Archives for August 2025

Following a plucky protagonist, who faces challenges with wry humor and surprising nuggets of wisdom and maturity, the story is sprinkled with insightful moments into Lenny’s emotional state as he manages his grief, allowing readers to see reflections of their own hardships. By highlighting the value of friends, family, and emotional transparency, Lenny’s story is a gentle reminder that vulnerability does not equate to weakness, and that building connections and asking for help are vital steps in paving the way for healing.

This uplifting novel about new schools, unexpected friendships, and overcoming loss is perfect for back-to-school reading as well as Social Emotional Learning for middle-grade readers!

I loved the characters and how unique they are! Highly recommend this one, and it is available now.

From Matthew Forsythe, the creator of the acclaimed and beloved Pokko and the Drum, comes a surprising and pleasing picture book about rules. And sharing. And an epic game of tic-tac-toe.
Aggie is very excited to live on her own—until she finds out her new house is haunted. But no fear, the situation is nothing that can’t be fixed with a carefully considered list of rules: No haunting after dark. No stealing socks. No eating all the food.
But the ghost doesn’t like playing by the rules and challenges Aggie to an epic game of tic-tac-toe—winner gets the house.

This is a fun and engaging book!

ABOUT THE CREATOR

Matthew Forsythe is the author-illustrator of Pokko and the Drum, a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year, a recipient of the Boston Globe–Horn Book Award Honor, and a Charlotte Zolotow Honor Book. He is also an illustrator for animated films and television. His credits include Adventure Time, The Midnight Gospel, and Robin Robin, a stop-motion animated musical from Aardman Animations and Netflix. He lives in Los Angeles. Visit him at ComingUpforAir.net.

IF YOU WANT TO MAKE A WISH by Jennifer Adams and illustrated by Sara Gillingham (ISBN: 9781949480382)

Jump into this lyrical and empowering picture book about the many ways children can make a wish and how they can make their wishes, even the tough ones, come true.

This is a delightful story that young children will love!

JUST ONE WAVE by Travis Jonker ( ISBN: 9781419773716)

A hilarious celebration of summertime, curiosity, and outdoor play in this companion to Just One Flake in which Liam realizes if he can’t find a wave, he’ll just have to make one himself. I read this with one of my youngest reviewers (she is 5) and she loved it! We couldn’t stop laughing.

IT’S BUSY DOWN IN THE WOODS TODAY (BROWN BEAR WOOD) by Rachel Piercy and illustrated by Freya Hartas ( ISBN: 9781419777004)

Enter the charming world of Brown Bear Wood and discover how the animals spend their days while searching for over 100 hidden things. It is sure to hold the attention of young readers and create an immersive, cozy world that encourages them to step into imaginative play.

I love how engaging this book is for young children!

THE LUCKY DAY (SEASHELL KEY #3) by Lourdes Heuer and illustrated by Lynnor Bontigao (ISBN: 9781419767524)

Perfect for fans of Princess in Black and Mercy Watson, the third book in The Seashell Key series explores the adventures of a diverse community of kids living in a beautiful seaside town, filled with lots of spring fun.

LOST IN A BOOK by Chris Britt ( ISBN 9781949480542)

An interactive, playful picture book about getting lost in a book- literally! Two best friends, Chad and Oliver, take a leisurely stroll through a book, but when Oliver disappears, they soon find out that some books can be an adventure. This is a really entertaining book!

MARYA KHAN AND THE DISASTROUS CLASS PROJECT by Saadia Faruqi and illustrator Ani Bushry ( ISBN: 9781419774959)

Perfect for fans of Ivy & Bean and Stella Diaz, this charming chapter book series by the author of the successful Yasmin series follows a Pakistani American third-grader whose plans may backfire, but whose persistence and heart are inspiring.

KITTY CAMP by Drew Brockington ( ISBN: 9781419771965)

For cat lovers everywhere, this charming picture book is a laugh-out-loud twist on the classic fish-out-of-water tale in which a girl accidentally finds herself at a summer camp for kitties. If you have a child who loves cats, this book is a must-read!

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

This summer, celebrate the joy and magic of summer camp and the importance of preserving what you love. Charlie Brown loves camp and is determined to make his final year special, but Sally – a first-time camper – is nervous and skeptical of the new and unfamiliar place. While everyone settles into camp, Snoopy and Woodstock discover a treasure map that takes them on a wild adventure nearby. 

 One morning, the Peanuts gang learns that their beloved camp is shutting down because there are fewer campers joining each summer. The news especially saddens Charlie Brown, who feels hopeless about losing a place that has meant so much to him and his friends. Meanwhile, on their adventure, Snoopy and Woodstock find the sought-after treasure chest, but are quickly disappointed when they discover it’s not riches, but instruments and photos from past summer concerts held at the camp. Newly inspired, Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang use the treasure to host their own concert to save the camp.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, “Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical is like going to summer camp all over again. A wholesome story, laughter, music, and that signature Peanuts illustration style whip up a treat that’s perfect to enjoy on a summer day.” See his full review below.

Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

One word can sum up this musical film – adorable.  It feels like it jumped right out of the comic strip, and onto the screen. It stays true to the special history of Peanuts and doesn’t deviate from the original characters.

Charlie Brown (Etienne Kellici) is ecstatic to be returning to summer camp for his senior year, and to make it better, his little sis, Sally (Hattie Kragten), gets to come along!  Well, it’s better for Charlie Brown anyway, as Sally is unsure about the whole “living in the wild” idea.  When the campers learn their favorite place on Earth is facing closure, even Sally is saddened. Now it’s up to her, Charlie Brown, and the rest of the kids, with some help from Snoopy (Terry McGurrin) and Woodstock (Rob Tinkler), to save the camp before summer is over.

This show has the remarkable feature of two separate adventures, one with Snoopy and Woodstock, and the other starring the kids at camp. These combine at the end of the feature, and the results are somehow both surprising and expected.  Bright color is everywhere, and I love how the animation looks like a moving illustration, similar to other Snoopy Presents titles. My favorite element is the music, and how well it spotlights the different emotions of camp – excitement for the unknown, and yet the trepidation that comes with being unsure of what to expect, the happiness of old friends, and the sadness of leaving them for a year. The idea of a time-honored summer camp is alive and well.  Items like a picture wall and adventurous tales told by veteran campers capture the feeling that this place holds fond memories.  It reminded me a lot of my childhood camp.  It also does well explaining how these natural places are important to our well being, and must be protected.  

The film’s message is to cherish what you have, as you may not have it forever.  Charlie Brown and the gang have been coming to camp for as long as they can remember, and they know they have to leave it better than they found it if newcomers like Sally and her friends want to enjoy it in the future.

I give Snoopy Presents: A Summer Musical 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. This charming film dances onto AppleTV+ on July 18 2025. 

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro- futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” introduces Marvel’s First Family – Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Ben Grimm/The Thing and Johnny Storm/Human Torch as they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer. And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “The long awaited entrance of the Fantastic Four into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) finally arrives with Fantastic Four: First Steps! This film has a fast-paced storyline and awesome characters, along with a jaw-dropping cast who have great chemistry with each other. If you only see one more movie before the end of this summer, this should be it!” Rayce S. adds, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a fantastic movie – easily in the top five of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movies ever. This film mixes comedy, romance and space travel – blending them together effortlessly. It is easily the best visually looking Marvel movie ever! The cinematography, lighting, set design, and costumes, make it stand out among other blockbuster films.” See their full reviews below.

Fantastic Four: First Steps

By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

It’s clobbering time! The long awaited entrance of the Fantastic Four into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) finally arrives with Fantastic Four: First Steps! This film has a fast-paced storyline and awesome characters, along with a jaw-dropping cast who have great chemistry with each other. If you only see one more movie before the end of this summer, this should be it!

The story centers on the Fantastic Four, Earth 828’s version of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. The Fantastic Four soon find out that Susan Storm, The Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), is having a baby. We then meet the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner) who tells the team that she has summoned a terrible threat to destroy their earth. Who is this creature, and how does all this loop back to their son, Franklin? With so many questions, the Fantastic Four sets off into space to try to save the planet.

Marvel’s “First Family” has never looked better! With a great set of ensemble actors – Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach – leading the way, it’s no wonder this movie kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time! The storyline includes so many nods to the original comic books, including the Fantastic Four fighting a CGI-animated monster that was featured in their first comic book. Speaking of CGI, this movie is amazing making the world look seamlessly real in the “Mighty Marvel Manner.” The cinematography, costumes, music, and set design really bring a 1960s vibe to life. The relationship arc between The Human Torch and The Silver Surfer is great – from frenemies to lovers and back multiple times. One key trait of MCU films is the attention to detail. Things that many people might not notice are added to create real depth and surprise. For example, when Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) walks the streets, he wears a grey trench coat and a fedora. This is a nod to a costume he wore when he was separated from the Fantastic Four in the comics and a fun detail for fans.

The film’s messageis that your community is a family. The film includes themes like the power of motherly love, fighting for what’s right, and the need for a global community. Parents should be aware that the movie includes fight scenes and scenes where the Fantastic Four are in perilous situations, including when they are escaping Galactus.

I give Fantastic Four: First Steps 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 25, 2025. Be sure to stay until the end of the first credits for a sneak peek at what’s coming next to the MCU.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps
By Rayce S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a fantastic movie – easily in the top five of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movies ever. This film mixes comedy, romance and space travel – blending them together effortlessly. It is easily the best visually looking Marvel movie ever! The cinematography, lighting, set design, and costumes, make it stand out among other blockbuster films. Of course it wouldn’t be the same without its outstanding cast. 

The storyline follows the Fantastic Four as they are forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond and they must defend Earth from a ravenously hungry space god, Galactus, and his Herald, The Silver Surfer.

I truly adore this film for so many reasons, starting with its mixture of genres. Apart from the MCU it stands by itself as a space, comedy, romance or even a family sitcom that you would love. That is an important factor and this film blows it out of the park. The pacing and structure are some of the best I’ve ever seen. There’s never a dull moment and it is truly an experience worthy of your time. In terms of production aesthetics I love the set design – everything looks like it’s from the 40’s and 50’s which really makes it stand out and, even though the world looks old, the camera work and lighting are very contemporary. This is one of the most colorful and expressive MCU movies ever, but it would fall apart without the editing which is probably one of the best edited movies of the year. It’s hard to name a standout in the cast but my favorite performance is from Pedro Pascal who plays Reed Richards. He really puts you into the situation that the team is in and the danger and fear that they feel. However you would not feel that danger or that fear without Ralph Ineson’s Galactus, whose dominating and demanding presence you feel in every word he speaks. As for the rest of the cast, Vanessa Kirby’s performance as Sue Storm made a huge impression on me. This film left me speechless for hours afterwards. If there’s one thing I truly recommend, it’s to see this movie in IMAX because it completely enhances your viewing experience when you see the scale of Galactus on the big screen. Plus, all the space shots and even the moments of seeing the family together feel bigger.

The movie’s theme is about family and how you move heaven and earth to protect them no matter what happens in life and that your family is what is most important. No matter what happens, you put them first.

I give The Fantastic Four: First Steps 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This film releases in theaters on July 25, 2025.

Trailer:

When Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is mysteriously taken by evil wizards, Razamel and Gargamel, Smurfette (Rihanna) leads the Smurfs on a mission into the real world to save him. With the help of new friends, the Smurfs must discover what defines their destiny to save the universe.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Giana N. comments, “The new Smurfs film is an addition to the nostalgic franchise that most know and love. This film includes singing, comedy, action, and an important lesson that everyone should live by. This film is one of a kind and it is not something you would want to miss!” Kennedy P. adds, “Smurfs 2025 is such a fun, colorful adventure-packed film filled with music and heart! I love how it introduces fresh characters while keeping the classic Smurfs charm we grew up with. Plus, the songs are super catchy; I have been singing them nonstop. The film is revamped and re-animated and I love it.” Maica N. adds, “So many of us grew up with the iconic Smurfs – those little blue mythical creatures that provide optimism at every turn. In a new, lighthearted, family-friendly film, the smurfs are back and better than ever. Smurfs combines captivating music, relatable characters, and a bit of fantasy, creating a nostalgic but fresh experience that fulfilled my expectations.” Mikella G. wraps it up with, “Something that I really enjoyed is this wild storyline. There are so many twists and turns, surprises and suspense that make the film externally unpredictable. Just as I thought I knew what was happening next, I was mistaken. This really helped keep my attention span. The movie went by really fast for me.” See their full reviews and red carpet interviews below.

Smurfs

Giana N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

The new Smurfs film is an addition to the nostalgic franchise that most know and love. This film includes singing, comedy, action, and an important lesson that everyone should live by. This film is one of a kind and it is not something you would want to miss!

This storyline follows the smurfs who live in Smurf Village and how they go about their  everyday lives – who they are, what they do, and how they portray themselves to the world. Everyone has a thing, except No Name (James Corden). In the midst of finding who he truly is, Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is taken by Razamel (J.P. Karliak) in hopes that he would give him what he needs to take over the world. No Name, Smurfette (Rihanna), and the rest of the smurfs have to go out into the real world to try and save Papa Smurf. In order to stop Razamel and Gargamel, the smurfs need to understand their history and discover what they can accomplish working together.

Something cool and interesting that accompanied this production was a short SpongeBob SquarePants film called Order Up that played before the feature. It is a fun little way to engage the audience before the actual movie and the way they did it was very creative. Another aspect of Smurfs I enjoyed is the musical side. Throughout the film, there are songs that explore deeper details of the characters’ feelings which help the audience relate to the character better and understand their innermost feelings. I particularly enjoyed the song “Always on the Outside.” The comedy is one of the best parts of the movie – the jokes are not only hilarious, but they are understandable by all ages. The use of animation and human characters is also something I appreciate because it is very creative how they incorporate each skill.

The film’s message is that you should never change who you are. During the film, No Name often questions if he has a purpose in this world, and Smurfette never fails to remind him that he is perfect in his own way. That is a message that all ages can benefit from. 

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12; I highly recommend it for a family-movie night. You can watch this film in theaters starting July 18, 2025. Be sure to check it out.

Smurfs
By Kennedy P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Smurfs 2025 is such a fun, colorful adventure-packed film filled with music and heart! I love how it introduces fresh characters while keeping the classic Smurfs charm we grew up with. Plus, the songs are super catchy; I have been singing them nonstop. The film is revamped and re-animated and I love it.

When evil wizards Razamel and Gargamel (JP Karliak) take Papa Smurf (John Goodman), the Smurfs embark on a mission to the real world to save him. With help from some new friends, they must discover what defines their destiny to save the universe.

The animation is SO cool! It reminds me of the original cartoon but it’s even better, with really bold colors and fun textures that make everything pop. The way the animation is super stylized makes the whole movie feel like a comic book come to life.  The voice talent is really awesome. John Goodman makes the perfect Papa Smurf; he sounds super wise and kind. Nick Offerman plays Papa’s brother Ken and he’s hilarious, kind of like Ron Swanson but as a Smurf.  Kurt Russell is another brother named Ron, and he totally looks like how you’d imagine a Smurf version of him would.  JP Karliak is clearly having fun while pulling double duty as classic Smurfs baddie Gargamel and Razamel.  Rihanna is so good as Smurfette – her voice is really cool and confident, but also very sweet. She makes Smurfette feel extra fun and strong.  Xolo Mariduena is awesome as Brainy, he makes him sound super smart but also really funny, so you actually like him even when he’s being a know-it-all.  You can totally tell the entire cast put their whole heart into every character as they are all fun and full of personality.

The film’s message is about the importance of family – not just the one you’re born into, but the family you choose. It also reminds us that being different is what makes us special, and when you work together, you can take on anything.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults.  Smurfs releases in theaters July 18, 2025. 

Smurfs

Maica N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 17

So many of us grew up with the iconic Smurfs – those little blue mythical creatures that provide optimism at every turn. In a new, lighthearted, family-friendly film, the smurfs are back and better than ever. Smurfs combines captivating music, relatable characters, and a bit of fantasy, creating a nostalgic but fresh experience that fulfilled my expectations.

The new Smurfs movie follows No Name (James Corden) as he tries to find his place within Smurf village. When Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is kidnapped by the small, yet power hungry Razamel (JP Karliak), Smurfette (Rihanna) leads No Name and their other smurf friends on a rescue mission through the real world. On their journey, they navigate countless obstacles, testing their character and faith in one another.

Smurfs is a playful and entertaining film that carries a valuable message that viewers young and old can relate to. As a fan of the original Smurfs movies, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this new animated version. However, the updated design complements the storyline and keeps viewers engaged. By the end of the upbeat, high-energy opening number, I had already forgotten about the difference in animation. The smurfs’ choreography mirrors real dance moves, demonstrating how the animators utilized the new style to its full potential. Although the film has two prequels, viewers don’t need to watch them to follow the plot. Smurfs provides enough background information and original story elements to stand on its own. The pacing is solid overall, though the ending feels slightly drawn out – but the final group song and dance make it worth the wait. The cast is star-studded, featuring esteemed actors Octavia Spencer and Sandra Oh as Asmodius and Moxie Smurf, with Rihanna and James Corden adding impressive vocals that help maintain the film’s lively tone.

The film’s message is that you do not have to conform to something you aren’t just to fit into a crowd – who you truly are, will shine through naturally. No Name is constantly trying new things to find a sense of belonging with his smurf friends who have already found their identities. However, he eventually realizes that his true identity was within him the entire time.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. You can find Smurfs in theaters on July 18, 2025. Make sure you check it out!

Smurfs

Mikella G, KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 19

I really like Smurfs! It is a fun comedic movie that is enjoyable and nostalgic as well. Even though it caters to younger kids, I grew up watching the Smurf movies, so getting to dive back into that world was a fun experience. The storyline is definitely interesting, and kept my attention the entire time.

Smurfs takes us back to the fun and joyous smurf village where all the smurfs that we know and love are living happily. However, there is one smurf named “No Name” (James Corden), who doesn’t have a name yet because he is struggling to find his purpose and natural talent. He eventually discovers his power of magic, but unfortunately this power becomes too strong, causing him to uncover a whole world that Papa Smurf (John Goodman) had been hiding from the rest of them. When Papa Surf is captured by the evil wizards, the rest of the smurfs must go on an adventure to the real world, in order to not only save him, but their home as they know it.

Something that I really enjoyed is this wild storyline. There are so many twists and turns, surprises and suspense that make the film externally unpredictable. Just as I thought I knew what was happening next, I was mistaken. This really helped keep my attention span. The movie went by really fast for me. That is something very important, especially for a film catered toward children, because their attention span can be short. It’s easy for kids to get bored or distracted. This film is the perfect length – 92 minutes – and is filled with plenty of entertainment. There are quite a few large dance numbers that I was highly impressed by. Each smurf does a complex dance that is so clean and detailed — every movement is very specific, and these truly caught my eye. It’s as if they are real dancers executing these movements. Another standout is the animation. I’ve never seen an animation quite like this before, especially with such clarity and precision. Plus, the colors and backgrounds in smurf village are so vibrant and pretty. The sky is the perfect blue, and the flowers represent every color in the rainbow. They really bring this world to life, and create a place that even I want to visit! This matches perfectly with the smurfs’ energy and happiness. Lastly, all the music matches the vibe and energy of the film. Specifically, there is one scene where the smurfs enter a nightclub, and an upbeat Rihanna song starts to play. The single that Rihanna wrote for the film titled, “Friend Of Mine” is so much fun, and completely elevates the energy of the movie.

The film’s message is to never give up on yourself and those you love.

I give Smurfs 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. Smurfs releases in theaters July 18, 2025.