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Carl, August 7th Pet of the Week

August 12, 2026 By Leave a Comment

“Good Dog Carl,” a Rottweiler/pit bull mix, has been at Long Beach Animal Care Services since November 2025. Carl was just a few months old when he came to the shelter—as one volunteer said, he’s literally grown up there. He’s also grown to be quite a charmer. One of his favorite things to do is to fall asleep with his big head on your hand. Volunteer Nici said it best: “Carl is that quietly mysterious, handsome guy at the party who’s hanging out by the snack table, pretending he didn’t notice you while secretly hoping you’ll come say hi. Once you’ve been officially approved by Carl’s very thorough committee of one, you’ll discover a sweet, gentle friend who thinks you’re pretty much the greatest human there ever was.” Carl knows basic commands and is smart beyond his years (or rather, months). He’s eager to learn new things to show off to his special family when he’s adopted. Although Carl has grown up with nothing but love and attention, an animal shelter is no place for a loving doggie to grow up. Come meet him! Long Beach Animal Care Services is over capacity with dogs, so speed the process to adopt or foster Carl or any of our other pets by emailing PetAdopt@longbeach.gov or petfoster@longbeach.gov. You can also call (562) 570-4925. Our shelter hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 7700 E. Spring St. at the entrance to El Dorado Park (no parking fee for shelter visitors). Ask for ID#A753148.

Filed Under: Featured Content, Pet Corner

Merlin and the Dragons * A Heartwarming Coming-Of-Age Story About An Outcast Who Realizes His Differences Are What Make Him Who He Is

August 5, 2026 By Leave a Comment

From the original Arthurian lore, author Jane Yolen scripted an exciting adventure about Merlin as a young boy. Beautifully illustrated by renowned conceptual artist Alan Lee, the story serves as a prequel, following the young boy Emrys (who will become Merlin) as he discovers his magical destiny and witnesses the famous battle of the white and red dragons. Disturbed by dreams of dragons fighting, Merlin discovers his own strength, and helps change British history. Kevin Kline does all the voices; Michel Rubini did the exciting music. The narrative focuses on Merlin’s early life depicting him as an introspective young boy with magical talents who struggle with his identity and origin. Winner, American Library Association Notable Children’s Recording award.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critics Adele N. comments, “I fell in love with the animated short film Merlin and the Dragons. Its color scheme and animation choices are both nostalgic and comforting, but its unique plotline made me excited to watch the story unfold.” Ari C. adds, “I absolutely love the storyline of this film. I like how Jane Yolen, the screenwriter, makes it accurate to Arthurian lore. The way the story is delivered made me feel like a little kid hearing a story told to me by my mom. The movie was made in the early 90s, but the animation has been re-mastered so it gives a certain aesthetic that makes it feel like I’m watching a book.” Jackson N. wraps it up with, “Merlin and the Dragons is a heartwarming coming-of-age story about an outcast who realizes his differences are what make him who he is. The animation is good – it doesn’t have the wow factor of a full blown animated film, yet it still enables you to empathize with the characters.” See their full reviews below.

Merlin and the Dragons
By Adele N, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

I fell in love with the animated short film Merlin and the Dragons. Its color scheme and animation choices are both nostalgic and comforting, but its unique plotline made me excited to watch the story unfold.

Merlin and the Dragons follows a young King Arthur (Kevin Kline) and his feelings of inadequacy after his crowning. When he awakes from a night terror, he seeks out his friend and advisor, the wizard Merlin (Kevin Kline) for assistance. From there, we begin the story of a boy long ago… who bears shocking resemblance to Arthur’s own situation.

What I find most enjoyable about Merlin and the Dragons is the style of animation used. The background in the very first scene used watercolor portraits for the sky, a theme that continues throughout the rest of the film. It is reminiscent of fantasy movies such as Cinderella, and really sets the mood for the story unfolding. The characters themselves are animated in a way that is not used in mainstream media anymore. They are two dimensional and roughly drawn, and I found that it makes each of the characters feel more raw and personalized–as if I had opened up a storybook and peered inside. Additionally, the film isn’t dulled by its own plotline. Like many, when I think about King Arthur, my first thought goes to the infamous story of The Sword in the Stone. I feared that I may be rewatching a story that has been told for centuries, but was pleased to find that the movie features entirely different elements (such as dragons), which made me genuinely interested in where the film was going.

This film is a tale of how having confidence in yourself ultimately brings you great rewards. Though self-doubt is a trait no one can fully avoid. This film reminds us that when we put trust in our actions, we succeed.

I give Merlin and the Dragons 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. It is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember. 


Merlin and the Dragons
By Ari C., KIDS FIRST Film Critics, age 13

I absolutely adore Merlin and the Dragons because of the amazing storyline, the unique animation, and the expert voice acting.

This short animated film begins with a young King Arthur as he is plagued by nightmares. Arthur consults Merlin of these nightmares; in return Merlin tells Arthur a story of a boy named Emrus who dreams of the future. One day one of Emrus’ predictions came true, but the villagers call it witchcraft and claim that he must have been spawned by a demon. Emrus dreams of a tyrant coming to the village, and just as he had foreseen, one arrives and immediately takes over. After facing trouble building his tower, the tyrant blames magical forces. Eventually Emrus’ dreams of the tyrant’s downfall and in the end, Arthur is able to sleep well.

I absolutely love the storyline of this film. I like how Jane Yolen, the screenwriter, makes it accurate to Arthurian lore. The way the story is delivered made me feel like a little kid hearing a story told to me by my mom. The movie was made in the early 90s, but the animation has been re-mastered so it gives a certain aesthetic that makes it feel like I’m watching a book. I also think that the animation gives older viewers a sense of nostalgia, and younger viewers a look at what TV was like when the film was originally created. I also like how Kevin Klein voices all of the characters. It truly amazes me how Kevin Kline can voice everyone in the film perfectly. He manages to sometimes make me forget he voices everyone. My favorite part is when the villagers crack open the rocks under the tyrant’s tower and something magical happens.

The film’s message is to always trust yourself no matter what anyone says.

I give Merlin and the Dragons 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to18, plus adults. It releases on streaming and VOD platforms on July 15, 2026.

Merlin and the Dragons
By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Merlin and the Dragons is a heartwarming coming-of-age story about an outcast who realizes his differences are what make him who he is. The animation is good – it doesn’t have the wow factor of a full blown animated film, yet it still enables you to empathize with the characters.

The story takes place when King Arthur has pulled the sword from the stone and is dealing with feelings of inadequacy. Merlin tells him a story of a boy who did not know who his father was and spent most of his childhood ridiculed by the other kids. He uses visions of the future to impress them, but when he takes it too far, the townsfolk shun him even more, to the point where he must live on a hill far away. Then, a false king comes to their town and makes them build him a castle. The townspeople build it, and it falls down; they build it again, and still it falls; before building it again, they “must find a boy who was born from a demon and spill his blood” to make the gods happy so they will let his tower be built. That boy is the same boy from earlier, which leads to a chaotic fight with dragons, the dethroning of the false king, and more.

Merlin and the Dragons has some truly great details worth appreciating. The animation starts off feeling a little clunky and rough around the edges, but it soon finds its footing and transforms into something really fun to watch. The improvement feels like it might have been intentional, as if trying to mirror the story’s momentum. I especially love the design of the dragons. They struck me immediately as a kind of yin and yang. The two creatures look weirdly similar on the surface, sharing the same forms, but they stand for two completely different things, embodying two forces in a way that feels both visually elegant and helpful to the story.

The film’s message is that our differences are what make us who we are. It includes themes of found family, fighting, and love. Parents should be aware that there is a fight scene between the two dragons; it is very short and there is no blood but it may be frightening for younger kids. There is also a mention of beheading, but it does not happen.

I give Merlin and the Dragons 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. It is available now on Tubi.com at https://geni.us/storiestoremember. 

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Filed Under: Media Reviews

Books of the Week: August 5, 2026

August 5, 2026 By Leave a Comment
America Celebrates

America Celebrates takes readers on an exciting journey through the people, places, and events that shaped the United States over the last 250 years. With one fascinating highlight for every year since 1776, this beautifully illustrated book brings history to life through a mix of iconic figures, surprising milestones, and powerful cultural moments, including when:

·       The Supreme Court ruled the tomato a vegetable in 1893

·       Eleanor Roosevelt hosted an all-female press conference in 1933

·       Simone Biles made history in the 2024 Olympics

Perfect for curious kids, families, and classrooms, America Celebrates is an accessible, engaging, and entertaining guide to celebrating American history this anniversary year.

Vivi A-Z at the New York Public Library by Angela Classi.
Viviani Fedeler, born in 1917, was the daughter of the New York Public Library superintendent and lived at the library for 15 years with her parents and two brothers. The library, known for its beauty, rare collections, and size, has opened its doors to all curious minds for nearly 130 years.
Inspired by the real-life girl and set in the roaring 20’s, Vivi takes readers on a tour through her home and playground, New York City’s famous New York Public Library. Discover the ABCs of this institution and time through a celebration of literature, music, and historical and cultural figures. 
About the Author
Angela Classi is an award-winning oil painter and author living and working in Manhasset, New York who has exhibited her work in the US and abroad. She strives to have her work resonate on a personal level with the viewer and reader by capturing the essence and humanity of the subject in a moment in time. In her pursuit of new painting techniques and travel experiences, she has gained a profound appreciation for the way the arts connect us all and how much we can learn from one another. Connect with Angela on Instagram @angelaclassi or learn more about her work at angelaclassi.com.
Love this mouse!

In author Rebecca Atanassova and illustrator Alissa Hansen’s upcoming children’s book, readers follow an adventurous mouse named George searching for the place where he belongs. Inspired by the true tale of an English wildlife photographer and his wild mouse friend, George the Mouse in a Log Pile House reminds readers that friends come in all shapes and sizes, kindness connects hearts, and each new day holds a bit of wonder.

Always follow your whiskers. Your whiskers will lead you home… 

Join George the Mouse on his big adventure through the wide world to find the place where he belongs. George the Mouse in a Log Pile House reminds readers that friends come in all shapes and sizes, kindness connects hearts, and each new day holds a bit of wonder. The book is inspired by the true tale of an English wildlife photographer, Simon Dell, and his wild mouse friend, George, who popped up in his back garden one sunny day. As featured in People magazine and media worldwide, George the Mouse and his log pile house have charmed fans online with its handcrafted scenes and the playful antics of the mice who live in Log Pile Village. 

George the Mouse in a Log Pile House is a timeless bridge between the very real Log Pile Village beloved on social media and the boundless world of imagination. 

I fell in love with this character! The story is imaginative, and George the Mouse is simply delightful!

I love a good Rom Com!

I spent a lot of time during the summer reading Rom Coms! So, I absolutely loved this sticker book! A Romance Reader’s Sticker Book by Shelby Warwood.  
ISBN: 9781523533435 
Calling all romance readers: this fun-sized, hardcover sticker book will have you swooning! Stamp your beloved books and other items with tropes and quotes on colorful, eye-catching graphics.  Adults and teens will love this!

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to facilitate this featured book post. Cover images were also provided.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Books of the Month: August 2026

August 5, 2026 By Leave a Comment
REALLY RUBIE, written and illustrated by Maddie Frost
Aladdin; Onsale 6/2/26; $14.99; Paper Over Board; Ages 8 – 12 ; ISBN: 979834710399

Fans of Dork Diaries will love the first installment in this hilarious diary-style middle grade series from award-winning author/illustrator Maddie Frost, featuring color-lined pages with black and white illustrations. In REALLY RUBIE ( Ages 8-12), readers are introduced to Rubie Fox, an eleven-year-old who has to face her first time at sleepaway camp without her BFF! Rubie deals with being a fish out of water at camp, making new friends, having her first crush, and being away from home for the first time, all in one summer. Packed with relevant themes and firsts, this is a book that all middle grade readers can relate to.

Hello, summer! Rubie Fox can’t wait to go to sleepaway camp for the very first time. She and her best friend Riley Swisher will go away for an entire month TOGETHER, and they’ll even be able to spy on Riley’s crush Owen, who will be across from Camp Pineview, over at the boys’ camp, Moose-Ridge. But when Riley drops a bomb—she can’t go to camp because she broke her ankle—Rubie has to go by herself. Which sort of makes her feel RAGE…how can she go to camp without Riley?! But her mom has already paid for it, so she’s stuck with her plushie chicken Jim the Duck and a cabin full of girls she doesn’t know.

But Rubie just might make another BFF, break out of her shell, and even meet a boy…all without Riley. Camp might be more eventful than Rubie ever thought it could be—with more drama than she ever imagined!

Maddie Frost is an award-winning, bestselling author and illustrator. She has been praised as a “powerhouse creator,” making over a dozen books for kids. You might recognize some of her books like the WOMBATS! series, Cats on Cats on Cats, and Little Boo. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and daughter. Really Rubie is her first middle grade novel. For more about Maddie, visit her website at Maddie-Frost.com. Or on Instagram @HelloMaddieFrost.

Adventure in the City of Stories is The Magic Tree House for older readers (ages 8-12) 

ABOUT THE BOOK: Cousins Jorge, Camila, and Siggy never imagined that dusty old puppets and a mysterious book would launch them into a time-traveling adventure. But when they discover their aunt has treasures belonging to Pura Belpré, the trailblazing Latina librarian and storyteller, they’re transported back to 1930s New York City. Their mission? Race against time to return Pura’s puppets and a signed first edition of her book, proving their aunt isn’t a thief.

The past is full of danger, though. A powerful woman will stop at nothing to steal the book, the cousins’ nosy neighbor is snooping around, and the hardship of the Great Depression is all around them. Luckily Jorge, Camila, and Siggy meet Antonia, a fierce Puerto Rican girl fighting injustice against her community.

The cousins will need courage, quick thinking, and a little help from history to protect Pura Belpré’s legacy, clear their aunt’s name, and make it back home. Can they pull it off before time runs out?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Emma Otheguy is the author of several books for young readers, including the picture books A Sled for Gabo and Martina Has Too Many Tías, the bilingual picture book Martí’s Song for Freedom, and the middle grade novels Sofía Acosta Makes a Scene, Cousins in the Time of Magic, Silver Meadows Summer, and, with Adam Gidwitz, The Madre de Aguas of Cuba, part of the Unicorn Rescue Society series. Visit her at EmmaOtheguy.com.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR: Poly Bernatene was born in 1972 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and has been drawing ever since. He graduated from Buenos Aires’s art school, where he developed a great interest in managing different techniques in his work. He has worked in advertisement, animation, and comics. During the last fifteen years, he has established an exciting career as a professional illustrator, having published more than sixty children’s books in eleven countries.

Milton Makes a Move is a fun story!

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Milton is a curious little pug who loves adventure—especially when it involves snacks, stinky smells, and playing with his dog friends. He’s heard that some dogs go off to live with forever families… but that kind of adventure feels a little too big for Milton.

So when Milton finds out he’s moving to a new home of his own, he packs his tiny suitcase (stuffed toy included) and does his best to be brave. He’s surprised to find that his new human friend, Jonathan, seems nervous too! But as Milton settles into his new home, he and Jonathan will learn that being brave means giving new things, and new friends, a chance.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jonathan Graziano is a Rochester native who currently resides in New York City. His eternal muse, Noodle, continues to inspire him each and every day. It is Jonathan’s hope that through this story he can continue Noodle’s legacy of spreading joy and kindness and encourage others to adopt and/or rescue a senior pet next time they’re looking to add a new member to their family. You can find Jonathan on TikTok and Instagram.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR:
Dan Tavis is an illustrator living in New Hampshire. He has been doodling ever since his first math class in elementary school! He is the New York Times bestselling illustrator of Noodle and the No Bones Day, Common Critters,and Fluffy McWhiskers Cuteness Explosion, among other projects.

Unauthorized Ultimate K-Pop Fanbook: Boy Group Edition  
By Workman Publishing, illustrated by Brooke O’Neill  

Do you know a fan of K-Pop? This one

Just in time to celebrate the return of BTS and a summer of new music, I’m excited to introduce the Unauthorized Ultimate K-Pop Fanbook: Boy Group Edition (On Sale 6/16/26; $9.99; Workman Kids). This unique fanbook features 32 pages of puzzles, games, activities, fun facts, lists, and more in a fully mixed bag of boy band content featuring all your favorite performers. Plus, 16 sheets of adorable, illustrated stickers to show off your K-Pop loyalty!

See if you can match the hair to your bias, help them find their way through a maze, or identify them using tricky crossword clues. This book is packed with Easter eggs for the K-Pop listeners in your life, including iconic hairstyles, music video references, and more. And don’t worry, girl group fans – the Girl Group Edition is coming this fall!

Great for Toddlers!

Tiny Tiger Says Why Can’t I? by Smriti Halls and illustrated by Steve Small | S&S – Beach Lane Books

This first book in a new picture book series explores big feelings with humor, heart, and a loveable main character kids will instantly connect with. Tiny Tiger has a long list of things they want to do —make cookie dough, drive a car, maybe even live on the moon—but every idea is met with a resounding no. What’s a Tiny Tiger to do? This iconic author illustrator duo is back together for a read-aloud that’s full of expression, emotion, and international appeal.

Mission Milestone – First Day of School & Visit to the Doctor by Derek Shun; illustrated by Benson Shum | S&S – Simon Spotlight

Earning Star Scout badges for every accomplishment, Ollie the panda and his friend Sid the alien are ready to tackle any challenge that comes their way. And first up? The first day of school! Ollie and Sid will take on this new adventure with courage, curiosity, teamwork, and friendship as they learn that school isn’t scary – it’s a place to meet new people and learn all new things. Next, Sid and Ollie learn the importance of caring for your body and mind in Visit to the Doctor. Checkups aren’t scary; they’re an adventure in staying strong and healthy!

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to facilitate this featured book post. Images were also provided.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

More Summer Fun for the Kids!

August 5, 2026 By Leave a Comment
Smart Games IQ Flow

SmartGames IQ Flow by Smart Toys & Games 

MSRP: $14.99 | Ages 7+ | Available at Specialty Toy Stores & Amazon 

Smart Games IQ Flow is an addictive travel puzzle game that challenges players to solve 120 progressive challenges ranging from easy to expert. IQ Flow provides hours of engaging brain-building fun, developing essential STEM skills like logical thinking, spatial reasoning, concentration, and problem-solving.

Each challenge requires players to slide the pieces onto the board correctly to form an uninterrupted path across the grid. Complete with a compact case that’s perfect for travel, commuting, classrooms, or quiet time at home. This is just perfect for summer travel! It’s a lot of fun for adults and kids, and it doesn’t take up much room when packing for travel. It will also get kids off screen time…

PLAYMOBIL Balloon Ride

PLAYMOBIL Balloon Ride
MSRP: $39.99 | Ages 4-10 | Available June 15 on Amazon 

A classic hot air balloon adventure that combines imaginative storytelling, exploration, and open-ended play in one eye-catching set! The new PLAYMOBIL Balloon Ride is the perfect backdrop for imaginative stories and exciting role-playing games. With a clever tiger keeping watch and a cheerful cockatoo perched on the ropes, there’s never a dull moment in the air. Attach the sandbags, ladders, and anchor wherever you like to customize your adventure. As a bonus: You can even hang the balloon from the ceiling for dreamy flights in the playroom. 

This is a great gift for ages 4+, and I love that it promotes imaginative play!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post. Images were also provided.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

Letterpress Surplus Sale & Wayzgoose Celebration

August 5, 2026 By Leave a Comment


Saturday, August 22 | 9am–4pm

A Wayzgoose—a tradition dating back to the 1500s—is an annual gathering of printers to mark the end of summer and the start of the printing season.

Letterpress Surplus Sale: Vintage printing equipment, tools, and supplies for everyone from seasoned printers to curious beginners.

Printing Demos, Hands-On Activities & Workshops: Ongoing mini-tours & interactive printing stations all day; plus educational workshops in the afternoon.

Special Guest Appearance: John Barrett, owner of Letterpress Things (MA), is making a rare West Coast visit with a curated selection of type, cuts, and printing supplies. dry-inc.com

Tickets & Info: printmuseum.org/wayzgoose

Prices: $15 for general Admission; $12 students & seniors available here or at the door
Location: The International Printing Museum, 315 W Torrance Blvd, Carson, CA

Credit: The International Printing Museum.

Filed Under: Featured Events

American Born Chinese Foundation, Supporting Children’s Bilingual Literacy and in Partnership with the City of West Hollywood Presents 4th Annual Los Angeles Kids Book Festival

August 5, 2026 By Leave a Comment


The 4th Annual Los Angeles Kids Book Festival (LAKBF) returns to West Hollywood Park on Sunday, August 23, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. This free-to-the-public event celebrates early childhood education, bilingualism and multiculturalism for young children and their families. Fostering a love for reading, this year’s Los Angeles Kids Book Festival is presented by the American Born Chinese Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting children’s bilingual literacy and in partnership with the City of West Hollywood and proudly sponsored by the Los Angeles Clippers.

The 4th Annual LAKBF promises an unforgettable day of storytelling, performances, and interactive educational fun for families with young children.

This year’s Festival with increased focus on local and community partnerships includes:
– 100+ Exhibitors including Children’s Authors and Illustrators: Local and national creators

– Author & Industry Panels: Learn how to write children’s books and explore the kids’ content industry in sessions held at the West Hollywood Rec Center

– Play2Progress Chill Zone hosts an indoor Stim/Quite Room, offering a calming space for children who need a break from the excitement, along with a nursing station

– Sponsors Include: Los Angeles Clippers, City of West Hollywood, McComb Orthodontics, Los Angeles Chargers, LA Kings, Pizza Hut, IDW Publishing, Athens Services, I’m The Chef Too, Liquid Death, the West Hollywood Library, and more

– Foam Party: The festival’s epic closing celebration

– All-Day Storytimes: Featuring diverse books and bilingual readings

– Live Performances, Food Trucks, Face Painting & More: A full day of family-friendly activities and performances from BeatBuds; Chloe and Maud’s Sole Talks (Syncopated Ladies Junior Group); Rebelot Italian Bilingual Children’s Puppet Theater; Live Calligraphy demonstrations; IDW Drawing Demonstrations; Special Appearance by Blippi and Meekah; Special Guest Book Reader, Raleigh Stewart, illustrator of Lauren Sanchez Bezo’s “The Fly Who Flew” series; and much more

The American Born Chinese Foundation is a vibrant public nonprofit organization (501c3) presenting the Los Angeles Kids Book Festival supporting cultural events and bilingual resources, fostering inclusivity and a lifelong love of learning. The ABC Foundation promotes positive AAPI identity from childhood by supporting AAPI children in the U.S. With a focus on inclusion, diversity, bilingual education, cultural preservation, and Asian representation in children’s books.  

Our work addresses the shortage of bilingual books for multicultural kids, ensuring that bookstores reflect our community. We provide free bilingual books to families, publish new titles, and support bilingual creators. 

“Our goal is to make literacy and multicultural education accessible and joyful for all families,” says Bonnie Hyde, Founder & CEO of LAKBF. “With new panels, performances, and sensory-friendly spaces, this year’s festival is our most inclusive yet!”

About the Los Angeles Kids Book Festival:

LAKBF is a free, annual event celebrating early literacy, bilingualism, and multiculturalism for children and families. Founded in 2023, it is a program of the American Born Chinese Foundation. Learn more at https://www.americanbornchinesefoundation.org/

WHEN: Sunday, August 23, 2026; 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

WHERE:  West Hollywood Park, 647 N San Vicente Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

PARKING: 
Parking Lot A: West Hollywood Park 5-Story – 625 N San Vicente Blvd
• 1st hr free, 6 am-6 pm; 1 hr additional validation for park and rec center patrons.  Validation is inside the building.

Parking Lot B: West Hollywood Library (Municipal Structure #3) – 625 N San Vicente Blvd
• 3 hrs free with Library validation

Parking Lot C: Pacific Design Center Gallery – 8687 Melrose Ave
• Garage entrance for Pacific Design Center is located on Melrose Avenue, just east of San Vicente Blvd
• There is also additional street-metered parking surrounding the park

MORE INFORMATION:
• Free Admission: Visit https://lakidsbookfestival.com/tickets to register for tickets and receive festival updates and stay up to date with the latest list of exhibitors and activities.

• To learn how to become an Exhibitor or Vendor: Apply now at https://www.lakidsbookfestival.com

• Tag us: #LAKidsBookFest

• Full list of exhibitors can be found here: https://www.lakidsbookfestival.com/2026-exhibitors-

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lakidsbookfest
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakidsbookfestival   
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/los-angeles-kids-book-festival   
• For more information: info@lakidsbookfestival.com; 310-795-5312

Filed Under: Featured Events

Fuchsia, July 31 Pet of the Week

August 5, 2026 By Leave a Comment
AWWWWWWWWW

Fuchsia’s name isn’t the easiest to remember how to spell for a few of us, but she’s very easy to love for a lot of people. Volunteer Debbie describes her as loving, calm and stunning — she said that Fuchsia loves her tummy rubbies, knows commands, and is easy to walk. She doesn’t pull much on the leash, Debbie said, and when she took her on a Fido Field Trip, she was nonreactive not only to other dogs but also to the mail carrier and the Amazon delivery person! It’s so odd that Fuchsia hasn’t found her forever person after over a year at the shelter! Fuchsia is one of Long Beach Animal Care Services’ Long-Stay Legends — animals, usually big dogs, who have been at the shelter for more than a year. The volunteers give her all the love that there’s time for, but Fuchsia’s alone at night, which is tragic for an animal who thrives on connection. She’ll be great in a home with no small animals and that can provide constant training and adventures. Shelter staff said that with the right guidance, Fuchsia will blossom — pun intended, of course. Long Beach Animal Care Services is over capacity with dogs, so speed the process to adopt or foster Fuchsia or any of our other pets by emailing PetAdopt@longbeach.gov or petfoster@longbeach.gov. You can also call (562) 570-4925. Our shelter hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 7700 E. Spring St. at the entrance to El Dorado Park (no parking fee for shelter visitors). Ask for ID#A736006.

Filed Under: Featured Content, Pet Corner
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