The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat Who Got Lost in Africa – Book 6: The Ostriches Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Do you remember Casper, the cute city cat who tries to find her way home after getting lost in the wild? Follow her latest adventure in The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat Who Got Lost in Africa, Book 6: The Ostriches by award-winning filmmaker and author Jennifer Ussi. You may refresh your memory by reading my review of the first book in the series. Learn more about this upcoming release and enter to win a copy or a complete set of the first six books in the series!

My Review:

Written with humor, knowledge and wild imagination, The Ostriches brings us an exciting and empowering tale of friendship, leadership, kindness, courage, and collaboration.

After overhearing Casper's conversation with the dung beetle, a flock of orphaned baby ostriches approach her for help. Can Casper manage to take care of twenty babies on their way to reuniting with their extended family? What should they do about the army of furious venomous centipedes? And the hungry cheetah hunting for her next meal?

Through engaging conversations and vivid descriptions, the book brings to life a diverse cast of wild animals with distinctive traits. From the fearless three-toothed warthog to the wise, cool-headed leopard tortoise, the adorable animal characters inspire young readers to offer help utilizing their strengths and specialties. Casper the Cat wins the reader's heart by going out of her way to help others, keeping her mind open for new discoveries, and being a good-humored, trustworthy, caring and protective friend. The young ostrich named Felicity, on the other hand, exemplifies a natural leader with growing capabilities.

The story mesmerizes young readers with an abundance of funny or thrilling moments, the most impressive of which has to be the battle between the ostriches and the cheetah. The unexpected victory of the prey over their predator shows the power of strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and teamwork while urging youngsters not to be defined or misled by others' prejudice or fallacy. Just as Casper concludes, brains come in all shapes, and bravery doesn't have to always look the same.

As a perfect complement to the narrative, the colorful, expressive illustrations help us visualize each of the characters, along with the most important events in the story. The back matter provides a profile for each animal that has made an appearance, including both fun facts woven into the story and something extra.

Stimulating and entertaining, The Ostriches makes a wonderful addition to the series, which fosters a lifelong love for nature and promotes wildlife conservation through captivating stories and charming characters.

About the Book:

Ages: 6-10 | 82 Pages
Publisher: Little Boola Books (2026) | ISBN: 978-1923356269

What happens when the fastest birds on Earth would rather hide than face the truth—and a tiny lost cat refuses to look away?

In The Ostriches, Casper’s journey east leads her into the wide-open savannah, where danger is approaching fast…and no one wants to admit it. The ostriches have perfected the art of avoidance—heads down, problems ignored—but when real threats close in, Casper must help them discover that bravery isn’t about speed or strength, but about choosing to see what matters.

Packed with laugh-out-loud moments, sharp dialogue, and heartfelt wisdom, this story tackles big ideas—fear, denial, courage, and responsibility—in a way that feels playful, empowering, and deeply relatable for young readers. As always, Casper’s kindness, quick thinking, and gentle leadership prove that even the smallest voice can inspire change.

Beautifully illustrated and seamlessly blending adventure, humour, and wildlife education, The Ostriches is a standout chapter in the series—perfect for readers aged 6–10, classroom discussions, and families who love stories with both heart and substance.

A fast-paced, funny, and meaningful read that sparks conversations long after the last page.

Ideal for reviewers who love spotlighting children’s books with depth, charm, and purpose.

Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org

Lionborn Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Are you ready for a wild ride into the unknown? Join 12-year-old Fionn's mind-blowing adventure in Lionborn by Sharique Zea. Enter to win a signed copy along with a $50 Amazon gift card!

My Review:

Full of action and imagination, Lionborn tells an exhilarating, enthralling tale of courage, friendship, growth and self-discovery.

Haunted by monstrous figures that frequent his dreams and a mysterious voice chanting the word "Lionborn," Fionn feels frustrated by his failed attempts to convince his family of the inexplicable connection between his dreamland and the real world. His former friend turns into a bully after hearing about his nightmares and fears. But that's just the beginning of his troubles. Why is there a lion cub only visible to him? What will the riddles left by his best friend Ella's missing mother lead to? What is the true identity of his warm and funny new friend Tiny?

With a tantalizing blend of magic, mystery, humor and adventure, the novel instantly draws its readers into the fascinating world the author creatively constructs, keeping them on the edge of their seats with tons of twists and turns. Its vivid descriptions, enriched with sensory details and witty metaphors, breathe life into all the characters (including mythical creatures and self-moving furniture!) while making it pleasantly easy to follow and visualize their experiences.

Besides skillful storytelling, the book's charm lies in the development of multiple memorable characters, each with their own set of strengths and weaknesses and each undergoing change through challenges. The thrilling success of the trio formed by Fionn, Ella and Tiny, attests to the incredible power of friendship and team work, inspiring young readers to support and stand up for their friends when necessary, and to overcome obstacles with courage, confidence and resilience.

Cleverly crafted and perfectly paced, Lionborn is an enchanting middle-grade fantasy sure to excite fans of magical adventures and puzzle solving. Look forward to reading more books in the series!

About the Book:

Ages 10+ | 228 Pages
Publisher: Sharique Zea (2025) | ISBN: 978-1-0682018-2-0

A Boy with Hidden Power. An Evil Sorcerer. Three Daring Trials to Test His Courage.

Fionn Hurley feels different. Worried his nightmares might be real, the twelve-year-old has visions of strange creatures and wakes up covered in mysterious marks that heal in a flash. But when a lion cub appears beside his reflection, the curious boy travels to a mystical land… and discovers he’s a Lionborn with powerful magic.

Fionn is shocked to hear an evil sorcerer wants him to bring back a dark overlord. But after finding a clue to defeating the wicked enchanter, the brave young hero discovers three perilous trials stand between him and victory.

With everyone out to get him, can Fionn embrace his abilities and save the people he loves?

If you like friendships full of courage, jaw-dropping surprises, and worlds bursting with magic, then step into Lionborn and let the adventure roar!

Purchase link: Books2Read

In My Mind Virtual Tour: Review & Giveaway

The first day of school can be both exciting and challenging for any young child, let alone a child with a developmental disorder. In My Mind by Carmen Y. Hernández follows the unique experience of Camilo, a boy with ADHD. Learn more about this picture book and enter to win a copy!

My Review:

Featuring comical characters and expressive illustrations, In My Mind explores the impact of neurodivergence on school performance through an engaging, uplifting story.

Eager to make new friends on his first day of school, Camilo finds himself tongue-tied and ill at ease when he enters the classroom with everyone's eyes on him. In class, he can't help but get easily distracted. Feeling bored, his mind starts to wander while he gets cozy on the carpet. Luckily, there are things that he really enjoys at school, such as being a student teacher, playing soccer during recess, and learning about the five senses. Will he get home safe and sound after a long day with mixed feelings?

From a first person point of view, the story shares Camilo's inner thoughts and feelings, which help the reader make sense of why he behaves differently in class. The narrative reveals with clarity and sensitivity the boy's struggle to stay focused, his anxiety about fitting in, and his longing for friendship and recognition. 

For parents and educators, it suggests how to identify signs of ADHD in order to provide appropriate accommodations or adjustments for children with ADHD. For young readers, it promotes empathy towards and acceptance of those who appear to have trouble acting "normal." And for those who may resonate with Camilo, the story reassures them that they are not alone. It urges them to communicate with their teacher or caregiver about their struggle. It also encourages them to experiment with various activities to find what they are passionate about, what helps channel their energy and improve focus, and what boosts their confidence.

Full of color and vitality, the book's graphics well complement the narrative with an appealing visual representation of characters with diverse ethnic backgrounds, highly relatable scenarios in the school setting as well as Camilo's actions and emotions. Even the toys and decorations in the classroom have expressive faces.

Delightful and meaningful, In My Mind is an educational book that advocates for early detection of developmental disorders like ADHD, soliciting support and understanding from the general public, especially those who care deeply about the well-being of neurodivergent kids.

About the Book:

Ages: 3-8 | 38 Pages
Publisher: Mascot Kids! (2026) | ISBN: 979-8891382909

Starting school is both terrifying and exciting for Camilo. He wonders what his new teacher and classmates will think of him. But, as the day unfolds, Camilo has a hard time fitting in. The classroom feels overwhelming, and he battles nerves that make it hard to focus or speak up. He gets distracted, daydreaming about far-away places, and sometimes he forgets that he is in school altogether. But as the day goes on, Camilo discovers unexpected joys.

This heartwarming story captures the challenges of a child with ADHD who has to navigate a busy first day at school.

Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop

How to Be Best in Class Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

What's your perception of a perfect pup? One that follows your directions with precision? Or one that keeps you busy with all her antics? Join Rae and Phebe in their fun-filled adventure at the dog park in How to Be Best in Class, a sequel to How to Make a Sandwich by award-winning author Lorena M. Proia. Help bring this new book to life by backing it on Kickstarter and enter to win an extra-special gift bundle, complete with a signed book, matching t-shirts and a gorgeous collection of note cards!

My Review:

Inspired by fond memories of the author's first dog Phebe, How to Be Best in Class crafts a charming and cheerful tale celebrating differences, acceptance, kindness and unconditional love.

Phebe is excited about her first day at the obedience class, where she is supposed to learn how to behave properly. Her enthusiastic entrance however, causes quite a stir, leaving the rest of the class stunned or even scared. Apparently, she is very different from everyone else. She refuses to part with her human friend Rae. She doesn't respond to any of the instructor's simple commands. Nor does she listen to Rae, due to all the distractions out there. Finally comes class game time, time for Phebe to shine with what she does best.

Written and illustrated with humor and affection, the book showcases the captivating bond between a permissive, patient young dog owner and her furry pal, who is cute, curious, energetic, friendly yet somewhat unruly. While short, simple sentences keep the narrative smooth and easy to follow, the playful pictures vividly capture the cozy and funny interactions between the delightful duo, reflecting each character's distinctive traits through their expressive body language. It's hard not to be amused by Phebe's mischievous wink at Rae, the way she clings to Rae's leg, and how she greets the class instructor. The beautiful natural setting, especially the presence of small wild animals, adds to the charm of the story and corresponds well to Phebe's carefree spirit.

As they giggle at the commotion Phebe creates in the obedience class, young readers are made aware of both the joy and challenges dog ownership may bring. Patience and positivity are essential when it comes to dog training. As pups love their humans with no strings attached, they deserve to be loved just the way they are. Following Rae's lead, readers learn to embrace and appreciate differences, and avoid being judgemental or dismissive. This holds true for treating individuals who think and act differently from others. The way Phebe surprises everyone with her special skill demonstrates the beauty of diversity as well as the power of kindness.

Created by a passionate dog-lover and talented writer, How to Be Best in Class is a hilarious and heartwarming read that no dog-lovers would want to miss. Please join the Kickstarter Army to help fund its publication! The first 100 backers will receive a special gift from the author.

About the Book:

Ages: 4-8 | 32 Pages
Publisher: Self Published D.B.A. PnM Publishing (2026) | ISBN: 979-8-9885730-1-2

Obedience class is hard. Especially if you don’t do things like the other dogs do. Phebe’s flair for drama isn’t appreciated by her classmates, and when Rae says, “Come!” she stays. When she says “Stay!” she comes.

Seeing the world a little differently than everyone else makes it easy to be misunderstood. Rae wants Phebe to fall into line, but Phebe can’t help but be herself.

Will Phebe ever learn to be a perfect pup?