Happy Earth Day with Penguin Young Readers!

Happy Earth Day! 

Today we are celebrating Earth Day with titles from Penguin Young Readers. Many thanks to Penguin for letting me review some of these amazing titles. 

Here are three of their Children's book releases that are out now or coming soon.

Take a look!

Eco: The Little Electric Taxi by Deb Adamson, illustrated by Patrick Corrigan

Publisher: Penguin Workshop
Publication Date:  March 3, 2026

About the Book:

For fans of Little Blue

Truck and Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site comes an adorable electric taxi cab who saves the day in this sweet picture book—with an eco-friendly twist!

Eco, the little electric taxi, and his driver, Charlie, work day and night—helping people get where they need to go. On the way to a school drop-off, Eco and Charlie find themselves stuck in a huge traffic jam—there are ducks stranded in the middle of the road! Will Eco be able to help lead them to safety?

With themes of environmental conscientiousness, rhyming text, and delightful art, Eco is perfect for Earth Day celebrations, or as a gift to any car-loving kid looking for a new read-aloud!

 

Rating: 

Review:

This charming picture book introduces young readers to Eco, a little electric taxi with a big heart, while weaving in themes of noise and air pollution. The story is simple and sweet, making it especially accessible for younger children.

The illustrations are so much fun, they are bright, detailed, and full of personality. Kids will likely be drawn to the expressive scenes and especially the adorable ducks. The sound effects sprinkled throughout make it engaging and interactive, encouraging children to join in as they listen or follow along with loud HONK!s or little beeps.

The conflict is resolved quickly and gently, which makes this a great choice for a calming bedtime read. Overall, it’s a cute, eco-conscious story that combines an important message with warmth and playfulness, perfect for Earth Day and little ones who love vehicles, animals, and stories with a happy ending.

About the Author: 

Deb Adamson (she/her) grew up exploring the Massachusetts shoreline and now lives along the Connecticut coastline. She writes books with heart and humor to encourage curiosity. She was a former broadcast news journalist, freelance essayist, and syndicated columnist for Gatehouse News Service. She was also a public relations director and spokesperson for a major US aquarium. She is currently a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.

About the Illustrator:

Illustrator and author Patrick Corrigan grew up in a cloudy town in Cheshire where he brightened up his life with various creative endeavors and activities—his favorite was cross-stitch! He studied ceramics at university before training as an art teacher. He then went on to become the art director of a busy design studio in London. In 2018 he made the decision to try his hand as a freelance illustrator and has never looked back. His work has been commissioned by numerous clients, including Walker, Flying Eye, HarperCollins, Penguin, Hachette, and Quarto.

 

Turtle Slept In by Jacob Grant

Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers

Publication Date: April 28th, 2026

About the Book:

Turtle is the last to hatch, and her siblings have all left for the sea. Now she must venture across a busy beach and into the waves to find them. But the sea is big. REAL BIG.

Turtle slept in — and all her siblings already hatched and made it to the sea. Now she must journey across the beach and navigate shoddy sandcastles, stomping feet, and hungry seagulls to reach the water.

Lucky for Turtle, she's not alone. Bird will do her best to keep Turtle safe along the way, but it's not the dangers of the beach that worry Turtle. The closer Turtle gets to the sea, the bigger it looks, and the more she wonders if she can ever find her family in something so big.

  

  

Rating:

Review:

Such an engaging picture book! We follow a small turtle who hatches later than her siblings and must make her journey to the sea on her own. She is excited to have fun and the adventure across the beach to find the sea and her family. The book becomes a little more emotional as she gets closer with themes of fear, courage, and finding your place in a very big world.

Turtle is an easy character to connect with she’s curious (like little readers) and wants to enjoy the fun, but underneath that is a very real nervousness about being left behind and facing something as large as the ocean. There is a Bird that serves as a wonderful companion, offering guidance and reassurance. Their relationship adds warmth and a gentle sense of humor to the story as Bird tries to be the voice of reason, while Turtle runs off.

The illustrations are large, colorful spreads that emphasize just how small Turtle is in comparison to her surroundings. Everyday beach elements like sandcastles, people, and seagulls, feel oversized and sometimes intimidating, which is a clever way of showing perspective from Turtle’s point of view. So fun!

Overall, it’s a thoughtful and visually rich story about bravery and taking that first big step, even when things feel overwhelming. Turtle’s journey across the beach and her decision to head into the vast sea make for a satisfying and encouraging read, and Bird continues to be her friend.

About the Author:

Jacob Grant is an author, illustrator, and dad who makes picture books. He is a winner of the prestigious 2024 Bologna Children’s Book Fair Illustration Exhibition, and he’s also an okay kids' soccer coach. Jacob is originally from Cincinnati, and now lives with his wife and two little ones near Chicago. He can be found in his home studio, drawing and writing until something feels story-ish. Learn more at JacobGrantBooks.com.

Axl the Axolotl is Not a Frog by Benj Pasek, Justin Paul, and John Paul Brammer; illustrated by Vanessa Morales 

Publisher: Flamingo Books

Publication Date: April 14, 2026

About the Book:

Introducing Axl the Axolotl!

On the first day of school, Axl the Axolotl finds where he belongs in this charming story about learning to love the things that make you different.

It was the first day of school in Flower Bed Lake, and every little creature knew exactly where to go. Everyone, that is, except Axl. The fish, lizards, and frogs all headed to their own schools to learn how to glub glub and ribbit, but there was only one of Axl. Will he ever find where he belongs?

From EGOT winners Benj Pasek & Justin Paul, the songwriters behind The Greatest Showman and Dear Evan Hansen, and written by critically acclaimed author JP Brammer comes a story of a brave and curious axolotl who is determine to find where he belongs. Brought to life by Vanessa Morales, this is a funny, delightful story about loving the things that make you unique and that finding the place you belong might look different than you expected. Complete with fascinating, kid-friendly facts about axolotls!

  

Rating:

Review:

AH! This was the cutest book! I love Axolotl's and am so excited for kids to learn more about them. In this story we are introduced to Axl the Axolotl as he figures out his first day of school and where he fits in. The story is playful and relatable, especially for kids who have ever felt a little out of place. Axl’s attempts to join the fish, lizards, and frogs, without much luck and it adds humor while also reinforcing the message of self-acceptance in the end.

One especially fun touch is the interspersed Spanish throughout the text, which adds a lively, inclusive feel and makes the reading experience even more engaging. I felt like I learned a lot, both about a new animal and some Spanish.

The illustrations absolutely steal the show here. They are vibrant, richly detailed, and full of personality. Every page feels alive with color and movement. The environments are just as thoughtfully crafted as the characters, giving readers so much to look at and explore. It’s the kind of book where you can linger on each spread and keep noticing new little details, which makes it incredibly fun to revisit. They are so bright and almost glowing.

Beyond the story itself, the book also introduces kids to axolotls, which is probably a new and odd animal for many readers. The included facts throughout and at the end add an educational layer which is always a plus.

Overall, it’s a charming, visually stunning book with a warm message about embracing what makes you unique, wrapped in a fun and engaging reading experience.

About the Authors:

Oscar and multi-Grammy, Tony, and Emmy winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul are songwriters and producers best known for the films La La Land and The Greatest Showman and the musical Dear Evan Hansen. In 2024, they achieved EGOT status when they won an Emmy for Only Murders in the Building. Their screen credits include Trolls; Spirited; Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile; live-action Aladdin and Snow White, among others. They are the composers of Dogfight, James and the Giant Peach, the song cycle Edges, and A Christmas Story and co-producers of Pulitzer Prize winner A Strange Loop. Among countless songwriting honors, they won the Jonathan Larson Award and the ASCAP Vanguard Award. 

John Paul Brammer is an author and illustrator from rural Oklahoma currently based in Brooklyn, New York. He is the author of the popular advice column ¡Hola Papi!, as well as a memoir in essays of the same name, published in 2021 with Simon & Schuster’s flagship imprint. He is the winner of the 2022 Brooklyn Public Library Prize for nonfiction, as well as the Betty Berzon Emerging Writer Award. His work has appeared in The New Yorker, The Washington Post, The New York Times, and more. 

About the Illustrator:

 Vanessa Morales is a Mexican illustrator and character designer with a deep love for nature and all things whimsical. She is the illustrator of Diego Fuego the Firefighting Dragon by Allison and Rafael Rozo and Monster Baker written by Laura Lavoie. Vanessa also works in animation for companies including Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, and Kodansha VR Lab Japan. Vanessa was born and lives in the south of Mexico in Chiapas, and her artwork draws from the rich nature, culture, and legends of Mexico.

Recent Reads: Good Spirits by B.K. Borison

Good Spirits by B.K. Borison  

Series: Ghosted #1
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date:  October 21, 2025

 

Format: Paperback
Source: Bought/own

Rating:

Goodreads Synopsis: 

He’s the Ghost of Christmas Past. She’s not exactly Scrooge.

Ghost of Christmas Past Nolan Callahan intends to spend this holiday haunting like every other—get in, get out, return to his otherwise aimless existence as a ghost awaiting the afterlife. But when he’s faced with Harriet York, the sweetest assignment he’s ever had, he suddenly finds himself wishing for a future.

Harriet York has no idea why she’s being haunted. She’s a good person—or, at least, she tries to be. A people pleaser to her core, she always does what’s expected of her. But as she and Nolan begin to examine her past, they discover there are threads that bind them together— and realize there might be more to moving on than expected.

With the deadline of Christmas Eve fast approaching, will they find the key to their futures in each other’s pasts? Or will they stay firmly in the present, indulging in their unexpected, spirited connection?

Filled with magic, mayhem, and cozy holiday charm

Review: 

This was such a feel-good, fun, and charming holiday romance. Harriet is struggling through the Christmas season when she’s unexpectedly visited by the Ghost of Christmas Past - Nolan. She’s not convinced she qualifies as a Scrooge, and Nolan himself is unsure why Harriet has been assigned to him, making this holiday mission a mystery for them both. As they work through Harriet’s loneliness and Nolan’s uncertainty, a genuine connection begins to form, and feelings slowly bloom between them.

The story is so cozy, with a holiday atmosphere that feels warm and comforting from start to finish. The reimagining of the Ghost of Christmas Past was especially well done, adding a fresh, magical twist to a familiar concept. It’s impossible not to fall for both Harriet and Nolan; their chemistry is delightful, the banter is spot-on, and the magical whimsy adds the perfect finishing touch.

The vibes were immaculate, the romance was charming, and this was the perfect festive read to curl up with during the holidays.

Happy 2026!

🎉✨🎉Happy New Year Everyone.🎉✨ 🎉

As we step into a brand new year, I want to thank you for being here. Your presence, support, and conversations have brought so much light to this space. Whether this past year was a whirlwind, a turning point, or simply a mix of everything, I hope the year ahead brings you clarity, joy, and moments that feel genuinely yours.

Here’s to fresh starts, steady growth, and choosing what matters most. 

I’m grateful to be sharing another chapter with you, and I can’t wait to see what we create and discover together.

Wishing you a peaceful, hopeful, and beautifully bright New Year! 

XO - Steph

Merry Christmas 2025

Merry Christmas, my friends! 🎄✨

Wishing you a day filled with joy, love, and all the little moments that make this season so special. Whether you’re spending today surrounded by family, cozied up with a good book, or simply enjoying some quiet time, I hope your holiday is everything you need it to be.

Thank you for being part of this amazing community. Your kindness and support are truly the greatest gifts, and I’m so grateful for each and every one of you.

Stay merry, stay bright, and have the most wonderful Christmas!

 

HoHoHoRAT Review: The Little Ghost Quilt's Winter Surprise by Riel Nason

Source: From Librarything Early Reviewers program. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

The Little Ghost Quilt's Winter Surprise by Riel Nason, Illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler

Series: A Little Ghost Quilt Book
Publisher: Tundra Books
Publication Date:  August 26, 2025

 

Format: Physical 


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

When you're a quilt instead of a sheet, being a ghost is hard! But it does mean you can float around in cold weather . . . an adorable picture book about a ghost who wants to share the magic of the season with his chilly sheet friends.

The little ghost quilt loves being out in the cold. For once, he doesn't overheat, and he likes how the snowflakes make his patches look polka-dotted. His friends, who are sheets, get too cold in the winter weather and have to stay inside, but the little ghost quilt doesn't mind. He enjoys slowly drifting along on his own. 

On one of his frosty flights, he sees something happening in the town. People are putting up warm, twinkling lights, and there's a fun festive feeling everywhere — like Halloween, his favorite season, but with snowmen and wreaths and candles in windows instead of pumpkins. He is filled with excitement and happiness looking at all the beautiful decorations and joyous people, yet he can't help but feel sad that his friends can't be there. 

But then, after almost getting caught in a blizzard, the little ghost quilt is struck by inspiration . . .

Review: 

I really liked the first Ghost Quilt book and was so excited to get the next one in the series. 

This one follows Ghost Quilt during the holiday season. It is snowy and cold and luckily for him, their quilt keeps them warm while he is swooping through the air. Sadly the other ghosts are too cold to play and Quilt misses them. He heads to the human neighborhood and sees some amazing holiday lights and decide to bring the concept home for their friends.

The story showcased what ghosts do during the winter - stay in, stay warm, do crafts and read. I found that very heartwarming and cozy. It was all very cute. I also loved the ghost talk in the text (example: boooooks). 

The story overall held well to the winter theme and Ghost Quilts mission was clear and fun to follow along with. The illustrations are still done in mostly grey-scale with pops of the blue for his quilt and then red and green for the holiday lights this time. The full page spreads and short text will make this one a great read for young kids and parents. 

HoHoHoRAT Review: The Kill Clause: A Short Story by Lisa Unger

The Kill Clause: A Short Story by Lisa Unger

Publisher:  Amazon Original Stories
Publication Date: December 1, 2025 

 

Format: Ebook
Source: Kindle Unlimited (at time of posting)

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

A hired killer finds herself caught between her conscience and her contract over the holidays in this riveting short thriller from New York Times bestselling author Lisa Unger.

A hit woman’s work doesn’t stop for the holidays. As the advent calendar winds down, Paige slips into a palatial house, ignoring a blizzard of texts from her ex-husband. No surprise—Julian always gets maudlin this time of year. The real shock comes when the target is not alone. His young daughter is there too.

Risking the wrath of her organization, Paige retreats. There are some lines that, for personal reasons, she just won’t cross. But when she returns on Christmas Eve to finish the job, the girl is still there…along with someone even more startling. As the ghosts of her past gather—to haunt or to help, it’s unclear—Paige must confront old traumas and outwit her superiors to make it to Christmas

Review: 

A fun short story for the holiday season. This one is set during the holiday season. We follow Paige as she attempts to assassinate a man, only to lose her cool when a child is present. Her moral compass has been leaning this way a lot lately and she finds herself in a not so great situation with her employer.

This was a very short read at 70 pages, I appreciated the character build in that short time. There are some great passages around her learning about herself, her past, and what she needs to move forward. I think that the author did a great job with the character development in this short story. I felt invested and I liked Paige. 

I liked the story overall but a few things were more predictable than I would have liked, but I read a fair amount of thrillers so the plot overall was still appreciated. 

If you are looking for a short read, with some action, plot twistiness, and want a little bit of the holiday vibe (decor and some snow) this one could be for you.

HoHoHoRAT Review: A Match Made for Thanksgiving by Jackie Lau

A Match Made for Thanksgiving by Jackie Lau 

Series: Holidays with the Wongs #1
Publisher: Jackie Lau Books
Publication Date:  October 8, 2019 

 

Format: Ebook
Source: Bought

Rating:

Goodreads Synopsis: 

Advertising executive Nick Wong enjoys living in Toronto. He loves late nights partying and taking women back to his penthouse. And so it is with great reluctance that he returns to his boring hometown of Mosquito Bay for Thanksgiving.

This year, however, is even worse than usual. His interfering parents and grandparents, frustrated with the lack of weddings in the family, have invited blind dates for him and his three siblings. Nick’s brother Greg has been set up with Lily Tseng, who just so happens to be Nick’s latest one-night stand, the one he can’t get out of his mind.

Although Nick has never been interested in settling down, Lily has him reconsidering. Perhaps he’s good for more than a single night of sex, dumplings, and bubble tea after all. But first, he has to get through this painful weekend with his family and convince her that she should be with him, not Greg…

Review: 

Another novella read to kick off the HoHoHo Readathon. This was also a Thanksgiving themed read. I felt like since it was still November I wanted to start with the Thanksgiving ones first. 

This story follows Nick and Lily. Lily is trying to get over her ex and also be less boring when we goes out in attempt to find a one night stand. She finds Nick - happy to help, but then she sees him again at a Thanksgiving dinner... sadly she has been set up with his brother. 

This was such a fun, quick read. I really likely Lily's list of things to be less boring and try, and I liked that Nick was suddenly so into her and jealous that she was paired with his brother. The family dynamics here were also hilarious and I found the whole book overall to be so light and entertaining. 

If you are looking for fun family dynamics, quick feelings for each other, and some spice, this will be a good novella to grab.

Happy Thanksgiving 2025

As we head into the end of the year, I want to pause and thank you for being here. This space continues to grow and evolve, and your support, curiosity, and kindness are what make it all worthwhile. Whether you’ve been with me for years or you’ve just found your way here, I’m truly grateful for you.

For those in the US, I hope your Thanksgiving is filled with good food, good company, and a moment (or two) of peace. For everyone else around the world, I hope this season brings you comfort, connection, and a few bright spots to carry you forward.

Thank you for showing up, for reading, for engaging, and for making this little corner of the internet feel warm and welcoming. I’m excited for what’s ahead, and I’m thankful to be sharing the journey with you 💖

xo - Steph 

 

Blog Tour: Review -The Cornish Christmas Book Club by Angela Britnell

The Cornish Christmas Book Club by Angela Britnell

Series: Cornish Romances Book Club #2
Publisher: Choc Lit
Publication Date:  October 15, 2025

 

About the Book 

❄️Enemies-to-lovers 

❄️Christmas romance 

❄️Small town 

❄️Workplace romance 

❄️Forced proximity 

❄️Friend’s brother 

❄️Single parent 

 

’Tis the season for second chances — and unexpected chapters . . . 

 

Tamara Pascoe has spent years saving every penny and perfecting her baking in the hopes of opening her own café in the cosy Cornish village of Penworthal. But when she loses her job, her long-held dream is suddenly out of reach. 

 

To make matters worse, her perfect café location is snapped up by newcomer Gage Bennet — a brooding ex-Marine with plans to open a bookshop. 

 

Gage has no time for pleasantries, let alone Christmas spirit. But he didn’t count on Tamara — sharp, stubborn and full of festive cheer. 

 

Tamara is impossible to ignore, and when the village book club throws them together, Gage realises they might just be able to help one another. Tamara needs a job. He needs help connecting with the community. 

 

Striking a reluctant truce, Tamara and Gage’s frosty beginning starts to melt as they bond over their shared love of books. 

 

As snow begins to fall and the fairy lights go up, could a little Cornish book club help two opposites write their own happily ever after? 

Rating: 

Review: 

The Christmas Book Club is a cozy, second-chance holiday romance set in the charming Cornish village of Penworthal. While it’s technically the second in a series, it reads perfectly well as a standalone since each book focuses on different residents of the same delightful village.

This time we follow Tamara, a mother (although her son is an adult now) with dreams of opening her own café, and Gage, a former Marine new to town who’s opening a bookshop. Their paths cross easily in this small village, where gossip is always the best news, and while the first impression is meh, it slowly turns into friendship and then more. 

I’ll admit, the pacing felt very slow at times, and I didn’t quite connect with Tamara as much as I hoped. Gage, on the other hand, was a high point and I enjoyed watching him gradually open up and find his place in the community. I loved that he had a passion for history and books and was learning more and more about himself as the story progressed. If not for him, I probably would have given up. Tamara, is a strong and strong-willed independent woman and her guard is up a lot, so she comes off as rude a lot of the time... likely to keep herself safe. Sadly, that also just rubbed me the wrong way as I was reading her character at times too though.

The romance was sweet, if not especially swoony, and the festive holiday backdrop added a nice seasonal touch. I appreciated that the author took us through a few months of them learning about each other, so different from the insta-love of so many romance books right now. We see them flirting through Halloween, and working together through November, then on into Christmas. 

Overall, The Christmas Book Club is a gentle, heartwarming story perfect for readers who love small-town charm, second chances, and the comforting feel of a Hallmark-style holiday romance.

About the Author:

Angela grew up in Cornwall and returns frequently from her new home in Nashville, Tennessee to visit family and friends, drink tea and eat too many Cornish pasties! A lifelong love of reading turned into a passion for writing contemporary romance and her novels are usually set in the many places she's visited or lived on her extensive travels. Thanks to her wonderful American husband she's a huge fan of transatlantic romance and always makes sure her characters get their own happy-ever-after.

Find the Author

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Recent Reads: In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren

In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren
Publisher: Gallery Books
Publication Date:  October 6, 2020

 

Format: Kindle Ebook
Source: Bought/ Own

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

One Christmas wish, two brothers, and a lifetime of hope are on the line for hapless Maelyn Jones in In a Holidaze, the quintessential holiday romantic novel by Christina Lauren, the New York Times bestselling author of The Unhoneymooners..

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…but not for Maelyn Jones. She’s living with her parents, hates her going-nowhere job, and has just made a romantic error of epic proportions.

But perhaps worst of all, this is the last Christmas Mae will be at her favorite place in the world—the snowy Utah cabin where she and her family have spent every holiday since she was born, along with two other beloved families. Mentally melting down as she drives away from the cabin for the final time, Mae throws out what she thinks is a simple plea to the universe: Please. Show me what will make me happy.

The next thing she knows, tires screech and metal collides, everything goes black. But when Mae gasps awake…she’s on an airplane bound for Utah, where she begins the same holiday all over again. With one hilarious disaster after another sending her back to the plane, Mae must figure out how to break free of the strange time loop—and finally get her true love under the mistletoe.

Jam-packed with yuletide cheer, an unforgettable cast of characters, and Christina Lauren’s trademark hijinks, this swoon-worthy romantic read will make you believe in the power of wishes and the magic of the holidays.

Review: 

I know it is a bit late to be posting about a holiday romance... and also an older one at that but I felt the need to share...

This holiday romance had such a fun premise—a woman time-lopping through her Christmas holidays—but unfortunately, it didn’t quite deliver on all fronts. While the festive atmosphere was charming, and the setup promised a heartwarming journey, the execution left me wanting more.

Mae is headed to the cabin, the place her family and their long-time family friends all go to celebrate the holidays. This year Mae is especially down on herself and asked the universe to help her see what will make her happy, and seeming it does giving her a Groundhog day-esq time looping opportunity to make it for herself. Sadly, it is this sci-fi element and some others that fell so short for me. 

One of my biggest issues was the character development. Mae, the main character, never really grows, she just adapts to the time loops and then starts to get bossy when she becomes frustrated with the outcomes. There are also so many characters but none of them really get the attention that they deserve to really highlight their differences.  Then, the romance itself felt rushed, making it hard to truly invest in Mae and Andrew's connection. It seemed like the author was explaining things away with 'they have known each other forever' that's great, but the readers haven't known them and we were all left wanted more. The time loop/sci-fi element could have added more depth but instead felt repetitive or underutilized to build on these relationships or as part of the plot overall.

There were some moments of warmth and humor that made it enjoyable in parts. The holiday setting was cozy, and I did appreciated the charming traditions that the families have together. However, I wish the story had spent more time fleshing out the relationships and making the emotional pieces hit harder.

Overall, while this book had potential and some enjoyable moments, it ultimately fell flat in execution. If you’re looking for a light, holiday read and don’t mind a romance that feels a bit surface-level, this might still be worth picking up.