Homeschool Friday - Gwen Tells Tales

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Gwen Tells Tales (Good News for Little Hearts)

By: Edward T Welch

Illustrated By: Joe Hox

Publication: October 4, 2021 by New Growth Press

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Picture Books, Christian, Manners

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--This colorful, beautifully illustrated children’s book invites children ages four through seven into Gwen Raccoon’s world to learn alongside her how to have the courage to always tell the truth. Gwen Raccoon is embarrassed when she gets a failing grade on a math test. But that’s not the big problem: the big problem is that she is cultivating the habit of lying to do what she wants and cover up her mistakes. Gwen’s lies pile up. But when Mama confesses her own failure to tell the truth, Gwen gains the courage to confess and ask forgiveness of Jesus and of those she has lied to. Edited by Edward. T. Welch, Gwen Tells Tales helps young readers see how God always accepts us when we confess sin and repent; and further, how he gives us the humility to speak the truth when it’s hard. A special section at the end of the book guides parents in helping their children be truth-tellers. Also included is a tear-out page of Back Pocket Bible Verses to remind children and adults that God’s forgiveness is always available to cleanse us from sin; and the Holy Spirit always gives strength to speak the truth. Gwen Tells Tales is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series, bringing gospel help and biblical counsel to families. Based on CCEF’s model of hope and help, each story focuses on an animal family’s real-life issues, encouraging young readers toward a growing relationship with Jesus in the midst of challenging circumstances. Each individual story guides parents toward meaningful conversations with their kids, based on what Scripture has to say about living by faith in everyday life.

I absolutely love the Good News for Little Hearts series. There's always a Scripture where a book dedication usually stands. Gwen Tells Tales features Ephesians 4:25, "So you must stop telling lies. Tell each other the truth because we all belong to each other in the same body." Gwen Tells Tales is 32 pages long, but of course, it isn't an AR book so finding an exact book level for reading purposes would just have to be a guess, but I would put these books on par with the Berenstain Bears which ranges from a level-2 to a level-4. Either way, this is a book that I've read to my kids, not a book that my kids have grabbed for supplemental reading purposes (at least so far).

The book starts with Monday morning where Gwen is excited to go to school because she is the smartest 4th grader in Mukberry Meadow. Mama reminds Gwen and Gus that she and Papa have their cornhole game that night and wouldn't be home until 9 after Gwen and Gus are in bed. She also reminds Gwen of her math test tomorrow and that tonight is Gwen's last tie to study, so no screens allowed. Gwen isn't worried about failing her test so she let's Mama's instruction go in one ear and out the other. When Mama and Papa head out to their game, Gwen goes to get on her device, but Gus reminds her of the rule. She blows him off. Gwen plays until 8:45 so she won't get in trouble when Mama and Papa come home. But the next day at school, Gwen is confused by the test. She doesn't recognize the work she's expected to do. Then she remembers that she was sick two days last week, and this must have been taught while she was out. On the way home from school, Gwen pulls out her graded test and sees "Failing grade. Parent signature required." When she gets home, Gwen decides that she's going to have to copy Mama's signature on the paper herself. Unfortunately, Miss Minnick, the teacher, runs into Mama at the market and asks how Gwen has been doing since Tuesday's test. The truth comes out. Immediately after, Mama runs into a friend from the cornhole game and Mama fibs a little about practice to get a high score.

Gwen asks Mama on the way home from the market why she lied to Mrs. Squirrel about practicing cornhole. Mama realizes that she was wrong and needs to straughten things out. She then asks Gwen why Miss Minnick thinks that she signed Gwen's tests. Mama, Papa, and Gwen discuss the test and Gwen's lack of studying, plus her screen time. And Gwen asks for forgiveness. Mama tells Gwen that following Jesus doesn't mean that we don't mess up and do wrong things from time to time. Papa chimes in that we do ask Jesus for help and forgiveness. Mama gives Gwen a piece of paper with 1 John 1:8-9 written on it.

At the end of the book is a section to parents about helping children with lying. And then finally, there are four "Back Pocket Bible Verses" that you can pull out and give to your child/children for when it's hard to tell the truth. Psalm 34:12-13, Hebrews 4:13, 1 John 1:8-9, and Psalm 32:5.

Picture books that teach about Biblical character in a way that children can understand and apply in their lives are among my top favorite books. This entire series is great. Gwen Tells Tales gets 5 Stars. I love how it shows how one lie often leads to another. Have you or your child read Gwen Tells Tales? What did you think? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - Jax's Tail Twitches

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Jax's Tail Twitches (Good News for Little Hearts)

By: David A. Powlison

Illustrated By: Joe Hox

Publication: October 1, 2018 by New Growth Press

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Picture Books, Christian, Manners

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Everyone gets frustrated when something important to them goes wrong. In Jax’s Tail Twitches, the whole Squirrel family ends up out of sorts when acorn gathering doesn’t go according to plan. Although Papa, Mama, Jax, and Caspian Squirrel all get angry, they also learn about the power of saying sorry, seeking forgiveness, remembering God’s words, and praying together. Edited by David Powlison, Jax’s Tail Twitches ends with a special section that guides parents in teaching children how the gospel of Jesus Christ changes how we respond when life goes wrong. Also included is a tear-out page of Back Pocket Bible Verses that will help children and adults remember to turn to God for help when they are angry.

I absolutely love the Good News for Little Hearts series. There's always a Scripture where a book dedication usually stands. Jax's Tail Twitches features Psalm 103:8, "The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love," but it is at the back of the book. Jax's Tail Twitches is 32 pages long, but of course, it isn't an AR book so finding an exact book level for reading purposes would just have to be a guess, but I would put these books on par with the Berenstain Bears which ranges from a level-2 to a level-4. Either way, this is a book that I've read to my kids, not a book that my kids have grabbed for supplemental reading purposes (at least so far).

The book starts with Jax and Caspian waking up and racing to be first to the kitchen. Caspian trips Jax and laughs. So Jax starts the day off in a bad mood. His father comes in with an armful of acorns and discusses the year's supply. The family goes about their day collecting acorns to store up for the winter, but as kids do, Caspian gets bored and playfully throws an acorn at his brother. Jax is not amused and retaliates. Caspian is playing, but Jax is angry. At the same time, there's another squirrel family that stops by to visit. The dad of that family picks up an acorn, and Papa asks him about his own tree providing for his family. He thinks of this tree as a community tree. Papa corrects him using the squirrel handbook, but Mr. McNuffle is surprised that Papa wouldn't want to help his neighbor. As the men begin to argue, no one notices that baby (toddler?) Jolie jumps into the bag of acorns Papa has been collecting which bursts and acorns go flying everywhere. All the family's hard work goes rolling down the hill. At the same time, Mama realizes her dinner is burning back in the treehouse. The family goes racing home.

Now everyone is angry. Mama blames Papa for distracting her with his argument. Papa blames Mr. McNuffle for not being a good neighbor and following the squirrel handbook. Caspian notices that Dad's tail is twitching in the same way that Jax's does and comments about the acorn not falling far from the tree. Jax looks around and sees that everyone wanted something they didn't get. Papa is the first to apologize, setting a good example in humbling himself. He tells the family how the Great Book (Bible) says that anger doesn't produce the right and good life that God wants us to have. They all discuss what happened and how anger led to poor decisions. The squirrels go to God in prayer to ask for forgiveness and help. The each go around the room noting what they did wrong and asking each other to forgive them. Papa writes two verses down on a piece of paper to keep in his back pocket. Jax notes that as soon as his tail begins to twitch he's going to ask God for help in the future. The family goes down to gather their spilled acorns and make things right with the McNuffle family. Mr. McNuffle asks for forgiveness too, and they share warm apple crisp Mrs. McNuffle brought over.

At the end of the book is a section to parents about helping children with anger. And then finally, there are six "Back Pocket Bible Verses" that you can pull out and give to your child/children for when they are angry. James 1:20, Psalm 46:1, Ephesians 4:32, Exodus 34:6, 1 Corinthians 13:4, and Romans 12:21.

Picture books that teach about Biblical character in a way that children can understand and apply in their lives are among my top favorite books. This entire series is great. Jax's Tail Twitches gets 5 Stars. I especially have one child that struggles with anger, and this book does a great job of showing how it seeps out to everyone it touches, and how personal responsibility is needed to fix it. Have you or your child read Jax's Tail Twitches? What did you think? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - Halle Takes a Stand

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Halle Takes a Stand (Good News for Little Hearts)

By: Paul David Tripp

Illustrated By: Joe Hox

Publication: March 31, 2022 by New Growth Press

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Picture Books, Christian, Manners

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--This colorful, beautifully illustrated children's book invites children ages three through eight into Halle Hedgehog's world to learn alongside her how Jesus gives her courage to take a stand against meanness.

Halle Hedgehog has a group of school friends she sits with at lunch and plays with at recess. One day, the whole group excludes another girl and decides to be mean to her. This bothers Halle, but she doesn't say anything because she doesn't want to be excluded, too. Halle's teacher Mr. Owl talks to her about who she really needs to fit in with, and how she can speak out against bullying because Jesus is with her.

Parents and children will learn concrete, grace-based ways to deal with the pressures of fitting in. Edited by Paul David Tripp, Halle Takes a Stand ends with a special section that guides parents in teaching their children to respond with faith when fear or the overwhelming desire to fit in takes hold in their hearts.

Halle Takes a Stand is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series, bringing gospel help and biblical counsel to families. Based on CCEF's model of hope and help, each story focuses on an animal family's real-life issues, encouraging young readers toward a growing relationship with Jesus in the midst of challenging circumstances. Each individual story guides parents toward meaningful conversations with their kids, based on what Scripture has to say about living by faith in everyday life.

By providing biblical help and hope to issues every child faces through vivid illustrations and a story based on a different animal family, even the youngest child will be engaged. Each story offers practical ways to follow Jesus in difficult situations. Instead of a moralistic message, young readers are encouraged to develop a real relationship with the God who cares for them.

I absolutely love the Good News for Little Hearts series. There's always a Scripture where a book dedication usually stands. Halle Takes a Stand features Proverbs 29:25, "If you are afraid of people, it will trap you. But if you trust in the Lord, he will keep you safe." Halle Takes a Stand is 32 pages long, but of course, it isn't an AR book so finding an exact book level for reading purposes would just have to be a guess, but I would put these books on par with the Berenstain Bears which ranges from a level-2 to a level-4. Either way, this is a book that I've read to my kids, not a book that my kids have grabbed for supplemental reading purposes (at least so far).

The book starts with a Friday waffle day in the Hedgehog House. Halle and Henry are off to school. At lunch, Halle's science partner, Freya, tried to sit at her lunch table, but Maddie had a thing against frogs and was ugly and teasing. When Freya walked away, Maddie continued to loudly talk down about frogs. Halle laughed and joined in a bit with the others making fun of Freya. Little did Halle know that their teacher Mr. Owl had come up behind them. He asked Halle to stay and talked to her a bit about what happened. When she got home that night, her parents noticed her different behavior, and Halle admitted that Mr. Owl had sent home a note for them to read. Mama and Papa talked to Halle about the unkind things said about Freya. Mama shared a story of her childhood when another girl made fun of her in front of everyone and how one friend stuck up for her. Papa tells Halle that doing the right thing is not easy, but Jesus welcomed the friendless, and we should too. Papa and Mama pray for Halle to be brave and trust God. Papa gives Halle a piece of paper with Proverbs 29:25 written on it. And then Papa asked if Halle could see how Maddie trapped her. Papa guides Halle to pray and ask Jesus for forgiveness. The next morning Halle goes to school early to talk to Mr. Owl. She shares her discussion with her parents with him. And then Mr. Owl reinforced Halle's parents' lesson. At lunchtime, Halle had the opportunity to stand up to Maddie and defend Freya, which she did. After Maddie was ousted from her table, the only table left was the bullfrog boys. Maddie has an embarassing moment, but Halle stands up to comfort Maddie.

At the end of the book is a section to parents about helping children with peer pressure. And then finally, there are four "Back Pocket Bible Verses" that you can pull out and give to your child/children for when they want to fit in. Proverbs 29:25, Matthew 11:28, John 15:13, and Psalm 62:11-12.

Picture books that teach about Biblical character in a way that children can understand and apply in their lives are among my top favorite books. This entire series is great. Halle Takes a Stand gets 5 Stars. Have you or your child read Halle Takes a Stand? What did you think? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - Tomas Looks Up and Out

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Tomas Looks Up and Out (Good News for Little Hearts)

By: J. Alasdair Groves

Illustrated By: Jo Hox

Publication: October 9, 2023 by New Growth Press

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Picture Books, Christian, Manners

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Tomas Looks Up and Out helps children learn how God considers us and wants us to look to him for help so that we consider others too. Tomas Turtle starts his day thinking more about himself than others. Not only is he annoyed that his sister Tori’s cough kept him awake, but he also brags to all of his friends about his successes. It’s not until he gets sick and his friends take care of him that Tomas learns to look up to God and out to others. Edited by counselor Alasdair Groves, Tomas Looks Up and Out offers concrete, grace-based help for growing in empathy and is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series, which brings gospel wisdom and biblical counsel to families. Based on CCEF’s model of hope and help, each story focuses on an animal family’s real-life issues, encouraging young readers toward a growing relationship with Jesus during challenging circumstances.

I absolutely love the Good News for Little Hearts series. There's always a Scripture where a book dedication usually stands. Tomas Looks Up and Out features Philippians 2:4, "None of you should look out just for your own good. Each of you should also look out for the good of others." Tomas Looks Up and Out is 32 pages long, but of course, it isn't an AR book so finding an exact book level for reading purposes would just have to be a guess, but I would put these books on par with the Berenstain Bears which ranges from a level-2 to a level-4. Either way, this is a book that I've read to my kids, not a book that my kids have grabbed for supplemental reading purposes (at least so far).

The book starts with Tomas Turtle being annoyed by the noises coming from downstairs because it's Saturday, and he normally gets to sleep in on Saturday. His mother explains that Tori has been up all night, and she's not feeling well. But Tomas is only annoyed with his missing sleep. Tomas comes in that afternoon with his friend Henry bragging about making the swimming team. He interrupts his father and tells his parents that Henry didn't make the team because too much water isn't good for hedgehogs. Later, Tomas and Buster are sliding down the grassy hill. Tomas bursts through the front door bragging about beating Buster down the hill. His mother pulls him aside to discuss how Buster might be feeling. Tomas blows her off because Buster wins all the time. After dinner, Tomas isn't feeling well. Tori, knowing how it feels to be sick, offers Tomas the remote and a hot water bottle that she had been using. Tomas, however, was too frustrated with being sick to notice Tori taking care of him. The next day, Tomas's friends show up with some supplies to help him feel better. A mishap has the two friends covered in water, but instead of being angry and frustrated, they just laughed. Tomas realized that his friends could have been out doing anything else, but instead they had come to see and help him. That night before bed, he makes things right by apologizing to Tori, who forgives him. Tori also shares a piece of paper from her nightstand which shares Philippians 2:4. Tomas goes to bed, looks up to God, and asks for help to look out for others. The next morning, Tomas is feeling better, but his mom shares that Buster and Henry are now feeling sick. Tomas asks his mother if they should take them some soup.

At the end of the book is a section to parents about helping children learn to walk in another's shoes. And the finally, there are four "Back Pocket Bible Verses" that you can pull out and give to your child/children for when they are lonely. Matthew 7:12, Romans 12:15, Philippians 2:4, and 1 Peter 3:8.

Picture books that teach about Biblical character in a way that children can understand and apply in their lives are among my top favorite books. This entire series is great. Tomas Looks Up and Out gets 5 Stars. Have you or your child read Tomas Looks Up and Out? What did you think? Let me know

Homeschool Friday - Darcy is Always First

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Darcy is Always First (Good News for Little Hearts)

By: Lauren Whitman

Illustrated By: Jo Hox

Publication: September 9, 2024 by New Growth Press

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Picture Books, Christian, Manners

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--In Darcy Is Always First, children will learn how to show love and patience to their brothers and sisters, even when they annoy each other.

It doesn’t matter that Darcy Duck is only a few seconds older than Delia and Denny—Darcy thinks she should be first at everything. That means that the ducklings always end up fighting to get their turn. Hurt feelings and anger abound until one day when their grandparents fly in for a visit. That’s when Denny’s determination to be first, ahead of Darcy, almost ends in disaster.

Edited by counselor Lauren Whitman, Darcy Is Always First is part of the Good News for Little Hearts series that brings gospel wisdom and biblical counsel to families. Based on CCEF’s model of hope and help, each story focuses on an animal family’s real-life issues, encouraging young readers toward a growing relationship with Jesus during challenging circumstances.A special section at the end of the book guides parents in having meaningful conversations with their kids about putting others first and living at peace with one another.Children ages four to seven will be captivated by Joe Hox’s colorful, fun illustrations that bring the animal world to life. Teaches children and parents how to apply God’s Word to the inevitable occurrence of navigating sibling conflict.

I absolutely love the Good News for Little Hearts series. There's always a Scripture where a book dedication usually stands. Darcy is Always First features Romans 12:5, "In Christ we are one body. And each part of the body belongs to all the other parts." In my copy, this Scripture was toward the end instead of the beginning of the book. Darcy is Always First is 32 pages long, but of course, it isn't an AR book so finding an exact book level for reading purposes would just have to be a guess, but I would put these books on par with the Berenstain Bears which ranges from a level-2 to a level-4. Either way, this is a book that I've read to my kids, not a book that my kids have grabbed for supplemental reading purposes (at least so far).

The book starts with three duckling siblings swimming in Mulberry Pond. Darcy has a habit of pushing her way to the front of the line to be first at everything. A couple of examples are shown. Denny is the youngest sibling, and he seems to take Darcy's habit the hardest. That's not to say that Delia is immune to Darcy's behavior. As Denny gets fed up with Darcy's attempts to be first, he begins to fight her on the position, but his attempts only make things worse. Denny eventually takes his attemps to beat Darcy at being first so far that he puts himself and Gram and Gramps in danger. All three end up soaking wet. Mama and Papa finally take time to see what's really going on with Denny. And Mama and Papa have a discussion with all of their ducklings. Papa pulls a piece of paper from his hat that has Romans 12:5 on it. He talks to the ducklings about how important it is to take care of your siblings in the same way that you take care of your own body. If one sibling does well, all of them should be happy. If one sibling is hurting, everyone is supposed to care about that pain. Because we all belong to one another. And then he talks to them about how to make things right.

At the end of the book is a section for parents about helping children with navigating sibling conflict. And then finally, there are four "Back Pocket Bible Verses" that you can pull out and give to your child/children for when siblings fight. Mark 12:21, Romans 12:5, Psalm 133:1, and Ephesians 5:1-2.

Picture books that teach about Biblical character in a way that children can understand and apply in their lives are among my top favorite books. This entire series is great. Darcy is Always First gets 5 Stars. (Now if only solving sibling conflict went as smoothly in real life as it is presented in books, all of us parents would have a much easier job.) Have you or your child read Darcy is Always First? What did you think? Let me know!

P.S. As this blog post is publishing on September 11, 2026, I haven't forgotten this day 25 years ago. I honor those lost in my memory, and my prayers are with the family members of those who died as well as the survivors of that day. I recently listened to the audiobook I Survived: The Attacks of September 11, 2001 by Lauren Tarshis with my kids and had a visceral reaction that I wasn't expecting. I highly recommend that book and will have a full review coming to my blog in the future.

Homeschool Friday - Tori Comes Out of Her Shell

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Tori Comes Out of Her Shell (Good News for Little Hearts, # 5)

By: Jayne V. Clark

Illustrated By: Jo Hox

Publication: October 7, 2019 by New Growth Press

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Picture Books, Christian, Manners

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Tori the turtle feels all alone. She has just moved to a new pond and a new school with her family and it seems like everyone has a friend except her. Her teacher notices she feels alone and helps her remember Jesus is always her friend and then along the way she makes some new friends. The last page contains information for Christian parents on how God, in his Word, helps us turn to Jesus when we are lonely. Together children and parents will be guided into meaningful conversations about living by faith in the details of everyday life. Also included is a tear-out page of Back Pocket Bible Verses that will give children a practical way to remember God's words when they feel all alone. A new series of hardback, illustrated. Christian children's books for three-to eight-year-olds each centered on an animal family bringing gospel help and biblical counsel to families in need of the Christian word. The animal characters, colorful illustrations, and the real-life issues each animal family face will captivate children. The first three books address anxiety, anger, and failure, bringing biblical help and hope to issues every child faces.

I absolutely love the Good News for Little Hearts series. There's always a Scripture where a book dedication usually stands. Tori Comes Out of Her Shell features Matthew 28:20, "I am with you always," which Jesus said to His disciples after His resurrection and before His ascension. Tori Comes Out of Her Shell is 32 pages long, but of course, it isn't an AR book so finding an exact book level for reading purposes would just have to be a guess, but I would put these books on par with the Berenstain Bears which ranges from a level-2 to a level-4. Either way, this is a book that I've read to my kids, not a book that my kids have grabbed for supplemental reading purposes (at least so far).

The book starts with the Turtle family moving from their home in Woodland Pond to Mulberry Meadow. Tomas and Ted spy new friends to play with, but Tori hides in her shell. School starts the next day, but Tori is worried. What if no one talks to her? What if she has no one to play with at recess? Or what if she's made fun of? Unfortunately, Tori doesn't talk to her mom about her fears. At school, Tori struggles to introduce herself to the class, she sits by herself at recess, and she worries about embarrassing herself. Thankfully, Miss Minnick, the teacher, comes over to encourage her. Miss Minnick shares her own story about being the new kid in school. Miss Minnick gives Tori a piece of paper that her own father once gave her. At church on Sunday, Tori notices a Bible (Great Book as the story calls it) verse behind the preacher. And she thanks God for always being with her and being her friend.

At school on Monday, she notices an old school bell sliding up to her. Tori comes out of her shell to see if someone needs help. Turns out that Gertie Gecko was trying to mimic Tori's shell with the school bell. Gertie explains that she sometimes feels lonely and thought Tori's shell looked like a good hiding place. The two talk and decide to help each other. Tori shares the paper that Miss Minnick gave her. It says, "There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." And Tori shares Jesus's offer of friendship to Gertie. They decide to be friends. Tori also invites Gertie to church with her.

At the end of the book is a section to parents about helping children with loneliness. And the finally, there are four "Back Pocket Bible Verses" that you can pull out and give to your child/children for when they are lonely. Matthew 28:20, Genesis 16:13, Proverbs 18:24, Hebrews 13:5, Psalm 32:7, and Psalm 139:1.

Picture books that teach about Biblical character in a way that children can understand and apply in their lives are among my top favorite books. This entire series is great. Tori Comes Out of Her Shell gets 5 Stars. Have you or your child read Tori Comes Out of Her Shell? What did you think? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - Clifford for President

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Clifford for President (Clifford the Big Red Dog)

By: Acton Figueroa

Illustrated By: Tom La Padula

Publication: October 1, 2004 by Scholastic Inc.

32 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Level-2, Early Reader, Picture Books

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Clifford is running for President . . . of the Birdwell Island dog park! Emily Elizabeth needs to put up a candidate for a class project, so of course she nominates the Big Red Dog who's always a big winner!

Clifford for President is an early reader that we were given by a friend passing down some books her children no longer needed. AR Book Finder lists it as a Level 2.7. Emily Elizabeth's class learned about the presidential election. The next day Emily Elizabeth and Clifford go for a walk in the park and notice that the trash cans are overflowing. Clifford picks up some trash and throws it into the trash can. Emily Elizabeth says that Clifford should be the president of the park because he would make it clean as a whistle. She decides to go home and make some campaign posters. Jetta sees the posters and wants her dog, Mac, to be president because "he's the best dog." Jetta and Emily Elizabeth manage the campaigns for their dogs, and the kids take a vote. Before that, the kids see Clifford actually cleaning up the park. So who do you think wins? The best dog? Or the best dog for the job?

My adult brain thinks, "Isn't there a parks and recreation department over the park? I don't think anyone can just become president of the park." But I know, I know. This is all fiction indended to teach the child a lesson about elections and not just voting because you like someone, but voting for the person you think will serve the office the best. I thought it taught the concept well enough on a basic level, even if my adult brain sees flaws that a child would never notice.

I don't think Clifford for President is going to win any awards, but if you're looking for level 2 readers for your child, then it checks a lot of my boxes. I appreciate that there's a lesson to learn, and it isn't just a fun story. So often, early readers have no purpose besides helping the child get reading fluency. There's no reason why we can't do both at the same time. Clifford for President gets 4 Stars. Have you or your child read Clifford for President? What did you think? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - A Panda in the Bamboo Forest

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

A Panda in the Bamboo Forest (Animal Adventures)

By: Heather Horn

Illustrated By: Victoria Skakandi

Publication: May 1, 2024 by The Good and the Beautiful

72 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Level-2, Early Reader, Picture Books, Early Chapter Books, Science and Nature

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | the Good and the Beautiful )

*Note: The above link to The Good and the Beautiful is NOT an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--In the bamboo forests of China, there lives a giant panda named Chun and her little cub, Ming. Winter is coming, and Ming and Chun must leave their home high in the mountains for warmer parts of the forest. Come explore the world of Chun and Ming as they migrate down the mountain, meeting new friends and having adventures.

A Panda in the Bamboo Forest is a Level-2A chapter book from The Good and the Beautiful. The book starts with a list of challenging words and is 8 chapters long and 72 pages.

Chapter one spends time describing the area of China that the pandas are from. It also introduces us to the first panda in the story, Chun. Chapter two is about what pandas eat. In chapter three, we are introduced to Chun's little cub, Ming. So this chapter covers mother pandas and baby pandas. Chapter four focuses on Ming's play and how Chun teaches her cub through play. In chapter five, it snows. This chapter also contrasts pandas with other types of bears like polar bears or grizzlies. Chapter six is about finding their way down the mountain to where the weather is warmer. In chapter seven, we meet a red panda. It talks a little about their differences, and then a snow leopard is spotted. Chun worries about the snow leopard spotting Ming, but it ends up going after a blue sheep. Finally, in chapter eight, Chun and Ming are back home. Ming is celebrating his birthday, and he will leave Chun to make his own way soon. The chapter ends with a mention of the disappearing bamboo forest and those who work to help pandas survive.

A Panda in the Bamboo Forest is both full of knowledge and facts about pandas as well as telling a story by following Chun and Ming. With chapters like these, the child gets a taste of bigger and longer books without overwhelm. A Panda in the Bamboo Forest is a great addition to our level-2 library. I know my youngest will read this when he gets to this reading level as well. I'm giving A Panda in the Bamboo Forest 4 Stars. Have you or your child read A Panda in the Bamboo Forest? What did you think? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - Let's Go for a Drive

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Let's Go for a Drive (Elephant & Piggie, # 18) (Biggie 1, # 4)

By: Mo Willems

Publication: October 2, 2012 by Hyperion Books for Children

64 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Level-1, Early Reader, Humor, Picture Books

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Gerald is careful. Piggie is not.
Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can.
Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to.
Gerald and Piggie are best friends.
In Let's Go for a Drive Gerald and Piggie want to hit the road. But the best-laid plans of pigs and elephants often go awry.

Let's Go for a Drive is the fourth Elephant and Piggie story included in Biggie 1 even though Goodreads lists it as # 18 in the series. Elephant and Piggie books are books that my then seven-year-old wanted to read. They are lengthy books (64 pages) for this reading level. I love this. Most pages only have a sentence or two at most, so my son didn't feel overwhelmed and can read through the books quickly. These are all AR Level 1 (a couple of them are 0.5 and 0.6) so the words aren't complex or difficult.

Gerald gets the great idea to go on a drive and asks Piggie to go also. The realize they need a plan and a map. Then they need sunglasses. Piggie is great at getting the things they will need for their drive. Planning ahead means they may need umbrellas. The realize they have a lot to take with them, so they need bags to carry their stuff. Ultimately, they realize they don't have a car.

The illustrations for Let's Go for a Drive make the series and bring the words to life. Any book that can get my son to enjoy any part of the reading process is a win for me. Let's Go for a Drive gets 4 Stars. Have you or your child read Let's Go for a Drive. What did you think? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - Facts About Sharks and Whales

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Facts About Sharks and Whales

By: Sue Stuever

Publication: January 1, 2023 by The Good and the Beautiful

58 pages

Genre: Children's, Animals, Level-2, Early Reader, Non-fiction, Science

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | The Good and the Beautiful )

*Note: The above link to The Good and the Beautiful is NOT an affiliate link.

Goodreads description--Young readers will dive into the underwater world of fascinating sharks and wondrous whales in this high-interest book. Real photos of these ocean animals in their natural habitats will excite early readers as they discover new information about life in the sea.

The Good and the Beautiful ranks Facts About Sharks & Whales as a Level-2A. Level 2 starts to get into some longer books, but 58 pages is still longer than a lot of the other level-2 books that we own. I think stretching the child to longer books is a good idea. So I like that this isn't a 30-page book like the level-1s and early level-2 books we own.

As the name suggests, this book is all about various facts concerning sharks and whales. It also includes rays and dolphins. What they eat, how they breathe, their physical bodies, their teeth, whether they lay eggs or have live babies. All of these are facts that are presented in this book. If your child is reading, why not enjoy some books that will teach them some fun topics. I don't know anyone who isn't at least mildly fascinated by sharks and whales.

Facts About Sharks and Whales is a great addition to your level-2 library or reading list. The information is factual. The photographs are beautiful. It's a win-win to work on reading fluency and learn about some of God's amazing creatures at the same time. Facts About Sharks and Whales gets 4.5 Stars. Have you or your child read Facts About Sharks & Whales? What did you think? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - Mr. Popper's Penguins

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

Mr. Popper's Penguins

By: Richard Atwater & Florence Atwater

Publication: January 1, 1938

69 pages

Genre: Children's, Classics, Fantasy, Animals, Humor, Middle Grade

Source: Personal Library

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate link. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--It was hard enough for Mr. Popper to support himself, Mrs. Popper, Bill and Janie Popper. The addition of twelve penguins to the family made it impossible to make both ends meet. Then Mr. Popper had a splendid idea—the talented penguins would be a sensation on the stage. And so they were....

A classic of American humor, this story of a gentle house-painter and his high-stepping penguins has delighted children for generations.

I've been doing chapter read-alouds with my kids for a few years now, but we finally have a rotational system where we rotate who gets to pick the book I read. We go in age order, and I also get a turn. Mr. Popper's Penguins was actually my pick. I thought it would be a good read-aloud for the Christmas season without being a "Christmas" book, and it was a good choice.

My kids range in age from 10 to 4 (almost 5--at the time of reading this book) so this was a good choice for the three of them. The story wasn't complicated or long. It wasn't too much for them to pay attention. The chapters were short enough that I would read two in one sitting without them even realizing it, and at that pace I was able to read about 10% per night that I read. I read this during our bedtime routine on the nights it was my turn to put the kids to bed. (Husband and I alternate nights.)

Mr. Popper is a painter. And the majority of his work comes during the spring. It seems that he mostly has the winter off work. But sitting around the house with nothing to do can cause him some depression as well as get on Mrs. Popper's nerves. Mr. Popper also loves reading about travelers and explorers. Apparently, he wrote a letter to Admiral Drake who is at the South Pole doing a study and the Admiral sent him a penguin. Of course, as an adult, I know this is ridiculous, but it makes sense to the children.

Mr. Popper is so excited to have a penguin as a pet. Mrs. Popper is surprisingly on board, even when they turn their refridgerator into it's home. I actually found this as refreshing as I did unreasonable. So often, husbands and wives are displayed in literature as being at odds. Mr. & Mrs. Popper were different while not being on opposing sides of their marriage. Their children Bill and Janie also love the penguin.

However, Captain Cook (the penguin) began to get sick overtime. Mr. Popper writes to a couple of people to ask for advice and gets sent a female penguin which does bolster both penguins, but it also results in like 10 babies. Mr. Popper and Mrs. Popper end up entertaining their penguins by creating a show with them. They travel around the country to different theaters to show off their penguins, but by the summer the penguins begin to be unhappy again. I won't tell you how the book ends, but I will say that we enjoyed it.

Mr. Popper's Penguins was just a fun book all around. It wasn't too complicated. The stakes weren't too high. It wasn't filled with too much action. It was just an all-around good classic book that I and my children enjoyed. Mr. Popper's Penguins gets a stable 4 Stars. Have you read Mr. Popper's Penguins? What did you think? Let me know!

Homeschool Friday - This Book Is On Fire!

Homeschool Friday is a feature here at Somewhere Only We Know that showcases books my family reads during homeschool and provides a mini-review for each.

This Book Is On Fire!: A Funny And Interactive Story For Kids

By: Ron Keres

Illustrated By: Arthur Lin

Publication: February 26, 2024 by Flypaper Press

48 pages

Genre: Children's, Animal, Humor, Interactive

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--From the creators of the best-selling This Book Is Perfect!, comes a sizzling new story that tackles the trials of dealing with picky eaters…

Meet Finn the Frog, who takes immense pride in his extraordinary book. But even more than that, Finn is renowned for his world-famous kitchen and his exceptional culinary skills. With his self-proclaimed greatness as a chef, he believes he can conquer any cooking challenge. Little does he know, he's about to face one of the most formidable challenges in the culinary world—cooking for a picky kid.

In this fiery and interactive journey, Finn sets out to please his hungry reader with dish after dish. Will his froggy flavors ignite to culinary chaos, or will Finn discover the secret ingredient to win over the finicky eater?

This Book Is On Fire! combines witty storytelling with captivating illustrations, making it an absolute must-have for your bookshelf. Order your copy today and share the laughter with your little ones!

I'm always looking for books that my 8-year-old son will be interested in reading. Since this book seemed humorous, I thought that might be a good place to start.

This Book Is On Fire and Fin the Frog reminds me of The Monster at the End of this Book starring Grover by Jon Stone. Fin is a chef in this book, and he's trying to make food for "you". First, he makes some pasta, but "you" don't like green stuff, even though it's imported from Italy. Next, he makes meatloaf. Only he added a little Mississippi mud to it. So "you" don't like that. So he decides to make his best dish, Brazilian ribeye with whipped potatoes. But the meat's been soaked in pond water. So "you're" not a fan. "You" finally ask for a grilled cheese, but he gets distracted and burns it and catches the book on fire. But hey, "you" like slightly burned grilled cheese sandwiches. It wraps up on the note that not all mistakes are a bad thing.

I can see my kids, especially my youngest, appreciating this book. I don't know that it would have them laughing or giggling, but I can picture it. They sure do love The Monster at the End of this Book. So who knows? The food the frog makes is something the kids would get a kick out of yucking over. But it also reminds me of my son, except he HATES burned grilled cheese sandwiches. And if I ever accidentally burn one somehow it always ends up being his.

This Book Is On Fire gets 4 Stars. Have you or your child read This Book Is On Fire? What did you think? Let me know!

Lacey's Story - Review

Lacey's Story: A Puppy Tale (A Dog's Purpose)

By: W. Bruce Cameron

Publication: August 30, 2022 by Odd Dot

220 pages

Genre: Middle Grade, Animals

( Goodreads | Amazon )

*Note: The above link to Amazon is an affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Lacey's Story is another delightful Puppy Tale from #1 New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the A Dog's Purpose Series, W. Bruce Cameron!

Lacey is a very special dog with a very important purpose. After an accident, Lacey must get used to being followed around everywhere by a funny cart with wheels. Sometimes it makes her go too fast or in the wrong direction! But that doesn’t stop Lacey from having fun with her human girl Wenling and her best dog friend, Cooper. And when a tornado strikes, putting Wenling’s and Cooper’s families in danger, only Lacey and her cart can save the day.

The latest addition to the successful Puppy Tales series by #1 New York Times bestselling author W. Bruce Cameron is the inspiring and joyful story of a special needs pet who overcomes adversity and learns to live her best life after she is fitted with a mobility cart.

Adorable black-and-white illustrations by Richard Cowdrey bring Lacey and her world to life. A discussion and activity guide at the end of the book will help promote family and classroom discussions about Lacey's Story and the insights it provides about humankind's best friends.

My daughter (9 years old at the time) read Lacey's Story on her own time. She picked it out from the store with her own money. And she loved it so much that she requested I read it aloud to everyone when it was her next turn to choose the read aloud book. She has also requested two more books in this series after reading this as well.

Lacey's Story is about a little girl named Wenling and her dog, Lacey. The story is told from Lacey's perspective which adds a little humor. Lacey isn't well trained. She just wants to have fun all the time, but this means that she doesn't listen and obey and gets herself into an accident that results in her losing the use of her back legs. She has to have a special cart with wheels made so that she can still get around on her own. Of course, learning to use her new cart takes some adjustment and training.

Wenling is a special girl. She's very smart. Her father and their neighbor share a farm. Yet the farm has been struggling to make ends meet, and they might have to sell off the apple trees in their orchard for wood to simply make ends meet. Wenling thinks this is a terrible idea. She and her best friend, Burke, decide to work to contribute to the farm in order to save the apple trees.

From an adult view point, Wenling is a little too smart. All of the major challenges that come up through this book are solved by Wenling. I do like that this shows that even children can make a big impact, but I don't like that it shows adults at such a disadvantage. Isn't there some way to value to input and decision making of children while not diminishing the decision making of adults in the process?

Burke is also in a wheelchair, I liked the inclusion of this, especially as Burke and Lacey were mirrors in a lot of ways. Not to say that a human in a wheelchair is the same as a dog needing a wheeled cart, but Burke's situation lends value to Lacey's. I think Burke and his dog, Cooper's, story might have been published before this one. I do know that they have their own book because Cooper's Story is one that my daughter read after Lacey's Story.

Lacey's Story teaches many lessons which I can fully support. Having a passion for something and working hard to do whatever you can to see your dream or goal into reality. Hard work period. The importance of training our dogs. Also, the value in people and animals even if they aren't the same as they used to be or everyone else. (It's so hard to be politically correct. I keep wanting to say disabled, but I know some people take offense to the term. But you also never can predict what all someone will take offense to these days.)

Lacey's Story gets 4 Stars. My daughter loved this book so much. This is the first book she's ever shown interest in "re-reading." Have you or your child read Lacey's Story? What did you think? Let me know!

Ten-Step Drawing: Animals - DNF Review

Ten-Step Drawing: Animals

By: Walter Foster Creative Team

Publication: August 7th 2018 by Walter Foster Publishing

128 pages

Genre: Non-fiction, Arts, Crafts

Source: Publisher via NetGalley (Thank you!!)

( Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository )

*Note: The above links to Amazon and Book Depository are affiliate links. Affiliate links support giveaways for Somewhere Only We Know readers.

Goodreads description--Featuring illustrated tutorials for drawing 75 different animals, Ten-Step Drawing: Animals breaks down each subject into 10 simple steps; moreover, all you need is a pen or pencil and a piece of paper!

Handy prompts help artists by encouraging artistic individuality, as well as helpful tips for drawing other subjects not featured in the book. Ten-Step Drawing: Animals is sure to encourage even the most reluctant amateur artist to break out a pen and paper and doodle to their heart’s content!

Ok so my first mistake was assuming that "ten steps" = ten lines. I kind of feel like this book is cheating a bit because each of these steps often includes a lot more than one line or shape. Each step might have multiple pieces to it, and for me that kind of defeated the purpose.

I don't know why I thought this would be easy...maybe because the description made it seem so. And even the steps themselves seem easy. But you can't just say "draw a flat ovalish shape" and have the results come out looking like the illustrations in this book. Well perhaps someone out there could, but me...not so much.

Another thing I've always struggled with in drawing is perfectionism. Art is much more subjective and unless I'm copying or tracing an image, it will never look like what I see in the illustration or picture. And what's in my head never translates to paper.

Aside from that, I knew from the very first animal that this book was going to be too advanced for my skill level. Let's take a look at the first animal in the book.

I'm not quite sure what I expected, but it wasn't this. Sadly, Ten-Step Drawing: Animals was quickly DNF'd. Have you tried Ten-Step Drawing: Animals? What did you think? Let me know!