M.M. Hudson's Blog, page 3
February 6, 2025
Review: I Have A Dream by Dr. Martin Luther King/Illustrations by Kadir Nelson #childrensnonfiction #liveCD #speeches #BlackHistoryMonth
Summary:
On August 28, 1963, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington, Martin Luther King gave one of the most powerful and memorable speeches in our nation's history.
My review:
It is not the first time that I have seen in print or heard the now famous speech, by Dr. Martin Luther King. It is one that still rings true to this day.
However, I picked up this book from my local library to honor Black History month and WOW, I am so impressed. Dr. Martin Luther King's words were so powerful by them selves but then compare it with this illustrator and you have one excellent children's book!
For each page turn, I was drawn in by the illustration but then the words I heard as if the pastor himself was reading it aloud today. The plus, plus side for the book is a CD that is included so children can hear the original speech in the pastor's own voice.
Run, don't walk and get you a copy right now. You will not be disappointed. If you don't believe me look to the fact that this book won the Coretta Scott King and Parent's Choice Awards.
5 absolute stars!
Disclosure: I picked up a copy of this book from my local library. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours.
~Michelle, Reading Authors Network
Where to find this book:
January 31, 2025
Review: Athletes who Changed the Game by James Buckley Jr & Ellen Labrecque #sport #multicultural #childrensnonfiction
Synopsis:
While these athletes came from different backgrounds and overcame unique struggles, they had one thing in common: they would not take "You can't" for an answer. With a don't-give-up attitude, these fearless firsts fought for what they believed in and created a better sports world.
My review:
As the latest Olympics just took place in 2024 and we are on the cusp of The Superbowl and Spring training seasons, this book seemed like a winner to read.
I come from a family who are sport enthusiast and with over 50 athletes featured in this book, it was fun to see the ones I knew and the ones I did not. I enjoyed learning about their backgrounds and the different barriers they went through to become the great athlete they were or currently are.
Divided into sections, readers are able to find easily a sport that might be of interest. On pages 118-119 also gives the exact person and sport to follow. However, I found the book fascinating just reading from front to back. On pages 116-117 gives a complete timeline beginning in 1899 to present day of different athletes accomplishments.
This book is by far a terrific resource book for all.
5 stars!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network
Where to find the authors:
January 20, 2025
#Review: The Mystery of Locked Rooms by Lindsay Currie #bookseries #middlegrade
Synopsis:Crack the codes. Find the treasure and escape the house. Simple, right? Well...
My review:Before I even start this review, I have to point to the cover. I am not usually a pick up book because of its cover kind of gal but, oh, my heart! I mean, look at that cover! It called to me and I took it home before I ever knew what it was about.
The book starts off with a triad group that loves doing escape rooms but finds themselves in a mysterious fun house full of mystery, intrigue, codes, and plain foolery. This house was built in the 1950's by a set of triplets who intended on the house, a circus-like house, to be a public spectacle. The house never opened but that did not stop this group of kids to try to unlock each floor mystery, 16 floors in all, to win the ultimate prize, a prize only just a few had tried. However, my dear readers, I would not begin to tell you what that is or spoil the entire book. If that is not enough, the author also weaved in the personalities and secrets that each friend has kept which surprisingly, matched the character of each triplet. This is a must read!
This book was such a page turner for me! If you have ever liked an old fashioned circus fun house, the fun of escape rooms, or just plain mystery, then this is the book for you. The author took all of these themes and mashed them into one great book!
5 stars!
Disclosure: I purchased a copy of this book for my own collection. The view presented here is 100% my own opinions and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network
Where to find the author:Lindsay Currie is the author of six middle grade novels, Including The Peculiar Incident on Shady Street, Scritch Scratch, What Lives in the Woods, The Girl in White, and It Found Us. She grew up on Nancy Drew and loves a good mystery. Bonus points if it's spooky! When she's not writing, Lindsay can generally be found looking for an adventure of her own. She loves researching the forgotten history in her city, Chicago, taking long walks with her family, and as pretty much everyone knows . . . Disney World! Amazon
January 15, 2025
#Review: Gramie and Pups's House by Daisy Butterfield #childrensbooks
Synopsis:
The door is always open and everyone is welcome in as the smell of fresh baked pies and cookies lingers in the kitchen air. So, pour a cup of tea and sit down and relax. It is my pleasure to share with you a day in the life of Grammie and Pupa as seen through the eyes of their granddaughter, Daisy.
My review:
As a child, I often went to my grandparents house to visit. My grandparents were not gardeners but my Paw Paw did tinker and fish,my Grandma did cook.
This children's book brings fond memories of those things as the author writes about a young girl who visits her grandparents every Saturday. There is pure enjoyment expressed as the main character does things like: plant a garden, play with toys, snap fresh green beans, and play marbles.
The illustrations added to the simplicity of the book and were cute. I did find a couple of things that did not match up with the writing but overall, not that big of deal for me.
All in all, this book was comforting and one that families will generally love to read over and over.
I give this book 4 stars.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author. The views here are 100% my own and may differ from yours.
~Michelle, Reading Authors Network
PURCHASE:
AMAZON: https://amzn.to/4etNvHb
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/219877261-grammie-and-pupa-s-houseAuthor Website: https://daisybutterfield.com/
About the author:I was born in a small New England town. Growing up I lived just two houses away from my grandparents, and spent countless days hanging out with Grammie and Pupa playing games and gardening. I loved flowers, and still do. I would roam the fields picking wild Lupine, Queen Anne's Lace, and, of course, Daisies. This book is a legacy to my grandparents, a way of saying thank you for the sweet memories. May you make sweet memories with your little ones as you read this book with them.
December 4, 2024
I 'm Beautiful Because I Am by Azizi Tuere #bookseries #giveaway
Date Published: 07-09-2024
Publisher: Let Your Light Shine Press
Join our hero as they discover the wonder hiding in everyday moments. From planting seeds to chasing butterflies, each page bursts with colorful surprises that will make you giggle, gasp, and go "Wow, that's beautiful!"
But wait, there's more! This book doesn't just show beauty – it helps you find the beauty in YOU. Because guess what? You're not just beautiful, you're beautifully YOU!
So, are you ready to uncover the real meaning of beauty? Grab this book and let the adventure begin! Who knows what amazing things you'll discover about yourself along the way?
Remember, true beauty isn't just skin deep – it's YOU deep!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Azizi Tuere is a vibrant storyteller on a mission to empower families through heartwarming tales. As a homeschooling mom of two, she transforms everyday experiences into adventures that nurture emotional intelligence and self-worth. Her "Because I Am" series sprung from a desire to help children embrace their unique beauty and potential. When not weaving words, Azizi hosts "Tiny Green Chef," an online cooking program that brings families together through plant-based cuisine. Her work is a testament to her belief that every child is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. Connect with Azizi's world of wonder at AziziTuere.com.
Contact Links
Website: http://azizituere.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/50968122.Azizi_Tuere
Purchase Links
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0D96R3446
Giveaway
eBook Copy
Abby-Ability by T.L. Birney #guestpost #giveaway
Today I am highlighting the book," Abby-Ability" and welcoming a guest poster to my blog. The guest has interviewed the author about her book. Welcome to you both and take it away.
~Michelle, Reading Authors Network
Book Links:
Can you, for those who don't know you already, tell something about yourself and how you
became an author?
I am a children’s picture book author who has Cerebral Palsy. When I was born,
the doctors told my mom I would be a “vegetable” my entire life. I’d love to say to those doctors, “Ha,
take this!” Not only am I pursuing a career in writing children’s books, but I also graduated from
college with an associate degree in computer science. Since I can remember, I have enjoyed writing. At
first, I focused on expressing my feelings. Now, I’m following my dream of becoming a children’s
picture book author.
Tell us something really interesting that's happened to you!
I met my husband in a country nightclub in 1993.
Where were you born/grew up at?
I was born in Memphis, Tennessee, but I grew up in North Carolina where I still live with my
husband.
If you knew you'd die tomorrow, how would you spend your last day?
I would spend my last day with my family. I mostly write at night after dinner.
Who is your hero and why?
My mother is my hero because she raised me and didn’t put me in a “home” when I was
born.
What kind of world ruler would you be?
I’d be a caring world ruler.
What are you passionate about these days?
Nowadays, I’m passionate about writing children’s books featuring children with Cerebral
Palsy.
What do you do to unwind and relax?
I enjoy watching T.V. shows and movies to relax.
How to find time to write as a parent?
I don’t have any kids, but it’s hard to find time to focus on writing and marketing my books
with my family.
Describe yourself in 5 words or less!
Five words that I’d describe myself are caring, loving, funny, a survivor, author.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I began calling myself a writer when I started focusing on writing my books and I signed up for
a coaching program in 2022 which I still take to this day.
Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?
I can see my series. “The Buddies’ Adventures” made into a TV series.
What literary pilgrimages have you gone on?
None
What inspired you to write this book?
This book was created after meeting the mom of a little girl with CP, named Abby. Her mom asked if I
could help her answer questions Abby asked about having Cerebral Palsy. To help Abby and other
children like her understand, I wrote a book called Abby-Ability.
What can we expect from you in the future?
I’m working on a children's book that has ASL signs for the text.
Do you have any “side stories” about the characters?
I don’t have “side stories” yet.
Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in Abby-Ability?
Abby has Cerebral Palsy. Kahlan and Lexi are her older sisters who help Abby.
How did you come up with the concept and characters for the book?
My book is based on a real girl, Abby and her family.
Where did you come up with the names in the story?
I titled this book, Abby-Ability because Abby is the real girl’s name, and I picked Ability to tell
kids that they can do anything that they want to do.
What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
I enjoyed the fact that I noticed some God-winks while I was while I was getting ready to
release my book, Abby-Ability;. You might be wondering What Is A God wink? Well, A God
wink is what some people would call a coincidence, an answered prayer, or simply an
experience so astonishing that it could only have come from God. My Illustrator made Abby's
walker purple and then, I found out that purple is Abby's favorite color. My
Illustrator also put Abby's sisters in shirts that are their favorite colors without our knowledge.
I'm taking the Godwinks as signs that God likes what I'm doing.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
Yes, I’d change the illustrations.
What is your favorite part of this book and why?
My favorite part of “Abby-Ability” is the fact that it’s based on a real girl.
Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination?
My characters in “Abby-Ability” are based off real people.
Have you written any other books that are not published?
My books, “The Gaming Buddies” will be available for pre-order in December 2024 and “Does
Anyone Know ASL?” will be on pre-order next summer in July 2025.
What are your top 10 favorite books/authors?
I enjoy reading books from Nicolas Sparks, Karen Kingston, Lolly Winston, Judy Blume, E.L.
James, Danielle Stelle, Nora Roberts, Jane Austen, Francine Pascal, and Laura Ingalls
Wilder
What book do you think everyone should read?
The Bible
How long have you been writing?
I started seriously writing in 2022. But I wrote a novel loosely based on my life.
What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book?
I researched the type of Cerebral Palsy that Abby has- Hemiplegia Cerebral Palsy
Do you see writing as a career?
I see writing as a career
What do you think about the current publishing market?
I think it’s crazy that anyone can write a book with AI.
Do you read yourself and if so what is your favorite genre?
I read romance
Do you prefer to write in silence or with noise? Why?
I write with the TV on because I enjoy watching it.
Do you write one book at a time or do you have several going at a time?
I write one book at a time.
If you could have been the author of any book ever written, which book would you choose?
The Baxters Series.
Pen or type writer or computer?
I write on a computer.
What made you want to become an author and do you feel it was the right decision?
I always wanted to write one for children like me. I feel it’s my calling for God.
Advice they would give new authors?
I would tell new authors that they can do it and I can help, email me at
author@terrielynnbirneyauthor.com .
Describe your writing style.
I write Children's books featuring children with Cerebral Palsy written by a woman with
Cerebral Palsy
What makes a good story?
Emotions and feelings make a good story.
Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want?
I try to deliver to readers what they want
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
I can write the first draft of a children’s book in three days.
Do you believe in writer’s block?
Yes, I believe in writer's block.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Hello! I’m Terrie Lynn Birney.
I am a first-time children’s picture book author who has Cerebral Palsy. When I was born, the
doctors said I would be "vegetable” my whole life. To those doctors I say “Ha, take that!” Not
only am I pursuing a career in writing children’s books, I graduated from college with an
associate degree in computer science. Since I can remember, I have enjoyed writing, especially
about my feelings. My dedication to writing has grown in the last year with my newly published
first book, with more in the future. Belief in myself is stronger with my faith as a Christian. I am
grateful to have my loving husband for over twenty years and the support of my family. They
have been with me throughout my journey.
I hope you enjoy my books.
GIVEAWAY:
$10 Amazonhttps://bit.ly/Abby-AbilityTour aRafflecopter giveawayVincent's Women by Donna Russo #Giveaway #spotlight #artist
What if everything we think we know about Vincent van Goghis all lies?
Vincent’s Women:
The Untold Story of the Loves ofVincent Van Gogh
Genre: Historical BiographicalWomen’s Fiction
Donna Russo's 'Vincent's Women' is theuntold story ofVincent's loves: how they shaped his life, his art, and his death. It writesagainst the 'myths, ' exploring the possibility that none of them are true. Itis the only novel to bring into question his sexuality, how he lost his ear,who he lost it for, and how he might have died, all through the eyes of awoman. We learn of Her; we learn all of it through Her.
The story is guided by Johanna van Gogh Bonger, Vincent'ssister-in-law, as she decides to reveal the truth about Vincent to her son. Weare then taken on a journey through Vincent's life, each section bringing apivotal moment of Vincent's life alive while showing us the part she played inbringing it about. Between each woman, our guide, Johanna, gives us thetransitional periods, right up to his death, which is now in question.
Hundreds of the nearly thousand letters betweenVincent vanGogh and his brother Theo, now considered one of the greatest documents of thehuman experience, were used to help construct this novel, its narrative, anddialogue, especially the dialogue of Vincent himself.
Vincent van Gogh is one of the most well-known artists ofall time. The world knows of his madness, traumas, and suicide. But what if allthat we know isn't true? What if this knowledge is based on rumors and nothingmore? What if his true story is vastly different when based on factual materialand forensic information? What if the truth of Vincent's life-his madness andhis genius-is defined by his never-ending search for love?
A Foreword ReviewsEditorial Selection
FINALIST Next Generation Indie Book Awards
Donna Russo is the bestselling author of historical fiction,women’s fiction, and fantasy including the international bestselling Novels ofNewport: Gilded Summers and Gilded Dreams as well as her latest release,Vincent’s Women. Her critically acclaimed work has been praised with multipleawards and has received a starred review in Publishers Weekly. (For more awardsand reviews, please visit https://www.authordonnarusso.com/books). Additionally,Donna worked as a model and actor since the age of seventeen, working on suchprojects as Martin Scorsese’s The Departed and Showtime’s Brotherhood. Donna isalso an award-winning screenwriter, ghostwriter, and painter. She holds two degreesfrom the University of Rhode Island. Her two sons—Devon, an opera singer; andDylan, a chef—will always be her greatest works.
Follow the tour HERE for special content and agiveaway!
$20 Amazon
December 1, 2024
WHAT BEAR SAID by Jack Weins #Review #Giveaway
AMAZON * GOODREADS
ABOUT:
The boy has been talking to Bear for as long as he can remember and asking some very tough questions about life, love, friendship, honesty, forgiveness, grief and loss, prejudice, and more. Bear's wise answers are always offered with compassion and enthusiasm. The friendship between these two is deep, tender, and fun. Bear's clear, common-sense philosophy of life is a welcome contrast to the complex world our children face today.
MY REVIEW:
Written like a nod to "Winnie the Pooh" this book features a young boy who talks to a bear, but this time, a real bear. The bear answers questions about life, death, and love. Their friendship is heartfelt and comforting to this reader.
I loved the sweet illustrations that are with this book and added to an already great book. It is one of the books you should take time with and also as an adult reader, take time to share with younger children. Some of the lessons within are tough but still life lessons that will eventually be called upon.
I give this book 5 stars.
Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book from the author. The views here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jack Wiens has illustrated over 40 children's books for self-publishing authors. He has written and illustrated two books of his own, Tending Our Grief, published in 2016 and What Bear Said, released in December 2023. Jack designed educational materials for teens and a magazine and books at a small publisher in southern California for seven years before his career path drastically changed. He completed a Master's degree in psychotherapy and worked as a professional counselor for over 30 years before retiring and beginning his children's book illustrating career. He has taught art classes and workshops in drawing and painting and sold his sculptures and paintings in galleries and art shows in Colorado, Missouri, California and Oregon.
Jack was born in Lakeview, Oregon, about 150 miles from where he now lives in Ashland, Oregon. He is the father of a son and daughter and grandpa to three grown grandchildren. He enjoys the beautiful outdoors in and around Ashland as well as exploring the rugged Oregon coast and redwood forests nearby. He plays tennis year round and enjoys hiking and biking. He also loves whale watching in Depoe Bay on the northern coast of Oregon.
Jack has a strong community of friends in Ashland and finds the support he needs to pursue creative projects and to experience the joy and wonder of living in the present moment of every day.
GIVEAWAY:
Plush bear and Author-Signed copy of What Bear Said about Life, Love, and Other Stuff (hardcover) (one winner) (USA only) (ends Dec 20)WHAT BEAR SAID ABOUT LIFE LOVE AND OTHER STUFF Book Tour Giveaway
November 21, 2024
Mistletoe and Martians by Samuel DenHartog #martians #aliens #mars #humor #Christmas #traditions #bookseries
ABOUT THE BOOK:
"A whimsical journey to Snowville, a charming town where the festive spirit of Christmas is about to encounter the curiosity of visitors from Mars. As the Martians land on Earth with a mission to understand the peculiar and heartwarming traditions of Christmas, they find themselves wrapped up in a series of humorous and endearing adventures. From misunderstanding mistletoe to a comical attempt at caroling, their journey is as heartwarming as it is hilarious."
MY REVIEW:
I tend to like martian/alien stories so I thought getting this book would be a fun read. I was not disappointed at all.
Martians land on Earth as they are on an investigation quest. It just so happens they land during the season of Christmas. Fortunately, they are welcomed by the humans and get immersed in their holiday customs. They even get parts in a nativity play!
Humor is intertwined as the martians try to navigate their way in understanding and peace. The humans learn some of the ways of "Mars" too. We all know martians come from Mars!
I liked this book enough to keep reading it. It was fun and an extremely light read. I do think if the author had flushed out some of the characters even more, it would have been an "A" book.
I did enjoy the martian characters and their honest mistakes but truly trying to understand.
What I enjoyed most was the coming together in peace and harmony and the meshing of two very different cultures. This was a great statement on how things really should be.
I give this book 3 stars.
Disclosure: I purchased a Kindle copy of this book for my own collections. The review here is 100% my own opinions and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Samuel DenHartog is a versatile and imaginative author whose works span a wide array of genres, including mythology, fables, fairy tales, fantasy, mystery, science fiction, and children's books. His stories captivate readers of all ages, blending wonder with rich, timeless narratives.November 19, 2024
I Know A Guy Named Noah by Jeanne Ward #childrensbooks #adventure
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Follow along with Noah Guy, a character who knows he’s in a book, as he takes you on whimsical adventures where the only limit is your imagination. From riding bulls at the rodeo to joining the circus, Noah shows that anything is possible with a friend by your side.
This charming story celebrates friendship, teamwork, and the power of never giving up. The rhythmic verses are designed to engage young minds, promoting speech, cognitive development, and early literacy skills. Children will love the playful.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
My name is Jeanne Ward, I am a mother of three, grandmother of two and a business owner. Family is everything to me. Me and my eldest brother married siblings, creating a unique environment of double cousins and a close-knit family. I live in Brooklyn NY where I own and operate an Early intervention program for young children with autism. I opened my school in 1998, and I have all 3 of my siblings, had all 3 of my children, my daughters-in-laws, all my nieces and nephew, and my uncle work there at one time or another. Additionally, I have my brother and brother-in-law who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure the school remains a success. I am a special educator, and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and love what I do for a living.
My eldest are twins. One lives right outside Asheville North Carolina with his wife and daughter. He, like me, is a special educator and a BCBA. Although he has a physics degree from NYU, he found a passion working with children with autism after he graduated college and working for me while applying to graduate school. My other son, my partner in these books has moved back from Nashville Tenn and currently lives in Newburgh NY with his wife and newborn son. My youngest, Phoenix, will leave for High Point University in North Carolina in a month. I lost my husband to cancer nearly 6 years ago and I am about to be an empty nester. It is my sincere hope to spend my days writing Noah Guy stories, running my school and being the best mom and grandma I can be.
Contact Link
Website: https://4noahguy.com/
