Weekly Roundup: Best Books, Games, Baby Gear, Shoes, & More! July 17 – 23

Weekly Roundup: Best Books, Games, Baby Gear, Shoes, & More! July 17 – 23 (image)

It’s time for another Weekly Roundup post where we share with you some of the best products on the market! It’s been a few weeks since we’ve posted one of these, so we’ve got LOTS of great stuff to share today. In addition to some excellent books, we’re highlighting some adorable baby shoes, tote packs, lotions, a travel bouncer, a bedside bassinet, a game, and more!

Everything you see listed here is a winner of a Mom’s Choice Award. These products were evaluated by parents, families, and educators and determined to be among the best in family-friendly media, products, and services.

For more information about a product, click the product image or purchase link.

Award-Winning Children's book — When Dinosaurs go Dancing

When Dinosaurs go Dancing
Written by Judy Cook; Illustrated by Sonia Nadeau; Edited by Rhonda Hayter

When Dinosaurs go Dancing has everything to delight three to eight year old palaeontologists-from fossils to foxtrot. Where else can you tango with triceratops, minuet with pachycephalosaurus, and then bow to apatosaurus before tap dancing across tectonic plates? Here’s the place to dance with dinosaurs while learning how to pronounce their names! You’ll dig up new facts, then pirouette to the next page to learn about exciting fossil finds throughout history. Art and Science elegantly dance together in this fanciful picture book which is sure to inspire many a classroom discussion or bedtime conversation.

Children’s Picture Books:
Animal Kingdom

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What Happens Next: Messages from Heaven: A Workbook for Dying and Living
Written by Kay Talbot, John Michael Ketzer

There is no greater adventure to prepare for than the life of the body and the life of the spirit, yet how many of us actually plan to live and die well?
What Happens Next: Messages from Heaven is a unique spiritual workbook that offers compelling insights from those who have already passed over–from famous individuals such as Abraham Lincoln to everyday people–and then asks challenging questions that provoke you to consider how you want to live now and in the next life. May the comfort and wisdom of these pages reveal the sacredness of your personal journey.
Kay Talbot, Ph.D, author of What Forever Means After for Death of a Child, is a psychotherapist who specializes in loss and life transitions therapy. John Michael Ketzer is a chaplain who has been serving the dying since meeting Mother Theresa in 1994. In 2014 he started contacting spirits through meditation.

Adult Books:
Self-Improvement

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Award-Winning Children's book — What Happens Next: Messages from Heaven
Award-Winning Children's book — TIC STAC TOE

TIC STAC TOE

TIC STAC TOE is best played as a 2 player game, however you can play with 4 people and alternate turns with a team-mate if you desire. After pulling the product out of the box one player takes all the X pieces and the opponent takes the O pieces.

First player to go places their piece anywhere into the game board. The opponent does the same. Players can choose to place pieces on the board or to stack pieces on top of other pieces at any time. The first person to get 4 of their pieces in a perfect Horizontal, Vertical or Diagonal row wins the game.

TIC STAC TOE comes with 66 high quality game pieces, 1 game board and game instructions. Once your hand is removed from the placed piece it cannot be changed.

The game comes with 2 optional black pieces which are “blockers”. Blockers add a different strategy to the game. A blocker can only be used to block an opponents win. A blocker must be used before placing down your regular piece.

You can give each player a blocker or when playing against a less experienced player, give one or both to only that player.

Toys, Games & Puzzles:
Young Adults

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The Purple Teddy Bear (with toy bear): A Christmas Story
Written by Janie Tesch-Cassady; Illustrated by Janie Tesch-Stevson

A Christmas story that will make you smile. It touches on wishes, teasing, self-esteem and friendship. This story is about a little teddy bear that learns to embrace his individuality and love his purple fur. He even receives the most unexpected gift of all: a new best friend.

An instant classic that children of any age will treasure all year long, The Purple Teddy Bear celebrates the qualities that make us stand out and the friends who help us shine. The story comes with your own purple teddy to hug and to love.

Children’s Picture Books:
Seasonal, Holidays & Festivals

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Award-Winning Children's book — The Purple Teddy Bear (with toy bear)
Award-Winning Children's book — The Adventures of Camellia N.

The Adventures of Camellia N.: The Arctic
Written by Debra L. Wideroe; Illustrated by Daniela Frongia

Join a global adventure…

Take a journey with pint size explorer, Camellia N. as she sails off on her first exciting adventure to the northernmost part of the earth…the Arctic. Explore this enchanted region as Camellia learns what makes the Arctic one of the most
magical locations on our planet.

Through The Adventures of Camellia N. book series, Camellia takes children on expeditions to all seven continents and under the sea where they learn about and gain appreciation for the environment, wildlife and natural resources. The book series not only educates and entertains, but encourages children to become global ambassadors.

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

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Something’s Tugging on My Claw!
Written and illustrated by Janice S. C. Petrie

Something’s Tugging on My Claw! takes readers on a young, blue lobster’s adventure to discover the culprit who was tugging on his claw. Once he solves the mystery, the blue lobster is delighted to find that a claw dropped on purpose to escape danger isn’t necessarily lost forever.

Something’s Tugging On My Claw! is appealing to young readers from ages 3-10, and contains many valuable lessons of lobster lore… (it’s) a colorful, authentic and accurately illustrated story about a young blue lobster’s adventure… ” —Midwestern Book Review, Children’s Watch.

Children’s Picture Books:
Animal Kingdom

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Award-Winning Children's book — Something's Tugging on My Claw!
Award-Winning Children's book — Shanti and the Magic Mandala

Shanti and the Magic Mandala
Written by F.T.Camargo

Shanti and the Magic Mandala is a multicultural adventure with a mystical approach, in which fantasy and reality mingle. The book tells the story of six teenagers, from different religious and cultural origins and different parts of the world, who are mystically recruited to form two groups – one in the Northern Hemisphere, and one in the Southern.
They eventually gather in Peru, and through a single alliance, begin a frantic chase for the sacred object that can stop the black magician’s final plan…
The book has won twelve book awards!

Young Adult Books:
Fantasy, Myths & Legends

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Princess Willow & the Magic Fairy Brush
Written by Bundy Renfro

Princess Willow & the Magic Fairy Brush® is a book and brush set that combines the things girls love and moms cherish. A mother’s battle to get her daughter to brush her hair has been a challenge and frustration for many moons. With gentler detangling brush designs trending, parents continue to look for the next best product. While products have improved, they still fail to tackle the root of the problem. Princess Willow & the Magic Fairy Brush® sparks curiosity and taps into the magical ingredient know to get children on board…IMAGINATION! This fairytale and magic fairy brush set builds a bond between little girls and Princess Willow, so girls want to brush their hair so they can feel and look like a real princess. Princess Willow & the Magic Fairy Brush® turns dreaded into delightful, stubbornness into gladness and messy hair into beautifully well-groomed hair.
Children are captivated by the story and its beautiful illustrations. Parents love that it teaches not only that good hygiene can be fun, but also that TRUE beauty comes from within. They’re especially thrilled to have finally found a detangling hair brush that motivates and eliminates fussing! Many focus groups were conducted during its development. Upon hearing the story and testing the Magic Fairy Brush, the most used word by girls was WOW!!! The most used phrase…I WANT IT! The idea of owning a hair brush that lights-up via magic fairy potions has girls begging to brush their hair! Moms are amazed and love the fact that they’re not buying just another hair brush or temporary toy, but rather a solution based fairytale and quality keepsake. Parents, grandparents and beauticians say, “Princess Willow & the Magic Fairy Brush® is the perfect gift and solution.” Girls call it magical and want to hear the story and use the Magic Fairy Brush AGAIN, AGAIN & AGAIN!!

Children’s Picture Books:
Looking & Feeling Great

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Award-Winning Children's book — Princess Willow & the Magic Fairy Brush
Award-Winning Children's book — PORTAPAK ®

PORTAPAK ®

This side carrier converts to a Hip Pak for easy storage and access. Breathable fabric so baby won’t overheat, 4 zipper compartments and a bottle holder. Recommended when baby can hold head up, from 17-32lbs. Available in Black and Grey!

Gear & Accessories:
Totes, Diaper Bags & Slings

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Momo Baby Sneaker Shoes (First Walker & Toddler)

The human foot is one of the most complicated parts of our body. We have carefully designed our shoes to protect your child’s feet, while incorporating many beneficial attributes to promote quality foot quality. Momo Baby Sneakers features ultra flexible rubber sole and easy-on, easy-off design straps with Velcro for the best fit. PU leather and mesh upper/leather insole/rubber sole. Momo Baby’s entire line of footwear has been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association’s prestigious Seal of Acceptance which recognizes products which have been found beneficial and significant value to foot health.

Gear & Accessories:
Clothing

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Award-Winning Children's book — Momo Baby Sneaker Shoes (First Walker & Toddler)
Award-Winning Children's book — La Petite Creme French Diapering Lotion

La Petite Creme French Diapering Lotion

Did you know that French Mums don’t use baby wipes? This single lotion replaces baby wipes and diaper cream. And it made only of natural products and no harmful chemicals. How can it get any better than that?

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

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Kupp’

Kupp’ is a 6oz drinking glass for kids, enclosed in a colorful silicon sleeve. Made and assembled in the U.S. using imported glass, Kupp’ is an innovative way to help children transition out of plastic and to begin drinking from their own personalized glass. The non-slip grip eliminates slippage, while the handle and base provide stability. Offering a color connection to their glassware, young children begin the early lessons of locating, using and cleaning their glass. The company’s mission is to provide parents with well-designed, eco-friendly and practical products for day to day living that is easy and simple for busy families everywhere. Katesplace, LLC is building a trusted brand that is focused on re-imagining products to be used as tools for children to promote sustainable living and responsibility in a colorful compelling way. Kupp’s line of bpa and lead free glasses are for environmentally aware, socially conscious and discerning consumers who seek reusable and well-designed products that can become the “go to products each and every day”.

Gear & Accessories:

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Award-Winning Children's book — Kupp'
Award-Winning Children's book — KidCo BouncePod Travel Bouncer

KidCo BouncePod Travel Bouncer

The KidCo BouncePod™ Travel Bounder is a lightweight (3 lbs.) portable bouncer that is perfect for on-the-go baby. It folds up easily for travel and storage. Sets up in seconds. Includes a convenient carry bag.
Fold and go design
Adjustable headrest
Lightweight 3 lbs.
Age range: Birth and up
Carry Bag Included

Gear & Accessories:
Miscellaneous

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Jerry’s Mystery
Written by W.W. Rowe; Illustrated by Benji Slatoff-Burke; Edited by Paul Cash

Jealousy, treachery, foul play, deception, humiliation, betrayal, revenge, bad blood, risqué drawings, guidance, intuitions, inspiration, admiration―all these come into play in Jerry’s life with the arrival of Fox, the new guy in his seventh grade class. Fox is smooth and slick, French, and all the girls adore him. He has dishonest intentions for Suzie―and she’s falling for it!

Jerry has money now, but needs Wilcox more than ever―to see how his higher self will guide and inspire him to meet these mighty challenges. Their telepathy grows strong, as Jerry learns more and more about how his mind works and where his soul is and how to be there. Its presence and power in his life grow more and more mysterious.

Add his run-in with the principal’s famed “Whistler” paddle, some past life memories and paranormal activity, and the showdown in the Haunted House, and you have the third of Jerry’s adventures, following on Jerry’s Magic and Jerry’s Madness.

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

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Award-Winning Children's book — Jerry's Mystery
Award-Winning Children's book — Ideal Ezee 3 in 1

Ideal Ezee 3 in 1

Arm’s Reach has been marketing our Award Winning patented Co-Sleeper® bedside bassinets since 1997. Since then, Arm’s Reach has continued to update styling, but the product has remained true to its original mission. Like all of their Co-Sleeper® bedside bassinets, the Ideal Ezee 3 in 1 Co-Sleeper® is a safe way to bond with your infant as soon as they come home for the first time. After years of customer feedback and product developments this is truly an ideal option for any concerned parent. The Ideal Ezee™ 3 in 1 comes with more ventilation for even better breathability.
Simple assembly that saves time and it’s portable. Side pockets for storage, a 4-inch sleeping nest height, and an attachment strap and plate to provide the safest sleep solution for you and your newborn.
Modes:
· Bedside Sleeper
· Free-standing bassinet
· Play Yard
Includes:
· Mattress
· Fitted Sheet
· Travel bag
· Nylon Strap and Plate
For bed heights starting at 24″. Measured form the floor to the top of the adult mattress. If your bed is greater than 24″ tall, a Leg Extension kit can be purchased separately.

Gear & Accessories:
Bedding & Room Decor

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I am Tooki: A book about being you
Written and illustrated by Jin Palmer

A children’s picture book on life: A book about being yourself and treating others with kindness.
The book’s main character is Tooki, a friendly owl who teaches children to love themselves unconditionally, recognize their own uniqueness, and treat others with kindness. Tooki talks to our children with the Dr. Seuss-style of respecting them just the way they are.
Perfect for a quick bedtime read with young children
Excellent for early and beginning readers (includes a few bigger words you can teach them)
Bright and cheerful full-color illustrations
A great gift for showers, graduations, birthdays or just as a reminder that you are thinking of someone special.

Children’s Picture Books:
Body, Mind & Spirit

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Award-Winning Children's book — I am Tooki
Award-Winning Children's book — How to Be a Superhero Called Self-Control!: Super Powers to Help Younger Children to Regulate their Emotions and Senses

How to Be a Superhero Called Self-Control!: Super Powers to Help Younger Children to Regulate their Emotions and Senses
Written by Lauren Brukner, Apsley (Illistrator); Illustrated by See above; Edited by NA

Meet Self-Control, a superhero who wants to teach young children his super powers of self-control! Anxiety, frustration, anger, and other difficult feelings won’t stand a chance against their new-found powers.

Self-Control teaches children with emotional and sensory regulation difficulties aged approximately 4-7 how to calm themselves using self-massage, deep pressure, breathing exercises, and activities such as making an imaginary list and finding their own peaceful place. This illustrated book also features an appendix with photocopiable super power charts, reinforcers, and reminder tools to ensure that parents, teachers, and other professionals can support children in upholding superhero strategies even after the book has been read.

Juvenile Books (Level 1 – Ages 5 to 8):
Body, Mind & Spirit

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Give It a Go, Eat a Rainbow
Written by Kathryn Kemp Guylay; Illustrated by Alexander Guylay; Edited by Cara Frost, Colleen Quindlen

Are you a parent or teacher hoping to encourage children to eat more veggies and fruits? Want to support healthy eating messages in a fun, educational and positive way? Looking for great educational messaging with peer-to-peer messaging? Give It a Go, Eat a Rainbow uses charming illustrations by 12-year old Alexander Guylay combined with real-life photography and simple rhymes by award winning nutrition educator Kathryn Kemp Guylay to create an augmented reality that immediately draws kids into the story. Kids are introduced to Blake, the main character, who feels sleepy (low energy) and wonders why he doesn’t have the energy to play like other kids. Blake meets a friendly, magical leprechaun who takes Blake on a journey to find the pot of gold (a metaphor for good health and energy). Blake is shrunk down to tiny size and explores the colorful world of fruits and veggies. The colors (and fruits and veggies) lead to the pot of gold, where Blake feels vibrant and full of energy. The book addresses healthy eating, specifically fruits and veggies, in an engaging and positive way. Targeting early childhood and elementary school age groups, this picture book will be simple yet profound in promoting healthy eating habits in children. Each page is created for maximum engagement, using a delightful combination of photography, illustration, color and text. Think The Wizard of Oz meets Honey, I Shrunk the Kids meets nutrition and health literature.

Children’s Picture Books:
Philanthropic (Books that donate to a charity)

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Award-Winning Children's book — Give It a Go, Eat a Rainbow
Award-Winning Children's book — First Born

First Born
Written by Janelle Gabay; Edited by Sandy McCain

The chase is on for nineteen-year-old Tarian Prescott after narrowly escaping an air strike on the Entente Military Academy. His rescuer, Audrey, a fierce fighter and beautiful immortal, may be the only person he can trust to save his life. Taken to the magical hidden village of the Guardians of Dare, he learns the truth about his father, his immortal DNA and his beloved nation, the Entente.

Tarian discovers he is the first immortal to be born in over 500 years, and now someone hunts him for his precious DNA. With only days to train and develop his immortal gifts, he struggles both physically and emotionally, balancing the truth he must keep secret from his family and girlfriend with the duty of saving not only himself but also his kind and his homeland. If he and Audrey fail to find the killer and maker of the Death Serum, all immortals will die, and the government will lose its greatest asset.

First Born’s popularity is growing steadily on Goodreads with high ratings and reviews. Love and betrayal weave into the fast-paced adventure set in a future North America on the brink of a border war. It is capturing the teen and adult audience with thrilling action, complicated characters, clever historical references and twisting plot revelations.

Young Adult Books:
Fantasy, Myths & Legends

Purchase here

3 Comments on “Weekly Roundup: Best Books, Games, Baby Gear, Shoes, & More! July 17 – 23”

  1. I always love reading your Weekly Roundup. Gives me great ideas for gifts for my family that I know everyone will love.

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