Harry and the Hot Lava by Chris Robertson

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers. .. the place to be when you need to let your imagination run free; whether for fun or to preserve your own sanity, we're here for you.

Recently for me, reading time has been harder to find than a needle in a haystack, at night without a flashlight and using only tweezers. *-* Needless to say, no reading in a day makes this girl an unhappy camper indeed...but that's beside the point and something that's made better with a good book. Take today's ebook for example. It comes to us from an author featured previously right here on the site and stars a creative work of Picture Book wonder that takes something so simple, so overlooked and works it into a bookish joy. Don't believe me? Allow me to further convince you. ^-^ Today's ebook of choice is. ..

Harry and the Hot Lava

by

Chris Robertson

Xist Publishing

ISBN: 9781623955755
eISBN: 9781623955762

This is a 19 page ebook about a boy named Harry narrowly escaping this AMAZINGLY hot lava flow that's following him no matter where he goes. Hide in a closet? Nope, it's creeping under. Climb on the bunk beds? Ahh! The levels are rising captain! How about between these bookcases or balancing precariously on a kitchen tile like an island at sea? Egads! It's STILL coming!  Is no where safe from it's deadly crawl? Can no one save our leading little man? *gulp*

Okay, okay. .. time to relax. No one was hurt in the making of this imaginative adventure through the epages... but their sense of reality was certainly put to the test. I love how this author takes something so simple and with a healing dose of imagination,  turns it into something altogether different in the best way possible. Last time around it was a yellow umbrella. Now, it's something we all possess in some measure, that grows with use and with time, that'll never dessert us even in our darkest days. Can you guess what it is?  ~listens~ No... though those were all good answers. Come here, I'll whisper it to you. ...

.. it's the power of imagination.

Uh huh. That's right. You heard me. 

IMAGINATION.... and if I say that word one more time, I may break into song ala Disney's Epcot and Figment, the little purple dragon. (*flashback*) In this story, it reminds us just how much power it (imagination) holds to change the world we live in. Whether good or bad, happy or sad, remains a choice given solely to the user... but one thing's for certain, it packs a punch every time and it's something you never outgrow. Here we are offered the chance to walk, run, and jump through Harry's story with a surprise ending that is sure to bring a smile to your face....AND just when you think it's over, turn the page (or flick the screen); there's one more around the corner.

So, in conclusion, do I recommend this ebook? Indeed I do. .. for one, for all, the big and the small. It's a grand time to be had while it lasts and then some. .. after all, one never knows where the spark of imagination will lead you and when combined with the fabulous artistic styling we've come to love in this author's works, I do dare to say we have a WINNER.

Author Chris Robertson

Special thanks to author Chris Robertson for the review ebook and the chance to bring this fun- tastic title to all of you.  (THANKS! ) To discover more about this title as well as the author's other works, be sure to visit his official site, like him on Facebook, or follow along on Twitter. This title was released last month via Xist Publishing, so be on the lookout for it at an online retailer of your choosing.

Until next time. .. happy reading! 

Why Blue? by Josh Tuininga

Hi guys!

Welcome back to the site that signs up to bring the bookish fun to every virtual potluck…you know, if we were to throw one and all (^_^)…Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we’re being visited by an old friend…or rather a recent publication from a publisher I’ve featured before on the site…by the name of Xist Publishing.  Recognize them?  Well, if you’re a fan of picture-esque delights, you’re probably on a first name basis.  They are well known for their ebook editions of picture book wonders made to delight, dazzle, entertain, and grow young minds.  The title in today’s spotlight fits that bill to a “T” and raises the bar with a good dose of imagination.  So, get ready, get set, it’s time to meet today’s featured ebook of choice….

Why Blue?

By

Josh Tuininga

Xist Publishing

9781623955533 (HC)

9781623955540 (EB)

So, why blue indeed?

When it comes to favorite colors, THIS is mine.

BLUE.

In it’s many shades, moods, and forms, it plays a role in my day to day life.

It’s my go to color for my wardrobe.

It’s my mood enhancer, able to add a smile to a down turn day.

It’s the color of my eyes.

It’s my favorite crayon in the box.

It’s also the color of the sky…

…or is it?

That’s what this book’s title question is pointed towards.

WHY is the sky BLUE?

With the rainbow of colors out there, why not chartreuse with purple spots.

Or how about mango?

Lavender would be lovely.

Though apricot would lend a soft glow as well.

Our leading young lady, Maya, ponders this very thought and these very options.  When the pondering becomes too big for her, she seeks the knowledge of those wiser than her own years.  What she comes to discover is that somewhere between the scientific reasons and passing fancies, the reason for that great blue beyond is different for us all, and the meaning just as unique.  There is no right answer, nor is there a wrong one…and the fact of the matter is that it’s not AWAYS blue!  It has different moods just as we and shows them by splashing the sky with colors like a toddler with a paint bucket (note to readers, do not give a toddler a paint bucket!)…and that’s just the daytime sky.  At night, there are other visual delights to entertain…and when we close our eyes, the possibilities of those delights are endless.

So, what’s this all add up to?

Well, first and foremost, a delightful picture book meant to be shared with readers of all ages.  One can only begin to  imagine the array of responses to the question posed (…in fact, my dear readers….why do YOU think the sky is BLUE?), but one thing’s for certain, it’s sure to be filled with imagination, creativity, and heart.  Taking all that into account, we’d be remiss in not mentioning the artwork throughout the story.  Young Maya can be seen in most frames as she works her way through the story and the question that has captured her mind.  It was fun seeing her proposed color options for the sky realized, the opinions of others take shape, and finally her dreams take flight.  The colors used were just vivid enough, while the imagery gave readers a starting point to create their own mental masterpieces.  A great combo indeed and an experience just right for story time, bedtime, or really…ANY time!

 Ebook for review courtesy of author Josh Tuininga.  (THANKS!)  for more information on this title or to join the conversation on why the sky is blue, seek out the official website, Facebook page, Pinterest board, or tweet using the #WhyBlue hashtag.  This title is available now in print and ebook forms via Xist Publishing, so seek thee out a copy from your retailer of choice.

Until next time…happy reading!

Secret Agent Josephine in Paris by Brenda Ponnay

Greetings.

Welcome to SFIR.

For those in the know, that acronym makes sense; for those not, you’ll just have to wait for your security level to be increased.  Rest assured, in either case, you’re about to embark on an adventure…should you choose to accept the mission.  Then again, why WOULDN’T you?  The only danger you’re in is of adding another BOOKISH bout of fun to your “been there, read that” list.

So pack your bags, ready your passports, and don your best disguise.

Today’s ebook of choice will appear in 3…2…1…

Secret Agent Josephine in Paris

By

Brenda Ponnay

9781623955243

Xist Publishing

Secret Agent Josephine (aka SAJ) is one cool cat and her sidekick Bug (aka her daughter) is pretty awesome herself.  While putting the final touches on a project for her daughter, she is summoned to Paris by Spy Headquarters to catch none other than Sean Slippy, the notorious art forger…and bird smuggler.  (What? He has a special coat to smuggle them in…don’t look so skeptical or your eyebrows might stay that high forever…)  He’s on the loose and reeking havoc through the city of a million lights, unless someone can put a stop to his nefarious activities.  Is SAJ the right gal for the job?  Will she manage to evade detection and infiltrate his network of thievery?  Or will she be caught by surprise and have to use all her spy know how and connections to the outside world to save not only herself but the day?  Dun dun dunnn…. 

Okay, so first things first, I totally need that Super-Expanding Spy Bag and I have a friend that would ADORE the Telescoping Heel Spy Boots.  Can you imagine the multiple uses those two could be put to?  ^_^ Anywho…our lady spy duo, because let’s face it, Bug gets in on this action too, kills two birds with one stone; sightseeing in Paris AND hunting down their target.  No worries to the parents concerned about the antics in the book, they are on the mundane side but entertaining and creative in full.  The illustrations provide something for the littlest readers to gaze at while growing and older readers will utilize the details included visually to enhance the brief story.

In short, a winning combination with appeal for guys and gals…and a good warning against wearing bright red socks; you know, if you plan on committing crimes and all, that whole inconspicuous thing works WONDERS.  ^_^  Ebook for review courtesy of Xist Publishing.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their full catalog, be sure to stop by their official site or catch them on Twitter.  This title is available now so seek thee out a copy for some family or solo reading fun.  Oh and on the P.S. side of things, I gotta say I LOVE the author’s dedication on the cover…it’s to her blog readers!  (*heart warmed*)

Until next time…happy reading!

My Yellow Umbrella by Chris Robertson

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers....the place to be when you're day is dark and gray but a little reading might just help bring the sunshine in.  

That's right.  I aim to be that bright spot in your day.  Hopefully I'm achieving my goal and if not, I suspect you'd all tell me, right?  *looks nervously round*  Speaking of bright spots, today's featured title will definitely work towards that goal and surprised me in the process too!  How so?  Well, from the title and the cover I was thinking ...what a perfect fit for a rainy day!  In actuality, it was something more.  Ready to meet today's guest?  Shake off the rain droplets and put your galoshes up to dry, it's time to focus on today's ebook of choice....

My Yellow Umbrella

by

Chris Robertson

Xist Publishing

ISBN:  9781623955434

eISBN:  9781623955427

This is a little ray of sunshine in an otherwise monotone world.  We step into the pages with a young girl and her pup as she greets the world with a smile and her trusty yellow umbrella.  It makes grey skies blue.  It turns frowns upside down.  It makes the perfect accessory for any outing, outfit, or outlandish mood...all by itself.

It's a security blanket without the nap time draw.  It's a creative spark without a flame.  It's a positive outlook given a form everyone recognizes as something that protects us from the storm...as well as something that opens up a realm of possibilities when options seem limited.  The adventures the little girl has with her yellow umbrella will inspire many children to think outside the box...as well as some adults.  (^_^)

Throughout her adventures, you can't help but be captivated by the illustrations.  Simple yet powerful with details spared and to spare; each scene has something to share in its extraordinarily understated way.  But...the fun doesn't stop there.  Though storybooks are moved along by their pictorial contributions, the story in this one though apart from the action at times, allows you to float down the river, sail through the night sky and ride along with the little girl (and pup!) as they ride the trolley.  They narrate yet only just allowing room for your imagination to take care of the rest.  Perhaps my favorite scene of all is when her color choice is being explained...gotta say, I have to agree.  Yellow may not be everyone's color, but it definitely brings a smile to your face.

Author Chris Robertson

Ebook for review courtesy of author Chris Robertson.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this great for all ages title as well as his other works, be sure to check out his official site, like him on Twitter, or friend him on Facebook.  This title is available now in ebook AND print forms via Xist Publishing, so seek thee out a copy for your reading and sharing pleasure.

Until next time....happy reading!

Show your true colors with...Blucy by Julia Dweck

Hi guys!

Welcome back to another week here at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers...the place where reviews are written while often listening to Pandora and shared with a smile in my heart.

Today, we're exploring an upcoming ebook release from a Children's author we've featured here a few times over.  This time around,  she's letting things go to the cats, or rather one particular kitten whose coat is a peculiarly pretty shade of...blue.  Ready to read all about it?  Today's ebook of choice is...

Blucy

by

Julia Dweck

Illustrated by

Erika LeBarre

The tale begins with a little girl named Mandy on a special mission.  She's at the pound and ready to bring one lucky little fur baby with her to their new forever home; a happy feeling indeed.  However....the kitty chosen is no ordinary cat.  No really!  When the newly named Blucy feels happy, sad, mad, or in-between, her fur changes color to match her mood,  leading to a blue tinged adventure filled with mischief, exploration and finally understanding as two hearts from different worlds come together to form a bond of love that will only grow.

Known for her talent in rhyming tales for little ones, author Julia Dweck hits the nail on the head once again with Blucy.  The rhymes are spot on and though the combinations at times are surprising, (but in a good way) it allows the story to come across loud and clear.  Let us not forget the amazing illustrations!  The color palette is rich, the blues varied as need be to fit the events transpiring, and the texture will make you want to stroke Blucy's fur right on the e-page.  You'll get lost with Blucy as she hides among the forget-me-nots, shake off the pool water when she dives in for an impromptu swim, and gasp in mock horror (okay, somewhat mock) when she has an encounter with the curtains (which I don't truly think she intended, but still!), all on a quest to find a place where she truly belongs.  Little does she know it, it's closer than she thinks....good girl, Mandy.

ARC ebook for review courtesy of author Julia Dweck.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as her growing catalog of ebook wonders for readers of all ages, be sure to stop by her official site, like her on Facebook, or follow along on Twitter.  To discover the world of illustrator Erika LeBarre, click on over to her official site.  This title will be available for download beginning August 13th via Xist Publishing, however you can pre-order it now via this link for easy access on release day.  You can even plan a blue themed party to celebrate Blucy's arrival; how cool would THAT be?!


Until next time...happy reading!

Toby the Flying Cat by Yvonne Belshaw

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers...the place to be when bookish is not just a word, but an attitude.  ^_'

Today, we're taking it easy as you should be too, it is Saturday after all.  We're heading to the land of the ebook with a Children's title that's both a storybook AND a picture book all in one, extending the audience to the wee little ones as well as those old enough to truly enjoy the story content.  Cat fan?  You're in luck!  It stars a mighty cute kitty cat that has a very special talent too.  Ready to meet him?  Here we go!  Today's ebook of choice is...

Toby the Flying Cat

by

Yvonne Belshaw

Illustrated by

Tamia Sheldon

An adopted cat has a very special secret. No one believes Toby's owner when she says he can fly, but when a little kitty is in trouble, will Toby save the day?

Okay, well any book that starts out with a character named Maryrose (nice name!) that lives in a nice, excuse me VERY nice house in a neighborhood like that and loves books, is on the right track for me.  (^_^)

Maryrose wakes up one morning determined to solve her loneliness with the addition of a feline friend. Her first stop, her local animal shelter.  Bonus points to the author for including this in their story; every furry friend deserves a chance at a forever home whether it is their first or last.  I definitely felt for her when selecting her new bestie.  Have you ever been to a shelter?  It's SO HARD to just pick one.  Luckily for her as with most "new fur baby mom's to be", a little gray cat made his presence known.  A few papers later and a trip to the store for supplies and Maryrose was no longer a lonely lady, for she had a friend.

Ah, but as so often seen after a time, her new friend was more than he seemed...not in a bad way mind you, but in an unusual way.  Toby could fly, or so it seemed.  I mean, have YOU ever seen an elephant...I mean a cat, fly?  Me neither, but Maryrose felt certain about what she saw.  When the time comes to show his true colors, Toby doesn't hesitate for a moment proving that the size of the heart doesn't matter when a "hero" is needed, but what's done with that heart is what really counts.

My only less-than-positive mention comes in with the illustrations.  While I loved the inanimate objects representation as the lines were clean, and the color palette appealing, and even the feline friends were adorable, the human elements needed a bit of refining for my taste, even in the abstract.  Perhaps even a slightly shut eye effect, such as that  used with her neighbor at the Cat Society meeting, would assist in making her appear less doll-like with eyes that never blink.

Overall, a read I can certainly see little ones getting behind with its feline hero while older readers will appreciate the lesson in second chances (the shelter) and open minds.  Will your cat start flying around your house any time soon?  Perhaps not...but that doesn't mean in your eyes he/she is anything less than a SUPERSTAR.

Ebook for review courtesy of Calee at Xist Publishing.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their growing catalog, be sure to check out their official site, friend them on Google+, like them on Facebook, or follow along on Twitter.  This ebook is available now so be on the look out for it at on online retailer near you.  Need a few pointers?  No problem...you can purchase directly from the publisher's site, or stop by Amazon or iBooks.

Until next time...happy reading!

An idea I'm totally behind...: A Dog for Everyone by Katrina Streza

Hi there!

It's Friday here at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers (and assumedly for many of you as well) and I don't know about you but I'm glad the weekend is upon us.  Yep.  Even though I've got to work both days, it's only job 2 so that makes a world of difference...planning on getting in some relaxing time - maybe a movie, definitely some reading.  How about you?  Any big plans for the weekend?  Go ahead, you can share.  Inspire us!  ^_^  Anywho...

Today's book of choice is a newish ebook release from the folks at Xist Publishing that stars a critter I simply adore.  Any guesses?  I'll give you one, with a BIG clue...fur babies!  ^_^  If you said DOGS, than BINGO...you're correct!  (If not, it's okay...I won't hold it against you... *smirk*)  Yes, we all know I love my little fur babies and I think they might even be fans of this book...some taking a diva attitude perhaps in having a likeness of them included.  (*ahem*)  Without further ado, today's ebook of choice is....

A Dog for Everyone

by

Katrina Streza

It's a rhyming adventure from start to finish with a goodly amount of the furry little guys depicted within.  I can actually see it as a great way to introduce little ones to many of the breeds that exist when they start to show interest in having one of their own...or perhaps even before.  As you move forward in the text, you learn a bit about what the types featured look like (often in a humorous way...like the Bulldog looking "old, but he's younger than you dad!" ~smirk~) and more often than not, something specific to the breed (like how Poodles are actually "bright hunting dogs"...something I did not actually know!).  Each two page spread notes the facts, the fun, and provides you with a visual of the pup at hand.  Some are sweet, some fluffy, some ready to jump off the page and play...but they are all great depictions of the little guys and will help to associate the breed with the actual dog when viewed in person.

My favorites?  Hard to choose really, especially since I have one or two of those starring here, but picture wise I have to say I thought the Dachshund was ADORABLE and the Basset Hound, a hoot!  Just look at that face...he looks like he's about to stand up and speak!  My absolute FAVORITE PASSAGE though, hands...excuse me, paws down, would be the one referencing shelter dogs.  There are so many fur babies looking for their second chance for many a reason.  Who can say no if at all possible to give one of these little (or BIG) guys a new forever home?

So, to conclude my little love fest for fur babies and draw to an end my look at this picture ebook, I'd have to say it's a great starting place to discover who's who of the doggy world.  It explores the different types, attitudes and responsibilities that go along with them without inundating young minds with TOO much information at once.  It let's them revel in the joy of their decision to ask for a pup, while enlightening them to the fact that they are more then just a toy...they are living creatures; a point that parents will appreciate ten fold I'm sure.

Special thanks Calee at Xist Publishing for the ebook review copy.  (THANKS!)  For more information on site or follow along on Twitter.  This ebook is available now so seek thee out a copy at an online retailer of your choosing.  Need a starting point?  Check out Amazon and Xist Publishing directly.
this title as well as their growing catalog, be sure to stop by their

Until next time..happy reading!

BLOG TOUR: The Zebra Said Shhh by M.R. Nelson

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers...the place to be when the need to read strikes day or night, we've got something to delight, enchant or help chase away the sleepy time blues...or welcome them as is the case today.

Today, we're playing host to an Xist Publishing blog tour (the last stop too!) featuring a newly released title that is sure to get you and yours ready for bed...but just as surely can make sleep a distant memory.  Curious?  Lets satisfy that curiosity, shall we? Please welcome today's blog tour guest and ebook of choice....

The Zebra Said Shhh

by

M.R.Nelson

Illustrated by

Tamia Sheldon

A story about animals both big and small in a zoo that could be anywhere, even perchance the one nearest your own home, preparing for that nightly time of rest (that escapes some of us) we like to call...sleep.  *listens*  Hmm.  It seems we don't have a lot of takers from the start on that idea though, so the zebra takes it upon himself to play time keeper for the night.  A few dozen reminders later and we have a peaceful scene of contentment for everyone as heads meet pillows, or rather grassy tufts, watery bubbles and mud puddles around the zoo bringing our adorable little story to a close.

Truth be told, I can honestly see this one being read to little ones at almost any time of day, not simply bedtime or nap time   How can that be with a title/story line like that?  I'll tell you how...because it's unique.  It celebrates the sounds of life from all the critters in the zoo and invites readers to make them along with the animals mentioned...after all, how else is one to read about the seals..."They said 'ar, ar' and splashed around in their pool" ...without actually MAKING the sound?  ^_^    The uniqueness comes out after we make our initial rounds as each animal falls under the enticing spell of a good night's rest; closing their eyes, getting all snuggled in their tree, den or favorite grassy knoll and leading *yawn* readers to *yawn* finally join the....zzzz.  -wakes up- Oops!  Sorry.  The book is just so relaxing!  ^_^

Aside from the active or passive approach to reading the story, you also have the artwork to contend with...and by contend I mean marvel at.  Each swipe of the finger or click or the mouse brings you the equivalent of a two page full color spread with beautiful renditions of all your animal friends.  From the zebra to the hippo, the giraffe to the turtle, they are all represented in their habitats and in eye catching colors that will fascinate the tall and the small.  My favorite?  The parrot...no, the lion...no, the zebra!  Wait, can't I just have THREE favorites?  *decides in the affirmative*  Which one will be yours?  *curious*

Author M.R. Nelson

In conclusion, another great release from a name that's becoming well known in the Children's ebook arena featuring something we all love in some fashion...animals and sleep!  ^_^  The perfect read for your kiddos next bedtime?  Maybe.  A great selection for the next show and tell at school?  Perhaps.  Better still, we'll sum it up as a great read for all ages but geared towards the little ones that will have you bark-ar-stomp-snap-snort-ing til you reach book's end...and perhaps beyond.

Ebook for review courtesy of Calee at Xist Publishing.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their growing collection, be sure to visit their official website or follow along on Twitter.  To discover more about the author, she can be found blogging over at Wandering Scientist or on Twitter.  This book was released March 5th, 2013 and is available online at most virtual retailers.  As previously mentioned, today's post was part of a blog tour, and though today may be the final stop, the fun lives on!  Be sure to check out the rest of the tour as it made its way through the blogosphere, snippets of which can be found in their Twitter feed.

Until next time...happy reading!

Expressions of Love for All Ages from Xist Publishing!

Why hello there!

Happy Monday and welcome back to another week here at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.  Before we get started, a reminder that you have TWO great chances to win right now on the blog…both of which end THIS WEEK!  So before you leave today, be sure to get your entries in.  

*checks remind fabulous readers about contest off the to-do list*

Now then, on to today’s post…

It’s February…in case you forgot to change your calendar which would be TOTALLY easy because let’s face it, this year is FLYING by…and guess what that means?  Only so many odd days til the big V…Valentine’s Day.  That’s right.  As of today, you have 10 days left to figure out what you are or are not going to do for that special someone in your life (or for all us singles out there, for yourself) on this Hallmark-ishly charged day.  So, what shall it be?  Candles?  Flowers?  Chocolates?  Dinner and a movie?  Seeing as we’re all a bit on the bookish side, how about a book?  What a novel idea (pun TOTALLY intended) and as it just so happens, that brings me right to today’s featured titles; funny how that happens, no?  ^_^  Now before you head off into uncharted reading waters, no; they’re not THAT kind of book (although to each their own) but rather ones you can even share with the little ones in your life let alone your significant other.  Interested?  I thought you might be so without further ado, let's get down to today's COMBO post.  

Oh.  I did mention this was a 2-for-1 deal, right?  My apologies!  It is in fact a two-fer and a grand one at that because both titles are adorably wonderful image wise and just right to express your sentiments to or about the one(s) you love.  So, ready the count down....here come the books!

I Love You!

by

Calee M. Lee

illustrated by

 Tricia Tharp

This ebook features a collection of similes appearing on torn out sheets of notepad paper (nice touch!) as the giver tries to explain the depth of their love for their child.  A dog and its bone.  A secret to an ear (love that one!).  A pillow fort.  A shooting star (so beautiful!).  Some are more obvious associations, others not so much but they stretch the imagination and paired with the adorably cute drawings that appear as a combination of artistic measure and a child's coloring book, you've got a winning combination sure to warm the hearts of readers of all ages...with children and without because really, who can't appreciate a good picture book?!  In fact, though being featured at this lovey-dovey time of year, I can totally see this being used as a token of love felt, shared ANY time of year.  Now back to the holiday fast approaching and another title primed for the picking...

Be Mine

by Brenda Ponnay

I hesitate to call this one an ebook per se simply because the two page spreads of graphically simple yet enjoyable images and short but sweet sayings make it the PERFECT Valentine card pull out instead.  I mean seriously, who knew a little owl hooting "Whoooo loves you?" could be THAT cute!  From puppies to kitties, foxes to rockets and everything in between, there is something to cover everyone on your Valentine list and if it's not too punny to say...I'll think sharing this book with your special someone's will definitely make you the cat's meow.  ^_^

So, Valentine's Day...it's fast approach can send some running especially if you've no idea what to get or do. How's about sharing the joy of reading with those you love this year and put a smile on the faces of the little ones (and not so little ones) in your life with sentiments straight from the heart?  SO much simpler than flowers (though those do smell nice) and much easier to send across the miles (melted candy...not such a winner)....

Ebooks for review courtesy of Calee at Xist Publishing.  (THANKS!)  For more information on these titles or their complete and growing catalog of colorful digital wonders, be sure to visit their official website.  These ebooks are available now at an online retailer near you.  For a quick jump over to snag a copy to call your own, just click on the links embedded in the titles.

Until next time...happy reading!

We ALL Need Somebody to 'Leaf' On...

Why hello there!

Fancy meeting you here once again.  I mean I know I've already had a review go LIVE today but you know sometimes life, even the bookish aspect, can be unexpected...offering you little jewels you need to share while the magic is fresh, tangible.  Such is the case here.

Consider this an impromptu Xist Publishing Day because the next title I'm about to introduce you to is once again from their virtual shelves.  I know, I know...I don't usually do ebooks.  I didn't say they weren't handy if out and about and in need of something to read when you've finished your current paper book, nor did I say that I wouldn't read them if that was the ONLY means of accessing the title...I simply said I prefer PAPER books. Anywho, back to the show here....

Selection number two of the day is not a seasonal title per se as it features no "days of Christmas", reindeer, jolly old chubby guys or little people in pointed shoes, but its message is perfect just the same.  It's one of those titles that can be read any time of year and still hit home for readers young and young at heart.  Without further ado, today's second book of choice is...

The Little Leaf

by

Adam Shaeffer

illustrated by

Turbo Qualls

This is the story of one little leaf (go figure, right?) and his quest to become the biggest, best-est leaf he can be.  Only problem?  No matter what he tries, he doesn't seem to grow ANY bigger...much like the Grinch's heart only without the shrinking.  He stretches, he tugs, he rustles and he sways all to no avail...until one day, on the advice of a friend he tries spending more of his time in the sun.  The results?  Nothing dramatic at first, merely a warmed "body" here and a well fed leaf there, but eventually as time goes by something remarkable happens...something that will have readers cheering for the little leaf near and far.  That my friends is where the lesson comes in...

Now you may be wondering, what sort of lesson could a story like this teach?  I understand, I had to ponder it myself upon book's end.  No lie!  I was moved by the story and thoroughly captivated by the artwork (such unexpected detail abounds) but when things were finished I needed a moment to see where our journey had taken us.  The final destination...an understanding that we are NOT alone in our struggles in life nor in our growth.  We may want to take sole credit for our accomplishments and I'm not saying you shouldn't be proud of them, just remember everything that went into reaching that goal.  Every step taken, every turn made, every influence received...they all go into the final product, in this case...molding you into the person you are or intend to be.

In conclusion, a surprisingly touching story about one little leaf that is really about us all.  It's a reminder that it's okay to seek the help of others, in fact, it's encouraged because each encounter can enrich not only our life experience the world over but help us reach the "me" we truly wish to be.  Bookmarks up to both the author and illustrator for creating such a beautiful and winning combination.  This ebook was just released earlier this week; to snag a copy for your "to-read" list, simply click over to Amazon to begin your journey.

Special thanks to Calee at Xist Publishing for the ebook for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their complete virtual catalog, be sure to visit their official site, add them to your circles on Google+, like them on Facebook or follow along on Twitter.

Until next time...happy reading!

The Twelve Days of Christmas - Digital Style

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers...the place to be when the holiday spirit fills you with joy and happiness...and a desire to read something equally seasonal.

Today's featured title fits that bill most definitely and behold, the gifts on which it is based would actually start being passed out tomorrow so can we say, perfect timing?  ^_^  All a part of my master plan.  Hehe. As this is a short read already, I won't drag my introduction out unnecessarily because really, this is a book/song that almost everyone has encountered at some point or another, just made for a new generation.  Today's book of choice is...

The Twelve Days of Christmas

Illustrated by

Bridget Brighton

That's right.  I didn't miss the author information, it simply lists the illustrator because while the story within hasn't changed from days of old, the illustrations have.  Created to amuse the younger set while still being visually appealing in a simplistic form to adult readers, this is the "12 Days" for the electronic generation...you know, those born with an ereader, tablet, or smartphone in their hand.

The images are crisp and clear and utilize all the seasons palette has to offer.  The "day of" number is presented front and center with the "gift" of that day represented in a smaller tagged on image.  My favorite was probably the "9 ladies dancing" with the image of a ballerina tip toeing across the page; my least favorite was the "11 pipers piping".  How can I have a least favorite?  Well, here's the deal on that...while the little boy blowing his horn was adorable, he was blowing his horn or rather a trumpet...which is not in fact a "pipe" piping.

All in all, a quick seasonal read that can be enjoyed by one and all.  The length of the book is cut down by the fact that it doesn't repeat the gifts given previously every time a new one is introduced but with the swipe of a finger, the click of a mouse or tap of a screen, you can easily relive each day in the same way the song of old dictates.  This ebook is available now for your viewing pleasure, just click on over to Amazon to snag a copy for your holiday reading list.

Ebook for review courtesy of Calee at Xist Publishing.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title as well as their complete catalog (including more seasonal favorites!), be sure to visit their official website.  ALSO, to extend the fun even more with this title, if you visit the website there is a 43-page printable activity book and more just waiting to enhance your yuletide delight.

Until next time...happy reading!