Grow is a tale of pumpkins, sabotage, and unlikely family bonds. A no-nonsense farmer living in the self-proclaimed ‘Pumpkin Capital of the World’ takes in her estranged niece Charlie. Charlie decides to enter the local pumpkin growing competition where she and the other pumpkin growers face fierce competition, sabotage and a genetically engineered rival. As she nurtures her pumpkin ‘Peter’ and watches him grow, so does her bond with the townsfolk, farm and her new way of life.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “Grow is a heartwarming story about a little girl’s dream to win a pumpkin-growing contest. With awesome tales of love, laughter, and the power of persistence, Grow encases Halloween magic with some sweet family elements to make it a blast for all ages.” Harper B. adds, “Grow is a wonderful film about family, friends, and loyalty. I like this movie because the lessons of keeping promises run deep. I also love this film because it kept me on my toes and I never knew what would happen next.” See their full reviews below. 

Grow

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

“It’s better to do the right thing than the easy thing.” Grow is a heartwarming story about a little girl’s dream to win a pumpkin-growing contest. With awesome tales of love, laughter, and the power of persistence, Grow encases Halloween magic with some sweet family elements to make it a blast for all ages.

Grow takes place in the fictional town of Mugford, UK – a small town obsessed with a BIG annual pumpkin contest. The prize would change the lives of anyone in the town, except the Smythe-Gherkins, 50 time annual winners of the challenge. Charlie (Priya-Rose Brookwell) has been sent to live with her Aunt Dinah (Golda Roshuevul) in Mugford since her mother disappeared and decides to put her green thumb to the test by entering the contest. And she will do everything in her power to win so she can use the prize money to find her mom. But with the competition so fierce, does this newcomer even stand a chance?

While Halloween is often celebrated with a bunch of horror films and stories, Grow is a story about family connection and a sweet Halloween film for all ages. Grow is filled to the brim with great actors, like SAG-nominated Golda Roshuevul (Bridgerton), Nick Frost, who will play Rubeus Hagrid in the upcoming Harry Potter TV series, and Jeremy Swift (Higgins in Ted Lasso). It also includes new faces, like up-and-comer Priya-Rose Brookwell, who I predict we will see a lot more of after her first starring role here. As Charlie, she is a perfect example of persistence. She really thinks she will win, even in the face of countless unknowns. The humor in this film is outstanding, with hilarious moments and awesome nods to other movies, like when a gruesomely stabbed pumpkin ends up in the owner’s bed in a nod to The Godfather.  The set and costume designers have created bright, fun costumes and larger-than-life pumpkins that add vibrancy to the neutral background of the town and farm. Hats off to Director John McPhail for a non-scary Halloween movie that families can enjoy.

The main message of Grow is that nothing is impossible and, if you keep pushing for your dreams, you can make it to the top. This film includes themes of love, friendship, and persistence. Parents should be warned that Grow includes some scenes with suspenseful moments, including seeing a hooded man attack multiple pumpkins, and a theme of parental abandonment.

I give Grow 4 out of 5 pumpkins and recommend it for ages 5 to 12, plus adults. Check it out in theatres when it plays a limited run on Fathom Events starting on October 17, 2025. Happy Haunts Everyone!

Grow

By Harper B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Grow is a wonderful film about family, friends, and loyalty. I like this movie because the lessons of keeping promises run deep. I also love this film because it kept me on my toes and I never knew what would happen next.

Grow is about a girl, Charlie Little (Priya-Rose Brookwell), who wants to find her mother, Polly Little (Kathryn Drysdale). However, Charlie is sent to her aunt, Dianah Little (Golda Rosheuvel), who lives on a farm. The town is crazy about pumpkins and a pumpkin contest; some of the neighbors have insane ideas about how to grow a pumpkin. Charlie needs the prize money of $100,000 in order to find her mother, so she enters the contest, and has help from previous winner, Arlo (Nick Frost). 

This film is phenomenal. It is wonderful in every aspect, from the setting to the writing and the acting. I love the setting because it made me feel as if I was really there. It is filmed in Scotland. The actors are phenomenal – my favorite character is Dianah Little because of how much patience she has no matter what happens. The background music enhances the film extremely well. It made me feel things I would not have felt otherwise. Going into the film I had very high expectations for it and it fulfilled all that I thought it would be. The film is also directed very well, particularly by how relationships are shown between Charlie and Dianah Little. When they are separated, they do not feel whole. They have a very deep connection to each other. Polly’s and Dianah’s relationship is also worth noticing. They both are from the Little family, but Polly is popular and Dianah knows how to work hard. Many siblings will relate to this as we see one of them in the spotlight while the other works behind the scenes, without being noticed. We also see Charlie break a promise to her friends, family, and herself. She knows what she must do, but the question is, will she do it?

The film’s lessons are about restoring relationships and being loyal to your friends, family, and even a pumpkin.

I give Grow 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Grow will be released in theaters October 17, 2025.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, the cinematic return of the global phenomenon, follows the Crawley family and their staff as they enter the 1930s. When Mary finds herself at the center of a public scandal and the family faces financial trouble, the entire household grapples with the threat of social disgrace. The Crawleys must embrace change as the staff prepares for a new chapter with the next generation leading Downton Abbey into the future.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Elsy S. comments, “I love the film Downton Abbey because of its intriguing plotline, deep topics, and how the story is very authentic to the time period in which it is set… The complexity of this story really helps pull together the Crawley family stories and provides an incredible ending to the popular show. One aspect that really impressed me is how it manages to maintain several plotlines at the same time, and how everything, especially the costumes, are very authentic to the time.” See her full review below.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale
By Elsy S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I love the film Downton Abbey because of its intriguing plotline, deep topics, and how the story is very authentic to the time period in which it is set.

The story takes place in the early 1930s and follows several characters we have come to know. Mary (Michelle Dockery) is faced with divorce, which was utterly scandalous at that time; she is scorned by other nobles, and isn’t permitted to take charge of Downton Abbey. Lady Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern) and Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) experience extreme financial struggles, due to Lady Cora’s brother, Horace’s (Paul Giamatti) irresponsibility with Cora’s inheritance. Eventually, we discover that Gus Sambrook (Alessandro Nivola), Horace’s supposed finance expert, has been stealing their money and threatening Mary. Eventually, the financial problems are resolved and Mary regains her respect, with the film ending as Mary reflects on her past in a bittersweet manner.

The complexity of this story really helps pull together the Crawley family stories and provides an incredible ending to the popular show. One aspect that really impressed me is how it manages to maintain several plotlines at the same time, and how everything, especially the costumes, are very authentic to the time. I felt that several characters don’t quite have the emotional depth of others, such as Lord Horence, who doesn’t seem to feel anything throughout the film except for superiority. My favorite part is when Mary is forced to hide beneath the stairs due to the rule that royalty can’t be in the same room as a divorced woman, which is actually quite heartbreaking. My least favorite part is when Lady Grantham’s brother, Horence, asks her for part of her inheritance that is left after Horence has squandered it away.

The film’s message is about keeping your head held high, and not care what others think of you. It also reminds us to value our family. Be aware that there are some references to more adult concepts, mild nudity, and substance usage.

I give Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. It releases in theaters on September 12, 2025.

Party Time with Patrick is an album for kids and families that celebrate fun things in life like birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, summer, holidays and more. Upbeat and fun, this album is meant to make you smile and sing along.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Eli C. comments, “I really like the album Party Time With Patrick because the lyrics are super catchy, the topics are goofy, and the songs are enjoyable to listen to. The instrumentals are especially noteworthy.” KIDS FIRST! Music Critic, John Wood adds, “On first listen, I was not a fan of Party Time With Patrick. The frenetic, in-your-face vocals and relentless bounce of the music were off-putting to my dainty musical tastes. But in fairness, first impressions can be deceiving. So I did what any fair-minded reviewer does: I stepped back, looked to the margins, opened the blinders, and gave the whole thing a poke with a stick. And wouldn’t you know it—it moved. It jumped. It danced. It sang like it was having fun.” See their full reviews below.

Party Time With Patrick
By Eli C., KIDS FIRST Film Critic, age 10

I really like the album Party Time With Patrick because the lyrics are super catchy, the topics are goofy, and the songs are enjoyable to listen to. The instrumentals are especially noteworthy.

Party Time With Patrick is a 30 minute pop and rock album by Patrick Adams. In each of the 10 fun songs, he celebrates a different special occasion in both a digestible and danceable way, wonderfullymixing pop and rock in songs like Graduation Days, Champions, Birthday Bash, and more. This upbeat album is meant for kids and parents alike to jam out to and definitely made me get up and dance to its great melodies.

I could certainly see some of these songs making it to a kid’s birthday party. Its catchy and fun tunes are more appropriate to kids younger than me and I imagine they would be moving and singing along to the music. The songs have a 1990s to early 2000s vibe, which might give some parents a bit of nostalgia. The instrumentals are my favorite part of each song. Props to Erik Gatchalian, who provides instrumentals for this album. He really works his magic and gives the songs that professional feel. However, at times it seems that the vocals and the instrumentals don’t mix all that well. Note that this album focuses primarily on fun topics. My favorite song is Champions because both the instrumentals and vocals really shine.

The album sends the message to always celebrate special and important occasions as much and as many times as you can.

I give Party Time With Patrick 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. It is available at online music retailers now.

Party Time With Patrick

By John Wood, KIDS FIRST! Music Critic

On first listen, I was not a fan of Party Time With Patrick. The frenetic, in-your-face vocals and relentless bounce of the music were off-putting to my dainty musical tastes. Imagine a marching band colliding with a sugar rush, and you’ll have the general idea. But in fairness, first impressions can be deceiving. So I did what any fair-minded reviewer does: I stepped back, looked to the margins, opened the blinders, and gave the whole thing a poke with a stick.

And wouldn’t you know it—it moved. It jumped. It danced. It sang like it was having fun. Whatever my reservations, the music is varied, well-played, and professionally produced. The lyrics, while not my brand of poetry, have a democratic charm: they practically call out to a kid, “Hey—you could write a song too!” And that’s not nothing. Encouraging creativity is always a win.

The album’s theme is celebrations—holidays of all shapes, sizes, and calendars. If you’ve ever thought, “We should throw a parade for Arbor Day,” Patrick’s your guy. It’s about year-round license to let your hair down (or up, or sideways—free country). It’s a rousing, rip-roaring sing-a-long of yearly celebrations from birthdays to New Years.

There’s something admirable about taking every excuse to party, even if your idea of a wild time is cake for breakfast. Now, here’s the rub: I’m not sold on Patrick’s singing and the lyrics didn’t resonate with me. And yet, somehow, the whole contraption keeps chugging along and there are some very strong instrumentals, clever production and performances here.  Making any children’s album is a feat of logistics, heart, and caffeine, and on that front, Patrick delivers. Whether or not you want to hop aboard the Patrick Train—that’s your call.

Me? I can lead a horse to water, but I can’t make it sing along. That’s why I use a pen instead of a pencil—less erasing, more committing. So, here’s my advice: give it a listen and decide for yourself. Maybe you’ll dance. Maybe you’ll wince. Maybe you’ll end up somewhere in between, tapping your foot in spite of yourself. Either way, it’s a party, and Patrick has already passed out the noisemakers.

If its purpose is to create some fun, encourage kids to participate and dance along, then that’s been achieved. The content is appropriate for its target audience – it’s loud, has a kid’s mosh pit vibe – if there is such a thing. As to whether it will stick over repeated play that is debatable. 

I give Party Time with Patrick 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 8. It is available now at online retailers.

A rebellious young boy, Ne Zha, is feared by the gods and born to mortal parents with wild, uncontrolled powers. Now he’s faced with an ancient force intent on destroying humanity, he must grow up to become the hero the world needs.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Elsy S. comments, “I love the movie Ne Zha 2, because of the humorous touches, incredible animation, and the several meaningful themes, such as family and good versus evil. It is extremely complex, and the characters all have their own stories.” Harper B. adds, “This film surprised me in all the ways a person can be surprised. Starting with the phenomenal animation, this film truly brings the story to life. The battle scenes in particular are stunning visually and very creative.” See their full reviews below.

Ne Zha 2
By Elsy S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I love the movie Ne Zha 2, because of the humorous touches, incredible animation, and the several meaningful themes, such as family and good versus evil. It is extremely complex, and the characters all have their own stories.

The story follows Ne Zha (Crystal Lee), a three-year-old demon boy, a child of two generals, who was reduced to a soul, but gets his body back. His best friend and previous mortal enemy, Ao Bing (Aleks Le) pushes himself too hard in a battle, and the two souls must share Ne Zha’s body. To get a body for Ao Bing, Ne Zha must pass a series of trials, but Taiyi Zhenren (Rick Zieff) has other ideas. He passes the trials, but his village gets attacked, and in the end, there’s a massive battle of betrayal and heartache for which Ne Zha assumes his teenage form (Griffin Puatu).

The animation is incredible! This is visual storytelling at its best. This is a heartfelt movie with heartbreaking, yet sweet moments. One thing that really impressed me is how intense this film is; it fully immersed me in the story, as if I was a part of it. The message is inspiring and hopeful, which really gives the movie a meaningful touch. Ne Zha is portrayed as a demon child grappling with feelings of being replaced; Crystal Lee and Griffin Puatu provide the voice of Ne Zha, for his child and teenage form, very well. Michelle Yeoh and Vincent Rodriguez III portray the emotional depth of their characters so well with their voices. Ao Bing, one of the characters with the most internal conflict, is voiced by Aleks Le, whose voice perfectly matches the character. My favorite scene is when Ao Bing and Ne Zha break free of Master Wuliang’s (Robert Clotworthy) trap.

The film’s message is to be yourself. It reminds us of how we are perfect just the way we are. Be forewarned that it has several violent scenes, many deaths, and mild language, making it slightly unsuitable for younger children.

Ne Zha 2 gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18. It releases in theaters on August 22, 2025.

Ne Zha 2
By Harper B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12 

Ne Zha 2 is an epic film about two destined enemies becoming friends. I love this film because of the characters and the emotional aspect. 

Ne Zha 2 is about a young boy, Ne Zha (Crystal Lee) who is a demon and just wants to be normal and fit in. His parents, Li Jing (Vincent Rodriguez III) and Lady Yin (Michelle Yeoh), try their best to help Ne Zha be a better person.  He meets a friend Ao Bing (Aleks Le) who is a dragon and contains the spirit pill. Ne Zha and Ao Bing team up to get Ao Bing’s body back.

This film surprised me in all the ways a person can be surprised. Starting with the phenomenal animation, this film truly brings the story to life. The battle scenes in particular are stunning visually and very creative. My favorite scene is the final battle scene. The background music is astonishing and the sound effects are extremely realistic. I really enjoyed watching Lady Yin evolve into the caring mother she was born to be. I also enjoyed watching Taiyi Zhenren (Rick Zieff), taking Ne Zha under his wing. This film is an emotional roller coaster — it made me laugh, cry, and truly brought me joy like I have never experienced before from watching a film. Compared to Ne Zha, Ne Zha 2 is even better. The characters are very similar with some of the same qualities and some differences which made watching the movie fun. Ne Zha 2 taught me life is not in black and white, there is some gray too. The people of Chentang Pass come to understand why people do certain things to protect their people.

The film’s message is that not everyone is all good or all bad. When we see other’s differences and celebrate them, then we can all become one team and defeat the real enemy. Note that there are some violent scenes that are inappropriate for younger children. 

Ne Zha 2 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It will be released in theaters on August 22, 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.