Mini Reviews winter themeRecently my focus has been all over the place so I’ve been reading children’s books, as they’re shorter and normally more fun to read. Here are my mini reviews of some of those NetGalley arcs.

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John Lennon (Little People Big Dreams) by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara 

cover207292-medium“From Goodreads: “In this book from the multimillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of John Lennon, the boy from Liverpool who dreamed of peace.
When John Lennon formed a band while still in school, he couldn’t have known they were about to change music forever. With their exciting new sounds, rebel attitudes and gift for songwriting, everyone went crazy for The Beatles. Today, John is remembered not just as a musical icon, but as a champion of world peace. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the legendary Beatle’s life. ”

Available now from – Bookshop.org – Hive – Waterstones – Amazon

This is a fab picture book all about the life of John Lennon from before and after his time with The Beatles. The artwork is great fun showing how John was always a dreamer and how he followed those dreams. A fab book to share with young children.

Thanks so much NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for my digital copy via the NetGalley app.

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Prince (Little People Big Dreams) by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara

cover208757-mediumFrom Goodreads: “From a young age, Prince was obsessed with music. Even though he couldn’t read it, his talent – whether on piano, drums, guitar or vocals – turned him into an icon. Combining funk, disco, soul and almost every other genre out there, his songs are some of the best-loved all around the world. Prince knew that he didn’t have to be like anyone else to be a star – and there was no one quite like Prince. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the music legend’s life.“

Pre-order from – Bookshop.org – Hive – Waterstones – Amazon

I loved this wonderful picture book about the life of Prince! It’s very colourful artwork made this a joy to read and I learnt so much about him. I didn’t realise how talented he was. Not only did he produce his first album, but he played all the instruments as well as singing! How amazing is that?! This book made me really appreciate what a fantastic artist he really was and how important it is that this book is available for young children to discover his work. Highly recommended!

Thanks so much NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for my digital copy via the NetGalley app.

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The Boy Who Moved Christmas by Eric Walters

cover209459-mediumFrom Goodreads: “It’s October, but in seven-year-old Evan’s town, every house is decorated for Christmas and a giant holiday parade is about to begin. The bump in Evan’s head means he might not make it to December, so all his friends, family, neighbours, and thousands of strangers have moved Christmas just for him.Evan is delighted to see the trees, the lights, and even snow, but he’s a little worried that the parade might not be complete. How will Santa know he needs to visit so early? Will it even feel like Christmas without Santa there? Based on the true story of Evan Leversage and featuring an afterword by his mother, Nicole Wellwood, The Boy who Moved Christmas is a loving tribute from the duo behind Always With You, and a touching reminder of the power of the Christmas spirit—no matter what time of year.”

Available now from – Amazon

This is such a lovely Christmas book, although it’s quite sad as well as it’s based on a true story. It’s all about how a family and community came together to bring Christmas early to help a little boy celebrate one last time. The illustrations are lovely and I could feel the excitement and wonder in Evan’s heart as he experienced his best Christmas ever!

Thanks so much NetGalley and Nimbus Publishing Limited for my digital copy via the NetGalley app. 

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Calvin the Christmas Tree: The Greatest Christmas Tree of All by Stephen G. Bowling  

 

cover208761-mediumFrom Goodreads: He’s been preparing for the season since he was a sapling. But will he be tall enough to start spreading joy? The thought of missing Christmas has little Calvin quaking in his roots. The smallest tree on his famous farm, his branches get all ruffled when a grumpy old coot says he isn’t strong enough for ornaments. But he’s thrilled when he’s finally pulled from the ground and put on sale just in time for Christmas Eve! As excited families whisk away all the other evergreens, Calvin’s smile fades when he finds himself all alone. And he worries the grizzled meanie might’ve been right when the store closes, and he’s covered in snow… until he sees headlights peeking through the storm. Will Calvin be left out in the cold, or is one special family about to make him their shining star? Calvin the Christmas Tree is a beautifully illustrated children’s picture book. If you or your child like hand-painted wonders, classic scenes from simpler times, and charming emotional journeys, then you’ll love Stephen G. Bowling’s heartwarming tale.“

Available from – Amazon

This is a quirky book all about Calvin, a Christmas tree who wants to be a Christmas tree in someone’s home, but is constantly being told that he’s not big enough and not good enough. Whilst the other tress disappear with customers Calvin is still hoping his going to get picked. Calvin was very hopeful and didn’t give up at all even when things looked very bleak indeed.  It’s a story to encourage children to keep going even when they feel like giving up. The book has a vintage look to it which I’m sure will appeal to grandparents and lovers of all things retro. 

Thanks so much NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for my digital copy via the NetGalley app.