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BOOK REVIEWS

Addison's Abrupt Adventures

Reviewed by Vernita Naylor for Readers’ Favorite

Children are full of adventure and Addison Anderson is no different. Go on a wild, wacky, and fun-filled adventure with Addison, her brother Albert, and the rest of her family by reading Addison's Abrupt Adventures by Laura James, now in its second edition, with illustrations by Marilyn Jacobson. This book is ideal for school-age children because there are so many nuggets for them to explore. Children will enjoy seeing the different pathways that Addison follows while learning about words that begin with the letter A. With this book, children will have the opportunity to improve their cognitive abilities because Laura provides a means for vocabulary development and grasping meaning. This book also covers many things that are essential for children to know about the world around them, from allergic reactions, roles in the military, pets, familial relationships, and cooking to math.

In reading Addison's Abrupt Adventures by Laura James, I enjoyed the way that the story was told with the emphasis on words beginning with the letter A. This made the book more interesting and engaging and I found myself searching for words that began with A. Children will discover many facets of life through Addison's and Albert's relationships with their parents, Aunt Alice, and their love for each other. Here is a great tool for your child to use as a daily resource for learning. Laura has made it easy for your child to learn the meaning of words like ambition, attentive, appeal, adoption, and so much more. Get a copy of this book to begin or continue your child's reading and education journey. Enjoy!

Addison's Canadian Caper

Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite 

Addison's Canadian Caper is a children's picture book written by Laura James and illustrated by Mariya Stoyanova. It tells the story of Addison, a bright young girl who loves art, writing, and going on adventures with her family. After winning the American Creative Writing Contest, Addison receives a free trip to Canada, where she is excited to meet her challenger. However, when she discovers that her challenger is her cousin, Corby Clemens, the competition turns into a family reunion. While on the trip, Corby tries to play a prank on Addison by hiding her contest paper in the cat carrier. Unfortunately, things take a turn for the worse when the cat and the papers disappear overnight. Now, Addison and Corby must work together to solve the mystery of the missing cat and papers and embark on a fun adventure in Canada.

Addison's Canadian Caper is part of a series by Laura James that aims to educate young readers on words that begin with a specific letter. The main focus of this story is to introduce readers to words that start with the letter C while taking them on a fun adventure in Canada. I find this concept to be incredibly creative and unique, which makes the book memorable. I am also curious about future installments and how the author will write stories centered on the letters Q and X. The narrative has humorous moments that make it engaging and enjoyable to read. My favorite part is the illustrations that perfectly complement the story and depict the characters with rosy cheeks and infectious smiles. Overall, I highly recommend this book to young readers who enjoy learning new words and going on fun adventures with their families.

Addison Braves Brazil

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Addison Braves Brazil, written by Laura James and illustrated by Jasmine Smith, is a mid-grade interactive storybook that takes readers into South America through the eyes of a young girl. Addison is introduced as an upbeat girl from Arkansas with a mother who is a pilot and a father who is a writer, just as they embark on a trip to Brazil. It seemed bizarre, but a book about Brazil’s jungles had gotten mixed in with her books about beaches. This makes Addison uncomfortable. Once in Brasilia and settled with a host family, Addison experiences local food and culture, a hiccup with another child, and a place she was hoping never to see: a Brazilian jungle.

Laura James crafts a clever little story in Addison Braves Brazil, taking the opportunity to educate on two different fronts. The first is the misconceptions foreign visitors can have that are most often wrong. By allowing Addison's fears to chip away organically at stereotypes through positive experience, we are able to see a girl who is vivacious in North America find her vivacious self in South America too. The second is the incorporation of words that stick as close to the letter 'B' as possible within the story's framework. The intent here is to enhance vocabulary and word definitions, which it does. Jasmine Smith breathes life into Addison, her family, her hosts, and the beauty and diversity of Brazil in a vivid color palette and gorgeous illustrations. This book was all kinds of fun to read with my youngest and I have no doubt others will have the same experience.

Addison's Delaware Discovery

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers’ Favorite

Addison's Delaware Discovery is a children's adventure by Laura James. Addison Anderson is a precocious young girl with a lot of adorable pets. She is excited for her upcoming trip to Delaware with her family. Upon arriving at the Dixons' family home, Addison and her younger brother, Albert, meet Danny Davis, a young boy whose parents have recently gotten divorced, and Daisy Dixon, a kind-hearted young girl who is suffering from Juvenile Disc Disorder. Seeing Daisy doesn't have many friends; Addison is determined to help her make some. After discovering the swamp monster, Addison and her friends organize a fun-filled birthday party for Daisy, where the "Delaware Drooler" is set to make an appearance. What kind of adventures are in store for Addison, Daisy, and the rest of her friends?

Addison's Delaware Discovery is a captivating picture book for kids. With eye-catching illustrations and clever wordplay featuring the letter "D", this adventure is sure to engage young readers from start to finish. Laura James' book is not only entertaining; but also, gently teaches children how to interact and support other kids with disabilities. Packed with mystery, humor, and charm, the narrative focuses on the theme of friendship and how youngsters can bring joy to their friends through fun and games. The characters are very likable with lively personalities. Addison, Daisy, Danny, and Albert act and talk like real-life kids. Their conversations are funny and engaging. Illustrator Mariya Stoyanova's artwork is the cherry on top and complements James's storytelling beautifully. I enjoyed this book and heartily recommend it to young readers.

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© 2021 by Laura James 

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