Dash and the Lights in the Sky Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Have you ever seen the Northern Lights? Do you know the science behind this Arctic wonder? Learn all about it in Dash and the Lights in the Sky, the first in the picture book series by Ashley Key. Enter to win a signed copy and a beautifully curated craft box!

My Review:

Inspired by the author's real-life husky and her personal experience, Dash and the Lights in the Sky tells an enchanting tale packed with information about auroras, especially Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights.

At the sight of dazzling, dancing, colorful light ribbons in the night sky, Dash, the curious husky, gets puzzled and scared. He turns to his friend Echo for an explanation. The wise snowy owl shares what she knows about the science of aurora, when Nimbus, the playful Arctic fox, chimes in with excitement. Together, the friends enjoy the most beautiful light show on Earth while learning how and why it happens.

With cheerful rhymes and adorable animal characters, the narrative introduces key scientific terms and explains the cause of auroras in an entertaining and accessible manner. It further explores the impact of altitude, season, magnetic fields, and composition of the atmosphere on the formation and variation of auroras.  Alongside the rhythmic text are stunning graphics, which highlight the breathtaking beauty of the natural wonder with splashes of vivid colors, stars, sparks and shimmers.

Besides a charming story, the book also includes a helpful reading guide for parents, a list of aurora vocabulary explained in kid-friendly language, a deeper look into aurora science with impressively extensive information, and step-by-step instructions for aurora-inspired craft projects, along with the science behind each craft. It offers so much for young readers and their parents to learn and create together!

Lyrically written and vibrantly illustrated, Dash and the Lights in the Sky makes a valuable STEM read aloud for space science enthusiasts, young explorers and animal lovers.

About the Book:

Ages: 0-8 | 50 Pages (hardcover and softcover) 25 Pages (board book)
Publisher: Adventure Press (2025) | ISBN: 979-8993318646

Dash and the Lights in the Sky is a poetic children’s book that combines storytelling, science, and Arctic wonder. One wintry night, Dash the husky looks up at a strange glow dancing across the sky. With the help of Echo the wise owl and Nimbus the playful Arctic fox, he discovers the science of the aurora borealis-the northern lights.

This lyrical narrative blends advanced vocabulary with a sing-song rhythm, inviting children to explore concepts such as atmosphere, particles, and magnetism in an accessible way. Designed for ages 0-8, the book encourages curiosity and sparks early STEM learning while preserving the magic of a bedtime story.

The watercolor-inspired illustrations create a dreamy, Arctic setting, while the built-in Parents’ Reading Guide provides vocabulary support, discussion prompts, and NGSS-aligned extension activities. Ideal for classrooms, homeschool lessons, or cozy family reading, Dash and the Lights in the Sky helps children connect wonder with science-and shows that even the sky holds secrets waiting to be discovered.

Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org

Into the Thicket Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Packs Giveaway

Have you ever encountered a wounded wild animal? Do you know how you can help? Join young boy Patrick's adventure Into the Thicket as he tries to save an injured baby rabbit. Enter to win a signed copy of this beautiful book by Gail Kuhnlein, together with custom stickers, cute stuffies and more!

My Review:

Featuring relatable characters and artistic drawings, Into the Thicket is a cozy read that both inspires and informs, sparking discussion about courage, compassion, friendship, wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.

When trying to retrieve his football in the yard next door, Patrick discovers a tiny bunny with blood-stained fur. He immediately decides to seek help from Felice, a family friend who specializes in rescuing injured animals. The fastest route to Felice's house is through the tall and thick tangle of thicket that terrifies Patrick with darkness and possible presence of snarling goblins. Will Patrick walk through the thicket safely? Will the little rabbit survive the injury?

This is a touching story about saving a life and showing respect for nature. Empowered by his love and compassion for the rabbit, Patrick gathers the courage to overcome his fear about the thicket. As he frequents Felice's wildlife rescue center, he not only gains knowledge about how to treat and take care of an injured animal, but also gains confidence and independence. What's noteworthy is his unintentional but positive influence on his big brother Ben, who appears to be less sensitive or caring at the beginning. Ben's transformation means a lot to Patrick.

Along with Patrick, young readers learn about Eastern Cottontail's natural habitat, their predators, and favorite food. They also learn that love sometimes involves letting go. It's important to keep wild animals wild and free. The book's back matter suggests steps to take and resources to contact when an injured or orphaned animal is spotted. It includes tips for protecting rabbit nests from unwanted disruptions as well.

Vibrant and evocative, the book's amazing artwork brings to life the vulnerable yet irresistibly cute baby bunny, melting the reader's heart. With vivid details, it captures the joy of giving care, the beauty and serenity of nature, and the emotional growth of both Patrick and Ben.

Full of heart and useful information, Into the Thicket makes a worthy addition to any family's library, fostering a lifelong love of nature and wildlife.

About the Book:

Ages: 4-7 | 60 Pages
Publisher: BookBaby (2025) | ISBN: 979-8990747807

Inspired by a true story, Into the Thicket begins with the moment the author’s young son discovered an injured baby rabbit — an encounter that sparked a heartfelt journey of care and connection.

This tender picture book follows a boy and the rabbit he hopes to help, gently exploring themes of compassion, courage, love, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go. It invites young readers to develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for the natural world, showing how even the smallest acts of kindness can ripple through a great, big world.

Featuring stunning watercolor illustrations by acclaimed Ann Arbor artist John Megahan, Into the Thicket is a story families will return to again and again. A portion of all proceeds benefits wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.

Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | BookBaby | Bookshop.org

Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Trilogy Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

What is your family's favorite holiday tradition? Does your celebration involve traveling to somewhere special? Find out how a cheery family ski vacation turns into an urgent mission to save Christmas in Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Trilogy by T.E. Milburn. Enter to win a signed copy along with a cozy bundle of goodies related to the novel!

My Review:

Full of action and imagination, Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Trilogy is a thrilling and uplifting middle-grade fantasy about family, friendship, courage and Christmas magic. This 3-in-1 edition provides easy access to all books in the series, with each subsequent story happening approximately one year apart from the previous one.

It has become a family tradition for the James to spend their Christmas break at a ski resort in Canada. This year, however, a sudden blizzard forces them to change route and pull into the magnificent yet mysterious North Point Ski Resort, where the world's best-tasting hot cocoa is served by elf-like creatures. Noah and Alex James, aged 8 and 10, soon find out that Santa is imprisoned by his brother Malachi while their parents are held hostage by a dark force attempting to obtain the magic crystal Noah discovers during their family trip to Yellowstone. The crystal has the power to transport the brothers to wherever they can mentally picture, but it can be the source of danger and betrayal as well. Will the duo stand up to the challenge and manage to save Santa, their parents, and Christmas?

Well-written and beautifully illustrated, the trilogy captures a reader's full attention from the first page, on which Santa is trapped in the dungeons of North Pole, completely cut off from his magic. With a charming blend of mystery, magic, fantasy and adventure, the stories keep young readers engaged as they follow Noah and Alex's daring journeys. Kid-friendly language, short chapters and perfect pacing guarantee the read to be a smooth and enjoyable one. While the narrative gets kids immersed in the winter wonderland through vivid descriptions, the lifelike illustrations help them visualize all the intricate details and dive even deeper into the stories.

The two young heroes of the series are skillfully developed with distinctive personalities and growth arcs. Their experience confirms the value of love, kindness, determination, courage and teamwork. Meanwhile, the dynamics of sibling relationship is explored through realistic and relatable scenarios like bickering, joking, bonding and collaborating. For those who are fond of talking animals and magical creatures, the trilogy portrays plenty with fascinating characteristics and intriguing interactions with the James brothers.

Festive and imaginative, Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Trilogy deserves a prominent spot on any fantasy and adventure lover's holiday reading list.

About the Book:

Ages: 7-12 | 403 Pages
Publisher: T.E. Milburn (2025) | ISBN: 979-8991011488

Celebrate the wonder of the holiday season with Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Trilogy. Discover the heartwarming adventures of this highly rated series, now available in one beautifully illustrated edition.

Calling All Heroes! A dark shadow looms over the North Pole, and we need brave readers like you to help us protect Christmas!

Hi, we’re Noah and Alex James, and we’re excited to take you on this incredible journey. Here’s what we’ve uncovered so far:

• Our adventures began with Santa’s mysterious capture, and we’re on a quest to discover the mastermind behind this wicked scheme. 
• Strange occurrences continue to shake the North Pole, but our determination to uncover the truth only grows stronger! 
• People are calling us the “Sons of the Crystal,” hinting at an extraordinary destiny we are still trying to understand. 
• The magic of Christmas is in grave danger, and it’s up to us to protect it at all costs!

We have received incredible support from amazing allies along the way— including super-chill yetis, quirky gnomes, talking animals, and other fantastical creatures. However, we still need your help to solve the mystery of who is attacking Christmas and why!

Are you ready to dive into this magical adventure and join us in saving Christmas? If so, open your book and let’s go!

Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Christmas is just a few weeks away. How does your family get ready for the holidays? Anything similar to what's covered in 12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas by Tanya Harvey? Enter to win a copy, along with a $100 gift card and a star tree topper!

My Review:

Dedicated to moms who make holiday time magical, 12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas captures the joy, excitement, and challenges of holiday preparation through a comical and cheerful Christmas countdown.

A family of four is busy preparing for their holiday celebration in the days leading up to Christmas. Each day sees something new being added to their activity list, starting from placing a star on top of the tree to putting on silly sweaters. Besides sparkling decorations, yummy food and fancy gifts, the preparation also involves messes that need to be cleaned. Thankfully, elf is not the only helper around the house.

With humor and affection, this Christmas tale weaves together a little chaos, a lot of laughter, and many memorable moments into one heartwarming holiday celebration. While getting young readers excited about the holiday season, it prompts them to appreciate all the hard work that makes everything possible, such as shopping, gift wrapping, decorating, crafting, cooking and cleaning up. The mom in the story is shown taking the lead in the preparation while the rest of the family, including two girls and their dad, are happily helping her out. It suggests getting ready for the holidays together as an opportunity to create family memories that will last for years to come.

Suitable for early readers, the narrative adopts a repetition pattern that makes it easy to follow and remember. The growing list of activities provides an entertaining example of how to build and expand a sentence with parallel structure. The book comes with a QR code that grants access to an animated sing-along version, which helps little ones understand the story without having to know all the words.

Full of festive fun and funny faces, the charmingly colorful artwork vividly portrays a loving family as they are merrily engaged in various holiday activities, some of which lead to messy situations. I love how the book ends with a sweet scene in which everyone in the family falling asleep under the tree, exhausted but content, with the mom smiling in her dream.

A delight to read aloud and sing along, 12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas encourages the entire family to get involved in holiday preparation, as a way to create and honor their own holiday tradition.

About the Book:

Ages: 4-6 | 24 Pages
Publisher: Newtown Station Press (2024) | ISBN: 978-1069140333

Celebrate the joyful chaos of the holiday season! No pear trees here! This modern twist on a classic countdown reminds us that Christmas is not just about the Big Day, but how we cherish preparing for it together. From decorating the tree to last-minute shopping, each day presents a new challenge — and plenty of laughter — as the family works together to ensure everything is ready for their holiday celebration. This charming story captures the love and dedication that go into making the season special, reminding us how quickly it passes by — and how the journey is where the memories are made. Filled with delightful illustrations that bring heartwarming moments to life, The 12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas is a whirlwind of festive fun, perfect for readers of all ages — especially Moms who make Christmas magical.

Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org