"Curley loves his home with his Papaw. They live in the Appalachian Mountains, and Curley could spend all day enjoying the beauty of nature with his friend, Jules. On top of that, Papaw has been giving Curley a word once a week to help him learn how to express himself to his fullest. When a new boss takes over the mountain mining group, Curley must use both his love of the land and his powerful words to save the place he calls home." Full review at Fresh Fiction: http://freshfiction.com/review.php?id=58806

"Astrid Sullivan has always been in love with the Titans- mechanical horses that race in her neighborhood. Since she was a young teen, she would go to races and watch them, not daring to wish that someday she could be a part of it. Her family, and many families around her, are barely hanging on to their homes. For people like Astrid's father who lost money betting on the Titans, the races are both intoxicating and debilitating. When Astrid gets an opportunity to race, she will put everything on the line to save her family, her neighborhood, and herself." Full review at Fresh Fiction: http://freshfiction.com/review.php?id=58807

3.5/5 stars

LITTLE BUTTERFLY by Laura Logan is a wordless picture book about the power of small acts of kindness. The style of illustration is absolutely gorgeous and is hands down my favorite part of the book. The author/illustrator uses gentle and soft lines which are strangely comforting and relaxing. Occasional infusions of red and blue color accent the story perfectly. However, particularly in the beginning, the story lacks in emotional build up for bigger scenes.

The messages inside the story are powerful and good for any age to understand. In the beginning, the child gets her cape ripped, just like a nearby butterfly’s wing. Through the story, readers understand that just because something is broken, does not mean it is lesser or without value. In addition, it shows that when people (or butterflies) who are broken help each other with kindness, beautiful results can happen.

This is a story perfect for daydreamers, for children who love exploring and imagination. For young learners, the author provides a helpful note at the end of the story that explains a bit more about the scientific details of butterflies and their life cycles. It would be a rare reader indeed who wouldn’t feel uplifted by the end of this sweet picture book.

Originally posted at YABC: http://www.yabookscentral.com/kidsfiction/19563-little-butterfly

"After being forced into a mental institution by her mother for over two years, Cassie O'Malley couldn't be more ready to start over at college. However, restarting her life is more difficult than she imagined, and her mother's sudden change of heart makes it even more complicated. In the end, Cassie must decide to find her truth and hopefully with it, the healing she has longed for." Full review at Fresh Fiction: http://freshfiction.com/review.php?id=58964