Archives for May 2023

“A is for Apple Fritter” and “B is for Beignet.” Get ready to dive into D is for Donut, a fun and delicious book that teaches kids the alphabet using donuts! Created by Rachel Teichman, author of the best-selling B is for Bagel, and part of her ABCD Eats series of books, D is for Donut has fun rhyming text that helps kids learn their ABCs through donut classics, from Jelly and Rainbow Sprinkles to Éclairs and Old-Fashioneds, while also introducing donuts from around the world.  The life-size photos look ready to eat and keep kids asking for more.

The rhyming text in D is for Donut fun and educational for kids as well as the adults reading to them. The bright backgrounds, photos, as well as a few recipes for creating the donuts and toppings, provide everything to keep kids’ interest. Practicing ABCs never looked so yummy! 

I love how the book rhymes and I recommend it for young children ages 3-5.

D is for Donut publishes on June 2 – National Donut Day.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rachel Teichman grew up in Northern California and has worked as an art studio manager and in product development before honing her skills as a writer while doing PR for small businesses. Rachel writes for the local Buzz Magazines, as well as Kveller and TC Jew Folk.  She is the author of B is for Bagel, the first book in the ABCD Eats series, which was invited to the Brooklyn Bagel Fest, has been featured on Good Morning, Houston, and has found its way into the hands of bagel connoisseurs like bestselling cookbook author and food influencer Molly Yeh, Broadway actor Jonah Platt, and the editors at Kveller.  Rachel is actively involved in her local Houston community where she lives with her husband and three kids.

Rebecca Wright is a multimedia professional and a foodie with a degree in journalism. She worked for a Houston-based food and wine magazine where she was able to dig her fork deep into the city’s culinary melting pot. She learned (and ate) so much at the magazine, and it’s also how she fell into her professional niche: food photography. She lives in Houston, Texas.

For more information about Rachel and her books, visit www.CraftsNCrumbs.com.

Self Disclosure: I received a free copy of the book to facilitate this post. Images and information were also provided.

Inspired by the incredible true story of composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. The illegitimate son of an African slave and a French plantation owner, Bologne (Kelvin Harrison Jr. in a tour de force performance) rises to improbable heights in French society as a celebrated violinist-composer and fencer, complete with an ill-fated love affair and a falling out with Marie Antoinette (Lucy Boynton) and her court.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic David E. comments, “I really like Chevalier, because of its story about segregation in France when Black people were slaves. I like the violin aspect of it as well.” See his full review below.

Chevalier

By David E., KIDS FIRST!  Film Critic, age 12

I really like Chevalier, because of its story about segregation in France when Black people were slaves. I like the violin aspect of it as well.

The story takes place in 18th century Paris and is inspired by the incredible life of composer Joseph Bolognue, Chevalier de Saint-Georges (Kelvin Harrison Jr.). The illegitimate son of an African slave and a French plantation owner, Bolognue, rises to improbable heights in French society as a celebrated violinist-composer and fencer, complete with an ill-fated love affair and a falling out with Marie Antoinette (Lucy Boynton) and her court.

I really enjoyed the storyline. It is amazing and really shows us what life was like in the 18th century. The pace is intentionally slow and that’s what makes it so good. It reminds me of a great meal that you would just want to savor. You can really imagine it taking place in your mind. The camerawork is excellent; it makes you feel as if you are in parts of the scene. Production on this film began on September 7, 2021, in Prague, Czech Republic and ended in November 2021. The setting was supposed to take place in France and the sets and locations really look very French. Kelvin Harrison Jr. gives a tour de force performance as Joseph Bolognue / Chevalier. He blew me away with his performance. Samara Weaving’s portrayal of the Queen uses a rude and not too shabby voice and she changes sides like when you flip a light switch. Lucy Boynton, the love interest of Bolognue, seems to be a typical woman who men fall in love with. I didn’t feel the inclusion of her as his love interest added much to the storyline. I don’t particularly care for the film’s ending, but it does kick off the French revolution.

The message of this film is never try to get rid of a Black man.

I give Chevalier 4.5out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It is available in movie theaters beginning April 21, 2023

Trailer:

In Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 our beloved band of misfits are settling into life on Knowhere. But it isn’t long before their lives are upended by the echoes of Rocket’s turbulent past. Peter Quill, still reeling from the loss of Gamora, must rally his team around him on a dangerous mission to save Rocket’s life—a mission that, if not completed successfully, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Katherine S. comments, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is the perfect end to this Marvel trilogy. It’s an emotional journey, and, for me, a bit of a tearjerker – bring some tissues.” Kendall B. adds, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a hilarious movie with a thrilling plot, funny one-liners, and incredible special effects. It’s a great movie that left me waiting for the next scene.” Emma D. adds, “Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 is a disappointing final installment of a beloved trilogy, largely due to a confusing plot and weird dialogue. Although the visuals are engaging, the film lacks the comedic element and enthusiasm of the first two.” Mikella G. wraps it up with, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 is an outstanding film. It’s filled with action and adventure, while still tackling important issues.”  See their full reviews below.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is the perfect end to this Marvel trilogy. It’s an emotional journey, and, for me, a bit of a tearjerker – bring some tissues. I connected strongly with the characters and throughout the movie deeply cared about them. I also love this movie because of the strong messages, astonishing CGI and the “marvelous” acting.

This movie switches between Rocket’s (Bradley Cooper) backstory and the mission to save Rocket embarked on by Star Lord/Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), Groot (Vin Diesel), Nebula (Karen Gillan), Drax (Dace Bautista), and Mantis’ (Pom Klementieff). The new Gamora (Zoe Saldaña) also joins them, but she isn’t the same Gamora we knew. Can the Guardians save Rocket and the galaxy in time? Watch to find out!  As always, make sure to stay until the end of the credits!

Guardians of the Galaxy is one of my favorite franchises within the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe), and director James Gunn and the actors are the biggest reasons why. Gunn has made these movies unique and distinct from the other Marvel movies. Although it’s still funny, this movie resonates emotionally with the audience more than the first two Guardians. You can feel the pain and traumatic experiences of the characters. Star Lord as Chris Pratt is perfect. I’ve never seen a role as good as this one for Pratt, and for me he will always be Peter Quill. Even though Rocket is completely CGI, Bradley Cooper’s voice performance makes me believe he is real. My favorite character is Drax (David Bautista) because he is very sweet and funny, and whenever he’s on screen, I enjoy it immensely.

The message ofthis movie is that friendship and teamwork are the most powerful forces in the galaxy. This movie contains some profanity, violence, and some gross scenes.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 gets4 out of 5 stars, and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Marvel and Guardians of the Galaxy fans will definitely enjoy this movie. It comes out in theaters on May 5, 2023.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

By Kendall B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is a hilarious movie with a thrilling plot, funny one-liners, and incredible special effects. It’s a great movie that left me waiting for the next scene.

The story starts showing the Guardians living in harmony; however Rocket (Bradley Cooper) and Peter (Chris Pratt) have been kind of down lately.  Gamora (Zoe Saldana) is not remembering her past life after the events of the Infinity War, and Rocket remembering things about his old life before the Guardians and how horrible it was.  When a failed attempt by a new unknown superhero (Will Poulter) to take Rocket back to his creator, the High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji), Rocket is injured, and this brings him closer to death every second. After reuniting with Gamora, Peter is on a mission, along with Drax (Dave Bautista) and Mantis (Pom Klementieff) and, of course, everybody’s favorite plant, Groot (Vin Diesel), to save not only Rocket but the whole galaxy.

This film has many amazing assets with its strongest being the CGI. Throughout the movie we are treated to insane special effects, including ships flying throughout the galaxy. The incredibly realistic galaxy makes the movie so much fun to watch. The actors are all well cast. Rocket’s backstory is so perfectly executed and we learn why Rocket behaves the way he does during certain situations. The whole explanation brings tears to your eyes. Gamora and Peter’s relationship is explored as it jumps back into their love story, slowly hinting at a possible relationship in the future. My favorite characters are Drax and Mantis. The friendship between these too is so sweet and unbelievably hilarious. The two are always teasing each other and the dialogue between them is among the many notable highlights of this film. My favorite part of the movie is when the Guardians try to bring Rocket back to life and he reconnects with some of his old friends in his mind. It’s such a sentimental scene and changes the entire feeling of the movie, in a good way.

The film’s message is that sometimes friends can feel like family and that is worth fighting for. Throughout the film the Guardians stick together through difficult situations — all to save Rocket because he is one of their friends and they will do anything to save him. Peter tries to explain this to Gamora in one scene when she doesn’t understand why they will put their own lives in danger to save Rocket.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theatres May 5, 2023.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3

By Emma D., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 is a disappointing final installment of a beloved trilogy, largely due to a confusing plot and weird dialogue. Although the visuals are engaging, the film lacks the comedic element and enthusiasm of the first two.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 picks up after the Guardians appearance in Thor: Love and Thunder and follows their struggle with the loss of Gamora (Zoe Saldana). Her loss has affected Peter (Chris Pratt) the most, and he struggles with depression, which negatively affects the group — and as a result they are lost when it comes to the future. When a man arrives to capture Rocket (Bradley Cooper), the gang has to fight to save his life and go deep into Rocket’s past, discovering things they never knew were possible.

The plot is confusing with too many details and unnecessary characters, which makes the story overly complicated. I often had to replay moments in my head to try to grasp what was going on.  Adam Warlock (Will Poulter) and his mom (Elizabeth Debicki), although quite entertaining, are irrelevant to the plot. Gamora also seems unimportant since the relationship status between Peter Quinn (Chris Pratt) and her has already been established in past films. Her absence would have made a more significant impact by showing how much her absence affects Peter and the group. The villain is the High Evolutionary (Chukwudi Iwuji), and although Iwuji is excellent in this role and can be truly terrifying, the character itself is pretty bland. It is hard to take him seriously when all of his actions, although sometimes gruesome, seem lackluster in comparison to previous Marvel villains. The visual effects are stunning, and the scenes in space are breathtaking — I highly recommend watching it at the movie theater. However, some of the visual effects are a little too realistic, especially with the animals, and can be very uncomfortable to watch. The movie also misses the comedic element that I loved about the series, which is a shame since the actors are all hilarious. The soundtrack is fantastic and helps break up the more serious moments and serves as excellent background music for fight scenes.  I love all the interactions between the actors in the main group, as those are the most heartwarming and funny scenes. The best part of the movie is the ending, which is a perfect ending for the series.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 promotes the idea of friendship and fighting for the ones you love. The movie is more violent than most Marvel movies, which is something that parents should be aware of. The visual effects of the animals can be discomforting and a little scary. The film also addresses alcoholism and depression, which may not be appropriate for younger audiences.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 gets 3 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It comes out in theaters on May 5, 2023.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3

By Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 is an outstanding film. It’s filled with action and adventure, while still tackling important issues.

The storyline follows the Guardians for a third time as they reunite with Gamora (Zoe Saldana), and embark on their journey to save Rocket (Bradley Cooper). The crew goes through multiple rough patches when discovering Rocket’s past, and they learn that they must work together to defeat the High Evolutionary (Chukwudi lwuji).

A huge standout in this film is the soundtrack. Every song fits the moment perfectly and really gives a fun nostalgic feeling to the film. The track includes music from the Beastie Boys, Bruce Springsteen and more. Additionally, the cinematography really stands out. I enjoy the camera angles showing the High Evolutionary Corporation. They zoom into certain moments when baby Rocket is in his cage, and use different but intentional angles. Even the transitions from flashback moments to present time are smooth, and flow nicely. Plus, the visual effects are top notch. Every fight scene is attention grabbing, and very engaging. All the sound effects are so realistic. For example, even something as simple as someone chewing food, has top sound quality. Additionally, there’s a moment where Nebula (Karen Gilman) pops her muscles back into place, which is a super cool effect that definitely stayed in my mind after watching the film. I really felt that I was in another galaxy. The colors, lights and imagery are very realistic, and bring you right into the world of the Guardians. There is some outstanding acting in this film, especially Chukwudi Iwuji, who completely embodies his character, High Evolutionary. His acting is so strong and completely sucks you in. There is a scene where Iwuji almost tricks the audience into thinking he’s a good person then, moments later, snaps back into his villainous side, which stood out to me. He has a way of creating an uncomfortable, but intriguing feeling, where his tricks that he uses in the movie, reflect on the audience. With Rocket one of the main driving factors of the story, Bradley Cooper really taps into his role. He shows a side of Rocket that has not yet been revealed, and creates a sympathetic feeling for the viewers. As an audience, we get to experience a raw, honest version of Rocket that feels human-like as well. There are times that I feel like I could relate to him, which really highlights the acting abilities of Bradley Cooper.

The film’s message is to never stop fighting for the ones you love. Be forewarned that this film has harsh violence and profanity.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters May 4, 2023.

Trailer:

Frog is a frog. Toad is a toad. They have a lot in common … but they are also very different. Frog and Toad are best friends who know that the true secret to friendship is not only enjoying the things you have in common, but embracing the things that make you different. Since our differences are what makes us special, Frog and Toad celebrate what makes them unique! 

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Keila V. comments, “I love how this series constantly reminds me of how opposites really do complement each other. The animation is adorable, although some scenes are quite unrealistic. The storyline is terrific and the voice actors are fantastic. The voice actor for both Frog and Toad (Kevin Michael Richardson) is so enthusiastic.” See her full review below.

Frog and Toad

By Keila V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Frog and Toad is a new TV series based on the classic fictional children’s story. In every episode, Frog and Toad go on a new adventure and each adventure provides a valuable life lesson.

The story follows a very joyful Frog and a groggy Toad on unique journeys around their neighborhood. Frog and Toad are the best of friends and spend every day together. Toad loves to bake, relax and enjoy his life at a slow pace; while Frog, on the other hand, is an outgoing, upbeat and cheerful character. The main theme of the story in all the episodes is how Frog and Toad always help each other and never leave one another’s side.

I love how this series constantly reminds me of how opposites really do complement each other. The animation is adorable, although some scenes are quite unrealistic. The storyline is terrific and the voice actors are fantastic. The voice actor for both Frog and Toad (Kevin Michael Richardson) is so enthusiastic. Throughout the series we see the characters really being authentic to what they are trying to say and, in one particular scene, Frog is trying to convince Toad to wake up from hibernation on the first day of spring (even though toads hibernate until late spring).

My favorite scene of the series is in the episode called “The Letter” where Frog hears Toad say that he has never gotten mail before. Frog goes back home to write Toad his very own first letter and after he finishes it, he brings it to the town’s post office and tells the little postman (a snail) to take the letter as fast as he can to Toad’s house. As you know, snails are awfully slow, so when Frog goes back to see Toad he is lying in bed and feeling upset that he isn’t getting any mail and thinks he never will. Little does he know Snail is on his way, but definitely taking a while to bring his letter. Frog is a true friend to Toad because he waits two days with Toad waiting for Snail to come and bring his very first mail. You just have to see it!

The message of this series is to always enjoy our friends and appreciate our life; we only have a certain amount of time. Another message is to love the outdoors, just as we see Frog and Toad love spending their time going on walks and having a picnic. This teaches children not just to be on their electronics but to also savor the great outdoors!

I give Frog and Toad 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 8. It is released on Apple TV+ April 28, 2023.

Based on J. M. Barrie’s novel Peter and Wendy and inspired by the 1953 animated classic, Peter Pan and Wendy is the timeless tale of a young girl who, defying her parents’ wishes to attend boarding school, travels with her two younger brothers to the magical Neverland. There, she meets a boy who refuses to grow up, a tiny fairy and an evil pirate captain, and they soon find themselves on a thrilling and dangerous adventure far, far away from their family and the comforts of home.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Avani M. comments, “I like Peter Pan & Wendybecause of the magical and mysterious place called Neverland. The cinematography is so beautiful and made me wish I could be there.” Carlee S. adds, “This Disney live action remake of the classic film creates a new and exciting experience.  The film takes viewers on an adventure that delivers the characters and story people have grown to love while adding some interesting new twists.” See their full reviews below.

Peter Pan & Wendy

By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 10

I like Peter Pan & Wendybecause of the magical and mysterious place called Neverland. The cinematography is so beautiful and made me wish I could be there.

In Peter Pan & Wendy, Wendy (Ever Anderson) doesn’t want to grow up and Peter Pan (Alexander Molony) doesn’t grow up in Neverland. Peter comes to take Wendy and her brothers John (Joshua Pickering) and Michael (Jacobi Jupe) to Neverland with his friend Tinkerbell (Yara Shahidi). When Wendy and her brothers go with Peter Pan and Tinkerbell they encounter Captain Hook (Jude Law) and he shoots Wendy out of the sky. Then we are introduced to the lost boys when they save Wendy. 

Peter Pan & Wendy definitely meets the KIDS FIRST! criteria and has great messages and awesome performances. Jude Law is great as Captain Hook because he portrays an angry and hurt character at the same time. Alexander Maloney is a convincing Peter Pan because of his youthful look. Ever Anderson shows a range of emotions from her defiance of growing up to wonder at the sight of Neverland and bravery as she faces the Pirates. I really like how Neverland is shown as a luscious green island with lots of trees and plants. It is a single mysterious island in the middle of the ocean with nothing surrounding it. The cinematography is beautiful and colorful, contrasting a luscious Neverland with the darker, more serious England. I also like how Peter and Wendy fly up into the sky and go through a portal to get to Neverland.

This film has a few themes, the biggest of which is that it is okay to grow up. Wendy refuses to grow up at first, but when she sees how she doesn’t grow up in Neverland she becomes happy that she actually can grow up and have a full path ahead of her. Another message is that you cannot accomplish everything by yourself. Peter Pan tries to defeat Captain Hook all by himself, but realizes that he needs the help of his friends.

I give Peter Pan & Wendy 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It is available on Disney+ now.

Peter Pan & Wendy
By Carlee S., Kids First! Film Critic, Age 18

Peter Pan & Wendy brings to life the timeless story of children who escape to the childhood world of Neverland. This Disney live action remake of the classic film creates a new and exciting experience.  The film takes viewers on an adventure that delivers the characters and story people have grown to love while adding some interesting new twists.

As the film begins, Wendy (Ever Anderson) is playing around with her younger brothers John (Joshua Pickering) and Michael (Jacobi Jupe). Wendy is soon going to attend a boarding school; however, she dislikes the idea of having to grow up and move away. Peter Pan (Alexander Molony) sneaks in one night trying to capture his shadow and he decides it would be best to take Wendy and her brothers with him to Neverland to prolong Wendy’s childhood. When they reach Neverland they encounter an evil pirate, Captain Hook (Jude Law), lost boys (and girls), and others. Captain Hook has his sight sent on capturing and destroying Peter Pan and anyone else who is young.

The film brings the classic story to life in a commendable way. My favorite scene is when Captain Hook takes Wendy and the lost boys captive on his pirate ship. After a fight, Captain Hook forces Wendy to walk the plank. The scene is suspenseful and keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. The detailed costumes fit well with each character and many closely resemble their clothing from the original animated movie.  Captain Hook has on his iconic red coat that has a lot of intricate details and he wears a black pirate hat to top off the outfit. Tiger Lily (Alyssa Wapanatahk) wears a seemingly authentic Native American outfit in this version. The CGI in this film is spectacular! It is especially notable in the scenes in Neverland, with Tinkerbell (Yara Shahidi), when they fly, when they encounter the crocodile, and with the pirate ship. Ever Anderson, as Wendy, and Alexander Molony, as Peter Pan, are enjoyable to watch as the main characters.  Alyssa Wapanathk speaks Native American in parts of the film which gives her character a realistic feel. I also enjoyed seeing the different sides of Captain Hook’s character.  We don’t see a lot of Neverland or places such as Mermaid Lagoon, which I would have loved.

The film’s message is to find the joy in growing up. Wendy is clearly scared at first because she is nervous about growing up and facing the unknown. Growing up means things change and that can be quite scary. However, it also means new adventures and experiences. Be forewarned that there is some mild violence such as the fighting on the pirate ship and with the crocodile.

I give Peter Pan & Wendy 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults.  It releases April 28, 2023 on Disney+.

Trailer: