The Reading Promise, by Troy Kent, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

The Reading Promise is the heartwarming story of a young mother and her son, Daniel.  When Daniel is just a baby, his mother doesn't have much money.  She worries about being a good mother, then soon decides to make her son a promise.  She realizes books at the library are free.  There might not be much she can do for her son from a monetary standpoint, but she can read to him.  So while he is just a baby, she vows to read to him every night.  As Daniel grows up, he and his mother find countless ways to experience the world through books.

Written by Troy Kent and illustrated by Elisa Moriconi, The Reading Promise is simply wonderful. Vaguely reminiscent of Robert Munsch's Love You Forever, this children's picture book is sure to tug at your heartstrings.  Highly recommended for home and school libraries, The Reading Promise earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Charley, by Donna Marie Seim, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval

Charley might be street-smart, but he also has a tender heart.  Life in the early 1900s is hard on most everyone it seems, and Charley is no exception. He lives in a tiny run-down apartment with no running water along with his two younger siblings, an older brother and their father, who hasn't been able to hold a job since his mother's death. Charley's father concludes the best he can do for his kids is give them an opportunity to find a home with a good family while he finds work.  So he leaves a note with Charley's oldest brother asking the Home for Little Wanderers to take in the three youngest siblings.  Twelve year old Charley is pretty sure he can get along just fine continuing to steal bread on the streets to make do, but his older brother encourages him to stay with his siblings so they'll all be together.  With a compassionate heart he begrudgingly agrees to go with little Minnie and Clarence to the orphanage.

Author Donna Maries Seim vividly depicts the story of a young boy's hopes, fears and dreams as he struggles to find purpose as an abandoned half orphan.  History buffs will appreciate this book for its authenticity.  And this genuine story is sure to work its way into the hearts of readers of all ages.

An excellent selection for home and school libraries, Charley, comes highly recommended and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Hope is Here!, by Cristina Kessler, earns the CLC Seal of Approval

Hope is Here! is the fascinating story of a small migratory bird called Hope.  Hope is a Whimbrel, a bird about the size of a duck, which was implanted with a solar antenna for the purpose of scientific research.  It is the research team's intent to learn the migratory patterns of these birds to help protect the eco-system upon which they depend. The story, as told by a teacher to her students, recounts the incredible journey made by Hope each year from Canada all the way to her breeding grounds in the Caribbean.  Over a four year period, Hope provided valuable data which will help ensure that more of her kind will continue to thrive in the many places they call home.

The book includes photographs and colorful illustrations along with a glossary and even suggestions on how to help protect Hope's delicate eco-system.

Hope is Here! is well written and provides a great deal of information to keep young readers engaged.  This book is recommended for classroom reading, and for home and school libraries.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Without Me, by Kayleen West, earns the CLC Seal of Approval

Without Me, is the whimsical tale of a young boy who decides to run away from home.  But as he contemplates his departure, he begins to think of his pets and everyone in his family who needs him.  One at a time, he counts down the list of people, pets and things he will need to bring along with him on his journey.  Delightful illustrations depicting his exodus while joined by an ever-growing entourage are sure to incite a giggle or two as kids read along in this counting journey towards one boy's discovery of being loved, wanted and needed.

Without Me is an excellent book for youngsters and would be a terrific selection for home and school libraries.  

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org