Happy April 2025!
Happy Spring 2025
Rosie Russell
“April Showers Brings May Flowers but What to May Flowers Bring?
Here at Books by Rose, they bring the announcement of a bouquet of new released books!
Here’s some wonderful books you’ll want to check out.
Kathy J. Perry with “Good Clean Books” have these new five releases. That’s right! Five!
First up…
“Oakwoods Work, then Play Pip Opossum”
Author Kathy J. Perry and illustrator Claudia Gadotti present, “Oakwoods Pip Opossum: Work, Then Play”
My Review:
Pip desires it all: playfulness with minimal responsibilities. He’s a charming opossum who will soon learn the value of hard work as he faces the coming winter. Will he learn his lesson? Or, will he play with his new friend, Sneak? And let’s not forget Boon, the turkey vulture, who adds his friendship to this sweet story. I adored the pastoral artwork that enhances this delightful tale, created by Claudia Gadotti. Readers will appreciate this narrative, complete with informative discussions, a glossary, and fun facts at the back of the book. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for young and old for pure learning and enjoyment.
“OAKWOODS Benjamin Bat – Humility“
My Review:
Author Kathy J. Perry and illustrator Claudia Gadotti have done it again with “Benjamin Bat, Humility.”
Benjamin Bat is known for his skill in hunting moths and insects. His ability to fly without relying on sight showcases his remarkable talent. When he tries to impress a companion, his attitude shifts from predator to prey.
I highly recommend this story, which delves into themes filled with humility and the significance of personal growth, as Benjamin must learn from his self-absorption.
“Boon and Sneaks” returns alongside Benjamin in this enriching narrative.
The illustrations, fun facts, valuable lessons, and glossary will keep readers engaged until the final pages of this book. It’s a fantastic addition for both home and classrooms.
“Sally Skunkskin, Grumbles To Grateful”
Author Kathy J. Perry and illustrator Claudia Gadotti, “Sally Skunkskin, Grumbles to Grateful.”
Sally Skunkskin can be a little prude and rude when interacting with other forest animals. As she navigates her interactions with a beaver, coyotes, foxes, and even a helpful snake named Sneaks, will readers witness her gradual transformation, or will she remain the same? I highly recommend this book, which delivers a powerful message about the importance of manners, understanding, and empathy. With engaging illustrations and supplemental fun facts, everyone will enjoy this tale learning valuable lessons and much more. The glossary at the end is a nice touch, making this book both educational and entertaining—a perfect choice for homes and classrooms.
“Oakwoods Jeremy Jay – Resilience”
My Review:
“Oakwoods Jeremy Jay Resilience,” by author Kathy J. Perry and illustrated by Claudia Gadotti is a book that readers won’t want to miss.
This touching and uplifting tale explores themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and resilience. Jeremy Jay, a blue jay grappling with his deformed foot, embodies the struggles of feeling different and isolated. The story wonderfully explores his journey of self-doubt and transformation.
With the help of his old friend and many others, Jeremy Jay begins to embrace his unique qualities.
I highly recommend this story to those looking for an inspiring and a well-written tale. The illustrations, book discussions, fun facts, educational insights, and glossary, add to this beautiful story.
“Oakwoods Nuts – Teamwork”
My Review:
“Oakwoods Nuts, Teamwork” by author Kathy J Perry and illustrator Claudia Gadotti
A story about friendship and cooperation.
If you watch squirrels, you know how busy they can be, dashing and darting around, hiding their nuts for future use. What begins as an everyday task, quickly evolves into an endless tug-of-war over each other’s treasures.
Join Nuts and other lovable characters from the Oakwoods series and see how harmony is restored in this fun and lively narrative.
The illustrations are engaging, featuring fun facts, a glossary of terms, and educational content. This book will bring warmth and character to both home and classroom bookshelves.
Please visit Kathy J. Perry’s website for more great news on these and learn about her other chapter books for middle grade readers.
Let’s Not Forget…
Author Carol Baldwin has her new book coming out soon! You may remember the blog I wrote about last month. ►Kidlit Blog by Rosie
Visit Carol’s website for more updates here ► Carol Baldwin – Author, Teacher, Speaker
Goodreads Challenge March 2025
My reading was a little sparse this past month. As you’ll see at the end of this blog post, I’ve been busy getting my next book in shape for you all.
“That Was Then, This Is Now,” by S. E. Hinton
After recently watching the movie, “The Outsiders,” I looked into more books written by S. E. Hinton. This story, although dated, engages the themes of friendship and the complexities of growing up. The premise captures the essence of the often painful transition from childhood to adolescence, highlighting the tension between two friends on different paths. Bryon’s character struggles with self-discovery and the shifts that come with maturity, while Mark embodies the carefree spirit of youth, living in the moment.
The revelation Bryon uncovers about Mark adds a story twist, raising the stakes and forcing Bryon to confront his relationship with Mark. A moral dilemma that is sure to resonate with readers as they reflect on their relationships and the choices that define them.
Overall, the emotional depth and relatable characters make this story an engaging look at the challenges of adolescence. It invites readers to ponder whether true friendship can withstand the inevitable changes that come with growing up and whether it is possible to navigate these changes without losing the connections that matter most. This narrative promises to deliver a memorable journey filled with heart and insight.
If you enjoy teen stories from the past, you will enjoy this one.
⚠️(For mature audiences: it does contain violence.)
“True Spirit,” by author Jessica Watson
My husband watched this movie first then bought the book. We watched the movie together after that and then I read the book. I’m so glad I did. What Jessica Watson went through on this journey spilled over to the pages and I couldn’t wait until the end, even though I knew the ending. She also has many Youtube videos of her 7-month trip around the world.
“True Spirit,” published on August 14, 2009, chronicles Jessica Watson’s tells of her solo voyage around the world. Drawing motivation from iconic sailors, Watson shares a personal narrative with those who admire exploration.
The book details her journey, covering her meticulous planning, emotional struggles with her parents, and the challenges of long-term sailing. Watson highlights the psychological resilience needed to face isolation, unpredictable weather, and technical obstacles aboard her ten-meter boat. Not to mention she had to manage her daily life with self-care and food.
She reflects on her fears, loneliness, and triumphs. For followers of her journey or newcomers alike, “True Spirit” enriches the understanding of her experiences, emphasizing growth and courage.
“True Spirit” is a compelling read that inspires readers to dream big and embrace challenges. I highly recommend this book.
News On My Next Book…
All I can tell you for now, things are going along smoothly.
Here’s what I have so far…
ISBN – Assigned 
Library of Congress Number – Assigned
Added to Ingram Spark
Publishing Date Set (A little later than I wanted but I want to make sure everything will take and be 100%. I’ll keep you posted.) 
Keep watching. I’m excited to share my next middle grade book with you all.
Tell Us About You!
Any new projects you’d like to share?
What plans do you have for these spring months?
I hope you all have a wonderful April.
As always,
Happy Reading
Rosie
Loved “The Outsiders” when I was a teen. Recently rewatched the movie. Also read, “That was Then, This is Now,” but it’s been so long, I can hardly remember it. Great author. As a beta reader, I’m looking forward to seeing the final edition of your new book!
Thanks so much, Julie. Those books and the movie were fun to revisit.
Thank you always for your support. I’m excited for you to read the final version, as well.
Have a wonderful April. 🙂
Hi Rosie, great book recommendations there. I like the one about the squirrel, we don’t have them in Australia, so it was a delight to watch one every morning in our cousins backyard in England last year. The squirrel was digging up the nuts he had previously buried, but couldn’t quite remember where they were. It left holes throughout the yard.
I have always wanted to the Outsiders, but still haven’t.
Jessica Watson is amazing, I remember following her journey as she left Sydney and ventured around the world.
Good luck with your new book, can’t wait to see it finished.
Kathy J. Perry’s books are a lot of fun. The teacher in you would love the fun and educational facts in the back of the book. I sure did. The stories all have a sweet lesson for young readers to learn, as well. 🙂
Yes, “The Outsiders” is a classic. Our middle school here read it in their literature class and I was so glad. Although it’s an older story, it’s a great book for discussions for young teens.
I thought of you when I read Jessica Watson’s book as I know you had probably heard a lot about it during that time. What an inspiring story!
Thank you so much for your kind words on my new book. I appreciate your support always, Sandra. 🙂