icefairy's Treasure Chest
Custom Search
Showing posts with label Gift Card. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gift Card. Show all posts

Simon the Scared Rottweiler Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Have you wondered what tools are available to help young children deal with anxiety? See what has worked for Simon the Scared Rottweiler, the title character from child psychologist Dr. Nicole Kluemper's picture book. Enter to win a paperback copy, along with a cozy blanket and a $50 Amazon gift card!

My Review:

Based on Dr. Kluemper's professional experience and her lovely furry baby, Simon the Scared Rottweiler tells a therapeutic tale suggesting simple and effective anxiety coping skills for young kids.

Tough-looking Rottweiler Simon shares a horrible school day filled with things that scare him, starting from a nightmare and his brother jumping out from under the bed in a clown mask, to bullies at school and ghost stories told by the kids at his friend Kevin's sleepover party. That's too much for Simon to handle in one day! Just as he's about to take flight from all the scary stuff, Kevin's older sister Angie comes to his rescue with a couple of tricks that have helped her overcome anxiety.

Adopting Simon's first-person perspective, the story shows closely what he goes through, how he feels, and the impact of anxiety on his behavior. Most of the scary scenarios are highly relatable for school-aged kids, making it easy for them to empathize with the poor puppy. The candid conversation between Simon and Angie reassures young readers that they are not alone for getting anxious from time to time and that there are fun ways to cope with anxiety in the comfort of their homes. The "thought bottle" sounds particularly appealing to glitter-lovers. Easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions are provided to help readers make their very own thought bottles. The book's back matter also teaches about belly breathing and includes useful resources regarding child anxiety and mental health.

By reading Simon's story, young children are encouraged to seek help from family and friends about things that bother them, instead of keeping all the fear and anxiety to themselves. In addition, they may learn not to judge someone merely by their look. Feeling scared is not necessarily a sign of weakness. Anxiety can be managed through practice, perseverance, positive thinking and professional assistance.

Colorful and comforting, Simon the Scared Rottweiler makes a great conversation starter as well as a handy toolkit for kids and parents to get better prepared for the common challenge of anxiety.

About the Book:

Ages: 4–8 | 34 Pages
Publisher: Nicole S Kluemper (2026) | ISBN: 979-8218884802

Simon is having a hard day. He wakes up to a bad dream, the fire alarm goes off at school, some big bullies bother him, and that’s not all! Just then, Kevin’s big sister Angie steps in and helps Simon by teaching him some skills for dealing with his worry that will last a lifetime.

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

Take Back the Internet with Radiant Mobile! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

Are you looking for a mobile network that provides you with full control over what your children can see online on their cell phones? Check out Radiant Mobile, the first ever Christian mobile carrier and the first mobile plan to block inappropriate content before it reaches your phone. Join Radiant Mobile today and enter to win an Amazon gift card below!

About Radiant Mobile

Built on faith. Committed to families. Designed to protect.

Radiant Mobile is America’s first Christian wireless carrier that lets parents decide what enters their child’s phone, what their kids see and when the screen goes off.

Radiant Mobile exists to serve families who want a mobile experience that reflects their values - reliable service, fair pricing, and protections that actually protect.

Every Radiant Mobile plan features unlimited talk, text and data, runs on the country's largest and fastest 5G platform, and allows you to keep your current mobile number.

What Makes Radiant Mobile Unique?

Radiant Mobile is the only carrier that provides protection from harmful content via network-level filtering while other carriers depend on device-level filtering. This means that undesirable content is blocked before it ever reaches your phone and that it can't be bypassed by apps or different connections. Multiple layers of protection mechanisms are in place to prevent tempering with the parent-controlled, network-level filtering. Aside from hard-blocked categories, parents are allowed to fine tune their control over 120+ categories, including whitelisting certain sites within each blocked category. Parents can also set up independent controls for each child based on their age.

The Story of Everything Now on Prime Video! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

Inspired by Stephen C. Meyer’s bestselling book Return of the God Hypothesis, The Story of Everything explores evidence in support of a universe formed by design vs by random natural processes. After a successful nationwide theatrical run that sparked conversation across faith, science, and culture, the documentary is now available to purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Learn more and enter to win an Amazon gift card!

Synopsis:

The Story of Everything is a cinematic exploration of the cosmos that reveals the hidden hand behind our universe. From the precise laws that govern the stars to the intricate patterns found in every living cell, the film traces evidence of intentional design throughout nature. Whether examining distant star-forming clouds or the spiral structure of DNA, we discover a consistent signature woven into the fabric of existence.

My Review:

Revolving around the debate over the origins of the universe, The Story of Everything is a thought-provoking film featuring interviews with a good number of physicists, philosophers, biologists and biochemists. With the help of archival footage, recordings and computer-generated animation, it examines competing cosmological theories, the fine-tuning of the universe, and the complexity of DNA with rich biological information encoded inside.

Well-structured and vividly presented, The Story of Everything encourages viewers to decipher the mystery of nature while celebrating the beauty and meaning of life. You don't want to miss it if you're curious about the "how" and "why" of the universe as well as the connection between faith and science.

The Sacred Thread Now on Angel! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

Many people know the Lord’s Prayer, but only a handful truly understand it. The Sacred Thread takes us on an eye-opening cinematic adventure through the land, history, language, and deeper meaning of this pivotal prayer in the Bible. Stream The Sacred Thread now on Angel and enter to win an Amazon gift card!

About the Series:

The Sacred Thread is a cinematic documentary series exploring the Lord’s Prayer through the historical, cultural, geographical, and literary world in which Jesus first spoke it. Hosted by Brad Gray and featuring insights from scholars including N.T. Wright, the series takes viewers across biblical landscapes to uncover the deeper meaning and context behind one of the most well-known prayers in Scripture.

Through cinematic storytelling and accessible scholarship, the series invites audiences to see Scripture with fresh eyes and rediscover the richness, depth, and relevance of the Biblical text.

My Review:

Full of useful information and thoughtful conversations, The Sacred Thread strikes me as an engaging and enlightening documentary series that invites viewers to deepen their understanding of the Lord's Prayer through the lens of the historical and cultural context of Scripture.

The series consists of seven episodes, each focusing on one of the seven phrases through which Jesus weaves together the Sacred Thread of Scripture, starting from "Our Father" to "deliver us from evil." Combining stunning visuals, soulful music and skillful storytelling, the documentary provides an immersive and fascinating experience for viewers, especially those who take an interest in Biblical history and context. It helps clarify confusions and correct misconceptions about important Biblical concepts through insightful discussions with scholars specializing in various theological subjects, along with visits to Biblical lands that constitute an important part of Scripture's original context.

Beautifully made to bring Scripture alive and encourage deeper understanding, reflection and connection with God, The Sacred Thread is so enjoyable and informative that it's worth watching over and over again and sharing with family, friends and Bible study groups. 

Stream The Sacred Thread now on Angel. Join the Angel Guild and support stories that bring meaning, hope, and purpose back to entertainment.

Just One More Now on Angel! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

Do you believe in second chances? Do you agree that hope is worth fighting for? Then you'll want to watch Just One More, a film about choosing hope one more time, even when life feels impossible. Stream Just One More now on Angel and support stories that actually inspire. Learn more below and enter to win an Amazon gift card!

Synopsis:

Just One More follows Jess, a recovering addict struggling with shame, doubt, and the weight of her past, whose life unexpectedly collides with Charles, a dying man praying that God would use him “just one more” time. As their stories intertwine, Jess begins to discover forgiveness, healing, and the hope to fight for a future beyond addiction.

My Review:

Based on true stories, Just One More is a highly emotional and inspirational movie about redemption, perseverance, the life-changing impact one person can have on another, and the incredible power of faith, friendship and forgiveness.

Adopting an authentic first person perspective, the story follows Jess' painful journey to recovery. Her struggle to stay sober feels real and relatable. For one reason or another, everyone may reach a moment when they feel exhausted, defeated, or ready to quit. Strength is often found in simply refusing to give up. The movie shows what happens when someone finds the courage to keep going despite all the hardships and moments of weakness. It also illustrates the importance of trust and support from friends and family during someone's fight against addiction.

Touching and uplifting, Just One More may resonate with audiences across generations and spark honest, meaningful conversations about overcoming temptations, making wise choices, and why hope matters. Stream Just One More now on Angel. Join the Angel Guild and help bring more films like this to audiences everywhere.

NKJV New Testament Tracing Edition Review and Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

Introducing the NKJV New Testament, Tracing Edition, which invites you to slow down and truly engage with God’s Word by tracing Scripture verse-by-verse. Purchase your copy of the NKJV New Testament, Tracing Edition today! Enter to win a copy AND a $10 Amazon gift card below!

About the NKJV New Testament, Tracing Edition

For years, scientists have connected handwriting with improved learning. Designed for a unique devotional experience, the NKJV New Testament, Tracing Edition provides an opportunity to read and write through the beautiful gospel and promises of the New Testament from Matthew to Revelation.

This special edition has lightly printed text allowing you to trace the words of Scripture easily. Wide margins and a clean, single-column typesetting complete the intentional design. Chapter headings are printed regularly for easy navigation, or you can engage more deeply using the included tracing themes and reading plans on love, hope, grace, comfort, peace, eternal life, anxiety, spiritual gifts, community, heaven, Holy Spirit, and faith.

My Review:

Beautifully presented, the NKJV New Testament, Tracing Edition offers a new and effective way to learn the Scripture by heart. With the entire New Testament in a gray-scale and clear 17-point type, it allows for easy tracing and reading. While its unique, lay flat spine design makes tracing comfortable for both right- and left-handed users, its wide outer margins invite note taking and interaction with the Bible through artwork. The sturdy 60gsm paper holds up well to pen and pencil. Besides, it's neatly organized by chapter headings and includes twelve topical reading plans and tracing themes, giving readers a meaningful way to explore the New Testament.

Well-made with convenient features, the NKJV New Testament, Tracing Edition makes a thoughtful gift for loved ones as well as a useful Bible study resource for oneself. Get your own copy here or on Amazon.

Tiki Time: T-Rex Tiki Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Wondering if Tiki and his friends will be able to find King Lauia in time to save TikiTown? The wait is finally over. The sequel in the Tiki Time series is here. Check out Tiki Time: T-Rex Tiki and enter to win a signed copy, along with a $100 Amazon gift card and a National Geographic Light-Up Terrarium for Kids!

My Review:

Packed with action and adventure, Tiki Time: T-Rex Tiki tells an electrifying time travel tale teaching about courage, confidence, determination, friendship, team work and what it takes to be a real hero.

Equipped with superpowers and unique talents, Team Tiki continues their daunting mission in book two. Following the tracks of evil King Lauia, Tiki and his crew travel back to prehistoric times. From ferocious dinosaurs to ancient math puzzle, one challenge after another awaits them before they can get inside the cunning villain's lair. Will they manage to retrieve the sacred Toku mask from King Lauia and rescue their townspeople before time runs out?

With the combination of captivating graphics, dynamic characters and thrilling plot twists, the story draws young readers deep inside a fascinating world of magic and fantasy, in which Tiki and his friends must overcome their weaknesses, utilize their special powers, and think creatively in order to complete the seemingly impossible mission. The growths of the characters as they gain more confidence and recollect themselves in the face of danger inspire youngsters to never give up easily and to explore ways to unlock their potential. Every challenge coming in their way presents an opportunity to demonstrate the power of friendship, team work and resilience.

The distinctive group of characters and their unusual journey are brought to life by cartoonish illustrations marked by bold colors, rich expressions and animated motion. The pictures help immerse young readers in the story and empathize with the heroes in training.

Gripping and invigorating, Tiki Time: T-Rex Tiki makes a fabulous addition to the series as well as to the summer reading list of any adventure-loving child.

About the Book:

Ages: 6-8 | 58 Pages
Publisher: Tiki Toons Publishing, LLC (2026) | ISBN: 979-8-9941608-2-4

In this sequel of the Tiki Time series, Tiki, a boy with magical powers, is joined by a precocious group of friends who travel back to prehistoric times in their search for the evil time traveling sorcerer, King Lauia. King Lauia has escaped from present-day TikiTown with the sacred Toku mask, leaving its citizens in a frozen state.

Tiki and his friends set out on this perilous quest. Tiki must find King Lauia, take back the mask, and travel back to present-day to unfreeze TikiTown and its people — all while avoiding getting eaten by a giant Tyrannosaurus Rex! Time is ticking! If Tiki doesn't succeed, TikiTown will remain frozen forever!

Tiki and the audience continue to learn valuable lessons in this adventure about self-confidence, friendship, proper behavior, and the true meaning of character and integrity.

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

Muppit Boy and the Allergies of Evil Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Are you ready to crack cases and solve mysteries with a team of young detectives? Join Mo and his friends in their thrilling adventure in Muppit Boy and the Allergies of Evil, the first book in a new series by award-winning author Michael J. Bowler. Enter to win a signed hardcover copy and an Amazon gift card, or one of the other eleven prizes!

My Review:

Fast-paced and action-packed, Muppit Boy and the Allergies of Evil stands out as a hilarious and heartful middle grade fiction that explores the significance of friendship, courage and emotional intelligence, along with the impact of social media on self-esteem, body image and privacy.

Meet the Muppit Boy detective agency, composed of three middle school students Mo, Kash and Barn. Small in stature, Mo has a brain that works like a video recorder. Tall and slim, Kash is a sharp girl good at martial arts. Chubby and clumsy, Barn offers help in unexpected ways. A mysterious break-in at their school leads them into the dangerous discovery of an evil scheme of a mad scientist seeking power and wealth. Almost getting killed by a roaring chainsaw is just the beginning.

Told from Mo's perspective, the story treats curious minds to a delicious blend of humor, mystery, suspense and adventure. By following Mo's personal growth journey from an easy target of bullying and mockery to a superhero, readers get to experience first-hand his struggle with emotional control and unwanted internet fame, his search for self-worth, and his bittersweet feelings about his new identity. Mo's transformation may inspire them to stand up against bullies, stay calm in the face of danger, solve problems creatively, and learn to embrace their own special talents while adapting to major life changes.

The friendship of the quirky trio shines prominently throughout the story. It suggests what true friendship means and how trust, support and empathy serve as cornerstones of a solid relationship. Meanwhile, the touching bond between Mo and his Big Brother mentor Ari prompts us to see and understand family beyond biology.

Highly entertaining and engaging, Muppit Boy and the Allergies of Evil makes an exciting addition to the summer reading list of anyone who loves mystery, adventure, superhero or science fiction. Looking forward to more books in the series!

About the Book:

Ages: 9-12 | 264 Pages
Publisher: Michael Bowler (2026) | ISBN: 979-8993648606

AN INTERNET JOKE. AN EVIL GENIUS. A HERO IS BORN.

Gifted with a brain that works like a video recorder, twelve-year-old aspiring detective Elmo Fitzroy — famous on YouTube, thanks to his mother, as “Muppit Boy” because of really humiliating videos — becomes embroiled in a world-domination plot hatched by an evil scientist out to control humanity with deadly allergies.

Mo's life plan is simple: ditch his dweeby childhood alter ego and fly under the radar to survive middle school. It backfires big time when he helps his Big Brother mentor — a police detective — investigate an old woman in a clown mask who robs people of their hearing aids.

Little does he realize that chasing clues with friends Barney Kettlewick and Kashvi Jindal will lead to a battle with ugly shoes, pursuit by chainsaw-wielding maniacs, an embarrassingly public rescue by a California condor, a meeting with Homeland Security, and his ADHD soaring into overdrive.

The kid who's always been a joke must somehow become a hero to save his family, friends, and, well, the whole world.

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

He Calls Me Daughter Now on Angel! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

Did you miss He Calls Me Daughter when it played in theaters? Good news that it's available for streaming at Angel.com. Watch He Calls Me Daughter now on Angel and experience a story of healing, identity, and restoration. Plus, enter to win an Amazon gift card!

About the Film:

He Calls Me Daughter is a deeply personal and emotionally powerful film that explores what it means to carry a father wound and what it takes to heal from it.

Through raw storytelling and spiritual insight, the film reveals how unmet needs from an earthly father can shape identity, relationships, and self-worth. But it also offers a path forward. One rooted in the love of a Heavenly Father who restores, redeems, and redefines what it means to be a daughter.

This is not just a story about pain. It is a story about healing, forgiveness, and identity.

Happy Birthday to US! Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

America is turning 250 this summer! Happy Birthday to US! is the perfect picture book to get your little one excited about this historic milestone. Enter to win a copy autographed by award-winning author Sherry Ellis, plus a $50 Amazon gift card!

My Review:

Written in jolly rhymes and painted in patriotic colors, Happy Birthday to US! makes a lyrical introduction to Independence Day, celebrating freedom, valor, and patriotism.

A little boy born on July 4th is overjoyed by the way his birthday is celebrated every year by all the people in his home town - marching bands, parades, banners, balloons, flags, fireworks, and a lot more. When he finds out that the celebrations are not just for him, he takes great pride in sharing a birthday with America.

Through the eyes of a young child, this sweet story shows how the Fourth of July is typically celebrated in local communities composed of ordinary Americans. While feeling the joy and excitement about the special occasion, young readers learn about the significance of Independence Day, the role of the Founding Fathers, the Declaration of Independence and Lady Liberty. A brief history of the holiday is included in the back matter to help explain why the anniversary means so much to the whole nation.

The book's vibrant, vivacious artwork, coupled with the narrative's first person perspective, easily immerses readers in the festive atmosphere, deepening their love for the country. The paintings enrich the text with delightful details, such as adorable pets wearing celebratory costumes and cheerful children with diverse ethnic origins holding hands in a circle, all of which motivate young readers to join the celebration of liberty, unity, and community.

Cleverly crafted and charmingly illustrated, Happy Birthday to US! stands out as a timely read for young children in the days leading up to America's 250th birthday.

About the Book:

Ages: 4–7 | 52 Pages
Publisher: A 2 Z Press, LLC (2025) | ISBN: 978-1962101240

Celebrate the joy of sharing a birthday with America! In this charming, rhyming picture book, a young child believes the local parade and fireworks are all for him—until he discovers that everyone is celebrating something even bigger: Our nation’s Independence Day. With cheerful illustrations and a heartwarming message, Happy Birthday to US! introduces young readers to the history and meaning behind July 4th while capturing the excitement of summer, birthdays, and community pride. A delightful read-aloud for classrooms, family story times, and patriotic holidays, this book is a perfect way to celebrate America’s birthday!

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

Hope Rode: The Promise of the Packhorse Librarians Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Have you heard of the Packhorse librarians, who delivered books to rural families on horseback in the depths of the Great Depression? Learn all about them in Hope Rode: The Promise of the Packhorse Librarians by award-winning author Lauren H. Kerstein. Enter to win a signed copy, a swag pack, and a $30 bookstore gift card of choice!

My Review:

Drawing on extensive research, Hope Rode provides a poetic recount of the little-known history of the Packhorse librarians, honoring the unsung heroes who impacted the lives of tens of thousands of Kentuckians in rural and remote areas during dark times.

An alarming percentage of rural population in Kentucky remained illiterate in 1930s due to lack of access to public libraries. The Packhorse Library project was launched to address the issue by recruiting librarians willing to bring books to families with no public library in their neighborhood. A good number of courageous women joined the mission and became known as Packhorse librarians. Delivering books on horseback was no easy task. From harsh weather and road conditions to distrust and resistance of the farmers, so many dangers and obstacles were lurking around. But the smiling faces of young children yearning for learning made all their endeavors worthwhile.

Beautifully written and illustrated, the book highlights the intimidating challenges Packhorse librarians had to overcome in order to make more books available to rural residents. It applauds the dedication, determination, perseverance and resilience of the beloved book ladies. They delivered not only books, but also knowledge, vision, care, job opportunity, the joy of reading, and so much more... What they did was truly amazing and admirable! 

The story ends with the Author's Note, detailing more facts and background information about the Packhorse librarians, including precious photos, some of which get artistically represented in the illustrations. Apart from complementing the narrative with vivid visuals, the paintings amplify the stunning beauty of rural landscapes, reflecting the book's theme with beams of hope.

Inspiring and informative, Hope Rode makes us aware of the great deeds of Packhorse librarians while fueling our passion for reading and urging us to treasure the resources at our disposal today.

About the Book:

Ages: 4+ | 48 Pages
Publisher: Union Square Kids (2025) | ISBN-13: 978-1454948483

An empowering ode to the brave librarians from Kentucky.

Following the Great Depression, literacy rates in the country had dwindled, and education and opportunities were harder to come by, especially in areas like rural Appalachia. But still, there was a dream: a vision of a nation in which reading was accessible to all—even those in the most remote places.

The Packhorse Library project of the 1930s and 1940s called upon Kentucky women to make that vision a reality and rise to the difficult and demanding job of delivering books on horseback. The Packhorse librarians were brave, steadfast, and resilient. For years, the women endured rough terrain, harsh conditions, and exhaustion. And with each book delivered and reading lesson taught, the librarians ushered in a new era for Kentuckians.

With uplifting prose by Lauren H. Kerstein and lush, hand-painted art from Becca Stadtlander, Hope Rode tells the true story of the strength, courage, and conviction of the Packhorse librarians.

Purchase links: Barnes & Noble | Bookshop.org

The Blobs: Volume Two Releases April 7! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

April 7 marks the official release of The Blobs: Volume 2: Attack of the Glitchies, second book in the series by viral YouTube creator Justin Stuart. Blending sci-fi adventure, humor, and high-energy action for readers ages 8-12, The Blobs books are available on Amazon or everywhere books are sold. Check them out and enter to win an Amazon gift card!

About the Book:

The Blobs are back — and this time, the galaxy’s survival depends on a goofy crew of outcasts, a stolen stash of ultra-powerful space gems, and one very unexpected hero learning what it means to do the right thing.

Purchase link: Amazon

My Review:

Packed with quirky, otherworldly characters, vivid descriptions and amusingly animated illustrations, The Blobs impresses me as an exhilarating, hilarious middle-grade graphic novel series imparting meaningful messages about friendship, teamwork, courage and sacrifice.

In The Blobs: Volume One: Crash Land!, readers are introduced to five oddball Blobs, who share an escape pod heading to their new home on Planet Splotch. Their hope for a safe journey dims as a crash landing on a mysterious planet hurls them into the claws of woeful Glitchies and their vicious ruler, who has devised an evil plan for galaxy domination.

Book two sees the crew of misfit Blobs settling into their new home, unaware of the enraged, power-hungry king's determination to gather all the Doomsicles at all costs. Their new planet is under attack. The Blobs are ill-prepared and outnumbered. Should they surrender to stop things from getting worse?

He Calls Me Daughter in Theaters Only 3/17-18! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

Do you know a woman whose life has been adversely affected by a "father wound"? Take her to watch He Calls Me Daughter, which hits theaters March 17 & 18 only. Buy tickets today and enter to win an Amazon gift card below!

Synopsis:

HE CALLS ME DAUGHTER is for women who have felt unseen, unsupported, or unsure of their worth. Through intimate, first-person stories, viewers follow women as they begin to name the pain they’ve carried for years: father wound. Audiences are invited to reflect on their own story as they walk alongside these women on a journey toward healing. HE CALLS ME DAUGHTER is an invitation to experience the love of a Father who does not withdraw — One who offers peace, belonging, and restoration.

My Review:

Weaving together personal narratives, close-up interviews and insightful comments, He Calls Me Daughter strikes me as a touching, healing film about faith, family, forgiveness and unconditional love. By featuring women with vastly different backgrounds, the documentary makes the shocking revelation about the long-term detrimental impact of father wounds on their families, their relationships and even their mental health. More importantly, it shows how faith helps those women feel loved, seen and needed. Although their earthly fathers have hurt or failed them, their heavenly father never will. Faith gives them strength while forgiveness gives them joy and peace.

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

Still Hope in Theaters February 5! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

It's hard to imagine how a survivor may fully recover from the trauma caused by trafficking. Follow 16-year-old Hope's heartrending journey in Studio 523's upcoming release Still Hope. Buy tickets today to watch Still Hope in theaters starting February 5th! Plus enter to win an Amazon gift card after reading more about the movie.

Synopsis:

Hope, a teenager from a tight-knit community, finds herself in danger when the person she believes to be a new friend proves unsafe. Taken from all she knows, Hope is forced into sex trafficking and stripped of her identity. After finding freedom from her captors, Hope discovers that survival is only the first step. Inspired by true stories, Hope’s journey is a powerful illustration of the courage it takes to walk the complex path of recovery.

12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas Virtual Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Christmas is just a few weeks away. How does your family get ready for the holidays? Anything similar to what's covered in 12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas by Tanya Harvey? Enter to win a copy, along with a $100 gift card and a star tree topper!

My Review:

Dedicated to moms who make holiday time magical, 12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas captures the joy, excitement, and challenges of holiday preparation through a comical and cheerful Christmas countdown.

A family of four is busy preparing for their holiday celebration in the days leading up to Christmas. Each day sees something new being added to their activity list, starting from placing a star on top of the tree to putting on silly sweaters. Besides sparkling decorations, yummy food and fancy gifts, the preparation also involves messes that need to be cleaned. Thankfully, elf is not the only helper around the house.

With humor and affection, this Christmas tale weaves together a little chaos, a lot of laughter, and many memorable moments into one heartwarming holiday celebration. While getting young readers excited about the holiday season, it prompts them to appreciate all the hard work that makes everything possible, such as shopping, gift wrapping, decorating, crafting, cooking and cleaning up. The mom in the story is shown taking the lead in the preparation while the rest of the family, including two girls and their dad, are happily helping her out. It suggests getting ready for the holidays together as an opportunity to create family memories that will last for years to come.

Suitable for early readers, the narrative adopts a repetition pattern that makes it easy to follow and remember. The growing list of activities provides an entertaining example of how to build and expand a sentence with parallel structure. The book comes with a QR code that grants access to an animated sing-along version, which helps little ones understand the story without having to know all the words.

Full of festive fun and funny faces, the charmingly colorful artwork vividly portrays a loving family as they are merrily engaged in various holiday activities, some of which lead to messy situations. I love how the book ends with a sweet scene in which everyone in the family falling asleep under the tree, exhausted but content, with the mom smiling in her dream.

A delight to read aloud and sing along, 12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas encourages the entire family to get involved in holiday preparation, as a way to create and honor their own holiday tradition.

About the Book:

Ages: 4-6 | 24 Pages
Publisher: Newtown Station Press (2024) | ISBN: 978-1069140333

Celebrate the joyful chaos of the holiday season! No pear trees here! This modern twist on a classic countdown reminds us that Christmas is not just about the Big Day, but how we cherish preparing for it together. From decorating the tree to last-minute shopping, each day presents a new challenge — and plenty of laughter — as the family works together to ensure everything is ready for their holiday celebration. This charming story captures the love and dedication that go into making the season special, reminding us how quickly it passes by — and how the journey is where the memories are made. Filled with delightful illustrations that bring heartwarming moments to life, The 12 Days of Getting Ready for Christmas is a whirlwind of festive fun, perfect for readers of all ages — especially Moms who make Christmas magical.

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

Christmas at the Cabin in Theaters November 14! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

Does your family have somewhere special to celebrate Christmas? Christmas at the Cabin, the season's must-see family Christmas movie, opens in theaters this Friday. Buy tickets today to watch the movie on the big screen starting November 14! Plus, enter to win an Amazon gift card below!

Synopsis:

Michelle and Josh are ready for a cozy Christmas at their cabin. They invite Michelle's sister Poppy to join. Simple, right?

Not quite. On the way, their car skids into a snowbank. When they finally reach the cabin, the door is wide open. Then, in true holiday chaos, they accidentally bear-spray Josh’s old college buddy, Guy — who showed up uninvited.

Michelle, who loves a good plan, struggles with Guy’s wild energy. He drives her crazy... but somehow boosts Poppy’s confidence with his charm and antics.

When a blizzard hits, tensions skyrocket. After one too many of Guy’s offhand jokes about God, Michelle snaps. She storms out into the storm — and quickly gets lost.

Enter Luke, a rugged stranger who rescues her. With his quiet wisdom, he helps Michelle realize how much her need for control is costing her.

Back at the cabin, Michelle opens up to Josh and Poppy. Old wounds heal. New laughter fills the air. As the snow clears, they leave the cabin with a stronger bond — and a Christmas they'll never forget.

My Review:

Combining breathtaking scenery, original music and beloved holiday classics, Christmas at the Cabin is an amusing and heartwarming movie perfect for the Christmas season.

Centering around characters with distinctive personalities, the movie explores themes of love, family, friendship, faith and forgiveness. It shows the importance of resolving misunderstandings through candid communication while encouraging everyone to be kind, patient, and grateful.

Festive and comedic, Christmas at the Cabin delivers pure holiday magic. It's a hearty holiday treat that the whole family can enjoy.

Justin Lin's Last Days in Theaters October 24! Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card!

Based on the true story of American missionary John Allen Chau, Last Days directed by Justin Lin (Better Luck Tomorrow, Fast & Furious 3-6), which premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, is coming to theaters on October 24, 2025. It's a well-made biographical film about faith and family, father and son, and the courage and risks it takes to follow one's calling. Learn more and enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card!

Synopsis

Based on a true story, Justin Lin's Last Days follows 26-year-old John Allen Chau’s journey to fulfill his life’s mission. He embarks on a dangerous adventure across the globe to share his faith with the isolated tribe of North Sentinel Island, while a detective from the Andaman Islands races to stop him before he does harm to himself or the tribe. PG-13

Starring: Sky Yang, Radhika Apte, Ken Leung

Follow Last Days on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Grow in Theaters Only Starting October 17! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

Perfectly timed for fall and Halloween season, Grow opens in theaters nationwide October 17, 2025. Buy tickets today to watch this fun fall film with your family on the big screen. Learn more and enter to win an Amazon gift card below!

Synopsis:

In the Pumpkin Capital of the World, stoic farmer Dinah Little (Golda Rosheuvel) begrudgingly takes in her spirited niece, Charlie (Priya-Rose Brookwell). But Charlie isn’t an ordinary child — she has a special knack for connecting with plants that quietly reflects her own longing to feel just as seen and loved. As the town prepares for the annual pumpkin-growing contest, Charlie sets her sights on winning. With the help of quirky Arlo (Nick Frost), plot and pumpkins thicken as rival growers pull every trick in the book. Will Charlie and Dinah’s unlikely entry stand tall against the fiercest competition the town has ever seen? As her pumpkin grows, so does her bond with Dinah, and together they learn the real prize is joy, laughter, and family.

My Review:

Featuring a colorful cast of characters, Grow is an entertaining and heartwarming comedy about family, friendship, love, growth, and the human connection with nature. It revolves around Charlie, a strong young girl with a soft heart yearning for love, and her aunt Dinah, who refrains from expressing her emotions but cares for Charlie in her unique way. The bond between the two grows stronger by the day as they work together trying to win the pumpkin contest. In the end however, winning the contest seems far less important than finding the family they need.

Through hilarious scenarios, unexpected plot twists, and quirky supporting characters, the film prompts us to care for the environment, compete with honesty and integrity, and correct our wrongs with courage and sincerity. Funny and fantastical, Grow provides a cozy, safe alternative to scary movies.

Dot Conner: Webtective In Theaters 9/19! Win an Amazon Gift Card!

Calling all fans of Dot Conner: Webtective! The well-acclaimed TV series has its cliffhanger finale expand into a movie. Dot Conner: Webtective plays only in theaters starting today, September 19! Buy tickets now to watch it on the big screen! Plus, you could win an Amazon gift card!

Synopsis:

Internet sleuth (or "webtective") Dot Conner receives a cryptic phone call from her father on the eve of her first day of high school, plunging her into an adventure she never expected to face. As Dot navigates the rocky start of her high school life, she uncovers the first of many clues her father has left behind, setting her on an urban treasure hunt with friends Makayla and Alex. Their quest leads them through the city, crossing paths with dangerous Russian thugs as they go. What begins as a search for her father quickly unravels into a much larger mystery, revealing his deep involvement in the world of espionage. Amid the chaos, Dot discovers the truth of Philippians 4:13, proving that even in the darkest times, faith can light the way.

My Review:

With a pleasant mix of mystery, adventure and comedy, Dot Conner: Webtective is an action-packed, entertaining movie emphasizing the importance of faith, family and friends. As a dashing, smart and tech-savvy first-year high schooler, Dot Conner is a lovable heroine that many teenagers can easily relate to. The trio consisting of Dot and her loyal friends Makayla and Alex, makes an excellent webtective team while demonstrating what true friendship means and involves: to always have each other's back and protect each other at times of danger.

The film explores the dynamics of father-daughter relationship and of intergenerational relationship as Dot decodes each clue to unravel the puzzle. It champions Christian values in an engaging and enjoyable manner. Besides heart-warming memories and nerve-racking situations, the movie also includes plenty of funny moments that can amuse both kids and their parents.

Exciting and family-friendly, the movie makes a great pick for mystery lovers, young and old alike.

 
discussion by