Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Are you into Greek mythology? Do you think two-thousand-year-old wisdom would still be useful in modern life? Follow sixth-grader Callie's challenging journey of discovery in Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom, an upcoming release from prolific, award-winning author and scholar Claudia Mills. Enter to win a signed hardcover copy, two other signed books from the author and more!

My Review:

Full of heart and humor, Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom is a gripping, illuminating middle-grade novel that promotes kindness, empathy, acceptance, resilience and creativity.

Fascinated by the history and culture of ancient Greece, Callie chooses to name herself after Greek goddesses Calliope and Callisto, although the school librarian is the only one who calls her by Calliope. One morning accident triggers a series of unfortunate events that put Callie at risk of losing her furry friend Archie. In hopes of getting guidance from ancient wisdom, Callie joins the philosophy club organized by the kind and knowledgeable school librarian. Will what she learns in the club help her behave well enough to keep Archie forever?

Told from Callie's perspective, the first-person narrative leads us inside the orphaned young girl's colorful yet chaotic world through her unconventional thoughts, observations, interpretations and reactions. With an active, inquisitive mind, Callie is smart, sensitive, assertive and outspoken. She likes to ask questions, tough ones. She dares to challenge authorities including her rigid teacher and the open-minded principal. She longs to be seen and heard. She gets emotional easily and stands up for her friend with no hesitation. This unique mix of traits makes the protagonist feel real and relatable.

Callie's strong character is contrasted and complemented by her bestie Peggy's calmness and easygoingness. The philosophy club gives Callie the opportunity to discover something new about her friend as well as her nemesis. As Callie learns to put herself in other people's shoes, young readers are inspired to practice empathy and voice their opinions without hurting others' feelings. They are also encouraged to express gratitude and make sincere apologies for their mistakes.

Through witty language, comical scenarios and thought-provoking discussions, the story makes abstract philosophical concepts accessible and relevant to young thinkers, prompting them to ask not only "What" but also "Why" questions. Callie's experience suggests that one should focus on what's within their control instead of trying to change someone else's thoughts and actions. In addition, adaptability is a necessary skill in the fast-changing world we live in.

Expertly written and heartwarming, Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom provides a most enjoyable introduction to philosophy, a charming read for dog-lovers and Greek mythology enthusiasts!

About the Book:

Ages: 9+ | 272 Pages
Publisher: Holiday House (2026) | ISBN-13: 978-0-8234-6050-2

“Difficult” student Callie joins a philosophy club seeking the wisdom she needs to keep her beloved but equally difficult dog in this hilarious, heartfelt middle-grade novel for underdogs and dog-lovers alike!

Once Callie (Calliope Callisto Clark) starts saying something, it’s hard for her to stop. The opinion gets bigger and bigger, her voice gets louder and louder—and she gets in more and more trouble. She’s in trouble with her teacher, who likes order and not Callie. She’s in bigger trouble with her Grampy, who blames Callie and her dog (a.k.a. Best Ever Friend) Archie for his ever-rising blood pressure. Then there’s the biggest trouble of all… just one more strike, and Callie could lose her beloved Archie forever.

When she turns to Greek philosophy for answers on how to solve her problems, she only gets more questions: What is justice? What is fairness? And as her problems get bigger, so do her questions: Is it Callie’s fault when Grampy has a stroke?

Told in Callie’s endearing, energetic voice, Calliope Callisto Clark and the Search for Wisdom is sure to speak to any student who’s ever been called “disruptive.” Acclaimed children’s book author and retired philosophy professor Claudia Mills delivers a heartfelt middle-grade novel for misunderstood readers who feel like they’re living their own Greek tragedies.

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

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