Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY to... LOVE ON THE SHELF by Sheila Roberts!

 Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY to Sheila Roberts as LOVE ON THE SHELF hits bookstore and virtual shelves everywhere via Mira/Harper Collins!

💕 Are romance novels ruining love—or rewriting it? The battle lines are drawn—between a romance-loving bookseller and the shock jock determined to tear happily-ever-afters apart. 

👉 I gotta say, I was stoked to check this one out as I've loved my previous time between the pages with this author's works and it didn't disappoint. It's definitely a story that will pull you in if you love bookish characters (her not him), have a liking for enemies-to-lovers (I mean it takes two to tango), and feel fabulous when the banter is just right (*high fives all around*). So if you're looking to kick off your summer romance reading list, I definitely suggest leaving room for this little beauty!

🌟 Is this title on your TBR or have you read this author's work before? What title are you looking forward to this summer?

 Now more from the publisher...

___________________

ABOUT THE BOOK...

💜 Alice Willoughby and her mom run HEA Books, a cozy shop devoted to love stories and the people who crave them. Alice is great at matching customers with their perfect happily-ever-after…she just can’t seem to find her own.

🎤 Enter Parker Black, a disillusioned radio host who’s reinvented himself as a romance-bashing shock jock. Bitter from his breakup with a romance author who turned love into a four-letter word, Parker takes aim at the entire genre—and his on-air rants start stirring up trouble for Alice’s loyal customers and their partners. He’s arrogant, aggravating, and absolutely not book-boyfriend material.

📚 Parker’s crusade leads to spirited debates and bookstore protests, but when unexpected sparks fly between the two of them Alice begins to wonder if her favorite trope—enemies to lovers—might actually be playing out in real life. Parker may claim romance is a lie…but is he protesting a little too much?

_______________________

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

With more than fifty books to her name, Sheila Roberts is a frequent USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestseller - and a fan favorite. Her Christmas perennial "On Strike for Christmas" was made into a movie for the Lifetime Channel and her novel "The Nine Lives of Christmas" was made into a movie for Hallmark. Hallmark also made a sequel, titled "The Nine Kittens of Christmas." Her most recent novel to hit the small screen was "Christmas on Candy Cane Lane," which aired on the Great American Family Channel in 2022. Before settling into her writing career, Sheila owned a singing telegram company and played in band. When she's not traveling, she splits her time between the Pacific Northwest and Southern California.

_____________________

Special thanks to author Sheila Roberts for the ARC for review and to the publisher for access to the eARC on NetGalley. (THANKS!) This title is available now wherever books are sold. 

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY to... FIRST AND FOREVER by Lynn Painter!

🏈... utterly irresistible romantic comedy about a football star and his team’s die-hard fan who find themselves entangled in a PR stunt that only one of them knows is fake... 🏟

🎈 Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY to author Lynn Painter as FIRST AND FOREVER makes its debut via Berkley Publishing Group/Penguin Randomhouse 🥳

🏆 I don't know about you, but I'm a sucker for the tropes this one is running first string! Fake dating (even if it's only one-sided, hello plot twist!), kinda sorta enemies to lovers, and I may not play sports or watch sports, but I'll definitely dive feet first into a sports romance! 😉

🌟 What are your favorite tropes? Is this title on your radar?

____________________________

ABOUT THE BOOK...

Duffy Distefano loves three things: her dad, the family cat, and Minneapolis Coyote football. So after she gets booed out of a game and becomes the internet’s villain following an awful encounter with the team’s beloved mascot, she is disgruntled, to put it mildly. Eager to clear the air, Duffy agrees to an interview on a hit morning show. She doesn’t expect a co-guest to join her—especially not the Coyotes’ star tight end.

When MVP Connor Cunningham gets tasked with damage control to help his team out of a PR nightmare, he finds himself in a highly amusing verbal sparring match with a recently wronged fan on live TV. The interview instantly goes viral, and the public is obsessed with them. Despite his distaste for PR stunts, a strong push from the Coyotes’ PR team to ride the wave results in Connor asking Duffy out. But he quickly discovers being with Duffy is much easier than he anticipated, and somehow it doesn’t feel fake to him. This secret can only blow up, but all he knows is that if he messes things up with Duffy, it’ll be the greatest fumble of his life.

Oozing with chemistry that feels like fireworks and banter that makes you swoon, Lynn Painter delivers her signature blend of heart and humor in this love story that you won’t soon forget.

🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈

About the author...

Lynn Painter is the New York Times bestselling author of Better Than the Movies and Mr. Wrong Number. She writes romantic comedies for teens and adults, and when she isn’t reading or writing, she can usually be found binge-watching rom-coms or shotgunning energy drinks.

🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈

Special thanks to the Berkley Publishing Group/Penguin Randomhouse team for the eARC and chance to bring this title to you. (THANKS!) Snag your copy today wherever books are sold!

👉  CLICK FOR MORE 👈 

Mother's Day BOOK-ABRATION with Penguin Young Readers!

👩 Happy Mother's Day to all that claim this precious title in any form! 💐 On this occasion, we celebrate all those special moments made as well as those yet to come.

In that spirit, I've got two titles via Penguin Young Readers that let even the smallest of small tell mom how much they mean in a big way...

🏆 World’s Best Mom

By Isabel Otter; illustrated by Lynn Giunta

Grosset & Dunlap

💌 DEAR MOM

Illustrated by Natalie Lundeen

Flamingo

Each one, through beautiful images and simple words, expresses the abundance of love felt for moms and all they do. With easy to read (storybook wonders!) and ready to handle formats (hello, BOARD BOOK!), the tall to the small have the chance to revel in the joy, the memories, and the moments created with this special soul in their lives.

🌼 A treasure for this holiday or any day, take a closer look at a copy near you, and be sure to have a wonderful day whether in person or memory. ❤️

Check out more at the publisher's site...

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/

Special thanks to the Penguin Young Readers team for the chance to highlight these titles for you. 

Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY to... What Kind of Queen? A Royal Biography of Drag Queen and Activist José Sarria By Kyle Casey Chu and Andrew W. Shaffer, Illustrator Cindy Lozito!

Time to blow up the balloons, hang the streamers, and pull out the party hats! We've got a BOOK BIRTHDAY on our hands, and it's time to scream and shout all about it! Coming in hot via via Abrams Books for Young Readers...  🌈 a joyous picture book biography of José Sarria, a pioneering activist, drag queen, and the first openly gay candidate to run for public office in the United States!

🎈 Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY wishes to What Kind of Queen? A Royal Biography of Drag Queen and Activist José Sarria By Kyle Casey Chu and Andrew W. Shaffer, Illustrator Cindy Lozito 🎂

🌟 Have you ever read a Picture Book Biography? Who is someone you've found fascinating or would love to learn more about?

🥳 If you're like me, you love learning new things, and when it's bite sized/fun sized and visually appealing, that makes it special on a whole other level! The #picturebookbiography allows readers of ALL AGES the chance to explore times, places, and the lives of people they may never have and in a way that's not overwhelming. Think more appetizer with the chance to dive into the main course on your own! So for me, this style of #edutainment is a total win. Here we get the highlights of a life lived with passion and a true sense of self that celebrates the you that is YOU not who the world may want to see... and really, being your authentic self is the only way to truly be!

👉 CLICK FOR MORE and spread the love!

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

ABOUT THE BOOK...

Once upon a time, there lived a boy named José who dreamed of becoming royalty—and of a queendom where everyone would be treated fairly and with respect.

A child of immigrants from Colombia, José Sarria was born in San Francisco in 1922. With the support of his family, he grew up to discover what it means to be a queen.

He fought against evil by serving in WWII, helping to liberate a Nazi concentration camp; he inspired others to be their authentic selves by performing at San Francisco's Black Cat Café, a haven for artists and activists; and he cared for his community through his LGBTQ+ advocacy work, including the establishment of the Imperial Court System, a global charitable organization that still thrives today.

Sarria led by example, joyfully giving back to his community while challenging the status quo. With a fairy-tale feel and radiant illustrations, this picture book biography celebrates his legacy of seeing the world not as it is but as it could be

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR...

Kyle Casey Chu, also known as Panda Dulce, is a San Francisco–born-and-raised writer and a founding queen of Drag Story Hour. Her first novel, The Queen Bees of Tybee County (2025), was named an Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature - Children's Literature Honor title. Andrew W. Shaffer is a San Francisco–based historian of LGBTQ community and culture. His background includes graduate work at the University of San Francisco and the University of Wisconsin, Madison, where he helped to build the city’s first permanent LGBTQ archives. 

Cindy Lozito is a mixed Latina illustrator, cartoonist, and muralist based in Philadelphia, originally from Queens, New York. Her murals and artwork have appeared at the World Trade Center and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and in the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times. When she is not illustrating, you can find Lozito giving her terrier mix belly rubs, singing in her local choir, or drinking too much cold brew.

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

Special thanks to Mitch at Abrams for the for heads up on this title. (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, the illustrator, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title celebrates its BOOK BIRTHDAY today, so snag your copy online or at your favorite brick and mortar!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY to... TOE TO TOE by Falon Ballard - REVIEW

 🥳 Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY to TOE TO TOE by Falon Ballard out today via Penguin Randomhouse/G.P. Putnam's Sons 🎉 

Anyone else a fan of the various dance movies like STEP UP or CENTER STAGE? 🙋‍♀️ This story totally put me in the frame of mind of these, but with a bit more swagger, a lot more control, and a flash more heat 🔥 

I loved 💗 both Allegra and Cord (though that sleazy director of hers... 🤬), and watching them as they grew together was something you didn't want to turn away from. They each had their issues (who doesn't?), and the past certainly plays a role in their initial hesitations, but in the end... the heart wants what the heart wants, and you'll be dancing to the beat of their hearts! 🩰

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

About the book...

It takes two to tango.

Allegra Hart has been working her whole life to achieve one goal: become a principal ballerina. When her director starts holding auditions for the lead role in the company’s latest production, Allegra sees this as her chance—maybe her last chance.

The catch? The director wants someone with sex appeal, and he doesn’t think she’s up to the task. Determined to prove him wrong, Allegra enlists the help of the lead dancer of an all-male revue, Cord Donovan, a classically trained dancer who is also the sexiest man she’s ever met. In exchange for lessons on how to ramp up her sex appeal, she promises to help Cord choreograph a new partner piece for his show.

As they practice their moves on and off the stage, Allegra and Cord find themselves battling a growing attraction. Except Allegra is determined not to let a man derail her career . . . but what if she could have both love and success? Or will her involvement with Cord jeopardize everything she’s worked for?

*eARC received via Netgalley for consideration; opinions are my own

Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY to... THE SECRET WINNERS CLUB by Donna Galanti - REVIEW!

🥳 Happy BOOK BIRTHDAY to author Donna Galanti as THE SECRET WINNERS CLUB hits bookstore/virtual shelves via Wild Trail Press! 🎈

🙆‍♀️This is truly a Middle-grade book that celebrates YOU being the totally unique and fabulous individual you are! It stars incredible kids just trying to find themselves in this great big crazy world 🌎 while not only facing the usual trials and tribulations of growing up (schoolwork, friendship, bullies, family life, etc), but with the added "joys" of autoimmune disorders. 

That's right. Each has their own hands dealt to them, but instead of shying away and acting like it defines them, they learn that they are MORE than a diagnosis or set of symptoms... they are BEAUTIFUL, FABULOUS, SMART, CARING, TALENTED... and pretty much anything they want to be. They learn to find their inner strengths and tell the world HERE I AM, LOVE ME FOR WHO I AM. 🙆 It's an incredibly powerful message, and one the world could use now more than ever.

~~~~~~~~~~~

About the book...

1st Rule of The Secret Winners Club:

Do whatever it takes.

Thirteen-year-old Sunny Whitlock has alopecia; an autoimmune condition that’s made her lose her hair—and she’s desperate to be seen as more than just the bald kid. But how? By setting an epic goal: win her school’s junkbot club competition. And if she’s #1, then other kids will have to see beyond her disease … and she’ll finally fit in.

Sunny’s immune-deficient best friends are also tired of looking different and achieving second place in their school competitions. With a bold plan, Sunny bands with them to create The Secret Winners Club, a club devised to win—at any cost—and push them outside their comfort zones.

They promise to trust no one else. It’s all classified! And in total secrecy they aim to help one another become #1 before this middle school year is over. But as they start to succeed, they quickly discover that crossing the line and hurting others can make them even more visible and even more an outsider.

For more or to snag your own copy 👉

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239711837-the-secret-winners-club

https://www.donnagalanti.com/the-secret-winners-club/

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE AUTHOR FOR THE COPY FOR REVIEW (THANK YOU!). THIS TITLE IS AVAILABLE NOW WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD. 

AWARENESS TOUR: In My Mind by Carmen Hernández, Illustrated by HV Helmut - REVIEW + GIVEAWAY!

Hi there!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers. 

Today, we're joining The Children's Book Review for an AWARENESS TOUR already in progress. The star is a new storybook aiming to shine a light on the struggles that can have some kiddos entering the school arena...a little more than on edge. It's a big BIG world out there, and a proper introduction, along with someone in your corner, never hurt. Ladies and gents, today's blog tour guest and ebook of choice is...

In My Mind

Written by Carmen Hernández

Illustrated by HV Helmut

Ages: 3-8 | 38 Pages

9798891382909

Mascot Kids! (2026)

About the book...

 Starting school is both terrifying and exciting for Camilo. He wonders what his new teacher and classmates will think of him. But, as the day unfolds, Camilo has a hard time fitting in. The classroom feels overwhelming, and he battles nerves that make it hard to focus or speak up. He gets distracted, daydreaming about far-away places, and sometimes he forgets that he is in school altogether. But as the day goes on, Camilo discovers unexpected joys.

This heartwarming story captures the challenges of a child with ADHD who has to navigate a busy first day at school.

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Bookshop

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The story takes readers, young and young at heart, on that special first day trip to school. It's scary. It's exciting. It's a whole jumble of feelings and new experiences that can throw anyone for a loop, but for kiddos learning to handle additional challenges like ADHD, it can present a minefield of confusion and uncertainty. Comparing one's self to others is natural, but when it doesn't seem to add up the same way, it can be a heavy hit to a person's growing confidence. Stories like this can help. 

It normalizes the newness and oddness of the situation. It let's them see themselves in others and grow in the knowledge that they are not alone. It helps them, and in turn helps the adults in their lives, celebrate them for who they are while learning how to best help them on their educational journey. No one comes into this world with all the answers, and it does take a village to raise a tiny soul nowadays. The more widespread the message, the better we are all in the end to help each other become the best version of ourselves. Combine the inspiring message with the lovely illustrations, and I can see this story being reached for time and time again. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carmen Y. Hernández was born in Bogotá, Colombia, and moved to the United States at the age of five. Carmen is the first in her family of five to earn a master’s degree in general education. With fifteen years of experience as an educator, she has witnessed a growing number of students with undiagnosed cases of dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and intermittent explosive disorder (IED).

Through this book, Carmen hopes to raise awareness among a new generation of parents about the increasing prevalence of these disorders and the importance of understanding and supporting children with these challenges.

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

TIKTOK

INSTAGRAM 

(Mascot Books)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GIVEAWAY

Enter for the chance to win one of three hardcover copies of In My Mind by Carmen Hernández, a thoughtful story that captures the ups and downs of a child’s first day of school.

In My Mind: Book Giveaway

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Special thanks to Bianca of The Children's Book Review for the chance to bring this title to you and for the ecopy for review! (THANKS!) This post is sponsored by Carmen Hernández. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view. For more information on this author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links above. Be sure to check out the rest of the tour for more bookish fun!

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, February 2, 2026

The Children’s Book Review

Book Review of In My Mind

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

The Starlit Path

Book Review of In My Mind

Wednesday, February 4, 2026

@nissa_the.bookworm

Instagram Post about In My Mind

Thursday, February 5, 2026

Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers

Book Review of In My Mind

Friday, February 6, 2026

@avainbookland

Instagram Post about In My Mind

Monday, February 9, 2026

The Fairview Review

Book Review of In My Mind

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

icefairy’s Treasure Chest

Book Review of In My Mind

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Crafty Moms Share

Book Review of In My Mind

Thursday, February 12, 2026

Un Viaje en Libro

Book Activity for In My Mind

Friday, February 13, 2026

The Little Free Library Mystery Network

Instagram Post about In My Mind

Monday, February 16, 2026

Froggy Read Teach

Instagram Post about In My Mind

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

@bored_military_wife

Instagram Post about In My Mind

Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Lisa’s Reading

Book Review of In My Mind

Thursday, February 19, 2026

Confessions of a Book Addict

Book Spotlight on In My Mind

Friday, February 20, 2026

Country Mamas With Kids

Book Review of In My Mind

Monday, February 23, 2026

A Blue Box Full of Books

Instagram Post about In My Mind

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

@meghenslittlelibrary

Instagram Post about In My Mind

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

@tinks_books_and_fosters

Instagram Post about In My Mind

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

IN MY MAILBOX: FROM THE FIELDS TO THE FIGHT by Angela Quezada Padron, Illustrated by Sol Salinas

📬 NEW ARRIVAL in my mailbox via Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing 📖

When Jessica Govea Thorbourne was four years old, she began picking crops in the California fields. One resilient girl, doing what was needed to help her family. As Jessica grew up, she saw her community struggling. Farm workers were being treated unfairly. But she was just one child. What could she do?

Jessica stood up for justice and learned to organize for change, passing out flyers, speaking to crowds, and rallying other kids to petition for a neighborhood park. As an adult, she joined the United Farm Workers and played a pivotal role in the success of the California Grape Boycott. Though her journey started when she was very young, Jessica found her voice and empowered others to fight for their rights.

Jessica showed that making a difference can start with just one child.

📣 COMING MARCH 24, 2026 via Atheneum Books for Young Readers ... 

🍇 FROM THE FIELDS TO THE FIGHT: How Jessica Govea Thorbourne Organized for Justice ⚖️ by Angela Quezada Padron, Illustrated by Sol Salinas

MARK YOUR CALENDAR,

or preorder your copy today!

🌟 Do you read nonfiction books? What's a favorite you'd recommend?

Special thanks to Alex and the Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing team for the copy for review. (THANKS!)

The FOURTH Post of Bookmas... The Bunny Ballet By Nora Ericson, Illustrated by Elly MacKay

It's day FOUR, but in case you're just tuning in, I'm ready to answer your burning question!

What IS Bookmas?!

Bookmas is similar to Christmas, except it brings tidings of great reads, holiday gifting suggestions, and just about all the bookish fun you can imagine from across the genre spectrum. It's a quick glance at a title I've read or had my attention captured by, with a little something extra to help you get out from under the yuletide stress, and get back to enjoying the season...one page at a time. SNOW now that you know... back to today's feature! 😉

🩰 For the FOURTH post of bookmas, we're dancing our way into...

The Bunny Ballet

By

Nora Ericson

Illustrated by

Elly MacKay

9781419776144

About the book...

Doors are closing, lights are dimming. Strings are singing, it’s beginning.

Hop on in, take your seat, and watch the curtains rise on the Bunny Ballet! When a brother and sister stumble upon an extraordinary woodland show, they’re introduced to the magic of dance. Noses twitch, whiskers quiver, and graceful bunnies leap and soar across the stage as the audience sits on the edge of their seats.

❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️

This sounds absol-BUNNY beautiful!

An adventure with siblings, stumbling upon a magical display of a gorgeous art form, and the inspiration that was so obviously felt from the experience...my hopes are set as high as the dancers flying through the air! I think it would be entertaining, but also something that might spark that interest in dance for little ones just finding their feet. 

❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️

Special thanks to Abrams Books team for the scoop. (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links above. This title is available now for your reading and gifting pleasure! Be sure to stay tuned for more of this series as we approach the holiday!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

The THIRD Post of Bookmas... Hanukkah 1-2-3!: A First Counting Book by Joy Nelkin Wieder, Illustrator Aura Lewis

It's day THREE, but in case you missed the first, and second posts, I'm ready to answer your big question!

What IS Bookmas?!

Bookmas is similar to Christmas, except it brings tidings of great reads, holiday gifting suggestions, and just about all the bookish fun you can imagine from across the genre spectrum. It's a quick glance at a title I've read or had my attention captured by, with a little something extra to help you get out from under the yuletide stress, and get back to enjoying the season...one page at a time. SNOW now that you know... back to today's feature! 😉

🕎 For the THIRD post of Bookmas, we share the holiday fun with...

Hanukkah 1-2-3!: A First Counting Book 

(A Jewish Holiday Concept Book)

Board Books to Celebrate the Jewish Holidays

By 

Joy Nelkin Wieder

Illustrator Aura Lewis

About the book...

Learning to count is as easy as 1, 2, 3 in this unique board book celebrating the holiday of Hanukkah! From opening one gift to lighting two menorah candles, and from frying three latkes all the way to ten people singing a round, young readers will grasp how to count as they learn about the Festival of Lights!

❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️

🌟 There's no better way to spread holiday cheer than including absolutely EVERYONE, from the tall to the really small! Tiny kiddos get a chance to play AND learn about their numbers, about traditions, and about celebrations that don't include the big man in red with this thoughtful #boardbook release just waiting to be added to your collection. It's a festive way to educate, while making sure it's accessible to little hands with its sturdy format. With cheerful illustrations and a vibrate color palette, this will definitely draw readers from all backgrounds!

💫 Do you celebrate the holidays? If so, which one or ones?

❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️

Special thanks to Abrams Books team for the scoop. (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links above. This title is available now for your reading and gifting pleasure! Be sure to stay tuned for more of this series as we approach the holiday!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

The SECOND Post of Bookmas... CHRISTMAS IS COMING TO TOWN by Freya Hartas

It's day TWO, but in case you missed the first post, I'm ready to answer your big question!

What IS Bookmas?!

Bookmas is similar to Christmas, except it brings tidings of great reads, holiday gifting suggestions, and just about all the bookish fun you can imagine from across the genre spectrum. It's a quick glance at a title I've read or had my attention captured by, with a little something extra to help you get out from under the yuletide stress, and get back to enjoying the season...one page at a time. SNOW now that you know... back to today's feature! 😉

🎄 The second post of #Bookmas ... 

CHRISTMAS IS COMING TO TOWN

by

Freya Hartas

 9781419779664

Abrams Kids

About the book...

Count down to Christmas with Bear and his woodland friends in this spectacular advent calendar book with surprises hidden under 24 doors, holiday activities to enjoy as a family (baking carrot oat bars for Rudolph, building a snowdeer, and more) and a magical accordion-style fold-out to display.

❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️

🐻 I love the whole concept of this one! From the story shared to the interactive design, the adorable illustrations to the invitation to participate with it on the daily, it's a lovely way to keep that holiday spirit shining bright for the tall to the small, AND something you can make a part of your annual traditions! I mean how often do you look for one of those disposable flappy door advent calendars, am I right? This one can become a cherished part of the holiday celebration in a heartbeat, and it's something everyone will love coming back to. 

❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️

Special thanks to Abrams Books team for the scoop. (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links above. This title is available now for your reading and gifting pleasure! Be sure to stay tuned for more of this series as we approach the holiday!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

The FIRST Post of Bookmas... THE SNOWMAN CODE by Simon Stephenson, Illustrated by Reggie Brown!

What IS Bookmas, you ask? Great question!

Bookmas is similar to Christmas, except it brings tidings of great reads, holiday gifting suggestions, and just about all the bookish fun you can imagine from across the genre spectrum. It's a quick glance at a title I've read or had my attention captured by, with a little something extra to help you get out from under the yuletide stress, and get back to enjoying the season...one page at a time. SNOW now that you know... back to today's feature! 😉

☃️ The first post of Bookmas ...

THE SNOWMAN CODE

by Simon Stephenson

Illustrated by Reggie Brown

(Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers)

About the book...

Article II of the Snowman Code: A snowman always helps a child in need.

It’s March, but the ground is still covered in snow, the lake in the park is still frozen over, and ten-and-a-half-year-old Blessing has three problems:

Problem 1: Blessing hasn’t gone to school in months.

Problem #2: Blessing’s mom gets sad in the winter.

Problem 3: The city is experiencing its longest ever winter, with no end in sight. And the longer it goes

on, the longer her mom’s sadness does too.

Just as Blessing starts to lose hope, she meets an unexpected new friend: Albert Framlington, a six-hundred-year-old snowman who just might hold the key to solving all three of her problems. But Albert has a problem of his own he may need a

human’s help to solve. Can this unlikely duo find a way to defeat Blessing’s bullies, win back Albert’s long-lost love, and overcome the never-ending

winter before it’s too late? They have to try—that’s the Snowman Code after all.

❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ 

⛄️ This nontraditional holiday themed tale takes our winter wonderland and shows another side to the cold 🥶 that is a reality for many, though not often placed front and center. I think it gives kids a way to explore those topics in a way that's friendlier, making them more accessible, and easier to understand, while showing how much friendship can really make a difference in a person's life. 

A great read for the season, and a great pick for the Middle-grade reader/fan on your list!

❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️ ❄️

Special thanks to Alex at Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing for the copy for consideration. (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, the illustrator, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links above. This title is available now for your reading and gifting pleasure! Be sure to stay tuned for more of this series as we approach the holiday!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

AWARENESS TOUR: Into the Thicket Written by Gail Kuhnlein, Illustrated by John Megahan - REVIEW + GIVEAWAY!

Hello there, readers!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers. Today, we're joining The Children's Book Review on their current AWARENESS TOUR starring a storybook inspired by true events that will touch your heart. It reminds us that no matter how big, no matter how small, EVERYONE can help, and everyone NEEDS help at some point in their lives. It's up to us to take those moments by the reigns and make them shine. 

Ladies and gents, let's get this book party started, shall we? Please make way on your TBR and your bookshelf for today's featured title...

Into the Thicket

Written by Gail Kuhnlein

Illustrated by John Megahan

Ages: 4-7 | 60 Pages

9798990747807

 BookBaby (2025)

About the book...

Inspired by a true story, Into the Thicket begins with the moment the author’s young son discovered an injured baby rabbit — an encounter that sparked a heartfelt journey of care and connection.

This tender picture book follows a boy and the rabbit he hopes to help, gently exploring themes of compassion, courage, love, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go. It invites young readers to develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for the natural world, showing how even the smallest acts of kindness can ripple through a great, big world.

Featuring stunning watercolor illustrations by acclaimed Ann Arbor artist John Megahan, Into the Thicket is a story families will return to again and again. A portion of all proceeds benefits wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

BookBaby

Bookshop.org

This gorgeously illustrated and heart warming book shares the story of one little bunny in desperate need of help, and the little boy that not only noticed, but to the time and gathered the courage to get the help he needed. 

Patrick and Ben were brothers, and like they tend to do, ragging on each other, and instilling unnecessary fears in the other is a part of their everyday world. When Patrick needs to get help for the injured baby bunny, those fears kick in because the fastest way to get to assistance was by going INTO THE THICKET. Could he do it? After all, Ben said their were goblins and all other manner of creatures in their waiting to gobble him up. I mean, a bunny would be an additional tasty morsel, and like tangling the proverbial carrot in front of a bunny. But Patrick took one look at that little soul in his hands, and knew he had to do for the bunny's sake. I totally wanted to give him a hug for that maneuver, but I digress. The story doesn't end once the Thicket does...

Reaching the other side is about getting one step closer to conquering his fear, but also one step closer to saving the little kit. Thankfully, his neighbour happens to run a wildlife rescue, and is well versed in assisting little critters that get into situations they can't get out of themselves, but it's not all about her, and she readily admitted that. It's a team effort, and the newest honorary member of that team is Patrick because of his kind heart, his responsible nature, and his desire to see this little one healthy again. I'm not gonna lie, it's touch and go, but I will say this take on the story has a happy ending that not only sees the bunny hop another day, but reminds us that while our help may be needed, wild animals should be returned to the wilds whenever possible. 

A lovingly told tale that I've no doubt will inspire a new generation of animal helpers of all ages, this is a book I can see in both home and school libraries as both a story to share, and a source of information. When taken with the beautiful illustrations, it certainly leaves its footprints on the heart, from the gorgeous full color scenes to the whimsically placed wording encouraging you to explore each page to its fullest. A great read for the small to the tall, and a story that I hope you'll check out for yourself and those you care for!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gail Kuhnlein has been writing stories since she was young. Her first self-published picture book, How Happy Is a Lark?, made her as happy as a, well you know. She’s just as excited about her new picture book, Into the Thicket.

Gail majored in journalism and public relations at Michigan State University. She worked in the field for over 30 years, most recently at the University of Michigan’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. People she met at UM were instrumental in publishing her picture books, a long-awaited dream come true.

After surviving multiple life-threatening complications following heart valve surgery in 2022, including several weeks in an induced coma, Gail considers every day as “bonus time.” She savors life with her husband, Tim, just outside Ann Arbor, Michigan. They adore their two adult sons, Davey and Trevor, and bunk with the sweetest kitties in the galaxy.

SITE

INSTAGRAM

Blusky

YOUTUBE

FACEBOOK

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR 

John Megahan’s lifelong passion for art and nature has shaped his remarkable career. Growing up, he spent countless hours outdoors exploring and sketching the natural world around him. In college, he combined his interests by studying biology and art, which led him to the field of scientific illustration — a perfect blend of his interests.

After college, he worked as a freelance illustrator, developing a large clientele that included governmental and advertising agencies, universities, publishers, and more. After freelancing, John became the senior scientific illustrator at the University of Michigan’s Museum of Zoology, where he continues to work today. Alongside his illustration work, he has enjoyed teaching art and biology, inspiring others with his knowledge and enthusiasm.

John’s other children’s picture book credits include W is for Waves, An Ocean Alphabet, Thumping on Trees, and The Red Fox and Johnny Valentine’s Blue-Speckled Hound. He looks forward to creating more wildlife and nature-inspired artwork and illustrating many more picture books.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

GIVEAWAY

Enter for the chance to win one of three signed hardcover copies of Into the Thicket, each accompanied by a set of custom stickers featuring illustrations from the book. One grand prize winner will receive a signed hardcover of Into the Thicket with an adorable rabbit companion stuffie and a set of custom stickers, plus a signed paperback of How Happy Is a Lark? along with a singing lark stuffie.

Into the Thicket: Book Giveaway

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Special thanks to Bianca of The Children's Book Review for the chance to bring this title to you and for the ecopy for review! (THANKS!) This post is sponsored by Gail Kuhnlein. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view. For more information on this author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links above. Be sure to check out the rest of the tour for more bookish fun!

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, November 24, 2025

The Children’s Book Review

Book Review of Into the Thicket

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

Crafty Moms Share

Book Review for Into the Thicket

Monday, December 1, 2025

Deliciously Savvy

Book Review for Into the Thicket

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

Life is What It’s Called

Author Interview with Gail Kuhnlein

Thursday, December 4, 2025

The Fairview Review

Book Review for Into the Thicket

Friday, December 5, 2025

Country Mamas With Kids

Book Review for Into the Thicket

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

icefairy’s Treasure Chest

Book Review for Into the Thicket

Thursday, December 11, 2025

Confessions of a Book Addict

Book Spotlight on Into the Thicket

Friday, December 12, 2025

Un Viaje en Libro

Book Review for Into the Thicket

Monday, December 15, 2025

Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers

Book Review for Into the Thicket

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

Q&As with Deborah Kalb

Author Interview with Gail Kuhnlein

Thursday, December 18, 2025

One More Exclamation

Book Activity for Into the Thicket

Friday, December 19, 2025

@nissa_the.bookworm

Instagram Post about Into the Thicket

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!