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All About Fire Safety Book Review

12/31/2013

All About Fire Safety
~Written & Illustrated by Kids Home Safe

The "All About" Book Series

"All About" early reader books are great for introducing kids to a large array of safety topics on their level. Colorful pictures and simple paragraphs give young readers valuable safety mini lessons in all kinds of subjects and gives them the safety skills they need to be safe in all situations.

Each book focuses on a specific topic and covers all of the things they need to know about that topic. These books are best for 12 and under, but even young children love looking at the engaging pictures . This is the perfect book to read to your child during story time and helps reinforce valuable safety information that every family needs to know Laminated covers for easy cleaning. Each Book measures 5 x7...perfect for small hands (www.kidshomesafe.com)

Book Review: All About Fire Safety

All About Fire Safety is a highly educational story written in simple terms making it easy for children to grasp a very important and potentially life saving message on fire safety.

As parents, we teach our children to be careful and give them knowledge to prevent harm from coming to them, but our efforts do not guarantee a tragic event or accident will never occur. All About Fire Safety not only teaches children to be aware and cautious, but it instructs them on what to do (and not to do) in the event of a fire. The story is filled with facts, tips, and helpful illustrations which allow children to learn about fire safety in a manner that will not frighten them, but give them the confidence and tools they need to stay safe.

I remember when my youngest son learned about fire safety in first grade. The teacher chose to share a story about a friend who was harmed in a fire which ended up terrifying my son. He was certain our house was going to burn down and had trouble sleeping for weeks. When I saw the title of this book I was immediately reminded of my son's experience and was anxious to read the story. I can say that I was very pleased at the authors ability to discuss such a scary topic for kids in a nonthreatening way.

I highly recommend reading All About Fire Safety. You can get more information about this book and the others in the series by visiting www.kidshomesafe.com.

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The Soul of the World Book Review

12/30/2013

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The Soul of the World
~Written by Joshua Silverman

Book Synopsis

The ancient powers lost to Potara have returned. The Brotherhood of the Black Rose rises to bring Thoth into disorder. And, while the Brotherhood reclaims their power, chaos reigns among the survivors. Six individuals have emerged from the aftermath struggling for control over their lives and a divided land. Kem and Shirin, who abolished the five thousand year reign of the Amun Priests, rule from the golden throne of the Oracle’s Chair in the Hall of the Nine. Dio and Axios struggle to piece together a resistance worthy to challenge the ancient magic which resides in the Great Temple of Amun, and Leoros and Atlantia try to remain true to their hearts and their cause despite tragedy.

But when the Book of Breathings is discovered, the path to immortality is revealed. Leoros and Kem race to capture the Soul of the World unaware of the challenges awaiting them. This time, the gods themselves will intervene.

In a tale where boys become men and girls become women, where treachery and deception are around every corner, and where primeval mysticism finds its way back from the grave, victory is reserved for neither the good nor the evil, but the powerful.
(Goodreads)

Book Review

The Soul of the World is the second book in the Legends of Amun Ra series and I found it to be more captivating than the first book, The Emerald Tablet, which I also enjoyed and recommend reading.

The Soul of the World picks up right where The Emerald Tablet leaves off without skipping a beat. The war of Good versus Evil rages on keeping the story fast paced and intense. Myths and legends continue to be a main theme and the author artfully expresses his knowledge of Greek Mythology. This is one of my favorite aspects of his writing and it adds to the intrigue. With the help of Atlantia, Leroes continues on his quest to fulfill his destiny and save the people of Potara from the Brotherhood of the Black Rose and total destruction. Can Leroes achieve victory?

The Soul of the World is well written and flows easily. The author's growth as a writer shines through. If you're a fan of fantasy and/or mythology I highly recommend picking up a copy.

Visit www.legendsofamunra.com for more information about the series and to purchase copies.

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Wanderamid's Crystal Ball Book Giveaway

12/30/2013

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Wanderamid's Crystal Ball
~Written by I. V. Phillips

Book Synopsis

A devious young girl, Devilea, tricks Emera, the powerful witch of Wanderamid, stealing her crystal ball and sending through to another dimension. For the past three years, Emera has been living as Ms. Biddock, the principal of Whilom Elementary. On the last day of school, Emera crosses paths with Rena Winterton, a student, who soon after, discovers her hidden identity. To prevent Rena from revealing her long kept secret, Emera recites an incantation to send Rena on a quest to find the clear stone she believes can bring her home, Wanderamid's crystal ball. However, when the chosen spell emerges, Emera is surprised to see Rena already has it in her possession! She attempts to stop the spell, but her powers fail. It's too late! The summoning has begun and for Rena, an unexpected journey begins. A never before seen portal embraces Rena and directs her towards future encounters, as she ventures into an unfamiliar world. In this world between many, curses, revenge and magic delay Rena's search for her intended destination, the entryway back to Whilom.

Read my book review of Wanderamid's Crystal Ball here.

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Stryker Book Review

12/23/2013

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Stryker
~Written by M.M. Wheezee

Book Synopsis

Since his mom died a few years ago, Harold Stryker has been following her instructions:
He lives all alone, in secret, in his house outside Los Angeles.
He avoids, as best as he can, other kids, and certainly grown-ups.
He keeps only his huge, gassy dog and his collection of power tools for company.
But he's okay with all that. Until the big night of the little earthquake. And his plunge into a dangerous forgotten tunnel beneath his dining room floor. And his encounter with the sweet, terrifying girl baseball star named Tien Tang and the compulsive, camo-suited, overweight force of nature known officially as Bella but universally as Blunt. They push and pull him through an underground adventure with a bullying science teacher, a tasteless chef, a greedy criminal, hairy tarantulas (live), sabertooth cats (long dead), smelly mushrooms, old trolley cars, new subways, and a baker's dozen of illegal Asian immigrants who need to be rescued from a life of slavery in a California ghost town. Harold Stryker is okay with all that too. But those two girls are now his friends. And that has him shaking.

Stryker is a middle-grade novel, for ages 9 and up. (Amazon)

Book Review

Stryker is a face-paced adventure of three unlikely friends who prove that when we put our differences aside great things are possible.

When an earthquake rocks his southern California town, Harold "Stryker" finds himself deep in a cellar he didn't know his home had. As he begins to explore the mysterious underground world he discovers a series of tunnels and train tracks and he learns he's not alone. Tien Tang (TNT), who also lives in the same town, has uncovered a tunnel of her own and her encounter with Stryker is inevitable. Bella Lunt, otherwise known as Blunt, enters the picture when she witnesses and assists Stryker and TNT when they flee from the tunnel and the goons that are chasing them. With curiosity on their side, the three forge a fast and sometimes challenging friendship and begin exploring the vast tunnels that run under their town. What they unearth is a wild and riveting adventure that will leave readers yearning for more.

Stryker is a highly organized and well-written story that easily engrosses readers. For those familiar with Southern California it's fun to read mention of the Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, and various other landmarks. I also found it impressive that Harold Stryker, a shy quiet boy, rises to the occasion and leads the group through challenging decisions. Bella Lunt is a great character as well, although at times I'd like to cover her mouth to keep her from getting in trouble.She brings comic relief during moments of stress and her plots for revenge are hilarious. Tien Tang adds common sense, organization, and balance to the group. All in all they are a set of characters that mesh well with one another making Stryker and enjoyable read.

I highly recommend picking up a copy of Stryker. Available on Amazon.

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The 12 Days of Christmas Editorial Review

12/21/2013

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The 12 Days of Christmas ~ A Carol-and-Count Book
~Written by Tad Hills

Book Synopsis

Poor Anita Pig! Her suitor gives her the traditional gifts for each of the twelve days of Christmas. The only problem is, the presents are taking over her house! Turn each page to find and count each of the seventy-eight animals. (Amazon)

Book Review

The song The 12 Days of Christmas is a Christmas favorite for children and adults alike and now parents can share the lyrics to this timeless song through this engaging book The 12 Days of Christmas a carol-and-count book by Tad Hills.

It's Christmastime and Anita Pig has begun receiving gifts. At first Anita seems pleased with her presents, but as the days go on Anita becomes overwhelmed. What will she do?

I remember listening to this song and singing along with my mom every Christmas when I was little. I was delighted to see this book was based on the song I treasured and let me say, I was not disappointed.

The 12 Days of Christmas is a brilliant story that entices young readers by encouraging them to keep track of the accumulating gifts. I even found myself accepting the author's challenge at the beginning of the book and sought out each and every one of the 78 animals in the story. One of my favorite aspects is that the main characters are pigs and I love how the expressions on Anita's face change as more and more animals takeover her home.

I highly recommend picking up a copy of The 12 Days of Christmas. Available from KiteReaders on Amazon.

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The Santa Switch Book Review & eBook Giveaway

12/19/2013

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The Santa Switch
~Written by Laura Lee Scott
~Illustrated by Cheryl Crouthamel

Everyone knows about Santa Claus. Now, it's Jessica's turn!

When it comes to the biggest toy drop of the year, Santa gets most of the credit -- but he could hardly do it alone! In The Santa Switch, Mrs. Claus becomes the fabulous tour-de-force she's always had the potential to be. This sharp, modern version of Mrs. C. believes in equality, compassion, and continuing education. She loves her good-natured, big-hearted husband, and they share the same vision -- but she's definitely the doer to his dreamer. And, while Jessica Claus is CEO (Chief Elf Optimizer) of the world's most successful toy factory, she also loves to kick off her shoes and bake up a storm, spreading holiday joy to anyone willing to believe in a little Christmas magic.

The positive, gender-empowering message, lovable spin on legendary characters, and eye-catching illustrations found in this two-time award-winning holiday book are sure to warm hearts and tickle funny bones of the young and the young-at-heart...making it a treasured read for all at Christmastime!

The Santa Switch marks author Laura Lee Scott's first solo trip into the world of children's literature. Although the seasoned writer has never tried lichen, she'd gladly bake a lichen corn pie if the reindeer shared their flying secrets.

Cheryl Crouthamel has illustrated several children's books, including Sarah O'Hara and the Gift of the Fairy Wings, The Butterfly, and Cats Following Me. If Cheryl was a cookie, she would definitely be a dark chocolate and peanture butter chip!

And, be sure to look for the highly anticipated first sequel to The Santa Switch -- A Trip for Mrs. Claus -- to be available in the spring of 2014! Pre-order your hardcover copy now on www.jessicaclaus.com. (Amazon)

Book Review

Set to the rhyme of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, The Santa Switch is a delightful Christmas tale about how Mrs. Claus earns the right to deliver the presents this year.

Santa comes home from hanging with the reindeer and tracks snow in the clean house. He doesn't even bother to clean it up. Mrs. Claus who has been busy cleaning, preparing for Christmas Eve present delivery, and planning the elves' Gratitude Supper is at wits end and in need of a break. Santa, being a jolly old elf, recognizes the error of his ways and decides Mrs. Claus has worked so hard to make Christmas a success that she deserves to deliver the toys too. Will Mrs. Claus take Santa up on this offer?

The Santa Switch is a brilliant take on the events that lead up to Christmas morning. Although, Santa gets all the glory every wife knows that without her planning and support no man, including Santa, could get all he needs to get done for such a grand event. The illustrations are bold and eye-catching adding to the charm of this wonderful tale.

I greatly enjoyed The Santa Switch and plan to share it with kids and grandkids for years to come. I highly recommend picking up a copy. Available on Amazon and iTunes.

Be sure to enter the giveaway below for your chance to win an eBook copy of The Santa Switch.

About the Author

Born and raised in Edina, Minnesota, Laura Lee Scott has worked as a professional copywriter, ghostwriter, editor, publisher, and graphic designer for nearly 25 years. Owner of Passionflower Press, Laura has authored and/or ghost-written numerous biographies and children's books, and is the author of the award-winning holiday picture book series, "The Santa Switch", published by Passionflower Press in 2012. She lives in a suburb of Portland, Oregon with her husband and two, school-aged sons. (Amazon)

The Santa Switch by Laura Lee Scott
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Princess Madeline Trilogy $25 Book Blast

12/18/2013

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About the Books

Title: The Escape of Princess Madeline (Princess Madeline Trilogy, Book #1)
Author: Kirstin Pulioff
Publication Date: November 4, 2012
Publisher: Caliburn Books
Number of pages: 138
Recommended age: 10+
Summary: The Kingdom of Soron is known for many things, its rolling landscape, haunting history, fiery sunsets, and its beautiful princess. Princess Madeline woke on her sixteenth birthday to realize that her future had been planned out, a life full of privilege, royalty, and boredom... a life with a husband and knight champion that she did not choose. Using her charm, strength and stubbornness, she defies the King at every turn, determined to keep her freedom on her terms. Freedom quickly turns to disaster as she finds herself seized by a group of wandering bandits. With the kingdom in turmoil over her capture; her Knight Champion eager to prove himself, a group of dedicated suitors determined to win her hand, and a group of exiled wizards join forces in the hunt to rescue her. Follow Princess Madeline in this adventure full of twists and turns as she tries to find her freedom and answers to her questions about life and love.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Smashwords

Title: The Battle for Princess Madeline (Princess Madeline Trilogy, Book #2)
Author: Kirstin Pulioff
Publication Date: May 21, 2013
Publisher: Caliburn Books
Number of pages: 159
Recommended age: 10+
Summary: The Kingdom of Soron bustled with activity as preparations for the Fall Festival began. Lively merchants, hardworking farmers, and musicians eagerly awaited this event of harvest and joy. This year’s festival was even more important, as they celebrated Princess Madeline’s betrothal to her knight champion, Daniel. Celebration quickly turns to disaster as Prince Paulsen returns with curious demands, either Princess Madeline will be his, or no ones. Rejection turns to obsession and battle is declared. In a tense struggle to decide her future, Princess Madeline must choose where to put her trust… in the king’s tried and true plan, the wizard’s cryptic messages and maps, or her own sense of bravery. Follow Princess Madeline on this adventure as she battles evil in an attempt to create a future of love and magic.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Smashwords

Title: Princess Madeline and the Dragon (Princess Madeline Trilogy, Book #3)
Author: Kirstin Pulioff
Publication Date: November 26, 2013
Publisher: Caliburn Books
Number of pages:135
Recommended age: 10+
Summary: After a season of battle and rebuilding, the Kingdom of Soron is exhausted. With the return of the exiled wizards, the Spring Faire, and her upcoming wedding, Princess Madeline is looking forward to a peaceful season of celebration. When the mysterious green dragon reappears, threatening the kingdom and the king, Princess Madeline and Prince Braden won’t rest for long. Faced with this incredible new danger, Princess Madeline and Prince Braden must find a way to lead their kingdom and secure their future. Can they find the answers hidden within their mother’s cryptic messages from the past, or will the dragon destroy everything they hold dear? Follow Princess Madeline as she embarks on a dangerous new adventure to save her kingdom and her family.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Smashwords

The Buzz

Book 1: "Well-written, fast-paced, and entirely appropriate for its target audience (middle grade fantasy), this short but succinct novel (novella? It was maybe a little between a novella and a novel) tells a delightful tale of a naive princess who learns the real meaning of freedom. Kirsten gives her characters a sufficient amount of depth to make them genuinely likeable, and she leaves room for much, much more to come." ~ 5 Star Review, Ally, Amazon

Book 1: "An inspiring thought provoking, and wonderfully written fairy tale by an author who transports us to a time in our imagination where everything is magical and possibilities are real." ~ 5 Star Review, kathyls, Amazon

Book 2: "Fairy tales are filled with knights and princesses and castles and a special magical feel that takes the reader far, far, away into another world, another place, another time. The Battle for Princess Madeline fits the bill to a tee! Author Kirstin Pulioff has created a special feel to the tale of Princess Madeline with her own special talent for using words to paint pictures in our minds." ~ 5 Star Review, Dii, Amazon

Book 2: "The story is well developed and easy to follow. The vivid scenes will transport young readers into the magical world of fairy tales with thrilling characters that have come to life. Another splendid read for young readers! I can hardly wait for a new book, Princess Madeline and the Dragon. " ~ 5 Star Review, Mrs. D., Amazon

Book 3: "The story is engaging on many levels, as is Pulioff's writing, but on this occasion I was mostly drawn into the action and the mystery as how to prevent the worst from happening. This is great entertainment and should do well across a wider age range." ~ 5 Star Review,ChristophFischerBooks, Amazon

Book 3: "Kirstin Pulioff has saved the best for last. 'Princess Madeline and the Dragon' is the final instalment in the 'Princess Madeline Trilogy'. I thought the first two books were finely wrought stories, but this novel surpasses its predecessors. Prophesies, family tragedies, magic and - of course - dragons, combine to produce a tale that is an instant classic. Written with a great deal of charm, 'Princess Madeline and the Dragon' will not disappoint Ms Pulioff's young fans. I look forward to seeing where next her imagination will take this natural storyteller. " ~ 5 Star Review, Diogenes, Amazon

About the Author: Kirstin Pulioff

Kirstin Pulioff is a storyteller at heart. Born and raised in Southern California, she moved to the Pacific Northwest to follow her dreams and graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Forest Management. Happily married and a mother of two, she lives in Oregon, and enjoys being a stay at home mom. When she’s not writing, she is busy with her kids and church.

Website | Facebook | Twitter
Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

* $25 Book Blast Giveaway *

Prize: $25Amazon Gift Card or PayPal cash (winner’s choice) Contest runs: December 18, 2013 to January 16, 2014, 11:59 pm, 2013 Open: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Kirstin Pulioff and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com. a Rafflecopter giveaway

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The Worldly Adventures of Nicholaas and Pieter Book Review

12/18/2013

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The Worldly Adventures of Nicholaas and Pieter - Spain
~Written by Betty Davis

Book Synopsis

Nicholaas and his friends explore foreign cultures in Holland and Spain. Along their journey, they'll see fields of windmills, explore caves, play soccer and sail a yacht. More than just fun, they'll have excitement, mystery and occasionally magical adventures. They also learn a lesson about the difference between material and the more real treasures people can find in their hearts and through sharing. "My mother was the inspiration for these books," said Davis. "She said, 'Kids don't know enough about the world." Author Betty Davis said her goal in writing this book was to share foreign experiences with young readers and a vivid and tangible way that gives them a sense they were almost there themselves. She also wanted to share her love of reading with children. (Amazon)

Book Review

Nicholaas and Pieter's exciting adventures continue in Betty Davis's second book The Worldly Adventures of Nicholaas and Pieter - Spain.

Readers find Nicholaas adjusting to his life in Leiden, Holland and experiencing the local culture. His parents decide that Nichoolaas is now ready to begin school. Nicholaas is anxious for school to start and so he can begin playing football again. Nicholaas will be attending The American International School with students and teachers from all of the world. Nicholaas makes many new friends and is delighted to learn that they have a lot in common. He's especially happy to learn that some of them enjoy football and soccer like he does. Wednesdays were left for visiting museums and exploring. Pieter and Nicholaas waste no time learning all they can about Leiden and the surrounding towns. They visit windmills, go fishing, and sailing. But, their biggest adventure comes when they visit Spain with Nicholaas's cousin Chris. It's a memorable trip you won't want to miss.

The Worldly Adventures of Nicholaas and Pieter - Spain gives children a taste of what life is like in Holland and Spain. The story covers historically landmarks, famous people, and even climates. Most importantly readers will learn the importance of friendship and how valuable the gift a sharing is.

I recommend picking up a copy of The Worldly Adventures of Nicholaas and Pieter - Spain. Available on Amazon.

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Julio Bunny and the Land of the Carrot Trees Book Review

12/17/2013

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Julio Bunny and the Land of the Carrot Trees
~Written and Illustrated by Nicoletta Costa

Book Synopsis & Author Info

Julio Bunny has a great passion for carrots. One night he has a dream. Julio is in the Land of carrots with his friends Tommy Mouse and Sally Snail. They encounter unusual events and Julio's lovely dream is transformed into an adventure. What happens to the friends next?

NICOLETTA COSTA was born in Trieste (Italy) in 1953, where she was brought up and still lives today. After graduating in Architecture in 1978 at the University of Venice (Italy), she dedicated herself exclusively to her great passion: illustrating and writing books for children. Her most famous character is Julio Bunny an overly timid rabbit, but good natured,
with long fuzzy ears and a great passion for carrots.

NICOLETTA COSTA has been awarded various international prizes:

1986 Catalonia d'Illustraciòn Award (Barcelona)
1988 Golden Pen Award (Belgrade)
1989 Christian Andersen
1994 Christian Andersen
2002 Grinzane Junior Award
(Amazon)

Book Review

Julio the Bunny and the Land of the Carrot Trees is an exciting interactive adventure about a little bunny and his great love for carrots.

After feasting on Katie's delicious carrot pie, Julio is stuffed and ready for bed, but that night he has a crazy dream about carrot fairies and beautiful carrot trees. His poor friend Tommy Mouse doesn't like carrots and Camilla the Carrot Fairy begins to cry and cry until a river of tears flows. Julio Bunny can't swim and awakes with a fright. Realizing it was all a dream, Julio hears Tommy calling him to breakfast at Katie's house. Will there be carrots?

The illustrations are just as magical as the carrot trees in Julio's dream and readers will enjoy the pop-up questions and information provided through the interactive feature.

Julio Bunny and the Land of the Carrot Trees is such an imaginative created for the purpose of bringing delight to young readers. I highly recommend picking up a copy. Available from KiteReaders on iTunes and Amazon.

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Secret Santa Squirrels Book Review

12/16/2013

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Secret Santa Squirrels
~Written & Illustrated by Hazel Nutt

Book Synopsis

Secret Santa Squirrels is a delightful look at the answer to

"Just How does Santa deliver 60,000 presents a second,
In 31 hours, without going completely around the bend?"

The answer?

"Well the answer is magic reindeer poo
And Santa's little squirrel friends too!"

Do you want to know more?

Then buy this book! (Amazon)

Book Review

Secret Santa Squirrels is a hilarious tale that reveals how Santa is able to deliver so many presents around the world in just one night.

Santa enlists the help of squirrels, who quietly sneak the presents into homes giving Santa extra time with the really good girls and boys. And finally the age old question of 'how Santa is able to carry all those presents in his sleigh' is answered. It's simple really. He just uses a bit of magic to turn reindeer poo into presents and the problem is solved.

Now, I for one am not thrilled at the prospect of getting a present that was once poo, but children will find this concept amusing and parents are certain to hear a giggle or two.

If you're looking for an unusual, yet comical Christmas story to share with your kids this year Secret Santa Squirrels then I recommend this book to you. Available on Amazon.

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