Children's Book Reviews: Weird But True! Christmas By National Geographic Kids

WEIRD BUT TRUE! CHRISTMAS
300 Festive FActs to Light Up the Holidays

Publisher: National Geographic Kids

Published: September 12, 2017

Non-Fiction

Click HERE and purchase this book for your child's stocking! It's the perfect size for stockings and will keep your child reading during your holiday break which your child's teacher will love! These WEIRD BUT TRUE books are the most popular books in the classrooms I am teaching in. They are always the first ones snagged from my book bag and the kids are sad to turn them back in at the end of the day.

In true "Weird but True" fashion, funny facts, antidotes, and witty tales are shared, complete with pictures and bright colors to keep kids turning the pages. Kids will love sharing these facts with family members. In fact, tidbits from this book would make for a great discussion at the holiday dinner table.

Some the fun facts that I found interesting included people in Mexico carve nativity scenes out of radishes. We can thank Thomas Edison for coming up with the idea of a strand of Christmas lights. Not quite as surprising since I am part of this group, 62% of us "re-gift" items to friends and family each year.  Also, clearly San Diego residents don't have to worry about snow and ice preventing them from taking down their Christmas lights. Did you know there is an Eggnog, Utah or a Jolly, Texas? What other towns can you find that have names related to Christmas?

As you can see, this little book is packed full of fun for kids and adults. Any kid will be thrilled to unwrap this gift!

Check out this fun video:

To purchase Weird But True! Christmas, click the photo below:

I will be linking up this review on Booking Mama's regular Saturday feature, Kid Konnection. This is a place for bloggers to share posts related to children's and YA books. You will find spotlights, reviews, and sometimes even giveaways by clicking HERE, every Saturday.



Thanks to the publisher for sending a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to purchase the book through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase. Thanks for supporting SincerelyStacie.com. 

Children's Book Review: Ronaldo The Reindeer Flying Academy By Maxine Sylvester

RONALDO
The Reindeer Flying Academy

By: Maxine Sylvester

Published: December 16, 2015

Publisher: Amazon Digital Services

Fiction/Juvenile Fiction

Get your kids in the Christmas spirit by reading this fresh take on the reindeer getting ready for the season at the North Pole. Ronaldo just wants to join the flying reindeer and has been training for months, getting stronger and eating Carrot Flakes every morning. His hero, Vixen, is one of the best flying reindeer and he wants to be just like him. During the difficult endurance challenge, Ronaldo stays focused on his goal of being one of Santa's elite reindeer and flying with Vixen. His body is so cold, his fur is stiff, and he can't feel his tail. But he remembers his grandad's advice, "Don't just think it. IMAGINE!" So, he keeps flying and you'll have to read to find out what happens to Ronaldo that leads to him meeting his idol Vixen.

Youngsters will love all the witty remarks and fun that Ronaldo has with his best friend Rudi and how he conquers the bully, Dancer. I am sure there will be laughs when the kids read about Ronaldo taking a warm bath with fizzing bath bombs. This story offers kids a different perspective on the story of the North Pole that is cute and full of action. The chapters are short and kids will enjoy the illustrations throughout the chapters.

This is the first in the series of three books about the Reindeer Flying Academy so kids can enjoy more of Ronaldo and his escapades. These books would be great for parents to read to younger elementary-aged kids or older, early chapter book readers can read it on their own. Ronaldo may inspire your child to work hard and follow their dreams....whatever they may be.

Maxine Sylvester - source

Maxine Sylvester was born in London, England. She grew up with a passion for Winnie the Pooh and Paddington Bear. She also loved anything Disney and enjoyed drawing the characters.
Maxine's love of 'fun' art grew and she had the privilege of being mentored by cartoonist and caricaturist, Steve Chadburn. She completed further studies in children's book illustration with talented artist and illustrator, Jan Nesbitt. To see all of Sylvester's books, click HERE. Visit her website, HERE. 

To purchase a copy of RONALDO THE REINDEER FLYING ACADEMY, click the photo below:

I will be linking up this review on Booking Mama's regular Saturday feature, Kid Konnection. This is a place for bloggers to share posts related to children's and YA books. You will find spotlights, reviews, and sometimes even giveaways by clicking HERE, every Saturday.



Thanks to the author for sending an eBook for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to purchase the book through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase. Thanks for supporting SincerelyStacie.com. 

Cuddle up with a Cup of Adagio Tea and a Good Book

source

I can't think of a better way to spend a free evening or long weekend than with a book and a cup of tea! I absolutely love sitting in my favorite chair, under my cozy blanket, with a book in my hand and a cup of tea sitting next to me. I have typically purchased tea at my local grocery stores, but for the first time, I was able to try loose teas. This gourmet tea bursts with flavor and I savor every sip.

I was given a gift certificate to purchase an assortment of teas from Adagio Teas. The teas I chose included hot tea, cold tea, and limited edition teas. It's taken me a couple months to work my way through all the varieties and I can't say anything negative about any of them. It's super simple to make the flavored iced teas and I appreciated having them in the fridge during our early warm days of fall.

Then as the days grew cooler, I couldn't wait to try some of the unique blends of gourmet teas. I loved that I could purchase a small sample size tin and try out some of the tea blends without committing myself to a whole bag. I think my favorite so far has been the Drink Me blend of caramel, vanilla, and raspberry. I also liked that it was decaffeinated so I could drink it later in the evening.  Even though I really liked the Berry Blast Tea, my husband did not. But, that meant I got to have the whole pitcher to myself. I also really liked the White Peach Iced Tea.

There are so many varieties of tea blends for every flavor and mood. I love having a variety of teas at my disposal for just the right mood. I've found that brewing tea is somewhat of an art. Brewing temperature and the length of brew time make a difference in flavor. Also, since these are loose teas, you either need to purchase an infuser, a special brewer or tea pouch to brew the tea. I used a mesh ball that I already had, but can tell I need to get something different as the loose tea sometimes slips through the holes.

I am completely satisfied with my Adagio Teas purchase. Their website is easy to navigate and by signing up for emails you can receive helpful tips on how to best prepare your teas. The shipments of teas arrived quickly and well-packaged. Each purchase you make earns rewards toward free product later. Their teas would make excellent Christmas Gifts, especially their unique blends like these Gilmore Girls Tins or seasonal sets. These Holiday Tinsel Teas (pictured at the top of this post) would make the perfect stocking stuffer! Pair the tea with a book and a cozy blanket and you have a wonderful gift for someone special.

Thanks to Adagio Teas for providing free product in exchange for an honest review. This review is my honest opinion. If you click the links above, you will be taken to their website.

Children's Book Review: Bookroo Picture Book Subscription and Discount Code

Bookroo is a monthly children's book subscription curated, wrapped, and delivered for the child in your life. Nurture a love a reading by giving a gift of board books, picture books, or junior books for that 7-10 year old.

I first featured Bookroo just over two years ago and I am still just as thrilled with this company as I was then! I wholeheartedly believe this makes the perfect Christmas gift for the children in your life. Do you have a baby or toddler on your gift list? Then check out the Board Book Subscription. For your preschool - lower elementary-aged readers, check out the awesome Picture Book Subscription. New since I last checked them out, they now offer a Junior Book Subscription for those middle-grade readers.

What do I love about this company? First of all, it was started by three sisters-in-law who shared a love of reading and a passion for reading to children. Secondly, the subscription arrives every month as a gift for your child. Each book is wrapped as a present and what kid doesn't love opening a present?

The books are high-quality picture books and usually ones I have never heard of before. Even with shipping, you are getting two books cheaper than if you went to a book store plus they are gift-wrapped and delivered right to the child saving you time (which to me is the most valuable piece).

The two books included in this shipment were delightful: a bedtime story and a silly story guaranteed to get your kid to laugh.


ROCK-A-BYE ROOM
By; Susan Meyers
Illustrated by: Amy Bates
Published: October 1, 2013
Publisher: Harry N. Abrams

I am a sucker for a good bedtime story and this one is just beautiful. A mother is ready to tuck her daughter into bed by going through their nightly ritual of telling everything in her room good night. It uses a soothing rhyming theme with gorgeous, muted watercolor illustrations. As the little girl climbs onto her mother's lap for her bedtime story, the magic happens and the little girl imagines she is in a swing bed being lulled to sleep by her mother's reading. It would have been the kind of book I would have gotten to read to our kids at bedtime.



LAND SHARK
By: Beth Ferry
Illustrated by: Ben Mantle
Published: August 4, 2015
Publisher: Chronicle Books

Bobby has a birthday coming up and he doesn't want the typical gift. He wants a pet shark for his birthday. So he creates a plan. Step 1: Convince Parents, Step 2: Get shark. What follows is a perfect plan that comes together...maybe not exactly how Bobby imagined it. It's full of silly antics sure to get your child giggling. The illustrations are top-notch and will keep you from turning the pages too fast because your child will want to look it all over. What a great book for a birthday boy or any child that loves the aquarium...or getting back at their older siblings.

If you think a Bookroo Subscription sounds like the perfect gift idea for the child in your life, then I have the perfect discount for you. My readers can use the code BFSTACIE for 25% off any multi-month subscription (3,6, or 12 months) This offer is good for only one redemption per family. Valid for new customers only. Existing customers may use for the purchase of one gift subscription. This code is only valid 11/24 - midnight PST 11/27 so ACT NOW!!! 

I will be linking up this review on Booking Mama's regular Saturday feature, Kid Konnection. This is a place for bloggers to share posts related to children's and YA books. You will find spotlights, reviews, and sometimes even giveaways by clicking HERE, every Saturday.



Thanks to the Bookroo for sending these books for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to purchase the books through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase. Thanks for supporting SincerelyStacie.com. 

#ThankfullyReading

I have much to be thankful for this week...my amazing family, friends that make me laugh and bless me every day, good health, a pantry filled with food, a warm home, and co-workers who have helped me beyond measure and kept me sane these last few weeks. I’m especially thankful for the break this week and looking forward to reading!

I’ll be sharing the joy of reading this week with the hashtag #thankfullyreading because I am truly thankful for time to finally read! Check out Instagram or Twitter for the hashtag and see all the great books everyone is reading.

What I am planning to read over these next 5 days:



I have about 35% left in this book. It's a WWII story based on true events and truly an amazing story. I gave the book to my cousin for her birthday and we've been reading it together, but she has already finished it.



I have homework just like my students do. We will be discussing this next week and so I have to read it for the first time just like they do. We will be comparing it to the tragedy of Oedipus Rex. Should be an interesting discussion on Monday.



I've read the first two in Correll's series and really enjoyed them. This is her newest and just came in the mail. I can't wait to get back in touch with the characters.

Thanks to Jennsbookshelves.com for the way to connect over books this week!

Children's Book Review: How to Ace the National Geographic Bee By Stephen F. Cunha

HOW TO ACE THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC BEE

By: Stephen F. Cunha

Published:

Publisher: National Geographic

Non-Fiction



This week was Geography Awareness Week. I can't think of a better way to bring awareness about Geography then to highlight this book.

From National Geographic:

Each year more than 100,000 Americans actively participate in Geography Awareness Week (GeoWeek). Established by presidential proclamation more than 25 years ago, this annual public awareness program organized by National Geographic Education Programs (NGEP) encourages citizens young and old to think and learn about the significance of place and how we affect and are affected by it. Each third week of November, students, families and community members focus on the importance of geography by hosting events; using lessons, games, and challenges in the classroom; and often meeting with policymakers and business leaders as part of that year’s activities. Geography Awareness Week is supported by year-long access to materials and resources for teachers, parents, community activists and all geographically minded global citizens.

For more information about Geography Awareness Week, click HERE

Students in grade 4-8 from over 10,000 schools across our nation compete every year in the National Geographic Bee. The deadline to register your school for the state bee is January 26, 2018, with the State Bees being held April 6, 2018. Winners then travel to Washington D.C. for the National Geographic Bee from May 20-23, 2018, its 30th year in existence. Our school has never participated in this, but I know it is something our kids would have done if they had offered it.

Even if you aren't interested or don't have an opportunity to participate in a Geographic Bee, this is still a great book to have in your school or home library. This book can be used at the dinner table for discussion or for studying in your homeschool. Kids that like trivia books or learning about various countries and world demographics will enjoy reading and answering the questions in the book.

The book begins with laying out how the Geographic Bee works and some study tips. It offers maps and tips for learning various landscapes, populations, languages, and other physical features of various continents. The next sections offer questions much like the Geographic Bee would ask. Numerous pages of various book and online resources are shared for further study. The end of the book includes a map of each continent with all the countries marked and then basic stats about each country. 

In my quick skim through the questions, I did ok with the questions about the United States. But, once the questions asked about what country borders the Adriatic Sea or do the snow egrets or chimpanzees live in the mangrove forests, I knew I was not as knowledgeable about our world as I should be. I think this book will encourage kids and adults to learn more about habitats, countries, and nature and encourage kids to research when a question piques their interest. It has certainly given me some motivation to throw some of these questions out to our kids (7th grader, 11th grader, and 12th grader) to see what they know.

Maybe you will enjoy this book enough to get your school to start hosting a Geographic Bee! If nothing else, it will encourage an interest in learning more about the world we live and interact in.

Stephen Cunha - source

Geographer, educator, and author Stephen F. Cunha spent ten years as a national park ranger in Yosemite and Alaska. Now a geography professor at California's Humboldt State University, he studies diverse landscapes around the world. He is the author of National Geographic's Our Fifty States and How to Ace the National Geographic Bee: The Official Study Guide. For more than a decade, he directed the California Geographic Alliance, which promotes geographic education and literacy among California teachers, students, and the public. Stephen spent four years developing the Pamir National Park in eastern Tajikistan, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. He recently received the California State University system’s highest award for exemplary contributions and achievements in the Social and Behavioral Sciences and Public Service.

To purchase a copy of HOW TO ACE THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC BEE, click the photo below:

I will be linking up this review on Booking Mama's regular Saturday feature, Kid Konnection. This is a place for bloggers to share posts related to children's and YA books. You will find spotlights, reviews, and sometimes even giveaways by clicking HERE, every Saturday.



Thanks to the publisher for sending a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to purchase the book through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase. Thanks for supporting SincerelyStacie.com. 

Quick Lit: Mini Reviews of Some Recent Reads - November Edition

I'm trying to read more books that I choose for my own reading enjoyment. Not for review, but because I've been wanting to read them or they caught my attention. Most of them have been talked about ad nauseam or have been on my to-read list for a long time so they don't really need a full review. But, I'd still like to give them some space here on the blog.

I'll be linking up with Modern Mrs. Darcy and her monthly Quick Lit link up. Be sure to head over to see others link up their Quick Lit posts. 

I've crossed the half-way mark of my long-term sub gig. But, I know with all the holiday stuff coming up and basketball season and concerts, it is going to get really crazy around here. My life is full and I'm trying to squeeze in reading when I can. I've finished a couple books with my classes and listened to an audiobook. Otherwise, I've also been trying to catch up on my podcasts as I got way behind in listening to them. 

THE SOUND OF GRAVEL

By: Ruth Wariner

Published: April 25, 2017

Publisher: Flatiron Books

Format: Audiobook

I love memoirs and this one piqued my interest and I loved it. I listened to it on audio and it is read by the author which made it even more personal. Ruth Wariner was born into a polygamist family. Her father was murdered when she was just a few months old by his own church members. Her mother remarried another leader in their church and continued to have children. Her family lived mainly in Mexico but moved to the states a few times during various family struggles. They were always poor, living mostly on rice and beans, with no proper bathrooms, and minimal electricity. Visiting her grandparents in California would open her eyes to cartoons, macaroni and cheese, and showers. But, beyond the poverty were the abuse that her mother and Ruth suffered through, the mental illness, her siblings' handicaps. Her story is gripping and heart-breaking. But, you know she makes it out because of the book which makes it easier to get through the devastatingly awful situations she had to survive. It's an eye-opening look at the world of polygamy, poverty, and family loyalty. 

OF MICE AND MEN

By: John Steinbeck

Published: 1937

Format: Hardcover

A classic that I have read before, but read again with the Freshman English class. A story of hard times, friendship, and loyalty. The students will be answering...."Is George a good friend to Lennie?" and I don't want to give anything away, but it is up for a heated debate!

It's a short novel about George, a small, hard-working man, and his friend, Lennie. Lennie is a big, burly guy who isn't the smartest but can work harder than anyone. Lennie seems to always be getting into trouble and after his last escapade, George and Lennie are trying out working on a ranch in California. It's the Depression and all a guy wants is to have his own place, a garden, some chicken, and don't forget.....some rabbits. Lennie gets himself into a bit a trouble and George may not be able to get him out of this one. A quick read with lots to discuss! 

OEDIPUS REX

By: Sophocles

Format: Paperback

Oh my....this was a tough read. Once I got into it, I could read around the difficult text and get the gist of what was going on. I'm so glad I wasn't reading this as a freshman. This has been the book for the Freshman Honors English class and they were intimidated, but we have gotten through it.

Oedipus is the new King of Thebes after solving the riddle of the Sphinx and saving the people from her torment. Laius, the former King of Thebes, had just been murdered and Oedipus is chosen as the new king and has been given Laius's wife, Jocasta. But, there is an oracle that Oedipus would grow up to kill his father and marry his mother. He doesn't believe it and his excessive pride gets in the way of him realizing what is right in front of him. Watching the students' reaction while reading this one was priceless!


I really can't wait for Thanksgiving break because I am hoping to get some time to read. Next up for school is DEATH OF A SALESMAN and we are still reading JULIUS CAESAR. I'm also reading BENEATH A SCARLET SKY (still) and listening to FOR THE LOVE: Fighting for Grace in a World of Impossible Standards. May your Thanksgiving remind you to be grateful for every book, every moment of quiet, and the family around you that keeps you from reading!

I'm also joining a new link up, sharing what I've been reading at THE PRUDENT PANTRY. Check it out HERE.