Archive for the ‘Reviews’ Category

The Lemonman : A Picnic, A Toad and Swampwater Road by Natasha Ferrill

`When I received this book I was eager to read it to my son as I was struck by the colourful characters, the charm of The Lemonman and the idea that another author is focusing on healthy protagonists. Although I loved reading this story out loud to my son, for it’s rhythm and rhymes, the story line and patterns were too much for an exhausted two year old boy.

A perfect read for school aged children and their parents, it’s sing song quality will reverberate for days to come. I am still so very eager to continue on the journey through Applenook by way of Cherry Bay Street with Lemonman, Professor Celery and Miss Strawberry.

The intrigue I have is mainly do to the challenging but brilliant use of poetic story-telling by emerging fellow Canadian author, Ferrill. I know I’ll be reading this book for years to come, often enough for my son to tell it back to me I’m sure.

The Lemonman : A Picnic, A Toad and Swampwater Road introduces the series main characters as well as a Toad, a traveling salesman who has less of an honest outlook. While he swindles Lemonman intentionally and cruelly, the loveable characters have an opportunity to get Toad back or help him.

As good children’s books go this is a great one as it teaches a lesson without preaching and instead creates a world any young reader would love to be a part of.

Visit The Lemonman’s website today to get your copy!

Thanks for reading,

Sarah Butland


Quirky Christmas by William G Bentrim

Quirky Christmas is now available at an online store near you (aren’t they all) very soon but I had the honour of reading an advanced copy of this delightful tale perfect for a coming Christmas.

The characters are delightful as we meet the squirrel named Earl who goes by Quirky because of his unique appearance and many personal characteristics. Quirky is a nickname very suitable for this crazy creature who proves he’s not just quirky, he’s caring. We also meet his friends, Stubby and Art who are also kind of strange in their own ways but all equally wonderful. We also meet Reggie – the typical bully in the neighbourhood who refuses to share.

A very effective story written in a heart-warming way which teaches readers how to overcome obstacles and make friends despite first impressions.

The illustrations are drawn and simple but effective and eye-catching. Make sure Quirky Christmas is something your children unwrap soon so that you can treasure literacy, a good story and heart warming tale for years to come.

Thank you for reading,

Sarah Butland


On the Web at Nourish Interactive

Nourish Interactive is a wonderful site that is instilling healthy habits in all its visitors. I recommend visiting their site on a regular basis to get news, information and tips and to have fun while learning!!

Maggie included a list of other books recommended to help children learn about the benefits of eating healthy and I’d recommend checking them all out.

Thank you for reading,

Sarah Butland


My Review of What About Me by William G Bentrim

What About Me is a cute book that addresses the feelings one healthy child may have about the attention received by a sibling feeling under the weather.

We’ve all been there, those who have siblings have been anyway. When you are told you have to go to school but your sister or brother doesn’t as they are sick. When your sibling receives presents and can eat ice cream before dinner. I’ve been there, jealous of my sister for having Tonsillitis and able to eat frozen treats, jello and ice cream any time she was hungry. Wanting to spend the night in the hospital just so people would visit me and call to ask how I was.

These feelings are normal and Bentrim tells a story we can all relate to. And not only does he tell a heartwarming story but he also includes parenting tips and additional resources at the end of the tale.

I can’t wait to read more of Bentrim’s stories to my son.

Thank you for reading,

Sarah Butland


The Tiny Caterpillar and the Great Big Tree

Although this book isn’t by a Canadian author I felt it deserved a review on this site anyway.

The Tiny Caterpillar and the Great Big Tree is a children’s book written by author Kelly Moran that is sure to impress parents and children of all ages.

With its colourful illustrations done by Lynn Lorbeske, The Tiny Caterpillar learns about acceptance, forgiveness and adventure while realizing that change and differences are nothing to cower from. Moran has readers follow the tale of the relationship between a tiny caterpillar and the great big world around him through persistence and devotion to friendships already made.

Falling in love with Moran’s collection of short stories and poems in An Insomniac’s Dream: A Collection of Poems and Short Stories I knew I had to get her children’s book for my newest addition. When she offered me a copy for review I couldn’t pass up the amazing offer and will soon be buying my own copy of this fantastic story.

Thanks for reading,

Sarah Butland