Wow, this is an exciting week! Last Tuesday, we did not have any new awards to announce, but we are making up for it today with a big list of announcements! Toys, baby beds, apps, software, books, food pouches, and more! Check out the full list of Mom’s Choice Award winners from the week of April 24 to April 30, 2016 below!

Every week companies, publishers, developers, and inventors send us media, products, and services from all over the world. We pair each submission with five evaluators. The best products and services earn our award. Our evaluators are not only experts, they are parents and educators just like you, so they understand what you’re looking for in a quality product.

To find more information about a product or to purchase, click on the image.

VELCRO® Blocks™ construction sets (Race Car)

New VELCRO® Blocks™ construction sets are for little hands with big imaginations. They’re not just building blocks, they’re building blocks to a lifetime of learning, problem solving and creativity.

The soft foam blocks easily connect together with VELCRO® Brand fasteners so that kids can build and rebuild to their hearts’ content. They’re safe, easy-to-use and mess-free. Ideal for small hands, the Blocks are soft, safe, and easy to manipulate, as well as helpful in strengthening children’s motor and problem-solving skills.

VELCRO® Blocks™ construction sets let your kids build confidence while they build everything from a Baja Buggy to a Brontosaurus. Various shapes include a 29-piece princess castle, a 26-piece race truck, and several dinosaurs.

Toys, Games & Puzzles:
Preschoolers

Purchase here

Snuggle Me Organic Infant Louging and Bed Sharing Cushion

Snuggle Me Organic; loved by midwives, doulas, chiropractors, pediatricians, mamas, daddies, and baby’s all over the world since 2007. The Snuggle Me Organic is handcrafted in Minnesota by mamas who not only understand cosleeping, but practice it as well. They are a small, woman owned, family run business consisting of 6 dedicated people who work tirelessly ensuring you and your baby are getting the best possible cosleeping experience.

Designed with the safety and wellness of your baby in mind, the Snuggle Me’s exclusively patented center-sling technology gently cradles your little one while at the same time securely supports them, keeping them in the safe supine position for sleeping. Unlike other cosleeping alternatives, our cushion is designed to hold the torso of your baby, not the entire baby itself. This difference is part of the magic that your baby will love as it reinvents the feelings of being in the womb, giving them the familiar and comforting sense of being held and cuddled by you.

Gear & Accessories:
Bedding & Room Decor

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Tinkercad

Tinkercad is an easy and browser-based 3D design and modeling tool for all. Tinkercad allows users to imagine anything and then design it in minutes.

From kids to designers to hobbyists, you think it, you can create it. With Tinkercad you can create: toys to play with, decorations to light up your home, import into Minecraft or jewelry to express yourself. You dream it, you can make it!

Makers, students, and teachers all over the world are using this free tool to design real 3D-printed objects. You don’t need to be an expert to make or print 3D models. Ideal for teachers to use in the classroom since Tinkercad is CARU COPPA certified for under 13 users.

When exported to Minecraft, Tinkercad is also ideal for learning the basics of coding. Make your ideas real with 3D printing, laser cutting or printing partners.

Apps & Software:
Ages 9 to 12

Purchase here

When Cal Went to the Blueberry Farm
Written and illustrated by Erwin Wunderlich

Young Cal is excited about his trip to Uncle Wiley’s farm. Cal’s challenge is to help expand the farm with a new blueberry patch despite the weather.

Children’s Picture Books:
Values & Life Lessons

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The New Mommy Media Network App

Enjoy all the podcasts on the New Mommy Media network in one convenient network app!

New Mommy Media shows give tips and advice for new parents, educating and entertaining moms and dads as they transition into parenthood. Each 30-minute episode features everyday parents and experts discussing relevant issues in a relaxed, roundtable format. New Momy Media is your online, on-the-go support group, as their shows are always available anytime, anywhere to meet the demands of a parent’s busy schedule.

By downloading FREE new Mommy Media Network app, you’ll receive….

– Instant updates with all the latest episodes from your favorite podcasts.
– Streaming access to play episodes from anywhere, or download your favorites to your phone.
– Access to Club Membership extras including bonus content, PDF transcripts and exclusive extras!
– Instant contact to all shows through the New Mommy Media phone number, website, and popular social networking sites.

Apps & Software:
Adults

Purchase here

Squeasy Snacker

The Squeasy Snacker™ is the most versatile reusable food pouch on the market. It was designed by parents for parents to provide easy feeding on-the-go. It is the only food pouch that offers the patent pending 2-in-1 NO SPILL INSERT™ for no spill or free flow. It is easy to fill, easy to use, easy to clean. Simply fill with delicious blends of freshly pureed food or add ready-made favorites like applesauce and yogurt. It also works great with water, milk and juice unlike other food pouches.

The Squeasy Snacker™ is offered in a variety of colors and currently a 6oz and 3.5oz capacity depending on serving size desired.

Gear & Accessories:
Feeding

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Sophie and Scottie’s Adventures of Sweet Tooth Rock
Written by Cindy C. Murray; Illustrated by Molly Alice Hoy; Edited by Cindy McDonald, Drew Bailey

“Sophie and Scottie’s Adventures of Sweet Tooth Rock” is the third book in the Adventures of Sophie and Scottie Trilogy. Sophie and Scottie receive a gift for all of their hard work on the 10,000 acre sheep shearing ranch called Shear Heaven they call home. This gift, a crystal covered frame, is magical and acts as a portal to distant lands and amazing adventures. In this book, the non-identical twin sisters find themselves in North America where they stay at the Colossal Candy Castle and meet candy maker Samuel McSweet. They soon find out that not all is as it seems at the castle where candy formulas are missing along with a world sugar shortage. Come and Join Sophie and Scottie as they use their trusty map and special talents to help solve this sweet mystery where a bald eagle constantly watches them and a huge Grizzly Bear stops them in their tracks!

Juvenile Books (Level 2 – Ages 9 to 12):
Fiction – General

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Something to Think About: Figuring Out What’s Important and Learning to Defend It
Written by Aunt Kimmie Bebo; Edited by Mimi Dunham

Something to Think About started as a handwritten birthday letter from Aunt Kimmie Bebo to her ten-year-old niece, but when a friend asked for a copy to share with her own teenage nieces upon their graduation, the author realized the universal nature of her message. Now a coming-of-age manual, this missive inspires young adults of all ages to consider the questions and challenges that accompany growing up and invites them to form their own opinions as to how they might handle the myriad situations they’ll likely encounter along the way.

Blending motivational quotes with her own insights, the author empowers young readers with her uplifting message. The topics are in no particular order, making it easy for tweens and teens to read a page at random and contemplate however much, or little, interests them in the moment. And, as a bonus, the back of the book features personal pages with space for readers to write down their own thoughts—whether goals, memories, favorite quotes, or something else entirely.

Inviting you into a friendly, philosophical conversation, Something to Think About considers the questions you’re asking, the problems you’re struggling with, and the dreams you’re working toward. Offering straightforward advice like, If you do nothing else in life, pick a few things to stand for.”

The book cover can be personalized by writing the recipients name on the tag – making this delightful book a wonderful gift that will leave a lasting impression.

Young Adult Books:
Inspirational / Motivational

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Smarttemp bluetooth Thermometer

Smarttemp is a smart Bluetooth thermometer designed for children where a parent can track body temperature continuously in real time through their smartphone. Receive alerts when the temperature rises beyond the threshold and also receive medicine reminders when it’s time for another dosage. Parents can also share the temperature graph with their Doctor.

Smarttemp is easy to use. Simply download the smartphone app, place the thermometer under baby’s underarm with adhesive pad (included), and monitor your baby’s temperature. Can be used for up to 24 hours at a time and is not a one time use.

Personal Use Products (Skin Care, Health Care, etc.):
Babies

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Runnaway Piggy Bank: Ping Ping Poing Ping Ping
Written by Judith Peck, Ed.D.; Illustrated by Nancy Eisen

An adventurous picture book about a little boy who has a piggy bank for his coins. The piggy is upset about getting shaken up too much, and finally jumps off his shelf, skitters out the bedroom door and runs away. The boy finds him on the street when he hears piggy’s coins go ping ping poing ping ping behind an ice cream truck. He brings him home and finds out why piggy is upset. Afterwards, the little boy begins saving instead of shaking out the coins and then guess what? He has a happy reward at the toy store.

Children’s Picture Books:
Bedtime Stories

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Rooty Le’ Boar
Written by Mary Ann D. Cogliano; Illustrated by Phil Wilson; Edited by Marlo Garnsworthy

Enjoy the adventure, get ready to meet, some pretty cool characters with hooves and feet. Beware, there’s a shady character coming to Muckapoo farm. As you breeze through the story you’ll find out if the farm animals have what it takes to stop the bullying or not!

Children’s Picture Books:
Values & Life Lessons

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PottyCover

PottyCover is a disposable toilet seat cover for children that covers the sides and the front of the toilet, to keep away germs and wetness.

It is made of soft non-woven fabric on top, coated with a layer of plastic on the bottom, creating a waterproof barrier between the toilet and the child. Each PottyCover is individually packaged in a small, easy to carry bag for on-the-go parent.

PottyCover has the largest coverage among similar products on the market. The extra large front flap keeps legs and clothes from touching the front of the toilet. The side flaps cover the sides, where kids hold on to maintain their balance, keeping their hands away from germs.

As it says on the package “Don’t worry, we’ve got it covered”.

Gear & Accessories:
Bath & Potty (Includes Diaper Pails)

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Ouch Moments: When Words Are Used in Hurtful Ways
Written by Michael Genhart PhD; Illustrated by Viviana Garofoli

Sometimes kids use hurtful or ugly words to put down other kids, whether they mean to insult or are just going along with the group. These hurtful words often carry a deeper meaning that many children aren’t aware of. Ouch Moments shows kids who is affected by these words: the target, the mean kid, and bystanders. Includes a “Note to Parents and Caregivers.”

Children’s Picture Books:
Values & Life Lessons

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Nola
Written by Stephanie Lisa Tara; Illustrated by Pilar Lama

Nola was the last American Northern White Rhino, one of three–now left on the planet. Poaching has destroyed Nola’s species due to the fallacy that rhino horns are thought to possess magical medicinal powers. Extinction is an ugly word. What to do? Listen to Nola, herself:
“You Ask Why? / The truth is this: / Some want, what’s not theirs/ (And there it is.) // What To Do? / Love what you’ve got! / (And not what you don’t) / Matters a lot!”
Everyone was in love with Nola, a courageous matriarch with the endearing lined skin of a grandmother. World leaders paused to mark her death on November 22, 2015, her name made headlines around the globe. Newspapers. Television. Internet. Nola, Nola, Nola. Last of her kind. Maybe it was Nola’s courage to be the last that had us weeping at her loss. Courage to be the last with grace and forgiveness. Extinction is forever. Nola knew this. She forgave us, I think. She only asks that we honor her story.

Children’s Picture Books:
Animal Kingdom

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More Heaven: Because Every Child Is Special
Written by Jo Anne White, PhD

Children with special needs and their teacher mount a tireless battle to shift the tide toward the acceptance of people who are different. Accepting their uniqueness and sharing in their private world, while engaging them in the real world, Tina
gives them a chance at learning and life. Despite challenges and lack of support, her commitment to reach, teach and inspire never wavers. MORE HEAVEN is based on a real pioneer program in Philadelphia public school in response to the 1975 Education for the Handicapped Act, ruling that US public schools educate all children. The experiment, begun in chaotic uncharted waters paves the way for inclusionary education practices and social acceptance of children and adults with special needs-a road that continues to need paving.

Adult Books:
Parenting – Special & Exceptional Needs

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Math Climber HD

Get your arms and legs ready and start climbing! Select between English or Spanish and test your math skills as you speed climb up a 70ft indoor wall or race against another climber. Through multiple skill levels you can test your knowledge in 18 topics. Practice problems at your own pace in the fitness room to get your muscles in shape before climbing. The more problems you answer correctly the more coins you receive. Use your coins to customize your climber and if you get a 100% watch them break out into 1 of 5 crazy dances. If you earn enough 100% scores you just might make it into the 5 Star Club under the Wall of Fame. If you’re not sure about the answer to a problem use your coins to select a 50/50 option. After climbing 24 different wall heights test your speed and accuracy with the Mystery Wall. Email and print out a progress report which keeps a record of the number of problems you have answered correctly as well as specific problems you have missed for a given topic and level.

Apps & Software:
Ages 9 to 12

Purchase here

Mack & Moxy

Mack & Moxy – Helping to Raise the Next Generation of Humanitarians

Mack & Moxy is a children’s television series that aims to inspire kindness and compassion in children by introducing them to present-day heroes — the people committed to important causes that make our world a better place. It’s the first children’s show to focus exclusively on celebrating the joy of helping others and teaching kids life-long lessons of humanity and charity.
Each segment acquaints young viewers, ages 3-7, with a new cause such as healthy eating, wildlife preservation and car seat safety.

Mack & Moxy’s partnerships with twelve of America’s leading nonprofits and government organizations, brings seasoned advisors to each segment/subject. Each has been involved with the production of their Mack & Moxy episode since its inception. Embedded as part of the creative team, each organization ensures that Mack & Moxy stories incorporate the core messages of their respective organizations. The charity brings their expertise to each issue, while the producers and writers bring their entertainment skills to weave these causes into an engaging and entertaining lesson for kids.

Mack & Moxy combines state-of-the-art 3D animation, live action puppets and celebrity role models. In each story, Mack, a lovable moose-like lummox and Moxy, a feisty whirlwind of a raccoon/fox-inspired go-getter find engaging ways to speak to kids about a range of issues, including: literacy, hunger, wildlife preservation, emergency preparedness, heart health and lifestyle, physical activity and good nutrition, autism, land conservation, first responders, seatbelt safety, the power of play and STEM education. These important issues are explored as Mack & Moxy, together with a helpful Trooper, set out to rescue another Great Helpee in a far-off mystical place called HelpeeLand.

In season one, Mack & Moxy meet a variety of new Friends-in-Need, including: a bird-like creature who has autism; a cornstalk kid who’s planning his emergency exit in case he hears a smoke alarm; a little tiger-type tyke who wants to save his natural habitat; and others.
The adventure in HelpeeLand isn’t without its challenges, though. Shelfish Sheldon (voiced by Hank Azaria of The Simpsons) lurks nearby, plotting to capture the Great Helpee so that he can keep all its happiness for himself.
Mack & Moxy airs on PBS stations (check local listings), with a May 2016 home video release and a fall streaming video debut.

Viewing (Television/DVD/Blu-Ray ):
Preschoolers

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Kuviez Button Up! Bedding

Kuviez innovative neatly tailored design fastens a few buttons to keep beds neat and kids comfy covered. Kuviez sheets stretch and flow with kids during the night instead of untucking and slipping off your little ones like traditional sheets. Plus, there is no more daily bed making! Once moms try Kuviez, they won’t go back to regular sheets! Honest. Made of soft 100% cotton.

Kuviez stay-on sheets keep kids comfy covered, so they don’t wake up at 2 a.m., chilled and awake! The secret: Kuviez ingenious Button Design allows our bed sheets to stretch & flow with your child’s natural sleep movement so even the most active sleepers stay cozy and sound asleep all night . Super secure: the fitted sheet easily stretches to anchor under mattress , stopping slippery sheet corners once and for all! Even the pillowcase stays on, thanks to a clever interior pocket. Bonus: Our neatly tailored bedding is easy to manage. Buttons keep beds neat night after night, so kids feel proud making their beds made without moms help! The flat sheet features two sets of button holes, for a snugger or looser fit. Made of soft, high-quality cotton. Kuviez Sheet Sets include 1 flat sheet, 1 fitted sheet, 1 pillowcase for Twin sets and 2 pillowcases for Full set. For twin and full beds. For ages 2 years and up. Imported.

Personal Use Products (Skin Care, Health Care, etc.):
Children

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Ice Cream Truck

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Come on over and check out the ice cream trucks menu. Between flavor options and toppings, everyone is in for a treat! This ice cream truck comes fully equipped with mesh windows, inside pockets, a steering wheel and an order counter with a roll up window so your child can serve their customers. When the ice cream truck is not open, roll down the window. Big enough for your child and friends to play in. This ice cream truck provides hours of imaginative playtime fun for all!

Toys, Games & Puzzles:
Preschoolers

Purchase here

I Love You So… (Deluxe): Personalized Book
Written and illustrated by Marianne Richmond

Share the new deluxe edition of one of our most popular titles with that special little one in your life. This bestselling book will reassure your child that your love will be with them, near or far, forever and always. I love you as awesome as a thundery sky, and as soaring as the mountains, I love you that high. The deluxe version includes:
Option to change the pronoun “I Love You So…” to “We Love You So…”
Increased page count from 28 pages to 46 pages
Larger trim size of 10″ x 10″ as opposed to 8.5″ x 8.5″
12 additional pages of Marianne Richmond’s artwork restored from the original version
2 frameable posters of Marianne’s art from the book
1 coloring page to cut out and share

Personalize this cuddle-time classic with your child’s name, photo, and a special message to remind them that you love them way, WAY more than they know.

Children’s Picture Books:
Family Life

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Hello Baby (Seattle Edition)
Written by Kathleen Petrich; Illustrated by T. Thomas Seelig; Edited by Sheryn Hara, Laura Z (full last name unknown)

Through delightful and colorful images illustrated by T. Thomas Seelig, Jill the Bernese Mountain Dog shows the much anticipated baby all of the wonderful places and experiences that baby will experience in Seattle/greater Puget Sound area. These include the Seattle Aquarium, the Seattle Waterfront, the International District, the Pike Place Market, Green Lake, Seattle Art Museum, the Fremont Troll, Woodland Park Zoo, riding a ferry across Puget Sound, seeing the Space Needle, visiting Mt. Rainier National Park, and more.

Children’s Picture Books:
Domestic Animals & Pets

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Hatch Baby – Breastfeeding, Sleep, & Diaper Tracker (App)

Better understand your baby’s development and get peace of mind that your baby is nursing, eating, and sleeping enough. Easily track doctor-recommended information like diaper changes, weight, feedings, sleep, and more on your smartphone. Use the app on its own, or connect it with Hatch Baby’s Smart Changing Pad — a modern replacement for the traditional diaper changing pad. Wirelessly record diaper changes and find out exactly how much your baby is eating when you weigh him before and after each breastfeeding session on your Smart Changing Pad.

Feedings
-Track breastfeeding or bottle sessions with an easy-to-use, one-tap timer, which allows you to adjust the start time if you forget to start the timer.
-Conveniently pause the timer during nursing sessions to switch breasts and record the time for both sides.
-Capture feeding session notes, like your baby’s formula preference.
-View daily, weekly, or monthly summary charts to gain insight into your baby’s eating patterns.

Diapers
-Easily keep track of changes to ensure your baby is drinking enough throughout the day.
-Record notes that can be shared with your pediatrician or other caregivers.
-View daily, weekly, or monthly summary charts to gain insight into your baby’s diaper patterns.

Sleep
-Track naps and nighttime sleep with an easy-to-use sleep timer, which allows you to adjust the start time if you forget to start the timer.
-Discover your baby’s sleeping patterns to help her get the best rest.
-View daily, weekly, or monthly summary charts to gain insight into your baby’s sleep patterns.

Share with Caregivers + Professionals
-Invite your partner or caregiver to share your baby’s account and record activity.
-Receive updates from your baby’s caregiver while you are away, including when your baby last ate or slept.
-Export and share your baby’s data with your pediatrician or lactation consultant.
-Access your baby’s information across multiple devices.

Other features:
– Track weight and length
– Keep track of pumping sessions
– See your baby’s daily activities at a glance
– Get graphical insights
– Receive notifications
– See your baby grow in a photo a day

Apps & Software:
Adults

Purchase here

Dream Accomplished: A Story of Cancer, A Mother’s Love & Taylor Swift
Written by Elizabeth Gross

“You have cancer”. Those words changed my life. After I heard them, all I could think was, “My daughter’s only 8”. It just overwhelmed me. “How many dreams would I be able to help her make come true?” This book is the true story of my cancer journey. I’ve written it to say thank you to my daughter’s hero, Taylor Swift, and to help and inspire others as they, too, battle cancer or invisible illness.
ALL PROFITS ARE DONATED TO CANCER & INVISIBLE ILLNESS RESEARCH AND SUPPORT CAUSES

Adult Books:
Biographies & Memoirs

Purchase here

Don’t Push The Button: Personalized Book
Written and illustrated by Bill Cotter

There’s only one rule in Larry’s book–don’t push the button.
(Seriously, don’t even think about it!)
Even if it does look kinda nice, you must never press the button.
Who knows what would happen?
Okay, quick. No one is looking… press the button.
Uh, oh.

Larry is a lovable monster, if a bit too curious for his own good. And now, you can join in on his fun adventure! In the personalized version of this interactive story, your child will discover all the surprises around that big red button. Read, play, and laugh along while your little one investigates just how BIG one little push can be!

Children’s Picture Books:
Humor

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Destiny: The Tale of Sonali and Amir
Written by Sonya Wadhera and Priya Wadhera; Illustrated by Corey Wolfe, Carlos Valenti, Sonya Wadhera and Priya Wadhera

India was ruled by two royal families whose kindness and love brought peace to the land. However, India was in danger of being captured by an evil demon named Raakshasa, whose ambition to take over the country left everyone paralyzed with fear. After a special ceremony was conducted, it was revealed that the two heirs to the throne, Princess Sonali and Prince Amir, were destined to defeat the demon together.

Destiny: The Tale of Sonali and Amir follows the magical journey of the Indian Princess Sonali and Indian Prince Amir as they embark on an epic adventure to fulfill their destiny. It promotes diversity, equality and respect and empowers readers to believe in themselves.

Juvenile Books (Level 1 – Ages 5 to 8):
Fiction – General

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Courageous Gilbert the Groundhog
Written by Regina E. McCarthy; Illustrated by Sue Dettman

Gilbert is a groundhog and the main character in this innovative book. He struggles with feeling and expressing his emotions, which causes him to feel incomplete in his heart and anxious in his body. Through a wise, old oak tree, Gilbert learns how to breathe deeply, but that isn’t enough. He also has to learn real tools for releasing anger, fear, and sadness so these emotions do not get stuck in his body. He realizes this is the only way to feel like his authentic self.

Courageous Gilbert the Groundhog is an essential tool for parents, educators, child and family therapists, and other caregivers of children. It is to be read time and again, and the techniques are to be put into practice. The breathing technique will help calm the nervous system, oxygenate the brain, and create a safe feeling in the body. Once the body feels safe, the whole brain can fully engage to respond in a healthy manner to situations instead of impulsively react.

When a child feels threatened, their reptilian brain takes over the central nervous system and they go into fight or flight mode. If really scared, they may go into freeze mode. Discharging this energy is necessary to prevent trauma responses later in life. Stomping one’s feet, yelling into a pillow, and marching around can help a child stay out of freeze mode, keeping them present and engaged instead of in a dissociated state. If children learn such skills, they can be used for the rest of their lives.

Juvenile Books (Level 1 – Ages 5 to 8):
Self-Improvement

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BENJAMIN BIRDIE’S FIRST FLIGHT
Written by Michael Dotsikas; Illustrated by Morgan Spicer

BENJAMIN BIRDIE’S FIRST FLIGHT — With delightful rhymed text and savvy story-telling, debut author Michael Dotsikas has crafted a charming and uplifting picture book that offers lessons on friendship, compassion and honesty. Readers are also introduced to a remarkable variety of exotic tree-dwelling animals showcasing earth’s diverse animal kingdom (with an added glossary of fun animal facts). In addition, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book, goes to organizations that bring awareness to the plight of endangered species.

Children’s Picture Books:
Animal Kingdom

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A Hand Truck Named Dolly
Written by Kay Whitehouse; Illustrated by Mark Wayne Adams; Edited by Jennifer Thomas

An intriguing series told from the perspective of a hand truck named Dolly. Dolly couldn’t believe her luck as she sat in the back seat of the little red convertible on the way to her new home. She had finally been adopted. And so began the most exciting adventure any gal could ask for. Dolly becomes entwined in all aspects of her family’s life and they treat her like she’s one of the 3 kids, ages 3, 6 & 8. She takes pride in being strong, dependable and brave.
Each book in the series is laced with vocabulary words, word puzzles in the back with information on topics introduced in the book.. Dolly is about family values and being proud of who you are.

Juvenile Books (Level 1 – Ages 5 to 8):
Fiction – General

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