Review: WINNIE, The True Story of the Bear Who Inspired Winnie-the-Pooh by Sally M. Walker (C)

WINNIE

The True Story of the Bear Who Inspired Winnie-the-Pooh

by Sally M. Walker

Illustrated by Jonathan D. Voss

Release date: January 20th, 2015

Published by: Henry Holt and Co. (Macmillan)

Genre: Children's Picture Book

Format: Hardcover, eBook

Format read: ARC from the publisher. 

SUMMARY

Who could care for a bear?

When Harry Colebourn saw a baby bear for sale at the train station, he knew he could care for it. Harry was a veterinarian. But he was also a soldier in training for World War I. Harry named the bear Winnie, short for Winnipeg, his company’s home town, and he brought her along to the training camp in England. Winnie followed Harry everywhere and slept under his cot every night. Before long, she became the regiment’s much-loved mascot.

But who could care for the bear when Harry had to go to the battleground in France? 

Harry found just the right place for Winnie while he was away — the London Zoo. 

There a little boy named Christopher Robin came along and played with Winnie — he could care for this bear too!

Sally Walker’s heartwarming story, paired with Jonathan Voss’s evocative illustrations, brings to life the story of the real bear who inspired Winnie the Pooh.

MY REVIEW

I always knew that Winnie-the-Pooh was inspired by a real bear, but I never knew the actual story about how that bear came to inspire A.A. Milne's book. Told in a story format for all children to understand and enjoy, we learn about where the bear was found, how she was loved and brought to England, and how the famous author came to meet her.

During a quick train stop, Harry sees a bear and needs to know why there is a bear on a leash on the platform. He immediately runs off the train to see. And ends up buying the bear and bringing it with him to army training camp.
I don't think Harry, who names the bear Winnipeg, ever thought that he would be caring for a bear while taking of the army's horses during the war. And especially never could have foreseen how she would change everyone's lives, bring so much love and joy to those around her and would later go on to become one of the most famous bears in the world.

What my kids and I enjoyed the most is being able to see black and white photos of Harry, Winnie and other persons mentioned in the book. Along with the grand illustrations, which were precise with age and historical aspects, Winnie's story not only came to life for us, but it felt like we were there, alongside all the characters, discovering this sweet little bear and the world around her.

This is the perfect book for all who love Pooh, history and, also, those with lively imaginations that will allow them to hop on the train with Harry and Winnie and experience a wonderful adventure.

*An ARC was sent to me from the publisher for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Sally M. Walker

Sally M. Walker has written science books for children, including Earthquakes, an NSTA/CBC Best Science Trade Book of 1997. 

She lives in DeKalb, IL.

Goodreads / Website

Review: ARIANNA AND THE STRAWBERRY TEA by Maria Faulconer (C)

ARIANNA AND THE STRAWBERRY TEA

by Maria Faulconer

Illustrated by Katy Keck Arnsteen

Release date: December 1st, 1998

Published by: Eager Minds

Genre: Children's Picture Book

Format: Hardcover

Format read: Hardcover from the author.

SUMMARY

When Arianna and her stuffed bear arrive at the elegant Grand Hotel, where children are not allowed, the looks of horror that greet them gradually change to appreciation.

MY REVIEW

A delightful little book about the innocence and naive mischief of a little girl and her little bear. The author gives life to the story by showing us what the adult world looks like through the eyes of a child.

Arianna and her family arrive in front of their hotel in the middle of a flurry of snow. Arianna and her little bear, Monsieur Le Bear, assumes that the set of doors right next to her is where she needs to go. And this is where her little adventure begins!
For many years, this hotel has served many people, including kings, but, they have never had any children. Especially one with a bear.
Arianna speaks to the doorman, he doesn't respond.
She enters the lobby and leaves puddles on the floor and then walks barefoot on the plush carpet. The maids stared in wonder and curtsied, perhaps thinking she's a princess.
Arianna then ends up in the hotel's restaurant and is ignored until she drops her napkin and comes face-to-face with one of the waiters. She then orders a pot of strawberry tea and chocolate tarts. The grand people sitting in the restaurant overhear the wonderful request and begin ordering the same thing.
Arianna doesn't seem to notice that her presence in the no children allowed hotel is causing quite a disturbance. After all, she's just a child exploring and being herself. Like any other child would behave.
Soon enough, Arianna's parents finally catch up to her and explain what has happened, and what she has done. However, with a sweet turn of events, the fun continues on! And everyone couldn't be happier!

The illustrations look like the picture books I used to read when I was a little girl - bright colorful sketches that can be quite regal but humorous too! A lot of the characters remind me of those that I would have found in Amelia Bedelia stories; like a classic.

The sweetest book for the avid little reader in your life!

*I received this book as a gift from the author. This does not affect my review. All thoughts are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Maria Faulconer

Maria Faulconer has published fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. She loves writing stories, especially ones that tug at the heartstrings.

A huge animal lover, and an adoptive mom herself, she knew when she saw a photo of a baby gorilla snuggling with his surrogate mom that she had to tell their story – A Mom for Umande. 

Her first children’s book, Arianna and the Strawberry Tea, was used for a statewide literacy program. 

She currently writes for Colorado Springs Style magazine and is working on a YA novel. She lives in Colorado with her husband and two children.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

Blog Tour (Review and Giveaway): A MOM FOR UMANDE by Maria Faulconer (C)

http://jenhalliganpr.com/tour/a-mom-for-umande/

A MOM FOR UMANDE
A True Adoption Story
by Maria Faulconer
Illustrated by Susan Kathleen Hartung
Release date: April 3rd, 2014
Published by: Dial Books for Young Readers
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Format: Hardcover, eBook
Format read: Hardcover from the author.


SUMMARY

The heart-tugging true story of how a baby gorilla found love in the arms of a surrogate mom.

When Umande was born, his mother didn’t know how to take care of him. So, he was hand-reared by keepers at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs. For eight months, the keepers crawled on the ground with him to show him how to walk; coughed in his face to teach him discipline; and gave him happy gorilla grumbles to encourage him. But for Umande, something was still missing. Luckily, a thousand miles away at the Columbus Zoo, a mom was waiting just for him.

This touching true story about finding a family will resonate with animal lovers and adoptive families alike.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble

MY REVIEW

This little gorilla's story will tug at your heartstrings bringing tears to your eyes. The author tells his story with such grace and tenderness, even your little one will understand, feel, the love that went into this book.

When Umande was born, his mom didn't know how to care for him. Even though they were both surrounded by other gorillas, none of the others had ever had any experience with how to handle a baby gorilla, the band did not know how to support and aid the new mother. Umande was left alone and neglected. The zookeepers had to step in and take care of him. Like an infant baby, the zookeepers fed and played with him. They taught him how to play and fend for himself. They loved him as best as they could while they found him a new home, a new family.
Soon enough, Umande is sent to another zoo to hopefully be his new home. They introduce him to Lulu, an experienced mother whose babies have all grown up. Lulu instantly takes a liking to Umande, and within minutes the two start bonding and grow to love one another.
Umande has found a new mom. A new place to call home.

The illustrations perfectly portray Umande's transition and the adoration, warmth and care that he received from his caretakers. You can see and feel the hopes and dreams that they had for Umande to have a happy life, home and family. And of course, we also see the beautiful love between mother and child unfold right before our eyes.

An endearing picture book that will be loved by many... a story to share not only with adoptees and their families, but with anyone. Umande is sure to teach many that hope is never lost, and that thoughtfulness and love can be found.


*I received this book from the author for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

GIVEAWAY

Winner will receive a gift basket that includes a $50 Amazon gift card, a copy of A MOM FOR UMANDE, a stuffed baby gorilla, a gorilla zoo book, a miniature wooden zoo train set, Gummi Bears, and rock candy!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
(Bumbles and Fairy-Tales will not be held responsible for any lost, damaged, unclaimed, etc. prizes.)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Maria Faulconer

Maria Faulconer has published fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. She loves writing stories, especially ones that tug at the heartstrings.

A huge animal lover, and an adoptive mom herself, she knew when she saw a photo of a baby gorilla snuggling with his surrogate mom that she had to tell their story – A Mom for Umande. 

Her first children’s book, Arianna and the Strawberry Tea, was used for a statewide literacy program. 

She currently writes for Colorado Springs Style magazine and is working on a YA novel. She lives in Colorado with her husband and two children.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, January 12th - Geo Librarian

Tuesday, January 13th - A Book and a Latte

Wednesday, January 14th - Bumbles and Fairy-Tales

Friday, January 16th - In Between the Pages

Monday, January 19th - Such a Novel Idea

Wednesday, January 21st - Mundie Kids

Friday, January 23rd - Adoption Mama

Monday, January 26th - WS Momma Readers Nook

Wednesday, January 28th - A Leisure Moment

Friday, January 30th - Historical Fiction Obsession

Review: SUPERTRUCK by Stephen Savage (C)

SUPERTRUCK

by Stephen Savage

Release date: January 6th, 2015

Published by: Roaring Brook Press (Macmillan)

Genre: Children's Picture Book

Format: Hardcover, eBook

Format read: ARC from the publisher

SUMMARY

When the city is hit by a colossal snowstorm, only one superhero can save the day. 

But who is this mysterious hero, and why does he disappear once his job is done? 

Find out in this snowy tale about a little truck with a very big job, 

the second of Steve Savage's vehicle-based picture books.

MY REVIEW

In this charming little book, we learn about all the important and hardworking vehicles that move around our cities and towns, helping us in many ways, always getting their jobs done no matter what the season is. The fire truck puts out fires, the tow truck rescues cars... and the garbage truck, well, he just collects the trash.

But, who will help them all when a terrible blizzard storms in and the whole city has to come to a complete standstill??? SUPERTRUCK to the rescue!!!
All the trucks, big and small, are stuck and cannot complete their jobs. But Supertruck puts on his plow and digs the whole city out! The other trucks are so grateful... and wonder, who is this marvelous vehicle?

First of all, the cuteness starts with brightly colored and captivating illustrations. Each page is filled to the brim with minimalist drawings and colors, giving each vehicle its most known quality shape and color to stand out and easily be identifiable.
Second, the simple storyline is quite engaging. After the first few reads, my one year old scramble off to go find his trucks - not only did we match most of them to the pictures in the book, but we also played and made sure to give Supertruck time to cover his identity, just like Superman. I adore books that encourage my kids to get up and play while reading it!
And lastly, who doesn't love a good superhero!!!

A sweet book for the little superhero/comic book lover in your family! 

*An ARC copy was sent to me from the publisher for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Stephen Savage

Goodreads / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter

Review: THE ANIMALS' SANTA by Jan Brett (C)

THE ANIMALS' SANTA
by Jan Brett

Release date: October 21st, 2014

Published by: Putnam Juvenile (Penguin)

Genre: Children's Story and Picture Book

Format: Hardcover, eBook

Format read: Hardcover from the publisher. 

SUMMARY

When Big Snowshoe tells Little Snow that the animals’ Santa is coming with presents for everyone, Little Snow wants to know who he is. The animals say they have never seen him.  Maybe he’s a badger, a moose, a polar bear, or a wolf, they tell him.  But this spunky little rabbit thinks they are just fooling him.

On Christmas Eve, Big Snowshoe finds a way to see the animals' Santa when a Snowy Owl in a red cap swoops down with a pack full of presents.  Never again will an excited Little Snow doubt that there is an animals' Santa.

MY REVIEW

Jan Brett is one of our most favorite children's writers and illustrators to date. Her books are so intricate, yet inviting and heartwarming. Her beautifully woven stories are fables that are thought-provoking and memorable...

In THE ANIMALS' SANTA, Big Snowshoe and his forest friends try to explain to his little brother, Little Snow, that the animals' Santa is coming. Little Snow wants to know who the animals' Santa is. But none of the animals have ever seen who it is that brings them presents every Christmas. 

The animals then proceed to tell Little Snow all the gifts they had received the year before. But Little Snow is convinced that it is all not true. Wouldn't someone have seen him by now? Or seen his tracks in the snow? All the animals then try to guess as to who the animals' Santa may be, since there is always snow at Christmas they begin to presume that it has to be large animals that can plow through the elements. But Little Snow gets upset, he is still unconvinced and thinks that everyone is teasing him and trying to trick him into believing in something that no one has seen.

On Christmas Eve, when they all go to bed, Big Snowshoe comes up with an idea... and soon enough, they are all awaken to a beautiful discovery!

The story itself is engaging and beautiful, however, the illustrations really bring it to life. Throughout the book, the larger panels support the main narrative between Little Snow, Big Snowshoe and the other animals. But on each page, there are smaller panels telling a smaller, quieter story that will engage your little ones curiosity - this side story will encourage your child to create their own story and make their own predictions as to who the animals' Santa could possibly be. 

All who love children's stories, pictures books and memorable holiday stories to share with their families will absolutely fall in love with this new heartfelt and joyous Christmas book.

*I received a hardcover copy from the publisher for an honest review.

All thoughts are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Jan Brett

With over thirty three million books in print, Jan Brett is one of the nation's foremost author illustrators of children's books. Jan lives in a seacoast town in Massachusetts, close to where she grew up. During the summer her family moves to a home in the Berkshire Hills of Massachusetts.
As a child, Jan Brett decided to be an illustrator and spent many hours reading and drawing. She says, "I remember the special quiet of rainy days when I felt that I could enter the pages of my beautiful picture books. Now I try to recreate that feeling of believing that the imaginary place I'm drawing really exists. The detail in my work helps to convince me, and I hope others as well, that such places might be real." 
As a student at the Boston Museum School, she spent hours in the Museum of Fine Arts. "It was overwhelming to see the room-size landscapes and towering stone sculptures, and then moments later to refocus on delicately embroidered kimonos and ancient porcelain," she says. "I'm delighted and surprised when fragments of these beautiful images come back to me in my painting." 
Travel is also a constant inspiration. Together with her husband, Joe Hearne, who is a member of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Jan visits many different countries where she researches the architecture and costumes that appear in her work. "From cave paintings to Norwegian sleighs, to Japanese gardens, I study the traditions of the many countries I visit and use them as a starting point for my children's books." 

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