* CONTEST * Dozers Don’t Doze ~ Free Book Giveaway!

WIN MELINDA RATHJEN’S CHILDREN’S BOOK
DOZERS DON’T DOZE!

One FREE book in print format to be given away by Hachette Book Group!

TEASER: “Some dozers might need to let their eyes close–but just for a bit, ’cause dozers don’t doze ….” Melinda Rahjen rhymes at the end of her children’s book, Dozers Don’t Doze.

SIMPLE steps to enter this 3-day contest:

1.  Follow my blog if you do not already.
2. Click on the headline ** CONTEST ** to be sure you are on the Reply page.
3. Post in the “LEAVE A REPLY” section below why you want to read this exciting book (could be funny, clever, serious, or the words “I want” since the winner is randomly chosen).
4. Check out: https://www.worthykids.com/titles/melinda-lee-rathjen/dozers-dont-doze/9781546013822/
5. If you are the winner, please consider posting a review regarding what you thought of the book (although it is not required).

This is a FAST CONTEST ending Saturday, July 24th 2021, after 5 PM PST so follow the requirements above and try for a chance to win a book that is mailed from the publisher directly to you! Winner’s shipping address must be in the U.S.A.

I read & reviewed this 4-star book: https://connywithay.wordpress.com/2021/07/20/dozers-dont-doze/

3 Otters Women’s Headbands

8 SOFT, STRETCHY HEAD BANDS

~ What ~
Made of breathable cotton, this pack includes 8 knotted headbands. Stretchable from 17 to 36 inches and measuring 3 inches wide, the hair accessories come in fashionable colors of black, dark green, khaki, light blue, light gray, pink, rose, and yellow. Each can be stretched amply around a young girl to woman’s head. Instructions are not included, and they arrive in a cellophane bag.

~ Why ~
Since I have been growing my hair out long, these are ideal to keep it out of my face, especially when I wash my face. I like their colors and stretchiness, plus they can fit any sized head and can be washed. Due to their material, they are soft to the touch.

~ Why Not ~
Those who have short hair may not be able to use hair headbands like this. Some may not like the color choices or designs, but they would be great for spa day, facial parties, and birthday gifts. The colors state there is a blue, but a light gray arrived instead.

~ Wish ~
I wish it was noted online that they are washable. Unfortunately, the rose one arrived with a cut in it (see photos) so I have marked the product down half a point. However, I can place the tear on the inside of the band and am still able to wear it.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for an inexpensive collection of 8 boho headbands, these would be cute for party favors, gifts, and just wearing around the house.

Thanks to 3 Otters for this discounted product that I am under no obligation to review.

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

#RankBoosterReview #SponsoredbySally #3Otters #StretchyHeadBands #SoftHairBands

This product can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3kEkKye

Dozers Don’t Doze

Title: Dozers Don’t Doze
Author: Melinda Rathjen
Illustrator: Gareth Williams
Publisher: WorthyKids
ISBN: 978-1-5460-1382-2

“Some dozers might need to let their eyes close–but just for a bit, ’cause dozers don’t doze ….” Melinda Rahjen rhymes at the end of her children’s book, Dozers Don’t Doze.

~ What ~
This twenty-four-page board book with rounded corners targets children ages birth to three years old. With no scary scenes, it focuses on the heavy-duty construction bulldozer truck that always stays busy. Simplistic, colorful designs grace the pages with a decent font size.

While there are lots of different kinds of vehicles, this story is about dozers that are always working and do not need to sleep like others. It is compared to tractors, semis, trains, lawnmowers, race cars, tow trucks, backhoes, planes, ice-cream trucks, balers, buses, boats, and cranes: all doze yet the dozer does not.

~Why ~
This is a nice book to read to a young child who knows the difference between construction trucks and other transportation vehicles so can spot a bulldozer easily. The colors are bright and cheery, which could be used as a teaching tool for young ones. There is enough happening in the illustrations to keep a youngster engaged.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like books about trucks and machinery may not have an interest in this book. Realists may feel that some of the statements are not true so will have to explain to an educated child that these trucks do not actually shut their eyes, nap, snore, dream, or go to sleep.

~ Wish ~
I had trouble with the concept of this book as it may be cute in its rhyming, yet I have seen several bulldozers idle and not working in empty lots. Often the vehicles do not do what the rhymes state which may confuse inquisitive children.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for a book about trucks, this may work for your young one, but you may find yourself questioning why the name dozer was given to this type of vehicle and if planes have to land to rest their wings.

Thanks to Hachette Book Group, WorthyKids, and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.

#Hachette #WorthyKids #DozersDontDoze #MelindaRathjen #GarethWilliams

This book can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3kGcgXs

Uncle Jungo Mega Egg Dino Kit

DIG FOR DINOSAURS

~ What ~
This set includes randomly 12 small toy dinosaurs that are inside an approximately 6 by 4-inch egg-shaped block that can be chipped away to uncover the objects. The kit includes the 12 plastic animals, 2 hammers, 2 chisels, 2 brushes, 12 learning cards, and a forest poster. Instructions are included on the gift box, and the small parts could be a choking hazard around young ones.

~ Why ~
Having a 4-year-old grandson we visit every few months, I love showing him new things. Since he is fascinated with dinosaurs, this is a fun and easy project for a young one to dig on the block and be surprised finding each figurine. I like that it comes with all tools needed plus cards and a poster that he play with using the dinos.

~ Why Not ~
Some may think the block is too large and hard to access the inner contents, but it can be soaked in water to speed up the process. Others may be concerned with the “dirt” mess it can make, but it cannot be that bad if done outside or laying down a tablecloth before starting to dig.

~ Wish ~
I wish the toys were fewer in the pod so then they could be larger.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for a fun and educational project for inquisitive children, this may keep them occupied for a while.

Thanks to Uncle Jungo Toys for this discounted product that I am under no obligation to review.

#RankBoosterReview #SponsoredbySaab #UncleJungoToys #KidsArchaeologyKit #STEMDinosaur Eggs #MegaEggDinoKit #KidsPaleontologySet

This product can be purchased at https://amzn.to/36KtAT8

 

JoHouse Natural Dried Rabbit’s Tail

120 DRIED PAMPAS GRASS PLUMBS

~ What ~
Used mainly for decorating, this set contains 120 pieces of real dried rabbit’s tail grass pieces, complete with their naturally fluffy plums. Measuring 14 to 16 inches long, the Lagurus Ovatus grasses have no chemical odor or additives and come from South America. They arrive in 2 bunches in cellophane bags in a protective cardboard box, ready for using or giving.

~ Why ~
If you like a natural bohemian look when decorating, these tall thin stems can be put as a bunch into a vase or pot, or added to existing dried arrangements. They look elegant yet have a simplistic natural look that can be used in multiple art projects.

~ Why Not ~
Some may not like decorating with dried plants, yet these add a nice ambiance to any floral arrangement. Others may not like their length, but their stems could be cut shorter.  

~ Wish ~
With all being a light golden tan color, I wish some were darker. I wonder if they can be dyed or spray painted.

~ Want ~
If you like to work with natural materials in art, these dried grasses will make a stunning addition to your décor.

Thanks to JoHouse for this discounted product that I am under no obligation to evaluate.

#RankBoosterReview #Sponsoredbysally #JoHouse #NaturalRabbitsTailGrass #DriedPampasGrass #DecoratewithDriedPlants

This product can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3ifw6pH

* CONTEST * 30,000 Stitches ~ 1 Free Book Giveaway!

WIN AMANDA DAVIS’S
30,000 STITCHES!

One FREE book in print format to be given away by Hachette Book Group!

TEASER: “Fifty states, thousands of hands, and 30,000 stitches later, the flag returned home to New York City. Thirty feet wide. Twenty feet tall. Full of hope. Full of strength,” Amanda Davis writes in her children’s book, 30,000 Stitches: The Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag.

SIMPLE steps to enter this 3-day contest:

1.  Follow my blog if you do not already.
2. Click on the headline ** CONTEST ** to be sure you are on the Reply page.
3. Post in the “LEAVE A REPLY” section below why you want to read this exciting book (could be funny, clever, serious, or the words “I want” since the winner is randomly chosen).
4. Check out: https://www.worthykids.com/titles/amanda-davis/30000-stitches/9781546013693/
5. If you are the winner, please consider posting a review regarding what you thought of the book (although it is not required).

This is a FAST CONTEST ending Monday, July 19th 2021, after 5 PM PST so follow the requirements above and try for a chance to win a book that is mailed from the publisher directly to you! Winner’s shipping address must be in the U.S.A.

I read & reviewed this 5-star book: https://wordpress.com/post/connywithay.wordpress.com/22605

30,000 Stitches

Title: 30,000 Stitches
Author: Amanda Davis
Illustrator: Sally Wern Comport
Publisher: WorthyKids
ISBN: 978-1-5460-1369-3

“Fifty states, thousands of hands, and 30,000 stitches later, the flag returned home to New York City. Thirty feet wide. Twenty feet tall. Full of hope. Full of strength,” Amanda Davis writes in her children’s book, 30,000 Stitches: The Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag.

~ What ~
This forty-page oversized hardbound with a matching jacket targets children five to eight years old who want to learn what happened to the American flag that was damaged on September 11, 2001 in New York City. With no scary scenes, it focuses on remembering the tragic event that occurred almost twenty years ago. The illustrations are vibrant and interesting as they follow the flag being repaired across the United States. The ending includes an author’s note, acknowledgments, sources, reflections, and photo credits.

Honoring our flag is important, especially when it was one that was marred due to the World Trade Towers collapsing. This weaved story starts with the flag being stored until six years later, when it is moved from town to town and coast to coast among the fifty states to be stitched and repaired by survivors, war veterans, educators, first responders, service heroes, and many others. The book commemorates its return to New York and also includes more information, photos, and its restoration process.

~Why ~
Since it soon will be twenty years since 9/11, this book is wonderful for children and adults to read and remember what the red, white, and blue flag means to Americans. I appreciate that its content is sensitive about the many lives lost yet includes how the fabric of America is strong, heals, and endures. A read like this helps repair scars, restores faith, and unites its people. Adding the photographs at the end solidifies how important a task it was to fix the thirty by iconic symbol we cherish.

~ Why Not ~
Those who are not patriotic or have no love for America or its flag will have no interest in the book. Children with sensory issues may find some of the illustrations too busy. Some of the two and three-syllable words may be hard for beginner readers.

~ Wish ~
It would be nice if similar books that promoted history and patriotism were written for our children.

~ Want ~
If you want your young child to remember 9/11 in an uplifting, honoring way twenty years after the tragic event happened, this inspirational book about our flag raises hope and unity out of the past’s ashes.

Thanks to Hachette Book Group, WorthyKids, and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.

#Hachette #WorthyKids #30000Stitches #InspiringStoryoftheNational911Flag #AmandaDavis #SallyWernComport #Remembering911

This book can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3hEansl

Koogel Metal Mermaid Bookmark

LONG THIN BOOKMARKER OF A MERMAID

~ What ~
Made of alloy metal, this elongated vintage bookmark is of a mermaid with a dangling chain. The mermaid measures 4.7 by 1.3 inches and the beaded chain is 2.6 inches long with an embellishment that says “made for you.” It arrives in a cellophane bag, ready for using or giving.

 ~ Why ~
Our almost 7-year-old granddaughter is becoming a bookworm so this will be the perfect birthday gift for her next month. I love how durable, wear-resistant, and solid the brass marker is and that the artwork is duplicated on both sides. The glass beads and chain with a bow tie and sign complete the look. Being elegantly slim, it fits nicely in a book or could be used as a decoration.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not read may have no interest in using a bookmark, but they do make a classy gift. Others may not think the mermaid is long enough, but its length is ample for hardbound or paperback books.

~ Wish ~
I wish other designs like this were offered to give as gifts.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for a unique gift for a reader, this will make their day as they turn the pages.

Thanks to Koogel for this discounted product that I am under no obligation to review.

#RankBoosterReview #Sponsoredbysally #MetalMermaidBookmarker #ElegantUniqueBookmark

This product can be purchased at https://amzn.to/3egrBd7

LITARO Set of 2 Bar Stools

2 MODERN BUCKET BAR STOOLS

~ What ~
Made of metal with brown premium PU leather, this set of 2 bar stools has footrests, padded upholstered bucket seats, and protective footpads. Each measures 40.94 inches tall by 18.9 inches wide and 21.25 inches deep; the seat position is 30 inches from the floor. There are 3 color choices of black, dark brown, and light brown. Instructions are in the box, and some assembly is required by attaching the seat with the frames; a total of 8 screws are used per stool.

~ Why ~
We have a metal chair on a singular post that we use at our high kitchen counter and it is not stable so when I found these chairs, I thought they would be ideal to get instead. I like that they are padded with soft PU leather and have comfortable backings. Another nice feature is they can hold up to 300 pounds. It took me 15 minutes to assemble one chair.

~ Why Not ~
Some may not like the modern “scoop-like” design of the stools. Others may prefer all wood furniture or those that can swivel, but most are not very stable if on a single post. One of the seats has a screw hole that was double-drilled (see photo) and does not line up; since I only need one bar stool, I can use 2nd one as back up for parts or find a screw or nail that can fit in the erroneously drilled hole.

~ Wish ~
Although these match my kitchen counter bar nicely, I wish other seat color and frame options were available.

~ Want ~
If you are looking a padded, modern set of 2 bar stools at a reasonable price, these may work; beware though that the screw holes may or may not line up properly. I was lucky in that I only need one chair.

Thanks to LITARO for this discounted product that I am under no obligation to evaluate.

#RankBoosterReview #SponsoredbyEric #LITARO #BucketBarStools #LeatherLookingBarStools #Setof2CounterChair

This product can be purchased at https://amzn.to/36cTpL1

Vgoodall Natural Burlap Flower Set

12 JUTE FLOWERS PLUS 4 BURLAP RIBBONS

~ What ~
Made of a jute fabric, this set contains 12 flower or bow designs along with 4 rolls of natural ribbons. The flowers measure from 2 to 3.5 inches and the one bow is 4 by 5 inches. The ribbon bundles total 78.5 inches in 4 different patterns and are 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Also included is a burlap drawstring bag to hold all of the contents. All items arrive in a cellophane bag, ready for using or gifting.

~ Why ~
I love using ribbon when I wrap presents and these have a natural look, perfect for wrapping presents or rustic-looking wreaths. I appreciate how many different floral designs are included, some with small or large pearls, glitter, and lace. There is a variety in the cream to tan colored jute too. The ribbons are all unique in their patterns. The carry bag is a nice touch.

~ Why Not ~
Some may not like the natural flower designs, but they could be painted. Others may wish there were more bows or more with different colored beads. It would be nice if there were wider ribbons added. 

~ Wish ~
I have marked this product down a full point as there were only 11 not 12 flower/bows included. Also, the 1 bow had its small pearl beading coming apart, but it could be glued back on with hot glue.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for natural, rustic pre-tied flower ribbons plus spools of ribbons to make your own creations, this is a nice set.

Thanks to Vgoodall for this discounted product that I am under no obligation to review.

#RankBoosterReview #SponsoredbySally #Vgoodall #FabricFlowers #JuteFlowerDesigns #BurlapRibbonFlowers

This item can be found at https://amzn.to/3AV8Sxt