Archives for 2025

 THE CHILDREN’S ILLUSTRATED BOOK OF TAROT  invites young readers and their grown-ups on a captivating journey through the timeless wisdom of the Tarot, bringing the 22 archetype characters and symbols of the Major Arcana to life, helping children understand universal values like courage, empathy, and resilience. I really enjoyed looking at the beautiful illustrated characters and symbols.

The book can be found at Amazon and Barnes & Noble and retails for $18.99. For ages 5-8.

DREAM by Barbara O’Connor is a must-read!

Set in small-town Colby, NC, DREAM follows aspiring songwriter Idalee Lovett, who lives in a rooming house with a motley crew of tenants while her mama’s on tour. With the help of her friends (familiar faces from Wish), she embarks on a hunt for the long-lost treasure allegedly hidden in their house, to buy the shiny blue guitar in Asheville’s music shop — the key to winning the local radio station’s songwriting contest.

I am a big fan of the series of books by Barbara O’Connor and highly recommend this book!

Expand the book-sharing movement to your community with How to Build Your Very Own Little Free Library, your photo-illustrated, inspirational source for building tiny sharing libraries.

Around the world, a community movement is underway featuring quaint landscape structures in front yards and other green spaces outside homes, as well as in schoolyards, parks, and in front of businesses on busy urban streets. They reflect a growing trend toward neighborhood organization, community outreach, and for many, are a quiet outpost protesting book bans.

Minnesota-based Little Free Library (LFL) has popularized this movement, with over 200,000 book boxes worldwide, fostering community and promoting reading through shared books. LFL has inspired builders to use similar structures to share things like CDs, DVDs, food, and seeds in the community.

Produced in cooperation with the Little Free Library nonprofit organization and authored by professional carpenter Phil Schmidt, How to Build Your Very Own Little Free Library is the builder’s complete source of inspiration and how-to knowledge. This newly updated, information-packed guide features: 

• A how-to for planning and designing your little sharing structure.
• An overview of building materials and tools
• 11 complete plans for structures of varying sizes and aesthetics
• Step-by-step color photography and instructions
• Information on proper installation of the small structures
• An inspiring image gallery of tiny structures
• Common repairs and maintenance information
• Current information on LFL’s participation in the campaign against book bans

There’s also information on how to become an official library steward, getting the word out about your little structure, and tips for building a lively collection. Also included are QR codes for additional building videos as well as interactive maps for locating other Little Free Libraries near you—or wherever you may travel! I love how this book makes it seem simple! I love the step-by-step directions!

With no other books like it on the market, How to Build Your Very Own Little Free Library is the complete source of inspiration and how-to knowledge, devoted to showing readers how to build these small sharing libraries, making it an essential resource for families (and neighbors!) looking to share the gift of books.

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to feature. Cover images were also provided.

The eighth album by award-winning children’s music artist Andy Z is brimming with fervor, fun, and sincerity. It features a well-balanced mix of stand-out original songs and kids’ classics ranging from lighthearted to heartfelt, playful to deeply thoughtful.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic IvyJoy C. comments, “I like Andy Z – My Voice because it’s fun, playful and …will have your little ones laughing, singing, jumping, and dancing. Hadley B. adds, “I like the music album Andy Z – My Voice because it’s upbeat, engaging and gets you moving. I love that there are a variety of different instruments played in every song …” John Wood, KIDS FIRST! Music Critic says, “The music in Andy Z – My Voice covers a variety of upbeat danceable tunes and insightful lyrics. This album is a musical gift for your child – expertly conceived and performed.” See their full reviews below.

Andy Z – My Voice
IvyJoy C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I like Andy Z – My Voice because it’s fun, playful and some of the songs have an underlying message.

This is the eighth album by award winning artist, Andy Z. Its 16 songs offer a variety of genres, from jazz to soft rock — including “Song For My Baby,” “Flutter Flutter, Butterfly,” and “Mariposa Vuela” — a collaboration with PBS Kids, and more. Andy Z is beloved in the children’s music community for his commitment to fun and sincere songs that are a well-balanced mix of kids’ classics and original tunes ranging from lighthearted to heartfelt, playful to deeply thoughtful – a hallmark of Andy’s body of work that spans over two decades.

This album will have your little ones laughing, singing, jumping, and dancing – it’s a great way to get your kids up and running in the mornings. I have a three-year-old nephew and I would certainly have him singing along to its catchy lyrics. The atmosphere of the music is lighthearted, kid-friendly, and all around goofy. Kudos to Andy Z for hitting his target audience perfectly. The song quality and production are terrific. Even though this album is targeted for younger children, I found myself nodding my head to the beat and humming the tunes at times. Its continuity is right on – the lyrics go perfectly with the instrumentals and portray the silliness of his songs very nicely. Andy Z’s vocals are amazing; he enunciates clearly and uses language that young children are familiar with.  He really makes sure that the listener understands what he’s saying. Also, the recording quality is outstanding; there is no static or background noise. The variety of genres is noteworthy. I love how he mixes in multiple genres like jazz for “Song For My Baby” and soft rock in “Buzzabee.” In addition, Andy Z’s way of creating ear-wormy tunes and fun lyrics, some of the songs in this album are deeper than you think. For example, in “My Voice” he references the beauty of free speech, and in “It’s Not Your Fault” he explains that not everything that happens to you is your fault. This album is by far one of the best children’s albums I am aware of.  My favorite song is the one about the tipping boat, because it really shows Andy Z’s fun lyricism.

The album’s messages convey fun and entertainment, with some deeper messages that sneak up on you.

I give Andy Z – My Voice 5 out 5 five stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. You can find it at online retailers beginning August 29, 2025.

Andy Z – My Voice
Hadley B, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I like the music album Andy Z – My Voice because it’s upbeat, engaging and gets you moving. I love that there are a variety of different instruments played in every song and, even though it gets a little silly at times, I think younger kids will love it.

This album is a collection of tunes performed by renowned artist, Andy Z. It has a bunch of different types of songs – familiar songs, happy songs, slow songs, silly songs and more! This album also has great guitar licks, and some nice percussion work that help tell the stories. I like how Andy never does two songs about the same topic. It makes each song special and notable.

One thing that stands out to me most on this album is definitely the sound of the guitar. It is very bright, unique, appealing and doesn’t sound like most songs you hear on other albums or the radio. The lovely harmonies also stand out. They aren’t like others, which is what sets it apart. Also, something that is fun and captivating on the album is having kids join Andy Z on various songs. One of the most exciting things is that there are some songs that kids may recognize and be excited to hear his interpretation of a familiar tune. I like how at the end of the soundtrack it settles kids down to get ready for bed and go to sleep. I actually think I prefer the instrumentation and background music better than the actual lyrics and I didn’t particularly care for some of the songs. One of the other things I really like is how Andy Z takes a silly subject and turns it into an interesting, catchy song. It’s memorable to me, and I think it is very amazing to be able to do that. There is also a special collaboration with the 123 Andres, and they sing “Flutter Flutter Butterfly” in Spanish, which is really cool.

The messages in this album theme are all very positive, encouraging and uplifting. It’s a reminder of the good side of life.

I give Andy Z – My Voice 4 out of 5 stars, and I recommend it for ages 2 to 8. You can find it at online music retailers beginning August 29, 2025.

Andy Z – My Voice

By John Wood, KIDS FIRST! Adult reviewer

The music in Andy Z – My Voice covers a variety of upbeat danceable tunes and insightful lyrics. This album is a musical gift for your child – expertly conceived and performed.

Andy Z’s lovely new album My Voice dives headfirst into the joy of being a kid—a sensory feast of upbeat, danceable tunes that make sitting still nearly impossible. (I’m pretty sure I saw my cat dancing.)

Andy’s years on stage shine through. His vocals, harmonies, and instrumental choices are all spot-on. Experience counts—and so does pacing. He knows exactly how to grab a live audience from the first downbeat and keep that energy humming for listeners at home. That’s the mark of a true pro who clearly loves what he’s doing. One can tell when a performer is ‘seasoned’ from countless live shows where songs have an opportunity to grow and engage with a variety of children and environments.

After eight albums, Andy Z keeps honing his craft and this album is a result of his dedication to his music and continued development of his personal ‘voice.’

Andy Z’s recordings draw on a variety of familiar musical styles, great vocals and expert production work or values. The best way for someone to listen and share is by feeding them. To follow that analogy, this album offers a musical feast for the ears and we learn things we didn’t know and are eager to share with others. The artist doesn’t preach or talk down to his audience. Individually we are made up of a bundle of stories. As we share, as Andy Z has done, with this album, My Voice, we hope that our many years of experience and awareness will transpose and touch the hearts of many others. This album does exactly that.

Why is My Voice a KIDS FIRST! All-Star? After more than 8,000 live performances in every imaginable setting and climate, I can say, “It takes one to know one.” Andy’s a kindred spirit with an irresistible appeal to kids—and, yes, parents too. They’ll grin at the familiar riffs and nod knowingly. (I suspect he knows more than four chords.) Like the Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper or Magical Mystery Tour, Andy invites us into his world—full of musical colors, funny voices, and whimsical twists—guiding his audience on a magical journey and bringing them back safe, sound, and a little richer for the ride. Andy Z hits all the right notes—and a few delightfully unexpected ones—reminding us that the best music for kids is music everyone loves. We’ll be sitting by the headsets waiting for your next album, so don’t wait too long. Catch you on the flip side!

I give Andy Z – My Voice 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 2 to 8, plus adults. It is available now at online retailers and streaming. Check it out.

Trailer:

Follow the temple cat, Little Ba, as she searches for her lost companion, the initiate Tsillah. The little cat travels through history for nine lifetimes learning lessons along the way. When she finally reunites with Tsillah, she is rewarded with a final choice.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kyla C. comments, “The Nine Lives of Little Ba by Genie Valen is an intriguing read that leads to self-reflection and a deep analysis of the meaning of life.” Kinsley H. adds, “The Nine Lives of Little Ba, a novella by Genie Valen, is an extraordinary tale about a cat named, Little Ba, who gets the chance to experience nine different lives in order to find the soul of her former companion. I really enjoyed this cute and loving story.” Junior R. adds, “I really like The Nine Lives of Little Ba because there are so many fun and surprising adventures. Ba kept me on my toes and always wondering where she would end up next. In every one of Ba’s nine lives, each feels like it’s a new story.” Elsy S. wraps it up with, “One aspect that really impressed me about the book is how the tale goes on to tell what happens to Little Ba, and how it follows her as she lives her nine lives. There are some deeper concepts that may be lost on younger children, but I enjoyed them.” See their full reviews below.  

The Nine Lives Of Little Ba

By Kyla C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 16

The Nine Lives of Little Ba by Genie Valen is an intriguing read that leads to self-reflection and a deep analysis of the meaning of life. Although some concepts are a bit confusing, the captivating illustrations, the unique format, and the excellent concept work together to create a high-quality novel.

The story of The Nine Lives Of Little Ba is almost exactly what it sounds like. It follows Little Ba, a cat, as she experiences nine different lives with the hope of reuniting with her lost friend, Tsillah. The story begins with a young girl, Tsillah, at a temple school, learning the skills of mindfulness, reflection, and telepathy. She meets Little Ba, and the two form an emotional bond but are separated. Little Ba was not trained to be a proper companion for Tsillah and when she meets with the High Council of Cats in the interlife, is given the option to experience nine lives, learn lessons along the way, and reunite with the soul of Tsillah. Little Ba accepts the challenge and thrives throughout each very different life.

Standing out immediately and one of the most prominent aspects of the book is the format. Rather than normal chapters, the book is divided into nine lives. Each individual life tells the story of a different group of people and Little Ba in an entirely different location and situation. This allows readers to open their minds to the diverse experiences of many groups. In addition, there is an ‘interlife’ section at the conclusion of each life that Little Ba experiences. This is when she returns to the High Council of Cats to discuss what she has learned. This format emphasizes the morals and themes that are expressed in each life. This direct way of identifying the messages makes the book suitable for not just more advanced readers who can deduce the important lessons, but also younger or less advanced readers. Another stand-out is Leslie Cook’s illustration. Throughout the book, these pictures add complexity and understanding, representing the difference in personality and appearance of the various cats. Additionally, the concept itself is creative and unique. It stresses the importance of self-reflection and consistently working to improve. The concept of the interlife gets a bit confusing at times and is a bit hard to keep track of and can be misleading. Despite this, the book is a worthy read and incorporates many valuable themes.

There isn’t one singular theme of The Nine Lives Of Little Ba. Instead, there is a different theme for each unique life. These themes are stated directly at the end of each life in the interlife when Little Ba discusses what she learned with the High Council of Cats. Some of the themes include courage, friendship, equality, and recognition of the impact we have on each other.

I give The Nine Lives of Little Ba 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. It is available to purchase at online retailers now, so get ready for a journey of unique experiences and revelations.

The Nine Lives of Little Ba
By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

The Nine Lives of Little Ba is a heartwarming story that reminds me of the bond between pets and their owner. Tsillah and Little Ba were destined to be together. The prelude gives the reader that familiar connection of finding the perfect pet. Tsillah finds her cat by finding the one that is most like her — timid, small, and quiet. I can relate to this connection, and it immediately made me want to read more. I also like the unexpected twist of their separation. It made me look forward to what other twists and turns the story might bring. Although the cover of the book could be more eye-catching, I really love the illustrations created by Leslie Cook inside the book. The cat drawings show Little Ba’s transformations, and they paint an adorable picture of what Little Ba looks like in each of her lives. My favorite of those lives is when Little Ba is Luna. I love the message that a person should allow their life to be guided by optimism. This is exactly the motto that Little Ba lives by and it is shown in this halfway point through her journey.

The book’s message is that, even though every life is not the same, there is always a lesson to be learned. This view is seen through each experience that Little Ba lives. Parents should be aware that the text has a lot of advanced vocabulary, so it may be difficult for younger readers. There is no bad language.

I give The Nine Lives of Little Ba 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It can be purchased through most online retailers.

The Nine Lives of Little Ba
By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

I really like The Nine Lives of Little Ba because there are so many fun and surprising adventures. Ba kept me on my toes and always wondering where she would end up next. In every one of Ba’s nine lives, each feels like it’s a new story. If you find yourself not so interested in one story, you might enjoy the next one.

The book’s message is that no matter how many times life changes, never stop being curious and brave. Little Ba goes through all kinds of adventures – some fun, some scary – but she never gives up. She keeps exploring and learning from every new place. We see how, even when she messes up, she still finds her way and makes a difference. It also reminds us that every life has a purpose, and it’s okay to not have everything figured out right away.

I give The Nine Lives of Little Ba 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults, because the vocabulary is a little advanced for younger kids. 

The Nine Lives of Little Ba
By Elsy S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I enjoyed the book The Nine Lives of Little Ba because of its heartwarming plotline, happy ending, and how the story takes place in many different times and places.

The storyline follows Little Ba, a cat who is paired with a young temple initiate, Tsillah. One day, Tsillah, in her sleep, reaches a door, of which she is very fearful, causing her to imagine monsters. Little Ba chooses to protect her, and the door is closed, with Tsillah on one side, and Little Ba on the other. Little Ba then meets the Council of Cats, who explain that she will be given nine lives to find and guide the soul of Tsillah. Little Ba goes through nine different lives, each with new experiences and lessons to be learned, and eventually finds the soul of Tsillah.

The adventures that Little Ba has given the story a dramatic, as well as sweet, flair. One thing that I didn’t like so much is how it is primarily descriptions with hardly any dialogue. My favorite part is during Little Ba’s fourth life, when she helps a young girl, Marie, rediscover herself and her family. My least favorite part is one at the beginning, when the temple initiate, Tsillah, tells the priestess that her cat, Little Ba, is gone. One aspect that really impressed me about the book is how the tale goes on to tell what happens to Little Ba, and how it follows her as she lives her nine lives. There are some deeper concepts that may be lost on younger children, but I enjoyed them.

The book’s message is about the importance of finding yourself, and to be kind to both strangers, as well as those close to you.

I give The Nine Lives of Little Ba 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It is available at most online retail bookstores.

Dallas Jenkins, creator of The Chosen, proudly reintroduces his heartfelt family film What If…. Still popular after its release 15 years ago, this faith-filled classic was inspired by Dallas Jenkins’s favorite film, It’s a Wonderful Life and follows Ben Walker (Kevin Sorbo), a businessman who abandoned his faith. One day, Ben wakes up living the life he was destined for — married to his college sweetheart (Kristy Swanson) and serving as a small-town pastor. Featuring memorable performances by John Ratzenberger and Debby Ryan, the film blends humor, heart, and powerful family themes. To mark its 15th anniversary, Jenkins reunites with Sorbo, Swanson, Ratzenberger, and producer Michael Scott to reflect on its lasting impact in a special feature shown after the film. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience What If’s inspiring message on the big screen, inviting audiences to reflect on their own “what if” moments and find hope through faith.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “What If… is everything you would want in a faith-based family movie.  A wholesome story, relatable characters, and familiar issues make it clear that, even though this film was released in 2010, it is relevant to our lives today.” Jude A. adds, “I like What If … because of its faith-based storyline, the bond of love and nature, the blends of humor, a heartfelt relationship, and a powerful family theme.” See their full reviews and interview with lead, Kevin Sorbo, below. 

What If…
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

What If… is everything you would want in a faith-based family movie.  A wholesome story, relatable characters, and familiar issues make it clear that, even though this film was released in 2010, it is relevant to our lives today.

The storylinetells the tale of Ben Walker (Kevin Sorbo) who has lived the wildly successful life of a business executive. He loves his life, or seems to, until God and an angel named Mike (John Ratzenberger) decide to flip the script on Ben’s current situation. What follows is Ben’s chance to understand that money isn’t everything, and to catch a glimpse of what his life could have been if he had answered God’s call.

I love how wholesome everything is in this film — no hidden messaging or polarized viewpoints, just an honest, pure, family friendly movie.  Kevin Sorbo portrays all the different emotions of Ben Walker as his entire life is turned upside down, with laughable results.  From asking Mike the Angel about what just happened and what he is doing here, to learning how to become a father and husband, Ben has his hands full, and Kevin Sorbo delivers that beautifully. His new family made up of his wife Wendy (Kristy Swanson), and their two daughters Kimberly (Debby Ryan) and Megan (Taylor Groothuis) add to the chemistry and eventfulness of his newfound life. The contrasts between the big city of Ben’s old life and the small town of his new reality further strengthen the point that status isn’t always needed to be happy. My favorite part of this film is all of Ben’s interactions with Mike. This angel has a wonderful sense of humor, and he uses all of it on Ben by deflecting his accusations with kindness and laughter. Eventually, even Ben learns to enjoy his comments and puns.

This film’s message is to appreciate your second chances. Before Ben’s meeting with God and Mike, he was only interested in making money, and lots of it. Now that he’s been given a second chance to see the true meaning of life, and what he has been missing, he will never be the same man he was before.

I give What If… 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This film returns to theaters for its 15^th anniversary on August 5 and 7, 2025 as special screenings via Fathom Events.

What If …
By Jude A., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10 

I like What If … because of its faith-based storyline, the bond of love and nature, the blends of humor, a heartfelt relationship, and a powerful family theme. 

The storyline is about a businessman who abandons his faith in exchange for worldly possessions. He gets a chance to see what his life would be like if he had followed his faith.  

I like how love is displayed in such a powerful way. I like that Ben (Kevin Sorbo) and Wendy’s (Kristy Swanson) love is unbreakable, and they stick together as one big happy family. I did not like how Ben was stubborn and rude with God and how he brags about himself – he comes across as too prideful and arrogant. I do like how he shows kindness to the receptionist in the hospital. The main characters are Ben Walker, Wendy, Kimberly (Debby Ryan), Megan (Taylor Groothuis), and Mike the angel (John Ratzenberger). Ben Walker is in an accident and wakes up in a dream and starts living the life he was destined for.  He marries a girl named Wendy and becomes a lead pastor at a small-town church.  There are many funny scenes, like one where the angel hits Ben too close to his eyes and then he teleports.  Also, at times Ben talks and no one understands what he says, not even his wife. This movie has a lot of sad moments – three scenes made me cry. The costumes are ok, although I did not like Mike’s old rusted costume, but I love Ben’s nice suit. I love the graphics because the quality is crisp although it’s an old movie. I like the office where he proposes, the house, especially the bedroom with the green decor. And lastly I like the church, when the congregation is speechless after Ben’s speech. I also love the music, but the audio has some issues. 

The film’s message is that you should always put God first in everything you do, no matter what, whether you are rich or poor, wise or fool; you should always follow the plan and the purpose that God has predestined for you. 

I give What If… 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film

returns to theaters for its 15^th anniversary on August 5 and 7, 2025, via Fathom Events. 

Trailer: