The Long Work Trip by Carson Cleveland

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MWSA Review

When Daddy goes away on trips, it can be a trying and confusing time for small children. In The Long Work Trip, written by Carson Cleveland and illustrated by Barry Davian, a father explains his absence to his children. The children learn what their dad will be doing while he’s gone and are reassured by the fact that he’ll be thinking about them all the time. Each part of the father’s story—pre-departure preparation, absence, and return—is accompanied by colorful and easy-to-understand illustrations. This book would help facilitate family discussions about what happens when a parent leaves on a trip.

Review by John Cathcart (May 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

This book relates to many children these days who have parents that have to travel for work. This heart-warming story is written by a father who is separated from his family for a long work trip, when duty calls. With wonderful illustrations, the author provides his kids with insight into what he does on his work trip. Most of all, he ensures his children know all the time he spends thinking about them back home. The story provides a perspective to kids that even though a parent might be away they continue to be loved and cared for.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 25

Word Count: 512

Into The Storm by Darcy Guyant

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MWSA Review

Whether you’re a young reader seeking an exciting new adventure or a concerned parent looking for an inspiring story, Into the Storm delivers the tale of an exhilarating Coast Guard helicopter rescue through stormy skies and over rough seas. Darcy Guyant, a retired U.S. Coast Guard Commander with 25 years of military service, draws on his firsthand experiences to add just the right amount of authenticity to this story of Dolph, a Coast Guard HH-65 "Dolphin" rescue helicopter; his skilled pilot, Gwen; and the rescue crew.

Through Dolph and Gwen’s daring escapade, readers learn about important themes, such as courage, trust, and teamwork. The illustrations are exceptionally vivid and colorful, not only enhancing the storytelling but also sparking the imaginations of young readers. This book is a delightful blend of creativity, imagination, and authenticity that will transport children to the daring world of the U.S. Coast Guard. Into the Storm has it all: captivating imagery, an engaging storyline, great characters, and important themes.

Review by Bob Ritchie (April 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

A severe storm quickly develops, catching three fishermen off guard in the open ocean. They are in danger of sinking and need help, fast! Who will come to their rescue?

Dolph, a Coast Guard HH-65 “Dolphin” rescue helicopter and his pilot, Gwen, quickly respond to save the three men in distress. But the mission is not easy. Courage, team work, and trusting the team to do their jobs are essential.

In order to reach the sinking boat as quickly as possible, they must fly directly into the storm, which makes both Dolph and Gwen very nervous. They must trust each other, work as a team, and demonstrate courage to save the men who are in danger of drowning.

Dolph, Gwen, the Rescue Swimmer (Sam), and the Flight Mechanic (Mike) work together to accomplish the mission, even while facing additional unexpected challenges.

This story is based on an actual rescue mission performed by the author, Darcy Guyant, a retired U.S. Coast Guard HH65 Dolphin helicopter pilot.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 40

Word Count: 1118

Welcome Home Melanie Mae by Tiffany Rebar

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MWSA Review

Tiffany Rebar has penned a delightful children’s tale of dreams and magic in her new book Welcome Home Melanie Mae.

When a real-life giraffe comes looking for a new home, she finds it in the love and laughter of two creative young girls. Their week-long adventures include an animal parade, a photoshoot, a dress-up party, and a jungle safari—something unique and delightful for each day. The book’s illustrations grab young readers’ attention with enchanting artwork (and even include a hidden object contest and giraffe fact sheet for further exploration). These small artistic touches leave plenty to be explored by young minds.

Rebar’s style of prose is both lyrical and appropriate for the age of young readers. Her characters are emotionally uplifting, almost jumping off the page begging you to join in the fun. This story is a must-read for anyone who loves laughter and the fun-filled world of children’s imagination. The lucky giraffe, Melanie Mae, has indeed found a forever home.

Review by Sandi Cathcart (April 2024)
 

Author's Synopsis

Melanie Mae's beautiful smile and loving character will delight children as they read about her adventures in a new home. Melanie Mae encourages learning as she goes through the days of the week with her new family. With the amazing imagination of two girls, who happily welcomed her into their family, Melanie Mae can do anything. Their days are filled with fun and excitement as they do photo shoots, dance, dress-up, go on a safari, and much more. Melanie Mae is happy to find a place where she can be the unique, silly giraffe that she truly is. She finally found a place where she belongs.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 28

Word Count: 210

If I Had a Baby Elephant... by Nancy Panko

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MWSA Review

If I Had a Baby Elephant by Nancy Panko is a children’s picture book written in rhyme. Children will enjoy the cadence and rhyming as well as the imaginative ideas about what you could do with a baby elephant as a pet. The book is geared toward young children and portrays activities that are familiar to them like singing, swinging, having tea, playing hide-and-seek, and puddle jumping. The pictures are fun-loving and consistent, with facial expressions that will appeal to children. The unusual font is whimsical and I thought it might be hard for young readers to recognize the words, so I visited a neighbor with a first grader. She had no problem reading the text and laughed out loud on at least every other page. She loved the book!

The back of the book includes three pages of facts about elephants in general, with characteristics of baby elephants listed separately. This is a great addition and adds to a child’s knowledge base and vocabulary without interrupting the reading of the book. A recipe is included at the end of the book as a project for young children to make with an adult. It is simple enough that I might whip up a batch of “Elephant Ears” myself.

Review by Randy Beard (January 2024)

 

Author's Synopsis

Who hasn't daydreamed about having an exotic pet? For a child, baby animals have a unique appeal. "If I Had a Baby Elephant..." personifies the dreams of a little girl playing with her pet, a baby elephant. Catchy rhymes and colorful illustrations are bound to enchant any reader, young or old.

This whimsical story is followed by fun facts about baby elephants and their life within the herd.

You're not done until you've tried the yummy recipe on the last page. Elephant Ears are a delicious pastry that any child can help a grown-up make in the kitchen.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 38

Word Count: 900

The Skunk Who Lost His Cents by Nancy Panko

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MWSA Review

An adorable way to introduce young readers to the confusion words can cause. Emily is a friendly young girl who helps Adam the skunk look for his scents . . . or is it his cents? Together they battle the mean bulldog from next door and become friends. The addition of commonly confused words and fun facts about skunks in the back add to the educational value of this book. The colorful, well-done pictures will capture the attention of young listeners.

Review by Dawn Brotherton (May 2023)

 

Author's Synopsis

Emily is playing on her swing in the backyard when she sees movement near the porch. Dirt is flying through the lattice work to make a pile on the grass. Someone, or something, is digging under the porch! She stops to investigate and encounters a small, sad skunk named Adam. He's lost something important. Emily sets out to help him.

We have all been confused by words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. This charming story is perfect for kids learning the differences between such words. The whimsical tale is followed by a list of some common words that sound alike but are spelled differently and have different meanings. Also included are several Fun Facts about skunks and an easy recipe for a tasty snack to make with a grown-up.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 44

Word Count: 1660

Taking Flight with Captain Mama by Graciela Tiscareño-Sato

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MWSA Review

Taking Flight with Captain Mama is an entertaining picture story book for young children. Author Graciela Tiscareno-Sato tells a story that takes Marco and his school friends on a surprise flight on his mother's U.S. Air Force airplane. The aircraft is one that refuels other airplanes. In this story the children get to watch as the big jet refuels two F-117 Nighthawks and two F-22 Raptors. The book is filled with excellent illustrations. The complete story is written in both English and Spanish with each page or adjacent page having the same narrative in each language. The story should capture the interest of most young children, especially those children whose parents are in the military. I recommend this book.

Review by Bob Doerr (May 2023)
 

Author's Synopsis

In this third book in the award-winning, bilingual Captain Mama series, Marco, his sisters and his classmates go airborne in the U.S. Air Force KC-135R aerial refueling tanker, as part of a field trip with his class. The students and teachers hear a pre-mission briefing, watch what each crew member does to get the flying gas station into the sky, and witness an aerial refueling with stealth fighter jets. 

Includes an origami airplane (referenced in story) activity designed by author's son Kiyoshi who inspired this book series, so readers can enjoy a classic Japanese paper craft.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 60

Word Count: 2200

Adventures with Pop Pop at Grant’s Farm by Warren Martin

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MWSA Review

This is an engaging book perfect for an adult to read to the youngest readers. Adventures with Pop Pop at Grant's Farm portrays warm and cozy recollections of family experiences.  Children and adults alike will be reminded of their own memories of family traditions shared and passed on to generations.  The illustrations make the words vivid and memorable.

Review by Lillian Zelinski (April 2023)

 

Author's Synopsis

The fourth book in the Adventures with Pop Pop series picks up with a longstanding family tradition of visits to Grant’s Farm that started back in the 1960s when Na Na’s mom drove a school bus, and she would take the kids on tours of Grant’s Farm. This tradition continued with Pop Pop and Na Na’s own children and in recent years continues with their grandchildren, whom Pop Pop has dubbed as his Grandmen: Grandman Dean and Grandman Levi.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 42

Word Count: 1000

When We Are Apart by Becca Johnsey

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MWSA Review

When We Are Apart, written by Becca Johnsey and illustrated by Marižan, is a picture book catering to children who face emotional challenges when a parent leaves on a business trip.

Written in rhymes, the book's musicality reminds readers of nursery tales that are meant to soothe and reassure, two important goals when it comes to narrate a story in which the main character is displaying emotional struggles because of the sudden changes within the family dynamics.

The narrator (a mother) offers her child suggestions on how to calm down: deep breathing through the nose, counting to ten, and eating a healthy and balanced meal. Hugs, of course, help too!

The illustrations do a good job in supporting the narration, properly conveying emotions, and keeping young readers' attention. Colors are vivid and the pages are not too crowded with unnecessary details.

Though the story is based on the author's personal experience, at the end of the book parents and guardians find a "Four Activities to Try Together" page where the author offers suggestions on what to do to help children cope when a parent is away on business.

Review by Brunella Costagliola (March 2023)

Author's Synopsis

Each night after school, your dad tucks you in tight. He reads about trucks, turns on your night light. But sometimes for work, your daddy’s away. You miss him so much more than you can say.

When We Are Apart is a sweet rhyming picture book to help families cope with separation while a parent is away. This book will help even your youngest child name their feelings, cope with their emotions, and navigate through them while being reassured that they are loved unconditionally. Based on debut author Becca Johnsey’s own experiences helping her children deal with missing their dad while travels with the Army Reserves. Becca hopes this book will be as impactful to other families as it has been for her own. Perfect for ages 2-5.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 32

Word Count: 249

Lexie's Gift by John R. Stoeffler

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MWSA Review

First-grader Lexie, saddened by her classmate and best friend's tears caused by Susan's father, an army soldier being deployed, discovers a plan and executes it. Susan's father will miss her next birthday and the family's Christmas celebration. More importantly, Susan's father won't be at her bedside to hug, kiss, and tuck her in at night. Lexie, inspired by her younger cousin Kanon's "Comfy-Dumfy" pillow and memories of her own "Lambie" pillow, gets an idea. Lexie's Gift author John Stoeffler, with illustrations by Jeanine-Jonee, leads the young readers along with Lexie as she plans to ease Susan's sadness. Lexie executes the idea by bringing the gift to Susan. The story is inspirational, reflecting a project the author started in 2008, where he, with his wife's and volunteers' assistance, created and shipped "Sweet Dream Pillows” to more than 13,000 children of deployed U.S. armed forces parents.

Review by Tom Beard (March 2023)

 

Author's Synopsis

This is the story of a little girl, Lexie, whose best friend's father is in the Army and is called to active duty. Susan, the friend, is so sad that her dad will miss her birthday and Christmas and won't be there to hug, kiss and tuck her in at bedtime. Lexie wishes she could do something to comfort Susan while her father is away. With a little help, Lexie makes the perfect gift for Susan: a pillow with her father's picture printed on it. Susan is thrilled, and the girls decide to make more picture pillows for others like her and in doing so discover it is more fun to give than to receive.

 This story is based on a project started in 2008 by the author and his wife. In all, they and their volunteers made and shipped free what they called "Sweet Dreams Pillows" to over 13,000 children of deployed members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages:  29

Word Count: 2600

Peachy Possums by Nancy Panko

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MWSA Review

Award-winning author Nancy Panko has aced it again with her latest children's book, Peachy Possums.

Peachy Possums is a delightful tale of six-year-old Olivia's encounter with a passel of possums in the family orchard and the compromise they make when faced with a series of problems. Olivia manages to resolve their differences in a most admirable way.

The illustrations are marvelous. Even a child who cannot read will enjoy the colorful and clever drawings. I especially like Polly's facial expressions and her brothers' and sisters' antics from the sideline.

Panko uses Olivia's story to accentuate important teaching lessons throughout the story in simple language that children will understand. In addition, there are fun facts about possums and a mouthwatering recipe for Peach Cobbler at the end of the book.

I recommend Peachy Possums to any parent with young children—encouraging them to develop a sense of responsibility toward others and alternative methods to settle conflicts.

Review by Sandi Cathcart (February 2023)

 

Author's Synopsis

There's nothing better than a sweet, juicy peach cobbler at the end of a summer day. Thoughts of her mother's cobbler fill Olivia's head as she strolls into the family orchard to fill her basket with perfect peaches. Instead of peaches on the trees, she finds a mess of half-eaten, bruised peaches scattered on the ground.

A rowdy group of possums are eating, playing soccer, and bowling with perfectly good fruit. Olivia knows that somehow she and the possums must reach a compromise to save the orchard and have enough peaches for everyone to enjoy.

Format(s) for review: Paper Only

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 46

Word Count: 1,600

Happenstance Farms A New Home by S. McMichael

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MWSA Review

What will Savannah do when her horse trainer moves out of town and her barn closes? S. McMichael in Happenstance Farms: A New Home has the answer. Find new ones! The prospect of change is scary for the young girl. Will she like her trainer? Will her trainer like her? Will her pony, Coffee, like the new barn? Will Savannah make new friends? So many questions. Will she find the answers?

At Happenstance Farms, Miss Ellen and her pup Eli make Savannah feel at home immediately. All her fears disappear when she mounts Coffee for her skill level evaluation. When she is on Coffee, she feels like nothing in this world matters except for them—soaring around the ring and over the jumps.

Putting Coffee in the barn, she meets Sophia, who warmly welcomes her—a great beginning to her new adventure. This book will appeal to young children with like-minded interests. They will finish the story wanting to learn more about Savannah and Happenstance Farms.

Review by Sandi Cathcart (June 2022)

 

Author's Synopsis

Change can be difficult, especially for Savanna. When she gets a new trainer at a new barn, she can't help thinking about how much she'll miss Colts & Company. More than that...she's a little scared. What will happen when Savanna swallows her fear and takes a chance on Happenstance Farms?

A fun, relatable story about a girl and her pony, your child will love keeping up with the adventures at Happenstance Farms. With charming characters, lots of laughs, and social-emotional learning, this book is the perfect addition to any home or classroom library

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 32

Is Your Dad a Pirate? by Tara McClary Reeves

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MWSA Review
Despite its seemingly tongue-in-cheek title, Is Your Dad a Pirate? by Tara McClary Reeves is a touching and valuable resource for families. Beautifully illustrated, the book describes coping with a parent who has suffered life-altering injuries from both the child's and spouse's points of view. In addition, the book is well-crafted for both storytelling and family discussions.

One of the most vital attributes of this book is the author's use of simple language and illustrations to highlight the importance of family, faith, and love in these challenging situations. Reeves also honors caregivers–of all ages–by showing the vital and often unheralded role they play. Although written with the military family in mind, this book would be a treasured addition to the library of any family with young children facing similar circumstances.

Review by John Cathcart (March 2022)
 

Author's Synopsis

Her daddy went away to fight for our country. And he came home changed. What's a young family to do when a parent is injured? How might they respond to curiosity? In this tender account based on her childhood experiences, beloved author Tara McClary Reeves shares how her family adapted to the extensive physical losses her father, Marine Corps Lieutenant Clebe McClary, sustained. With warmth and humor, this book encourages children and spouses facing similar trials to cherish the gift of family. To hold on to faith. And to choose to be loving heroes on the home front. Is Your Dad a Pirate? will challenge your perspective and deepen your commitment to love.

Format(s) for review: Paper and Kindle

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 32

Blueberry Moose by Nancy Panko

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MWSA Review
Blueberry Moose is a delightful story about a curious boy, Jaxson, who has to know why the moose outside his window is blue, and not brown. The words begin in a lyrical rhythm and put the reader in the mind of young Jaxson P. Jackson. Jaxson ventures out to find out why the moose is blue and simply asks him. And then, to Jaxson’s surprise, the blue moose speaks to him.

The moose explains in rhyme that he loves eating blueberries, which turn him blue. Once the moose bids Jaxson farewell, Jaxson finds he has picked up the moose’s “magic” and only speaks in rhyme. But Jaxson takes it in stride, pleased with the story he discovered by venturing out to answer his curiosity of what he saw from his window. Yes, it was, in fact, a blue moose, and now he knows why.

The author, Nancy Panko, is a retired pediatric nurse, and it’s obvious that she understands children in the way she wrote this book. It is a fun and uncomplicated story with a good outcome. The illustrations pop off the page and tell more of the story not said in the words. Examples of the details in the illustrations are Jaxson’s t-shirt that says “Maine,” sports trophies, a treehouse, and the fellow animals in the wilderness including bears, birds, an otter, and deer. The Jaxson character is always in motion, and the big blue moose conveys facial expressions that bring him to life.

There’s a special treat at the end of the book with educational details and even a Blueberry Mousse recipe. This book is highly recommended for young readers and would also make a great read-along story for families.

Review by Valerie Ormond (February 2022)
 

Author's Synopsis

It’s a moose! And it’s blue! But why?

It’s a beautiful summer day in the state of Maine, and when Jaxson looks out his window at his tree fort, he expects to see a chickadee, a deer, a bear, or maybe even an American eagle, but what he does see gives him a big, blue shock.

But the real surprise comes when Jaxson asks why the moose is blue.

ISBN/ASIN: 978-1611534580, ‎ 978-1611534399

Book Format(s): Hard cover, Soft cover

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 40

Pandemic Adventures with Pop Pop by Warren Martin

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MWSA Review
Warren Martin tells a sweet story in his children's picture book Pandemic Adventures with Pop Pop. As the recent Covid-19 pandemic swept in and disrupted life, its effects didn't miss the children in
this world. School was canceled, playgrounds and pools were shut down. In this book, the author tells the story of a grandfather stepping in and filling the void with a variety of simple adventures
on which he takes his grandchildren. It's a short book that will appeal to children, especially those who like to be read to.

Review by Bob Doerr (June 2021)
 

Author's Synopsis
This third book in the series fast-forwards four years to the 2020 pandemic with a unique approach to that unprecedented year. While activities were restricted for children, parents and grandparents found ways to keep going. Pandemic Adventures with Pop Pop follows the unique way Pop Pop found to entertain his Grandmen Dean and Levi. During the pandemic, or as Grandman Dean called it, “The Sickness,” Pop Pop found fun ways to keep his Grandmen safe, educating them while also creating positive and fun memories.

The Adventures with Pop Pop series of children’s books covers adventures with Pop Pop and his Grandmen. Each book takes us on an adventure to places like Walmart, preschool, and adventures during the pandemic. Future books will cover more adventures, like a birthday party with a surprise visit by Louie the mascot from the St. Louis Blues, Grant’s Farm, the arrival of little brother, and many more.

ISBN/ASIN: 978-1955129008

Book Format(s): Soft cover

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 44

Rusty, The Wonder Dog by Jesse Hillman

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Author's Synopsis: "Rusty, the Wonder Dog" is the story of a blind rescue puppy, who came to live with his humans and found a good life full of treats, warm blankets and plenty of petting and love. Rusty wandered off as a little puppy chasing a butterfly, and he had a close brush with a car on the highway. He could only see shadows after that, but he could hear anything and smell anything miles away! He made friends with Isis, the Siamese cat, Dasha, a great guard dog, and Alphie, who was rescued as he stood on the yellow line of a highway. They seemed to know quickly that Rusty couldn't see. They guided him down the back steps into the yard. Alphie would run ahead and bark so Rusty would follow. Dasha would walk him shoulder to shoulder down the steps. Then they'd run as fast as they could to the back fence and screech to a halt and run back. Rusty loved to place his nose on his human's knee and beg for a treat. And it always worked! Isis the cat loved to pounce on him which made Alphie and Dasha laugh. The four of them would line up in front of the TV to watch it while Rusty listened. He lived with his humans and loved them as much as they loved him. Over that time, slowly Isis, Dasha and Alphie left their mom and dad and followed the rainbow. One day, it was Rusty's turn to follow a pretty butterfly to the rainbow. On the other side, his friends were waiting for him. They play and run every day in the green grass, sniff the flowers, and snuggle together.

Genre(s): Picture Book

Format(s): Hard cover, Soft cover

ISBN/ASIN: 978-1-7361525-1-5, 978-1-7361525-2-2

Grandman Dean's Preschool Adventures by Warren Martin

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MWSA Review
Grandman Dean’s Preschool Adventures by Warren Martin is the second in his Pop Pop series of children’s books. His first book took us shopping, and now we head to preschool. If you were wondering about the title, Pop Pop lovingly refers to his grandchildren as his Grandmen.

In this new adventure, Grandman Dean starts preschool. First, we meet his teachers, Miss Connie and Miss Nikki, and read about his daily routine. Next, we learn about his cubby, backpack, and the different activities he participates in—especially those he likes. Finally, we experience some of the children’s outdoor fun and games.

We also read about a surprise special day for the children with a hands-on adventure in a police car, fire truck, and ambulance. In addition, sometimes Pop Pop even brings Grandman Levi, Dean’s younger brother, to school.

This colorful picture book is an apt introduction for younger children to the preschool experience.

Review by Sandi Cathcart (July2021)

Author's Synopsis
In the second book in the Adventures with Pop Pop series, follow Grandman Dean as he learns the daily routines of preschool. His caring teachers teach Dean and his classmates arts and crafts, how to write their letters, and how to play with each other. They learn, play, and even get to climb a fire truck and go inside a police car and ambulance. Pop Pop takes Grandman Dean to school and picks him up after school, and sometimes little brother, Grandman Levi, comes along.

ISBN/ASIN: 978-0-9854727-8, 978-0-9854727-7-1

Book Format(s): Soft cover, Kindle, ePub/iBook

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 56

A Hui Hou: Until We Meet Again by Ashley Bugge

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MWSA Review

A Hui Hou - Until We Meet Again by Isabel, Hudson, and Adeline Bugge with Ashley Bugge, is a unique story of grieving the loss of a parent as told by the young children of that parent. The book is beautifully illustrated by Dawn Davidson who captures the essence of each family member in the throes of a devastating loss.

The conversation in the text among the siblings is straightforward, conveying child-like innocence and honesty. One cannot help feeling emotional when reading about the devastating event for this family. As their mother, Ashley tells her children that “It’s okay to be scared, as long as we talk about it and find a way to get through it.”

Writing A Hui Hou in the words of her children is Ashley’s way of leading them toward the pathway of healing. The exercise helps each child remember how much each loves and misses their father at the same time validating how much he loves them, even though he’s gone. I highly recommend A Hui Hou - Until We Meet Again.

Review by Nancy Panko (March 2021)
 

Author's Synopsis
One day in Hawaii, while doing what he loved most, Dadda is lost in a terrible diving accident. At first, Izzy, Hudson, and Addy don't understand what's happened. Why is Momma so sad? Why hasn't Dadda come home for dinner yet? Why are so many people visiting and giving them new toys? But as time passes, the three siblings start to realize where their Dadda has gone. It takes them a lot of bravery to understand why it's OK to be happy that he gets to dive forever while also being sad because they miss him so much. A Hui Hou: Until We Meet Again is the heart-wrenching true story of a family's devastating loss. But it is also a story about understanding, accepting, and processing death and grief, uniquely narrated by children, for children. Izzy, Hudson, and Addy share their experience in the pure, emotional, and unfiltered way needed to help young minds grasp the impossible: the loss of a loved one.

ISBN/ASIN: 1612544568

Book Format(s): Hard cover

Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book

Number of Pages: 32

You Are Always With Me: A Poem for Those at Home When a Loved One Deploys by Daniel Berry, Illustrator: Brian Azhar

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MWSA Review

You Are Always With Me by Daniel L. Berry is a little gem of a book, offering in lyrical rhyming couplets and charming illustrations a sort of love letter to a child separated from a parent on deployment. Beginning and ending with the words, “You are always with me,” the poem addresses the variety of emotions the child might feel—such as uncertainty, sadness, guilt, fear, and loneliness—and offers gentle reminders of how thoughts and dreams and letters and phone calls can help those who are physically separated stay emotionally connected. The illustrations by Brian Azhar are warmly appealing. The muted colors—greens, blues, browns, golds—add to the quiet, contemplative quality of the poem. The characters, illustrated as animals instead of humans, are easy for anyone to identify with. The varied physical expressions and gestures of the two main characters—sweet-faced but by no means saccharine-sweet rabbits—convey the emotions named in the text. The book is somewhat limited by the illustrations of the narrator, which limit the parent-figure to a father, and a slightly jarring rhythm caused by the varying numbers of syllables in the couplets (which, however, slow reading could smooth over). All in all, this is a wonderful book to read aloud to a young child separated from a parent. And it’s a book an eager child will undoubtedly memorize and “read” along with, time after time.

Review by Nancy Arbuthnot (June 2020)

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Author's Synopsis

A beautifully illustrated children’s book designed to help deployed service members, and the deployed civilians who support them, connect with their loved-ones.

Written by an author who has worked in support of the military overseas, “You Are Always With Me” is an illustrated rhyming poem intended for those at home when a service member or civilian deploys. The poem reassures those encountering this separation by addressing the emotions they often feel: 

- Abandonment
- Anger
- Confusion
- Sadness
- Fear for their deployed loved one

“You Are Always With Me” depicts two cartoon rabbits, one leaving for deployment, and the other staying home. The book contains a personalized dedication page, and is a perfect gift for any loved-one coping with separation during deployment, to include:

- Children
- Husband or wife
- Girlfriend or boyfriend
- Niece or nephew

Although many women service members deploy, as do many civilians, most of the books on this subject are intended for families of male soldiers.  “You are Always With Me” is unique in that it is appropriate for any branch of service, and any age, race, or gender.

From deployment through homecoming, this book is indispensable in helping those who serve bridge the distance to connect in a meaningful way with those they love.

ISBN/ASIN: 9781734718102, 9781734718126
Book Format(s): Softcover, hardcover
Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book
Number of Pages: 24

Grandman Dean goes Big Shopping by Warren Martin, and Star Huddleston - Illustrator, Karen Tucker - Editor

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MWSA Review

Grandman Dean Goes Big Shopping by Warren Martin is a lovely story about a grandfather who loves to spend time shopping with his grandson. The adventures are made special by the names they have for each other and for their adventurous outings. The book is completed with a companion coloring book, a wonderful opportunity for a child to work with pictures, colors, and numbers. The illustrations in both books are charming and appealing to old and young alike.  

Review by Nancy Panko (April 2020)

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Author's Synopsis

Join Pop Pop and his Grandman Dean as they spend the day together and go Big Shopping.

ISBN/ASIN: ISBN 978-0-9854727-4-0    ASIN: B084DKMB36
Book Format(s): Soft cover
Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book
Number of Pages: 34

I'll Lend You My Daddy by Becky King

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MWSA Review

I’ll Lend You My Daddy, written by Becky King and illustrated by Valerie Valdivia, is an exceptional book that addresses military deployment from the point of view of the child whose loved one is absent. Suitable for young children—and fun to read for grown-ups—the book explores activities that the service member is missing (birthdays, holidays, school plays), activities the child can engage in (letter writing, care packages, phone conversations), emotions the child is experiencing (sadness, longing, pride, joy) while also representing the United States Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps.

The rhyming text presents a simple meter that is easy and fun to read, with rhyme schemes that fit the age level of the child. Illustrations are appealing, eye-catching, and detailed enough to allow the child to make discoveries along the way. Words and illustrations are laid out on the page so that they flow from one thought to the next.

While this book is a must-read for young children experiencing the deployment of a parent, it would also make a great read-aloud selection for all young school children to build appreciation for the sacrifices made by military families. It would be a great addition to every school library. 

Review by Betsy Beard (January 2020)

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Author's Synopsis

A heartwarming story of love, courage, and comfort during deployment for military families with the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. In I'll Lend You My Daddy, young boys and girls find ways to manage feelings about deployment (from goodbyes, to the first night, to missed birthdays) as they eagerly await their fathers' return. Through the support of family and friends, care packages and calls, these children grow strong with the knowledge of what it means to serve, generating pride from within, that makes glorious reunions all the more sweet by book's end.

ISBN/ASIN: 978-1733663038, 978-1733663014, B08165T151
Book Format(s): Hard cover, Kindle
Review Genre: Children & Young Adult—Picture Book
Number of Pages: 32