Princess Paris Finds Her Purpose by Demi-Leigh Tebow & illustrated by Olga Ivanov & Aleksey Ivanov [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9781400249503
Hardcover | $19.99 USA
Tommy Nelson®

My thoughts: While this is a publication from Christian publishing, Tommy Nelson, there is no direct reference to Scripture or Biblical story. However, the "Princess" is indicative of a Child of the King. The king is the "Lion King." Christians are consider to be a child of the King and the Lion King is representative of the King of Kings, Lord Jesus Christ. 

The story involves a crew of delightfully drawn dogs living in the palace. The Princess is a dalmatian and is protected by her security team, a Lab/Retriever and a Border Collie. As the Princess goes on a visit to the Royal Savanna animals a monkey snatches her sparkly crown. While her security team is chasing the monkey to retrieve the crown, the Princess goes about meeting several different species of animals.

Eventually the crown is retrieved but alas it is now broken. The Princess' visit to the savanna animals has ended and she reports back to her father, the king. He praises her for her kindness to the animals she met, and hence she discovers her purpose - kindness.

A sweet lesson in overcoming personal disappointment while learning to be kind to others as a way of life. Also, a good lesson in the more value to place on being good and kind rather than place value in objects.

I especially like the happy, bright and colorful illustrations and felt that they make the story really engaging to read.

About the book: Anti-trafficking advocate and former Miss Universe and Miss South Africa Demi-Leigh Tebow encourages young readers to find their purpose and help others in need in her first children’s book about a princess who loses her crown, starring Demi’s real-life dog Paris the dalmatian.

When her crown is stolen, Princess Paris fears she’ll never get it back. How can she represent her king without her crown? She doesn’t feel much like a princess and worries all the animals on the Royal Savanna won’t take her seriously without it. But as each animal Paris meets faces a unique problem, she discovers that being a princess requires more than wearing a shiny crown. Secret word: royal

This adventurous story is paw-fect for ages 4 to 8,focuses on finding your purpose and being kind, is a creative conversation starter between parents and children about helping others, and is a perfect choice for a nursery display or a baby shower or birthday gift. Take your children on this adventurous African safari with Paris, Kobe, and Chunk (the whole Tebow Pack!) and show them that helping others is the greatest purpose of all.

GIVEAWAY

"Princess Paris Finds Her Purpose"

Begins March 29

Ends April 29 @ 12:00 Midnight EDT

Open to USA addresses only

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by publisher or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Note-worthy MIT Press Kid's picture books from 2025 (STEM EDUCATION)

The Girl Who Tested the Waters: Ellen Swallow, Environmental Scientist by Patricia Daniele & Illustrated by Junyi Wu

My thoughts:  A well done biographic picture book about a woman who, when it wasn't considered desired or appropriate for women, pursued an education. As she grew and learned all that was available for her to learn, her parents recognized her capabilities and sold all and relocated where she could be mentally engaged and equipped to expand her mind.

A bit more wordy than the average "picture book," but written in a forthright and engaging manner, this is a perfect introduction into reading non-fiction to the young child and reader. The illustrations readily depict a simple young woman (appropriately hair styled and dressed for the time) excitedly pursuing books and scientific equipage as she wonders, experiments, discovers, and further pursues knowledge.

As the first woman to study at MIT, she opened doors for more intelligent and inquisitive women to further their scientific and technological education. But not only did she open doors for women to have access to higher education, she actually achieved scientific successes and make the world a better place in which to live. I believe we have Ellen Swallow to thank for cleaner and safer water and food.

I love that the illustrations are soft yet highly detailed and show the world that Ellen Swallow lived and learned in. I really like how this young readers biography while telling the story of this fantastic trail-blazing woman makes for really good reading, but also how the book is formatted like an "official" biography with author's note, source material, bibliography, and other interesting material at the back. A fine introduction to non-fiction biographic reading.

About the book: Discover the eye-opening story of the first woman student at MIT—a pioneering environmental chemist sure to inspire the next generation of female trailblazers in science.

Ellen Swallow found a friend in nature and a lifelong love of science as a child exploring the woods around her family’s home. She was a voracious learner with an interest in chemistry, and continuing her education at the newly established Massachusetts Institute of Technology seemed a good fit. But in 1871, many believed that women belonged in the home, not in schools dedicated to the study of science. Ellen thought, why not both? She believed science could help solve the problems of everyday life, including the pollution she observed in Boston, so when offered the chance to study the city’s water systems, she seized it. What she found would change the way we think about clean water. In her lifetime, Ellen pioneered science education for women, advocated for a healthier environment, and helped develop the field of ecology. The Girl Who Tested the Waters, with engaging text and soft, inviting illustrations, portrays a woman ahead of her time and her tireless efforts to bring about change for good. Curious readers can find more in the back matter, including a time line, an author’s note, source notes, and a bibliography.

See an Excerpt 

Meena and the Microbiome by Dr. Majdi Osman & Illustrated by Teresa Martínez

My thoughts: An exceptionally sweet story of a conversation between mother and daughter that educates the child about the world within our world consisting of tiny organisms (wee little critters). The discover the scents around us are a byproduct of these wee little critters in the ground and all about and within us. About how our own health and functionality runs smoothly because of these little critters.

They are microbiome and they are everywhere.

Softly illustrated with lots of detail that engages the eye as the mind begins to be tickled with the fact of life in the micro world atop, within, and underneath. It is fascinating and so very well presented.

I highly recommend this MIT Kids Press book. 

About the book: Did you know there are more microbes on Earth than stars in the universe? That some five million microbes live on your hand? A child’s curiosity helps her understand why these tiny organisms make such a big difference in her life.

After the last drop of rain falls, Meena and her mom head outside to their garden, which is bursting with veggies and flowers. But it isn’t the produce that Meena is curious about. It’s the microbes in the soil (giving it that earthy smell), in the compost pile, in our bodies—everywhere!—that have Meena wondering. How do they live? What do they eat? Where did Meena’s own microbiome come from? Comparing microbe communities to a bustling city, where everyone has a job to do, Meena’s scientist mom answers her questions while they garden, gather vegetables for a neighbor, have a snack at the picnic table, and end the day with a sudsy bath. Physician-scientist Dr. Majdi Osman introduces the adorable Meena during a day of eye-opening exploration, while Teresa Martínez’s engaging illustrations capture the mother-daughter pair in perspectives ranging from microscopic to bird’s-eye view. Back matter includes a resource list and an author’s note on the far-reaching role that the microbiome plays in our health and development.

See an excerpt  

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Movie: Audrey’s Children: The True Story of Dr. Audrey Evans - In Theaters March 28

Only in theaters
March 28, 2025

AUDREY'S CHILDREN tells the untold true story of visionary British physician Dr. Audrey Evans, who burst onto the scene in 1969 as the first female Chief of Oncology at the world-renowned Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. 

Battling sexism, medical conventions, and the subterfuge of her peers, Evans developed the first Neuroblastoma Staging System, co-founded the first Ronald McDonald House for families of patients, and, ultimately, impacted the lives of millions of children and families around the world. 

When Dr. Evans started her work, only 10 % of children with cancer survived, now nearly 80% survive. Rated PG. https://www.audreyschildren.com/

Visit the Audrey’s Children website to learn more - click here

Visit Audrey’s Children on Facebook - click here

GET TICKETS - HERE

My review: As a young adult contemporary of the featured heroin, Audrey Evans, I can positively say that this film truthfully depicts that time when women were still considered inferior to men in position, intellect, power, and person and they were shuffled aside as unknowing and unwelcome. But Audrey persisted and plowed through the mores of the time using her determination, her intellect, her intuition, and her deeply caring spirit to persist in developing a methodology to cancer treatment that has generated wonderfully amazing results in survival rates.

As a pediatric oncology scientist and doctor she was been given the position as head of pediatric oncology at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and yet she still is not respected quantitatively. But she persists. And in her love of her small patients and her unfailing desire to bring healing to them, she see a way through. But a new treatment plan must be rational and there must be reason behind changes. So she and a couple of others begin to piece the data together. This is done in an archaic method of sticky notes on the wall. But they do it and find the breakthrough.

So begins a two-drug treatment and five-level-staging to categorize the patients for treatment. And it's a winner.

This is an absolutely delightfully rewarding film about Audrey and her trail-blazing career. I found the acting excellent. The emotional portrayals are intense from co-worker's rebuttals to parental tears at a dying child's beside. And the portrayal of Audrey herself was that of a proper yet feisty, quirky yet traditional, intensely intellectual yet momentarily lacking in common sense driven individual. Superb filming with settings absolutely like 1960s and 1970s hospital corridors and basements. I am so glad to have had the opportunity to view this movie.

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Review Wire Media for Blue Harbor Entertainment.

Shattered Sanctuary (The Erin Delaney Mysteries #1) by Nancy Mehl [Giveaway]

A Christian Mystery & Suspense Novel with Action & Clean Romance

Was this the last thing she'd ever see? Would she be able to make things right before it was too late?

"God . . ." was all she got out before he lunged toward her.

Purchase Here
30% Discount
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Grappling with the aftermath of a tragic incident that altered her life, ex-police officer and bestselling mystery author Erin Delaney finds solace in the tranquility of a cabin nestled deep in the Smoky Mountains. But her restful stay is shattered when cries pierce the night, hinting at a lurking presence haunting the woods. When local police chief Adrian Nightengale seeks her help with a carefully arranged murder scene, she is thrust back into the world of crime solving. As they delve into the investigation, Erin's intuition reveals chilling truths about the killer's motives and strategically perfected methods. Secret word: shattered

Joined by the enigmatic Kaely Quinn-Hunter, a former FBI behavioral analyst, Erin not only embarks on a quest to stop the merciless serial killer, but also confronts the revived ghosts of her past. In a race against time, Erin must defeat her own demons while outmaneuvering a cunning killer or risk becoming the next victim in this deadly game of cat and mouse.

Shattered Sanctuary is a clean, Christian, thrilling suspense novel set in the Smoky Mountains, full of police investigations, haunted woods, eerie threats, and ominous evidence. For fans of high-stakes suspense, Lynette Eason, and Elizabeth Goddard.

Watch for Chat With Vera's review, soon!

GIVEAWAY

Begins March 25

Ends April 25 @ 12:00 Midnight EDT

Open to USA addresses only

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize book is provided and mailed directly to the winner by author, publicist, or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Broad Spectrum SPF50 Sunscreen from Mary Kay® is Skin Cancer Foundation approved!

My Mary Kay® personal consultant, Princess, was so very excited to tell me about the  Mary Kay® Sun Screen Broad Spectrum SPF50 because it is NOW approved by the prestigious Skin Cancer Foundation. By having the Skin Cancer Foundation's official "Seal of Recommendation" it means you can really trust the product to do what you need it to do - protect your skin.

 

If you or anyone in your family has ever been diagnosed with a skin cancer - no matter how scary, you know the need for a high end, highly respected sunscreen product to protect you when out in the sun.

And yes, my family has had some bouts with skin cancer. And those of us of the older generation didn't grow up using sunscreen or we didn't know the real necessity of using it, are experiencing skin issues. Now we've all learned. Now is the time to use a really good sun screen product!

Contact my consultant at Click: My Mary Kay Consultant

Find it on
Mary Kay®
Click Here

Introducing the Mary Kay® Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 – now dermatologist-trusted and Skin Cancer Foundation-approved! 

 Broad-Spectrum Protection
 Water-Resistant
 Dermatologist-Trusted
 Proven to Protect – passing the toughest tests to earn the Seal of Recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation.

***Get this top selling and proven product TODAY!!

NOTE: My Mary Kay® Consultant, Princess is my daughter. I'm so proud of her and I highly encourage your to reach out to her via the link above or even check out her Facebook page, "Princess' Joyful Girls"  (You'll have to ask to join it since it's "private.") She would love to help you protect your skin and stay beautiful.

Broad Spectrum SPF50 Sunscreen from Mary Kay®

#MaryKaySunscreen #SPF50 #SkinProtection #SkinCancerFoundation #BeautyWithPurpose #SummerReady

FOREST MAGIC FOR KIDS: How to Find Fairies, Make a Secret Fort, and Cook Up an Elfin Picnic by Susie Spikol [Review & Giveaway]

New Children's Book "Forest Magic for Kids" Sparks Imagination with Fairy Hunts, Secret Forts, and Enchanted Outdoor Adventures!

 

Publisher: Gibbs Smith
Hardcover | $19.99 
ISBN: 978-1423665533
Age 5-9 Years

My thoughts:  This is a delightfully charming non-fiction book that is designed to invoke a desire to learn about the natural world of the forest. While the idea of "magic," wee-folk, fairies, and such conjure a world of make-believe, this book conversely takes them into the real world of life in the forest from the majesty of the trees to the pure delight of the tiniest creatures and smallest flowers.

The book is heavy on text so will necessitate adult guidance and reading. The book is a grand addition to science class or school libraries, and perfect for families that love nature.

Whilst the book introduces the child to aspects of the real world of the forest, it doesn't shun the tales and folklore shared through the ages. There are activities and projects both educational plus some that are fun and fanciful.

A charming educational tool to have on hand and a perfect gift for the upcoming spring and summer days.

About the book:  Your enchanted guide to 50+ magical activities for everything from finding hidden flower fairies in your own backyard and making a special wizard staff to creating a tiny woodland village and making your own forest potions.

Come discover the wild magic tucked into the nooks and crannies of forests, thickets, and meadows. Search for fairy dusted glow-in-the-dark mushrooms. Find secret worlds hidden in trees and uncover the tunnels, trails, and dens of gnomes and trolls, and mice and moles. Learn to listen to the forest, make sun-warmed pine tea, and wear an evergreen crown to an elf picnic.
 
Look inside to learn how to:

• Keep a secret notebook filled with maps, notes, and pockets for all your discoveries
• Go on a quest for wild treasures
• Follow a queen bumblebee to her castle
• Make your own forest teas and potions
• Become best friends with a tree
• Create tiny gnomes and build cozy gnome homes
• Seek where mushrooms grow after a fairy dance
• Carve a walking stick wizard staff
• Build your own hidden forest fort

 A delightful outdoor handbook to ignite curiosity and a passion for nature, this is a great resource for nature units as well as hands-on activities to bring a creative writing program to life. -- School Library Journal

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Susie Spikol is a naturalist at the Harris Center for Conservation Education in Hancock, New Hampshire. A lifelong animal lover, Susie now helps people of all ages connect with the natural world. She is the author of The Animal Adventurer’s Guide (Roost Books, 2002). Secret word: nature. You can find her at www.susiespikol.com.

GIVEAWAY

Begins March 22

Ends April 25 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and shipped/mailed directly to the winner by publicist, publisher, or author. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Ways to save at grocery store and have your cake and eat it, too

This may seem bizarre to some and even repulsive to those who don't like mayonnaise on a sandwich. However, bear with me and hear me out......
With eggs and butter (even oils) so costly at the grocery store, you can still make a little cake without breaking the budget.

Mayonnaise - yes, mayonnaise.

Full-fat, real mayonnaise has eggs and it has oil. It has what you need to make a cake.

But you say, "Isn't mayonnaise expensive, too????" And yes, it can be. It can also be cheaper than eggs and butter or oil for baking. You can use high end or store brand as long as it's real mayonnaise and not "light," "fat-free," or made with "olive oil."

You can economize by purchasing it when it's on sale and also use a coupon. You can also use more economical "store brand" and get just as good results.

Example: This particular week, Mid-March 2025, at the Food Lion grocery store their 30 oz jar of real mayonnaise is $2.69 and there is a digital coupon of $.95. So if you use 1 cup of this mayonnaise your cost is $.41 for the oil and eggs in your cake! This week a single white/large store brand egg is $.47 each!

So whether you're trying to economize or simply have just run out of eggs and/or oil at home, give it a try. (NOTE: You can use mayonnaise with cake mix also with great success.)

Basic vanilla "mayonnaise cake" recipe:

1 cup mayonnaise

1 cup white sugar

3/4 cup cold water

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Sift dry ingredients together 2 or 3 times. Set it aside. Thoroughly blend together mayonnaise and sugar. Alternate adding sifted dry ingredients and water to the mayo/sugar mixture. Begin and end with flour. Blend in vanilla. 

Check out my post on Chocolate Pumpkin "Mayonnaise" Cake - click here