Cowgirl Kate & Cocoa 3: School Days by Erica Silverman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a small and cute version of a very basic chapter book telling small stories about Kate and her horse Cocoa, who gets very jealous and loves to have his friend's attention. Of course real horses don't talk the way Cocoa does, but that doesn't mean that they don't like to do the other things illustrated in these stories.
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June 28, 2023
Dinosaurs!
Dinosaurs! by Heather Villa
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a good basic dinosaur book for early readers with simple facts and fun pictures to engage the reader. This was a school book fair pick for my youngest who loves dinosaurs when he started elementary school.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a good basic dinosaur book for early readers with simple facts and fun pictures to engage the reader. This was a school book fair pick for my youngest who loves dinosaurs when he started elementary school.
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Paw Patrol: Adventure Bay's Bravest
Paw Patrol: Adventure Bay's Bravest by Random House
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
This is another collection of Paw Patrol stories, similar to Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues and including several of the same stories even.
Mission Paw
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
Meet Tracker
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
The Spooky Cabin
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
Break the Ice
Reviewed in Break the Ice!/Everest Saves the Day! double feature.
Rubble's Big Wish
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
Up in the Air
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
Under the Waves
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
King for a Day
When Chase gets sick following a rescue, Marshall is called on to save the day and become king for the day (as part of their play). As with other Paw Patrol books, this follows another of the TV series episodes.
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My rating: 2 of 5 stars
This is another collection of Paw Patrol stories, similar to Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues and including several of the same stories even.
Mission Paw
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
Meet Tracker
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
The Spooky Cabin
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
Break the Ice
Reviewed in Break the Ice!/Everest Saves the Day! double feature.
Rubble's Big Wish
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
Up in the Air
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
Under the Waves
Reviewed in Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues .
King for a Day
When Chase gets sick following a rescue, Marshall is called on to save the day and become king for the day (as part of their play). As with other Paw Patrol books, this follows another of the TV series episodes.
View all my reviews
Barbie: Horse Show Champ
Barbie: Horse Show Champ by Jessie Parker
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Cute and simple with an underlying message to not give up and try again. Not realistic however as a missed jump in competition would be counted as a fault. A rider would also not standardly go back to the same jump given there is a specific course they must follow and the course is also timed, so they must complete it as quickly and cleanly as possible.
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My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Cute and simple with an underlying message to not give up and try again. Not realistic however as a missed jump in competition would be counted as a fault. A rider would also not standardly go back to the same jump given there is a specific course they must follow and the course is also timed, so they must complete it as quickly and cleanly as possible.
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Thomas & Friends: A Ghost on the Track
Thomas & Friends: A Ghost on the Track by W. Awdry
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Thomas isn't a fan of all the Halloween decorations, but he does come to the conclusion black cats are good luck rather than bad luck. As someone who has had the joy of a black cat as a pet, they are definitely more good luck than bad. The story is a little disjointed since it goes from stop to stop for Thomas' observations, however, it still gets the point across for a simple Halloween tale.
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My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Thomas isn't a fan of all the Halloween decorations, but he does come to the conclusion black cats are good luck rather than bad luck. As someone who has had the joy of a black cat as a pet, they are definitely more good luck than bad. The story is a little disjointed since it goes from stop to stop for Thomas' observations, however, it still gets the point across for a simple Halloween tale.
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Disney Encanto: Mirabel's Discovery
Disney Encanto: Mirabel's Discovery by Vicky Weber
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a very simple telling of the Disney movie Encanto from Mirabel's point of view. She may not have an obvious magical gift like most of her family, but that doesn't mean that she can't still see and protect the family magic and their home.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a very simple telling of the Disney movie Encanto from Mirabel's point of view. She may not have an obvious magical gift like most of her family, but that doesn't mean that she can't still see and protect the family magic and their home.
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June 27, 2023
Paw Patrol: Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues!
Paw Patrol: Seven Ruff-Ruff Rescues! by Nickelodeon Publishing
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
As the title may indicate, there are 7 stories for Paw Patrol included in this collection.
Mission Paw
This tells the story of the Paw Patrol's first mission in Barkingburg and meeting Sweetie, the not-so-good royal pup. It also introduces the spy gear collection for the Paw Patrol.
The Spooky Cabin
Rubble isn't so excited helping clear the old cabin when he thinks it may be haunted. The Paw Patrol is on the case though, so you know they'll find the little culprits that are masquerading as poltergeists.
Meet Tracker
Already reviewed on the individual title.
Rubble's Big Wish
Already reviewed on the individual title.
Everest Saves the Day
Reviewed as part of Break the Ice!/Everest Saves the Day! double feature.
Up in the Air
Turns out more than just Skye have flight training in the Paw Patrol, though she is still the resident pilot of the bunch. This rescue takes the whole crew up in the air.
Under the Waves
Of course the Paw Patrol are also the Sea Patrol, except Rocky still doesn't like to get wet. He'll face his own fears though if it means helping is friends save the day.
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My rating: 2 of 5 stars
As the title may indicate, there are 7 stories for Paw Patrol included in this collection.
Mission Paw
This tells the story of the Paw Patrol's first mission in Barkingburg and meeting Sweetie, the not-so-good royal pup. It also introduces the spy gear collection for the Paw Patrol.
The Spooky Cabin
Rubble isn't so excited helping clear the old cabin when he thinks it may be haunted. The Paw Patrol is on the case though, so you know they'll find the little culprits that are masquerading as poltergeists.
Meet Tracker
Already reviewed on the individual title.
Rubble's Big Wish
Already reviewed on the individual title.
Everest Saves the Day
Reviewed as part of Break the Ice!/Everest Saves the Day! double feature.
Up in the Air
Turns out more than just Skye have flight training in the Paw Patrol, though she is still the resident pilot of the bunch. This rescue takes the whole crew up in the air.
Under the Waves
Of course the Paw Patrol are also the Sea Patrol, except Rocky still doesn't like to get wet. He'll face his own fears though if it means helping is friends save the day.
View all my reviews
Pete the Cat Treasury
Pete the Cat Treasury by Kimberly Dean
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a collection of 6 Pete the Cat stories. Most can also be found as single books as well.
Pete at the Beach
Pete starts the day seemingly afraid of the water, however, heat and Bob wanting to surf would mean facing that fear improves the day.
Play Ball!
Pete doesn't seem to be a very great baseball player, however, this doesn't stop him from having fun playing the game or being a good team player and cheering for his teammates. A simple story that highlights being a good sport.
Too Cool for School
Sometimes it seems easiest to take advice from family and friends around us when in reality we really just need to be ourselves. This is a simple illustration about this concept as it would not make sense either from a comfort or physical standpoint to wear so many layers, even if it is to be "cool" for the first day of school.
A Pet for Pete
Pete decides he wants a fish for his first pet, however, a fish can't run and play. That doesn't stop Pete from finding something creative to enjoy and show off his new pet, though.
Pete's Big Lunch
This has got to be the most fascinating "sandwich" ever - especially considering nothing is actually sandwiched with the bread at all since it's an entire loaf. On the plus side, Pete's eyes being bigger than his stomach leads to the perfect opportunity to share with his friends.
The Bad Banana
Brown bananas are definitely only good for baking so long as they aren't too bad. Pete learns this the hard way by getting sick, which, especially for a child's perspective, equates to no longer liking or wanting that food. It's hard to beat an old favorite though, especially when it's also good for you and the perfect way to start your day.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a collection of 6 Pete the Cat stories. Most can also be found as single books as well.
Pete at the Beach
Pete starts the day seemingly afraid of the water, however, heat and Bob wanting to surf would mean facing that fear improves the day.
Play Ball!
Pete doesn't seem to be a very great baseball player, however, this doesn't stop him from having fun playing the game or being a good team player and cheering for his teammates. A simple story that highlights being a good sport.
Too Cool for School
Sometimes it seems easiest to take advice from family and friends around us when in reality we really just need to be ourselves. This is a simple illustration about this concept as it would not make sense either from a comfort or physical standpoint to wear so many layers, even if it is to be "cool" for the first day of school.
A Pet for Pete
Pete decides he wants a fish for his first pet, however, a fish can't run and play. That doesn't stop Pete from finding something creative to enjoy and show off his new pet, though.
Pete's Big Lunch
This has got to be the most fascinating "sandwich" ever - especially considering nothing is actually sandwiched with the bread at all since it's an entire loaf. On the plus side, Pete's eyes being bigger than his stomach leads to the perfect opportunity to share with his friends.
The Bad Banana
Brown bananas are definitely only good for baking so long as they aren't too bad. Pete learns this the hard way by getting sick, which, especially for a child's perspective, equates to no longer liking or wanting that food. It's hard to beat an old favorite though, especially when it's also good for you and the perfect way to start your day.
View all my reviews
Paw Patrol: Puppy Dance Party!
Paw Patrol: Puppy Dance Party! by Nickelodeon Publishing
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
As with all Paw Patrol books we've read so far, this follows one of the TV episodes very closely. This story focuses on Chicken Day and saving Chickaletta (with a few other problems to solve along the way). A little more wordy than many children's picture books, but still easy to follow given how closely it follows the episodes and the kids have seen all of those it seems.
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My rating: 2 of 5 stars
As with all Paw Patrol books we've read so far, this follows one of the TV episodes very closely. This story focuses on Chicken Day and saving Chickaletta (with a few other problems to solve along the way). A little more wordy than many children's picture books, but still easy to follow given how closely it follows the episodes and the kids have seen all of those it seems.
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Penguins, Penguins, Everywhere!
Penguins, Penguins, Everywhere! by Bob Barner
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a simple and cute book about penguins, where they live, and how they live. Good introduction for small children and a simple reference book. There is even a puzzle in the back to see how they retain the information and a chart with basic drawings to show how different types of penguins appear.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a simple and cute book about penguins, where they live, and how they live. Good introduction for small children and a simple reference book. There is even a puzzle in the back to see how they retain the information and a chart with basic drawings to show how different types of penguins appear.
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The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!
The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! by Mo Willems
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
This is a very basic children's book about sharing, though it doesn't actually use that word anywhere in the story. Instead, it highlights the pigeon being greedy and possessive until the end when the birds are seen sharing. If you're wanting to teach the concept, it's a simple easy reader, but younger children who don't already know the meaning of the word may need an explanation included to be able to apply it correctly and understand that is what the goal of the story.
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
This is a very basic children's book about sharing, though it doesn't actually use that word anywhere in the story. Instead, it highlights the pigeon being greedy and possessive until the end when the birds are seen sharing. If you're wanting to teach the concept, it's a simple easy reader, but younger children who don't already know the meaning of the word may need an explanation included to be able to apply it correctly and understand that is what the goal of the story.
Color Fan
Color Fan (Android)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you like anime and are a fan of coloring apps like Colorscapes, you may enjoy this app. The downside is that they are very heavy on the ads - before opening any pictures to color, after finishing pictures, and to earn hints for those tiny pieces that want to hide no matter how much you zoom in and try to be careful scanning for them. Some of the pictures can be a bit risqué, too, so would not let children have free access to it, even though they may want to (especially with a rather large collection of Pokémon pictures). You can pay to have an ad-free experience and unlimited access to the daily pictures rather than having to color to earn keys to unlock them (you can only earn up to 3 keys daily by coloring 9 pictures). The limits and ads are a bit much, but the pictures are a lot more engaging for anyone who enjoys coloring apps and happens to also be an anime fan rather than just generic or holiday themed pictures.
[edit] As of 2026, this game is no longer adding new content and challenges, greatly reducing the previous attraction of the game, especially since you'll still see ads between each picture and/or for any bonus hints you want to use if you aren't willing to pay for them. Sad really, as this was one of the more attractive color apps we had tried.
Decor Match
Decor Match (Android)
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Yet another game where the ads look nothing like the actual game play. The ads would have you believe that there are design challenges for the game play to pass the levels. Really, it's another match 3 game to earn points or coins to design a room however you want to within a set of 3 choices per each field in the picture. Similar to Disney Getaway Blast, Frozen Adventures, Frozen: Freefall, Homescapes, Gardenscapes, Meow Match, Matchington Mansion, Sweet Escapes, etc. There are teams to join and challenges to try and win in the process along with many events and ads to buy coins and bonuses to beat the levels.
June 26, 2023
Bustafellows
Bustafellows (Nintendo Switch)
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars
The audio is in Japanese, however, there are English subtitles, so it's not difficult to play. I often play without volume at all, so it isn't really a hinderance for me. The game itself is RPG style, but very linear. It's hard to tell on first play through, but there are various results that you can get as a result of your choices in the game, like most RPG or data sims (because there is a dating element hidden in there). It also has a bit of memory recall like puzzle games, so pay attention when you're working on a case. You never know when you might need to recall something to make a choice - complete with ticking timer to make that choice in.
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