustrated nonfiction children’s career guide, “So You Want To Be A Marine Biologist” by Linda Soules, readers are taken on an amazing adventure learning the intricacies of what it’s like to become a marine biologist. Children and adults alike will learn many interesting facts, not only about the marine environment, but also exactly what it takes to become a marine biologist.  Purchase Here.

The first thing that truly stuck out to me was how Linda Soules jam-packed this children’s book with so many interesting facts that readers of any age will walk away with knowledge they didn’t have before reading it. As an adult, I learned that the ocean covers more than seventy percent of our planet. That percentage made me stop for a moment to take it in. I truly never put this kind of intense thought into such a dynamic piece of information. Plus, another truly interesting fact I learned is that the ocean environment produces more than half the oxygen we breathe. If these two pieces of information don’t intrigue you, how about another fact that eighty percent of the ocean hasn’t even been explored yet? Those facts would make any reader in awe of just how significant our ocean is in our day-to-day environment.

Another thing I never put much thought to was how involved a marine biologist’s job truly is. They don’t just study the ocean and its inhabitants; they must devote their lives to learning about and supporting such an integral living environment for generations to come. Soules provided detailed information that will allow children to truly see just how involved the life of a marine biologist is in sustaining not only every human being, but also all the ocean’s inhabitants that we depend on for our lives. This informative book will delight readers of all ages because there is so much information for every reader to learn from.

The illustrations were AI-generated by Soules, and she fully disclosed that she worked diligently on trying to make these generated images as unique and specific as possible to help guide her readers along a marine biologist’s journey. The colors and detailed illustrations were treasures provided throughout this nonfiction guide.

Linda Soules is an award-winning author of the So You Want To Be…series, which is a children’s nonfiction series of career-exploring books. This series is continually growing to help inform children of various careers that will be available to them as they get older. This series has won many awards and continues to grow in popularity as each new book is added.

Overall, “So You Want To Be A Marine Biologist” by Linda Soules is one nonfiction career book that will entertain readers of various ages. The information is intriguing to learn, the illustrations are spot-on to the data being offered throughout, and the additional bonuses of Fun Facts, Glossary of Terms, and the Want To Learn More sections perfectly complement the entire guide offered. It comes highly recommended!

 

The Berenstain Bears and the Haunted House

The Berenstain Bears and the Haunted House by Jan Berenstain and Mike Berenstain

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton

The Berenstain Bears and the Haunted House is a classic Bear Country story that’s spooky, silly, and comforting. It captures the fun of Halloween without becoming too scary for young readers, which is why it’s so effective.  Purchase Here.

Brother and Sister Bear explore a creepy old house filled with cobwebs, shadows, and classic haunted details. True to the Berenstain Bears vibe, the suspense never gets too intense. The “haunted” house is really just a backdrop for teaching kids that being scared usually comes from not knowing what’s going on, and that once you look a little closer, those fears can turn into something enjoyable.

The illustrations by Stan and Jan are expressive and detailed, with many small visual jokes for kids who like to look closely at each page. The spooky parts are drawn playfully, so even sensitive readers can enjoy the story without feeling scared.

The pacing is really what gives this story its charm. It creates just the right amount of suspense to keep everyone interested, and then it all ends on a good note.   It’s a great pick for autumn, but honestly, it fits any time of year if your kid enjoys a soft, spooky story.

Basically, it’s a warm, mildly spooky story that delivers the classic Berenstain Bears mix—soft life lessons, comforting family time, and a kid‑friendly way to talk about fear and bravery.

This book is recommended for ages 4-8.

 

 

 

 

Dadd

Daddy, I Love You by Elena Ulyeva

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton

Elena Ulyeva’s Daddy, I Love You is a gentle and heartfelt picture book about the special bond between a father and child. The story is about a young bear who loves being with his dad. What makes this book stand out is how honestly it shows real family life, from playful moments to small adventures, and the comfort of knowing Dad is always there to come back to.  Purchase Here.

Little Bear wants to spend each day being near his Dad.  Outdoors, he notices and laughs at the tiny things only children seem to catch, and he falls into those familiar quiet pauses any parent knows from having a little one always nearby. And those quick looks kids give — that mix of excitement and pure admiration — show up here too, the kind that makes you stop for a second because they just want to be close. Ulyeva keeps the feelings steady and believable, never pushing the sweetness too far, which is why the story feels honest rather than polished.

The illustrations are a highlight. They are bright, expressive, and warm, bringing the characters to life with soft textures and inviting colors. Each page feels cozy and welcoming, the kind of art that draws kids in and makes them want to look longer. The pictures show the father bear’s patience, playfulness, and love in a way that young readers can easily understand.

This book is perfect for reading together. It is short enough for bedtime, but still has enough heart to inspire extra snuggles and requests to read it again. It would make a sweet Father’s Day gift or a nice choice for any dad who wants a story about the joy of being with his child.

Overall, Daddy, I Love You is a warm and reassuring picture book that celebrates everyday love in an honest and simple way. It’s the kind of story families choose when they want something gentle, sweet, and full of heart.

Goodnight Sister

Goodnight Sister by Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton

“Goodnight Sister” is a sweet, reassuring story about growing up, change, and the kind of sibling bond that makes even the scariest night feel safe.

Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt captures a moment many families know well: the first night two siblings sleep in separate rooms. Kat is thrilled to move into her own “big girl room,” while her younger sister Tina is… not so thrilled. The mix of excitement and anxiety feels incredibly true to life, and the book handles those emotions with a gentle touch.  Purchase Here.

What makes the story work is how honestly it portrays both girls. Kat wants independence, but she also wants to protect her sister. Tina wants to be brave, but she’s not quite ready to let go. Their back‑and‑forth feels tender and believable, especially when Kat shares her stuffed animals — each one representing something comforting or empowering. It’s a lovely way to show kids how we pass courage to the people we love.

When a storm rolls in, and the girls end up needing each other, the moment doesn’t feel forced. It feels like the natural reminder that growing up doesn’t mean growing apart.

Lucy Fleming’s illustrations add so much warmth. The soft colors, cozy rooms, and expressive faces make the book feel like a hug. It’s the kind of art kids will want to linger on.

It’s the kind of bedtime story kids ask for again, especially if they’re dealing with big changes or just need a little extra comfort at night.

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Colors

Colors: Celebrating All the Colors in God’s Rainbow by Jenna Kurtzwell (Author) Ash Wells (Illustrator)

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton

Colors: Celebrating All the Colors in God’s Rainbow by Jenna Kurtzwell is the opposite of what I was expecting. I thought it was a simple little color book, but it turned out to be one of those gentle, uplifting reads that just put you in a better mood. It’s bright and cheerful—lots of bold pages and happy illustrations—but what really stands out is the tone. It’s soft, warm, and almost calming, like someone sitting with a child, pointing out the beauty in everyday things without making a big production of it.  Purchase Here.

Each color is tied to something meaningful, but it never drifts into preachy territory. It’s more like, “Look at this beautiful world God made—here’s what this color reminds us of.” Colors is very sweet and light. The faith element is woven in naturally, almost like background music rather than a lesson.

The illustrations by Ash Wells are precious.  They do a lot of the heavy lifting. They’re the kind of pictures kids linger on—bright, friendly, and easy to talk about. You can imagine a child pointing things out or naming colors before you even turn the page.

What I appreciated most is how readable it is for adults, too. Some children’s books feel like they’re talking down to you, but this one has that gentle, reassuring tone that works for any age. It’s simple in the best way.

If you want something colorful, positive, and easy to read aloud—something that feels like a little breath of fresh air—this book fits the bill. It’s sweet without being sugary, faith‑based without being heavy, and just overall a lovely, feel‑good pick.

Colors:  Celebrating All the Colors in God’s Rainbow is recommended for ages 5-8.

 

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Little Joe Chickapig

Little Joe Chickapig by Brian Calhoun (Author, Illustrator) and Pat Bradley (Illustrator)

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton

Little Joe Chickapig is a charming children’s book that offers a fresh and fun story for young readers. It follows Little Joe, a lively chickapig, as he goes on an exciting adventure full of teamwork, problem-solving, and friendship.  Purchase Here.

The story features bright, colorful illustrations that bring the playful characters and setting to life. These pictures match the story well and keep kids interested on every page.

A key strength of Little Joe Chickapig is its mix of humor and warmth. The story entertains while gently teaching important lessons about working together, being determined, and showing kindness in a way kids can easily understand.

The language is clear and lively, perfect for early readers or for parents to read aloud. The story moves at a good pace that keeps kids interested without being too fast or slow.

Overall, Little Joe Chickapig is a happy and inspiring book that promotes good values and sparks imagination. It’s a wonderful addition to any child’s library and a great pick for storytime, bringing smiles and thoughtful talks.

This book is recommended for children 3-5 years old.

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Don't Trust Cats

Don’t Trust Cats: Life Lessons from Chip the Dog by Dev Petty and Mike Boldt

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton

Don’t Trust Cats is one of those picture books that turns out to be a pleasant surprise.   On the surface, it’s silly, bright, and full of lively cat energy. Along  with humor, there’s a surprisingly relatable message about trust, impulse, and how small choices can lead to big problems.  Purchase Here.

The story follows a well-meaning main character who learns the hard way that cats aren’t always thttps://amznhttps://amzn.to/3O9OMemto/4bC20bxe cooperative, rule-following companions we hope for. Anyone who’s lived with a cat will recognize the truth here: the blank stares, sudden bursts of naughtiness, and how they seem to know exactly what you don’t want them to do.

What makes the book work is its message.   It doesn’t talk down to kids or try too hard to be funny. The humor comes naturally—from the illustrations, the timing, and the narrator’s growing frustration as the cats do exactly what cats do. It’s the kind of book that gets even funnier when read aloud, especially if you play up the dramatic parts.

The illustrations are a big part of what makes this book a delight. They’re expressive but not overly done, seizing the perfect mix of innocence and chaos which defines cat behavior. Kids will laugh at the visual jokes, and adults will laugh because they’ve been there.

Beneath the comedy, there’s a gentle lesson regarding responsibility and thinking ahead, but it never feels preachy. It’s more like the author giving a knowing wink and saying, “We’ve all been there.”

Bottom line: Don’t Trust Cats is playful, quick, and really fun to read. It’s a great choice for bedtime, classroom story time, or any kid who loves animals—especially those furry little troublemakers who run the house.

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Two basketball players in urban setting.

Seventeen Missions to Save the World by Leyth Sharaf

Reviewed by Timea Barabas

Your life can change in unimaginable ways in the blink of an eye, whether during a college basketball game or while picking up Seventeen Missions to Save the World by Leyth Sharaf. While the book mainly targets a younger audience, it is a refreshing read for all ages. The author’s vivid narration makes the story cinematically unfold before the reader’s eyes.  Purchase Here.

This young adult novel blends humor, satire, and touches of surrealism to explore a grand theme: saving the world. Rather than treating this ambitious goal as an impossible challenge, the author breaks it into seventeen smaller, achievable missions.

It all begins with a teenager who simply wants to win a basketball game for his team. But in the middle of the match, a shimmering portal opens, and a mysterious being known as the Reminder steps through, bringing a warning of impending doom.

The future is collapsing, and only the protagonist, Leyth, holds the key to saving it. By a twist of fate, his teammate Ellie is drawn into the mission as well. Together, they journey through a magical portal that transcends time and space, witnessing possible futures across the world as they strive to set things right.

Our two heroes embark on seventeen missions to save the world as we know it. Each mission unfolds in two parts. First, Leyth and Ellie are given a glimpse into a dystopian future that magnifies a pressing global issue, such as poverty, gender inequality, or rampant overconsumption. These scenarios are depicted in vivid detail, infused with sharp satire, humor, and wit. Then, they are transported back to the present day, where they must confront and resolve the problem before it spirals beyond control.

Seventeen Missions to Save the World by Leyth Sharaf is a light-hearted and thought-provoking exercise on enacting positive change in the world around us. It shows over and over again how even the smallest good deeds can reverberate into causing global change.

If two teenagers can save the world seventeen times, surely, collectively, we should manage to be able to as well. Leyth Sharaf serves as our Reminder of how we continue to neglect our responsibilities to care for and protect one another and our home.

Gold Bestsellers World Reviewers Choice Award Seal.
First Place: Humor/Satire