Book Recommendations (July 2021)
Last month, I was a week late in posting my recommendations. To make up for it, I had added an extra book! (Usually I do six unless there is a special reason) So here are this month's selections. There's a wide range here, including a biography, laugh-out-loud hilarious stories, and even a baby seminary book.
A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice by Jasmine A. Stirling (Author), Vesper Stamper (Illustrator)
Book Description:
Ages: 6 to 12
Witty and mischievous Jane Austen grew up in a house overflowing with words. As a young girl, she delighted in making her family laugh with tales that poked fun at the popular novels of her time, stories that featured fragile ladies and ridiculous plots. Before long, Jane was writing her own stories-uproariously funny ones, using all the details of her life in a country village as inspiration.
In times of joy, Jane's words burst from her pen. But after facing sorrow and loss, she wondered if she'd ever write again. Jane realized her writing would not be truly her own until she found her unique voice. She didn't know it then, but that voice would go on to capture readers' hearts and minds for generations to come.
Why I like this book:
Oh, how can you not like this book? I had watched Becoming Jane and have been fascinated about her life since. There aren't many books out there about how she grew up as a young girl - especially for young children to read - so when I saw this, I knew I had to get it. I ordered the hardcover version instead of getting the eBook (there's no paperback version), and I'm so glad I did! The illustrations are so beautiful and detailed. I'm in awe of them! Some of her famous quotes are also incorporated into the book to tell her story and they work so well. There is also a page with more information about Austen, as well as a note from the author and illustrator, providing some background information about their process of creating the book. You can tell that this book had been very well-researched by both the author and illustrator. I will definitely treasure this beautiful book and read it often to be inspired by Austen's journey whenever I feel like I have lost my voice. If you have daughters or teach girls, I highly recommend this book. If you are fan of Austen, you need to get this book. If you have a passion for writing, you will find this book inspiring and motivating. You will not regret reading this and admiring the gorgeous illustrations.
The Sprightly Carrot's Dream by Jennifer Tremblay (Author, Illustrator)
Book Description:
Sprightly the carrot has the perfect life… for a normal carrot.
However, Sprightly is not your normal carrot.
He wants to become a flower.
Dave the daisy and the other flowers make fun of Sprightly, but his upbeat nature prevails. With the help of Ralph the dog, creativity, and hard work, the sprightly carrot proves that even the most unlikely dreams can come true in this funny, heart warming adventure.
Why I like this book:
I really enjoyed this book! It's full of imagination. The illustrations are really vivid and engaging to look at - done by the author herself!. It's definitely a fun book to read with kids. I love that it also teaches several lessons without being too obvious or preachy. 1. Dream big and don't give up, no matter what others say. 2. Importance of friendship and being loyal to one another. 3. Stand up to bullies and not be afraid. The ending was surprising and unexpected, but I won't ruin that for you. Get a copy of the book and read it for yourself!
Magical Mia: Kindness is Contagious by Julie Cassetta (Author), Elena Taranenko (Illustrator)
Book Description:
Ages: 3 to 11
MAGIC IS REAL and is within each one of us!
Meet Mia, a girl who knows her own power to create change. This magical soon-to-be series inspires and empowers children to change the world. With one simple act of kindness, Mia changes the course of someone’s day, and that magic spreads far beyond just one person.
Magical Mia - Kindness is Contagious is an inspirational story of friendship, connection, and the ripple effect of our actions. This is a must-read for every child!
Why I like this book:
This is such a beautiful book that every child should read. The message is so important. So many people take other people's kindness for granted, or feel entitled to certain privileges, yet they don't realize that it is important to first be kind to others themselves. Sometimes it is a very small and simple action but it could change someone's day, their feelings, their thoughts and actions. I enjoyed this beautiful rhyming story and it is sure to bring a smile your face as you read this book. If kindness is contagious, what a wonderful world it would be!