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Bird Brain
Sammy Steals the Show
Evolved Publishing brings you the ninth of the "Bird Brain Books" by Emlyn Chand, "Sammy Steals the Show." This children's picture book features full color illustrations by artist Noelle Giffin, and offers, as always, important life lessons for the littlest readers in your family. ~~~ Sammy is a talented young cockatiel who loves to sing out of his open apartment window for all of Australia to hear. One day, he watches a reality singing competition with his human friend, Lisa, and knows that if he could just audition, he would surely win. ~ What follows is a masterful escape, an eventful journey to the Sydney Opera House, and an audition the crew of "Sing Your Heart Out" will never forget. Will Sammy take home the title of Australia's next rising star, or will he find something more important along the way? ~ There's only one way to find join Sammy in his humorous adventure of fame, friendship, and fun, in this edition of the color-illustrated "Bird Brain Books" series for children.
- GenresChildrens
56 pages, Paperback
First published May 6, 2014
14 people want to read
About the author
Emlyn Chand
26 books1,151 followersMelissa Storm is a mother first, and everything else second. She used to write under the pseudonym Emlyn Chand, but finally had the confidence to come out as herself to the world. Her fiction is highly personal and often based on true stories. Writing is Melissa's way of showing her daughter just how beautiful life can be, when you pay attention to the everyday wonders that surround us.
Melissa loves books so much, she married fellow author Falcon Storm. Between the two of them, there are always plenty of imaginative, awe-inspiring stories to share. Melissa and Falcon also run the business Novel Publicity together, where she works as publisher, marketer, editor, and all-around business mogul. When she's not reading, writing, or child-rearing, Melissa spends time relaxing at home in the company of her two dogs, five parrots, and rescue cat. She never misses an episode of The Bachelor or her nightly lavender-infused soak in the tub.
Learn more about Melissa's business at www.NovelPublicity.com. Learn more about her other author alias at www.EmlynChand.com. Learn more about her life on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, or Google+.
Got a question? Send her a message here.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 29, 2016
Sammy the cockatiel has a beautiful singing voice and decides to audition for a new talent show at the Sydney Opera House. With the help of his friends the Rock Doves, Sammy manages to escape from his cage while his human friend Lisa is at work. When Sammy finally gets the chance to perform in front of a huge crowd, Sammy realizes that something (or someone) is missing.
This is a cute story about a little bird with a big dream. But when Sammy sets out to achieve his goal, he realizes that it doesn't mean anything without the person he loves the most. While this is a good message, I feel that Sammy was sneaky and deceitful in the way he went about things. *Spoiler Alert * We know Sammy feels guilty because he is glad he made it home before Lisa. However, I wish he had been caught out. A better ending would have been Lisa and Sammy watching the "Sing Your Heart Out" show after his little escapade and Lisa seeing the footage of Sammy at the audition.
The simple, yet realistic, illustrations by Noelle Giffin add a nice touch.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
Full blog post: http://booksdirectonline.blogspot.com...
This is a cute story about a little bird with a big dream. But when Sammy sets out to achieve his goal, he realizes that it doesn't mean anything without the person he loves the most. While this is a good message, I feel that Sammy was sneaky and deceitful in the way he went about things. *Spoiler Alert * We know Sammy feels guilty because he is glad he made it home before Lisa. However, I wish he had been caught out. A better ending would have been Lisa and Sammy watching the "Sing Your Heart Out" show after his little escapade and Lisa seeing the footage of Sammy at the audition.
The simple, yet realistic, illustrations by Noelle Giffin add a nice touch.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
Full blog post: http://booksdirectonline.blogspot.com...
October 30, 2017
A sweet book with some nice illustrations. Can easily be read aloud with an adult, or read quietly by a child on their own. My only problem with it is that it sends the message that you can have your dreams or your friends, and that you have to choose. I can imagine kids saying "I want to play soccer but Sammy can't, and Sammy is my best friend, so I guess I won't play soccer". Great to see an iconic landmark incorporated into the story though (Sydney Opera House).
December 31, 2016
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
My son and I are reading this series as part of a December challenge. We really enjoyed this cute little book. My son said he would have chosen his best friend also. It is definitely worth a read for your little ones.
My son and I are reading this series as part of a December challenge. We really enjoyed this cute little book. My son said he would have chosen his best friend also. It is definitely worth a read for your little ones.
December 19, 2016
Absolutely adorable picture book. This book is easy to read. Any kid would love it. The pictures are amazing.
January 1, 2017
Read and reviewed by my 9yo lil dude. I that Sammy had friends that wanted to help him make his dream come true. But I dont think Sammy thought the plan through and she started to miss her human.
January 9, 2017
My nieces review. "Good book." "You need you're friend to share your happiness with." Not exactly Sure this is what you were going for,but, that is what she got out of it.
June 30, 2015
Sammy Steals the Show, A Bird Brain Book by Emlyn Chand is the story of a Cockatiel named Sammy who loves to sing. His singing is enjoyed by his owner, Lisa, and the other birds outside his building. On hearing that there is a singing contest, he enlists the help of his friends, the rock pigeons, to help him leave his home and fly to the Sydney Opera House where the contest is being held. Sammy flies to the mike, but can't sing because he realizes that his love for Lisa is more important than fame. Sammy is only too happy to return to Lisa and his secure, happy home.
Review: The illustrations by Noelle Giffin are somewhat subdued for a picture book. Although well-drawn and lively, I would have liked to see more bright colors, especially for Sammy. The story moves along at a good pace for little ones. I think this book is better for reading to smaller children than expecting them to read the book themselves. There are words used such as "deftly" or "gaggle," which the picture book audiences may not understand, but I congratulate the author for not dumbing down the language. The book has a nice flow and even if a few words are not understood by themselves, the context and illustrations will carry the attention and focus of the ones reading or being read to.
The age-old story of being content where you are is felt at the end of the story, but it is nice that the author writes this in a non-preachy way. I love happy endings and I feel that kids, especially younger ones, still need happy endings in books. I would definitely recommend this book to children of all ages who love to read or to read to others.
I received a free digital copy of this book in order to write this review. Special thanks to Mother Daughter Book Reviews for allowing me to participate in this Book Review Blitz.
Review: The illustrations by Noelle Giffin are somewhat subdued for a picture book. Although well-drawn and lively, I would have liked to see more bright colors, especially for Sammy. The story moves along at a good pace for little ones. I think this book is better for reading to smaller children than expecting them to read the book themselves. There are words used such as "deftly" or "gaggle," which the picture book audiences may not understand, but I congratulate the author for not dumbing down the language. The book has a nice flow and even if a few words are not understood by themselves, the context and illustrations will carry the attention and focus of the ones reading or being read to.
The age-old story of being content where you are is felt at the end of the story, but it is nice that the author writes this in a non-preachy way. I love happy endings and I feel that kids, especially younger ones, still need happy endings in books. I would definitely recommend this book to children of all ages who love to read or to read to others.
I received a free digital copy of this book in order to write this review. Special thanks to Mother Daughter Book Reviews for allowing me to participate in this Book Review Blitz.
July 6, 2015
See my full blog post on my blog It's About Time Mamaw at www.itsabouttimemamaw.blogspot.com/
Sammy and Lisa have been together since they first laid eyes on each other at the pet store where Sammy was with her mother and siblings. It was love at first sight and maybe the beautiful way Sammy sang to Lisa.
One night after the two of them watched a talent show on television Sammy got a brilliant idea to enter the Talent Show at the Sydney Opera House. But he did not tell Lisa. In fact Sammy decided to get some of his Dove bird friends to help him find his way to the talent show.
Me being a grandmother I don't think this was such a brilliant idea! How about you? What would Lisa think of Sammy leaving his cage and the safety of the apartment? After all he has never flewn outdoors much less with any of his friends. But he was so excited and just knew he had the talent to win. No doubt he wanted to surprise Lisa.
The author has given us a good lesson to be learned. Think before you act. In my opinion if Sammy was keeping it a secret from Lisa then he must have known deep down that it was not a good idea. Or did he?
You will fall Iin love with Sammy as much as I have or more. Maybe you connect with this story as you remember one of your own bird brain ideas!
The illustrations depict the story so well and will stir everyones imagination into this wild and crazy bird brain adventure with Sammy.
I have read this book before but this time I read it with a whole new perspective.
I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book fromMotherDaughterBookReviews for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review it is my honest opinion.
Sammy and Lisa have been together since they first laid eyes on each other at the pet store where Sammy was with her mother and siblings. It was love at first sight and maybe the beautiful way Sammy sang to Lisa.
One night after the two of them watched a talent show on television Sammy got a brilliant idea to enter the Talent Show at the Sydney Opera House. But he did not tell Lisa. In fact Sammy decided to get some of his Dove bird friends to help him find his way to the talent show.
Me being a grandmother I don't think this was such a brilliant idea! How about you? What would Lisa think of Sammy leaving his cage and the safety of the apartment? After all he has never flewn outdoors much less with any of his friends. But he was so excited and just knew he had the talent to win. No doubt he wanted to surprise Lisa.
The author has given us a good lesson to be learned. Think before you act. In my opinion if Sammy was keeping it a secret from Lisa then he must have known deep down that it was not a good idea. Or did he?
You will fall Iin love with Sammy as much as I have or more. Maybe you connect with this story as you remember one of your own bird brain ideas!
The illustrations depict the story so well and will stir everyones imagination into this wild and crazy bird brain adventure with Sammy.
I have read this book before but this time I read it with a whole new perspective.
I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book fromMotherDaughterBookReviews for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review it is my honest opinion.
June 23, 2015
Sammy is one determined cockatiel, who has a great singing voice. This book starts with this bird in his cage at home, a satisfied bird who's loved by many. It's refreshing to have a character who is, in general, happy with life and not out to change something. Don't misunderstand, not everything's perfect, but Sammy is wise enough to understand why some things have to be they way they are.
The writing is fitting for the intended age group, and just in case young readers find a few things they don't know (a cockatiel or the word mate), there's a short description in the back of the book to help them along. The illustrations are colorful, enjoyable and sure to draw kids in as they accompany Sammy on his journey, and the plot is simple but exciting enough to make readers want to find out what happens in the end.
There's a few very obvious and important messages in this book, which kids can never hear enough about. I was a tiny bit surprised at how accepting Sammy was in the beginning--a bird who understands the world around him perhaps a little too well. And the ending hit me a little off-balance, not that it's bad--the message was great! But it seemed a little too nicely packed in some ways. Perhaps because it doesn't follow the normal, expected ending (but I won't say more so as not to spoil it.)
Still, this is a cute story with a lot of good things, boys and girls are sure to enjoy.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
The writing is fitting for the intended age group, and just in case young readers find a few things they don't know (a cockatiel or the word mate), there's a short description in the back of the book to help them along. The illustrations are colorful, enjoyable and sure to draw kids in as they accompany Sammy on his journey, and the plot is simple but exciting enough to make readers want to find out what happens in the end.
There's a few very obvious and important messages in this book, which kids can never hear enough about. I was a tiny bit surprised at how accepting Sammy was in the beginning--a bird who understands the world around him perhaps a little too well. And the ending hit me a little off-balance, not that it's bad--the message was great! But it seemed a little too nicely packed in some ways. Perhaps because it doesn't follow the normal, expected ending (but I won't say more so as not to spoil it.)
Still, this is a cute story with a lot of good things, boys and girls are sure to enjoy.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2015
This is the first book that I have read by author Emlyn Chand and I am glad that I stepped out to pick up a new author. Her writing style has this easy flow that invites you into her story. The only negative thing I can say about this book is from the illustrations. Although they are beautifully done, they lack of bright colors that I have come to adore in children's books. Outside of that, I enjoyed reading Sammy Steals the Show by Emlyn Chand.
I think the story and the message the book delivers is fantastic. Cocktails and children alike, need to learn to think and weigh out consequences before they act. I really enjoyed the focus being on the character of Sammy and his friends. Being a bird or person that is selfless, strong, loyal,and kind, rubs off on those around you. Selecting friends that have your same character is vitally important.
I think this would make a great book to read with your children so you can discuss the different character traits you run across as you read and how they are being applied not only in the book, but the lives of our children.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author via Storm Super Reader Program in exchange for my honest review.
I think the story and the message the book delivers is fantastic. Cocktails and children alike, need to learn to think and weigh out consequences before they act. I really enjoyed the focus being on the character of Sammy and his friends. Being a bird or person that is selfless, strong, loyal,and kind, rubs off on those around you. Selecting friends that have your same character is vitally important.
I think this would make a great book to read with your children so you can discuss the different character traits you run across as you read and how they are being applied not only in the book, but the lives of our children.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author via Storm Super Reader Program in exchange for my honest review.
July 1, 2015
sammysteals,pic
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Short and sweet story featuring a spunky and talented cockatiel named Sammy. He is easily satisfied and does not mind spending long days alone in his cage at a dreary apartment. Sammy spends many hours waiting for his owner, Lisa, who works as a waitress, to return home. He passes the days singing in his cage, while his Rock Dove friends outside listen.
One night while watching TV with Lisa, Sammy learns that auditions are scheduled at the Sydney Opera to discover new singing talent. That gives him an idea. Aided and abetted by his Rock Dove friends, Sammy flees the coup and makes the journey that could lead to fame and fortune. Does Sammy succeed or will his quest lead him to unexpected discoveries about himself? The ending is a surprising one that carries an important message to its targeted audience of three to eight year olds.
The simple illustrations are sweet and charming. This book also includes a lot of supplementary information, biographical information, and previews of other books in the bird brain series in its seventy-four print pages.
July 2, 2015
I enjoyed reading Sammy Steals the Show by Emlyn Chand. Perhaps that’s because I grew up with a cockatiel whose personality is reflected in Sammy. His loyalty, cuddliness, and fun-loving spirit endear him to readers.
In this book, Sammy and his owner don’t have much other than each other, but they make the best of what they do have. The two have settled into a comfortable routine they each enjoy, when suddenly an opportunity for adventure and fortune arises. The way Sammy handles this opportunity for fortune and fame shows a lot about his character and leaves us with a surprise ending sure to spark conversations with children.
What really impressed me about this book is the strong focus on character traits. Sammy’s decisions and actions show that he is loyal, kind, humble, and selfless. There are several places in the story that provide an opportunity to discuss one of these characteristics with children. Because of all the themes woven throughout this book, I would recommend it for ages 5-10.
*I was given an electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
In this book, Sammy and his owner don’t have much other than each other, but they make the best of what they do have. The two have settled into a comfortable routine they each enjoy, when suddenly an opportunity for adventure and fortune arises. The way Sammy handles this opportunity for fortune and fame shows a lot about his character and leaves us with a surprise ending sure to spark conversations with children.
What really impressed me about this book is the strong focus on character traits. Sammy’s decisions and actions show that he is loyal, kind, humble, and selfless. There are several places in the story that provide an opportunity to discuss one of these characteristics with children. Because of all the themes woven throughout this book, I would recommend it for ages 5-10.
*I was given an electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 5, 2015
This is a story about a bird who flies off to achieve is dream only to realize that success means little if not shared with our loved ones. Lisa and Sammy are inseparable and make for a good story.
This is story book about a cockatiel and his human Lisa. It shares the message of love and being faithful to our loved ones. Sammy is a bird with a golden voice and when he learns about a singing competition he flies off with his friends to participate.
What happens after he flies off is the crux of the story. He regrets his impulsive action and realizes that Lisa would be so sad when she comes home to an empty house. I found the story a simple and good way of telling our children about thinking before taking action. It also teaches the importance of not getting carried away with ourselves.
I also liked the illustrations in the book, very pretty and expressive. The birds look beautiful as they fly through the Sydney sky. The author has shared a valuable message with easy words and cool pictures that our children can understand easily.
(I got a copy of the book from Mother Daughter Book Reviews in exchange of my unbiased review)
This is story book about a cockatiel and his human Lisa. It shares the message of love and being faithful to our loved ones. Sammy is a bird with a golden voice and when he learns about a singing competition he flies off with his friends to participate.
What happens after he flies off is the crux of the story. He regrets his impulsive action and realizes that Lisa would be so sad when she comes home to an empty house. I found the story a simple and good way of telling our children about thinking before taking action. It also teaches the importance of not getting carried away with ourselves.
I also liked the illustrations in the book, very pretty and expressive. The birds look beautiful as they fly through the Sydney sky. The author has shared a valuable message with easy words and cool pictures that our children can understand easily.
(I got a copy of the book from Mother Daughter Book Reviews in exchange of my unbiased review)
May 26, 2017
Sammy is a cute cockatiel who lives in Sydney, Australia with his owner Lisa. Sammy loves to sing and all his bird friends keep telling him what a great voice he has. After watching a tv show similar to American Idol, he decides to fly to where it’s taped and audition so that the world can enjoy his talent.
When he gets there he realizes how much Lisa should be a part of his being discovered and that nothing is more important than his relationship with her. So he decides to fly back home. He doesn’t want Lisa to come home and see that he’s missing. He makes it back just in time.
This is a cute short story with the message that nothing is more important than the people you love and love you. I think this would be a great book to give any child.
The illustrations are cute but the cover shows Sammy with two of the three contest judges. I don’t really like the frowny face on the man, especially since this is such an upbeat story. I think the cover would have been much more appealing with an illustration of Sammy and Lisa.
When he gets there he realizes how much Lisa should be a part of his being discovered and that nothing is more important than his relationship with her. So he decides to fly back home. He doesn’t want Lisa to come home and see that he’s missing. He makes it back just in time.
This is a cute short story with the message that nothing is more important than the people you love and love you. I think this would be a great book to give any child.
The illustrations are cute but the cover shows Sammy with two of the three contest judges. I don’t really like the frowny face on the man, especially since this is such an upbeat story. I think the cover would have been much more appealing with an illustration of Sammy and Lisa.
April 30, 2017
Sammy Steals the Show is a delightful story about a darling cockatiel, named Sammy, who loves to sing! Right away, kids will discover that this sweet little bird has lots of self confidence and a can-do attitude! Why, “just with his voice,” he could “turn gray skies blue and storm clouds into white fluffy wisps.” Sammy and Lisa, his “mate,” are watching television when a singing contest is announced at the Sydney Opera House. Sammy is so excited and decides to audition. Why not? “He would surely become famous and change the world with his marvelous voice.” However, on audition day, Sammy soon learns an important lesson about life and friendship. I think kids will love this little story about this spunky bird. The illustrations are simple and sweet, it’s a quick read, there are excellent talking points, and kids will want to read this story again and again. I received a free digital download in exchange for an honest review through Mother Daughter Book Reviews.
June 24, 2015
I received a free ecopy of this book for an honest review.
Sammy Steals the Show is an adorable children's book about a cockatiel who lives with Lisa in Sydney, Australia. Lisa works hard has a waitress to keep a roof over their heads and they watch TV together every night when she gets home from work. When they see a reality show that is looking for the best singer, Sammy decides he should try out.
Sammy makes new friends on his adventure and he learns that flying across the city is a lot harder than flying across the apartment! He also learns what is most important to him and that fame isn't it.
Along with the cute story, there is a colorful picture to go along with each page of text. I especially enjoyed this story because I have a cockatiel, Pocko, who looks just like Sammy. And Pocko loves to sing, whistle, and talk.
This is a great book for children, especially if they like animals.
Sammy Steals the Show is an adorable children's book about a cockatiel who lives with Lisa in Sydney, Australia. Lisa works hard has a waitress to keep a roof over their heads and they watch TV together every night when she gets home from work. When they see a reality show that is looking for the best singer, Sammy decides he should try out.
Sammy makes new friends on his adventure and he learns that flying across the city is a lot harder than flying across the apartment! He also learns what is most important to him and that fame isn't it.
Along with the cute story, there is a colorful picture to go along with each page of text. I especially enjoyed this story because I have a cockatiel, Pocko, who looks just like Sammy. And Pocko loves to sing, whistle, and talk.
This is a great book for children, especially if they like animals.
June 15, 2015
This review first appeared on my blog Christy's Cozy Corners.
Sammy Steals the Show is an adorable book about a cockatiel who loves singing and spending time with his owner Lisa. Lisa works hard all day, but she always comes home to snuggle and watch television with Sammy at the end of her day. Sammy gets his brilliant idea to try out for a singing competition from one of the shows they watch. With the help of his friends, he gets to the Sydney Opera House to try out, but things aren’t what he imagined they would be!
I loved this short children’s book because of the bond Lisa and Sammy have. Animal loving children will love reading and hearing this story read because of this bond. Lisa and Sammy have a connection that all animal lovers will understand! This is a very cute story with sweet illustrations that bring the story to life. I definitely recommend it for your young ones!
Sammy Steals the Show is an adorable book about a cockatiel who loves singing and spending time with his owner Lisa. Lisa works hard all day, but she always comes home to snuggle and watch television with Sammy at the end of her day. Sammy gets his brilliant idea to try out for a singing competition from one of the shows they watch. With the help of his friends, he gets to the Sydney Opera House to try out, but things aren’t what he imagined they would be!
I loved this short children’s book because of the bond Lisa and Sammy have. Animal loving children will love reading and hearing this story read because of this bond. Lisa and Sammy have a connection that all animal lovers will understand! This is a very cute story with sweet illustrations that bring the story to life. I definitely recommend it for your young ones!
March 2, 2016
This is a cute story about a bird who loves to sing. Sammy is such an inspiring character, he is very confident in what he does and has a can do attitude. He is sure his singing can change the world, brighten the skies and make everyone happy. The only thing Sammy loves more then singing is his human Lisa and their friendship. This was an easy read for young children with only a few hard words that a parent can help with. The pictures flow with the story enhancing the storyline and bringing it to life. Sammy's adventure opens up some good conversations with young children presenting life lessons in an easy to understand manor. Ms. Chand has a way of telling a story with an underlying message that is fun, exciting and makes lessons easy to understand. This is a great children's series and everyone should add them to their reading lists.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
April 2, 2016
Sammy Steals the Show was yet another exceptional Bird Brained book. I love that these books teach such values to children, and let's face it, they teach me things too. I really love reading these books and Sammy is such a kind hearted bird who realizes how important your friends are. Absolutely wonderful.
Sammy has a beautiful singing voice and loves to sing while his human is away. He entertains all of the other birds outside of his window, but when Lisa comes home, he always sings her a happy tune to brighten her day. They had a special bond since day one. While watching TV, Sammy sees a call for singers to be on "Sing Your Heart Out" and become the next big star in Australia. After a brilliant escape and a long flight, will he become the next big star, or will he discover something even more important?
Fantastic book with great illustrations.
Sammy has a beautiful singing voice and loves to sing while his human is away. He entertains all of the other birds outside of his window, but when Lisa comes home, he always sings her a happy tune to brighten her day. They had a special bond since day one. While watching TV, Sammy sees a call for singers to be on "Sing Your Heart Out" and become the next big star in Australia. After a brilliant escape and a long flight, will he become the next big star, or will he discover something even more important?
Fantastic book with great illustrations.
December 11, 2016
I read this book as part of a challenge I joined.
Another charming bird story that teaches a lesson to young children. In Sammy's story, he finds that sometimes friendship is the most important thing. A little more hidden message, in my opinion, was that good friends are always willing to help you out when you ask. It certainly wasn't the main lesson of the story, but I think that kids would pick up on that message as well as the main message.
I work in an elementary school and have been very enchanted by these Bird Brain books and I'm going to see if we have them in our library, and if not suggest them! Each book teaches a valuable lesson or social message and will entertain kids from Kindergarten through third grade or even beyond.
Another charming bird story that teaches a lesson to young children. In Sammy's story, he finds that sometimes friendship is the most important thing. A little more hidden message, in my opinion, was that good friends are always willing to help you out when you ask. It certainly wasn't the main lesson of the story, but I think that kids would pick up on that message as well as the main message.
I work in an elementary school and have been very enchanted by these Bird Brain books and I'm going to see if we have them in our library, and if not suggest them! Each book teaches a valuable lesson or social message and will entertain kids from Kindergarten through third grade or even beyond.
July 5, 2015
Sammy Steals the Show is quite a cute little story. While it is short and sweet, I would have loved for it to have been a bit longer. That being said, I think it's the perfect pace for children. The story progresses enough to hold their attention without overwhelming them. I would recommend this to children who are beginning to read on their own. I also think the vibrant and generously sized illustrations will help maintain a kids interest. The story will too, but to a beginning reader the black and white words may become a bit daunting... I just thought the art was a nice little addition. *I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.*
December 28, 2016
LESSON: FAME OR FAMILY
A fun read about the downside of egocentricity.
Sammy is convinced he should attend the auditions for the next great singer from Australia and sneaks away from his home and his best-mate (best friend) to gift his voice to the world. I love that he came to a realization about the loneliness of fame before it came to pass and quickly returned home to his human.
The description of the Sydney Opera House was beautiful and poetic.
Age Level: 3 – 8 Grade Level: P-2nd
Note: while I was given this book as a gifted copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
A fun read about the downside of egocentricity.
Sammy is convinced he should attend the auditions for the next great singer from Australia and sneaks away from his home and his best-mate (best friend) to gift his voice to the world. I love that he came to a realization about the loneliness of fame before it came to pass and quickly returned home to his human.
The description of the Sydney Opera House was beautiful and poetic.
Age Level: 3 – 8 Grade Level: P-2nd
Note: while I was given this book as a gifted copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
June 15, 2015
This is a wonderful book for the little ones. It teaches children to remember the important people in your life. Sammy lives with Lisa, his caretaker and best friend. Sammy loves to sing and decides to fly a long way to perform in a contest. When he gets there he realizes it's not important because Lisa isn't there. He doesn't perform and hurries home to be there when Lisa gets home. He learns that she is more important than a contest. This is an awesome book for kindergartners though second grade.I received a copy of this book honest review for a fair and honest review.
July 4, 2015
Sammy is a cockatiel who loves to sing and has a beautiful voice. He loves his life and his owner Lisa. One day while spending time with her watching t.v. he sees a commercial about the opera and he decided with the help of his friends he is going to be the best singer ever. While there he realizes that he will be able to live out his dream however he will possibly hurt and miss his best friend Lisa. Such a cute little story that takes place in Australia that shows that sometimes pets are truly your best friends and how much love they share for one another.
July 3, 2015
My son and I normally read these together. But this was a bit long for him so he just looked at the pictures. It's a great story of friendship between "mates". The art is great and seemed and reminded me of the Rankin Bass animation of the 70's. It could easily be turned into an animated short. It's nice to see that the writer and illustrator have more planned for the future. We are looking forward to whatever they have in store next.
July 8, 2015
When I started reading this little book I was in such a sour mood... I wanted to be left alone. After reading this book I had a smile on my face and was in a much better mood. This is such a sweet book. Sammy has the voice for all! And all want to listen to him. The pictures are so realistic! What kid wouldn't want this book read to them or to read it to themselves, even us big kids!
*Received for an honest review*
*Received for an honest review*
August 10, 2015
Sammy Steals the Show is a cute kids story about Sammy and his owner Lisa. They have a connection from day one. Sammy has as beautiful singing voice and tries out for a contest, but soon finds out being loved by your mate is more important then being famous.
I am a grandma and will be reading this story to my two year old granddaughter.
I was given this book for my honest review.
I am a grandma and will be reading this story to my two year old granddaughter.
I was given this book for my honest review.
November 10, 2015
Sammy Steals the Show
by Emlyn Chand
Reviewd by Jaime Kurp
What a cute story about finding out that you don’t need fame to be happy. Sammy thinks he wants to be on this reality show to sing his way to fame. But once he is there he realises that he misses his mate Lisa. He learns that he didn’t need to go far to find his fame. Again a wonderful story to read to with the kids.
December 18, 2016
I love how Emlyn Chand has a lesson to be learned in all The Bird Brain series. Like in this one Sammy learns the grass isn't always greener on the other side of the fence. It's important to have an imagination and a goal in life but definitely think it through completely before running off without a plan.
December 20, 2016
This is a children's picture book featuring Sammy the Cockatiel who embarks on a big adventure to audition on a singing show. Does Sammy chose fame & fortune over friendship? Read on to find out. I especially liked the Australian setting. A very cute story with nice illustrations.
Thanks Melissa for the copy of this book!
Thanks Melissa for the copy of this book!
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