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    • NEWS & MEDIA
    • ABOUT ME
    • YOUTUBE INTERVIEWS
    • E TRAIN TALKS PODCAST
    • BOOK REVIEW VIDEOS/ VLOGS
    • BAR MITZVAH PROJECT
    • E TRAIN EVENTS
    • FOR TEACHERS & LIBRARIANS
    • BE A LITERACY ADVOCATE!
    • #GivingTuesdaySpark

E Train Talks

E Train TalksE Train TalksE Train Talks
  • NEWS & MEDIA
  • ABOUT ME
  • YOUTUBE INTERVIEWS
  • E TRAIN TALKS PODCAST
  • BOOK REVIEW VIDEOS/ VLOGS
  • BAR MITZVAH PROJECT
  • E TRAIN EVENTS
  • FOR TEACHERS & LIBRARIANS
  • BE A LITERACY ADVOCATE!
  • #GivingTuesdaySpark

ETRAIN TALKS BOOks!

My Bookish Thoughts on “LINKED” by Author Gordon Korman

 

Nothing special ever happens in Chokecherry, Colorado, And,

when I say nothing, I mean nothing, but what’s usually a dormant little town in the middle of nowhere, will soon go viral internationally. They’ll be recognized on the news, social media, and so much more, but not for something wonderful or spectacular, not for something anyone will be proud of, no, not for anything good at all. Intrigued? I love every book I've read of Gordon's, but his book, LINKED is a story that is near and dear to my heart! With themes of tolerance, acceptance & combating antisemitism, LINKED is the perfect book to REMIND US TO ALWAYS REMEMBER AND NEVER FORGET! 

My Bookish Thoughts on “A Work in Progress” by Author Jarrett Lerner

 A WORK IN PROGRESS by author Jarrett Lerner is the story of my heart & will stay with me forever. Through this meaningful story, the reader learns such valuable lessons, most profoundly, “We’re all a Work in Progress!” Jarrett’s illustrated  novel-in-verse is truly beautiful & I believe it will be a middle-grade classic!

 (Out May 2nd) 

Follow Jarrett's writing journey at: https://jarrettlerner.com/

My Book Thoughts on THE SMARTEST KID IN THE UNIVERSE by Author Chris Grabenstein

 THE SMARTEST KID IN THE UNIVERSE by author Chris Grabenstein blew my mind and kept me entertained throughout! What an intriguing concept middle-grade author extraordinaire Chris portrays in his story! What would you do if you were THE SMARTEST KID IN THE UNIVERSE? 10/10!  

Follow Chris Grabenstein’s writing journey at: https://chrisgrabenstein.com 

My Book Thoughts on MONSTERIOUS: ESCAPE FROM GRIMSTONE MANOR By Debut Author Matt McMann

 Out May 9th, MONSTERIOUS: ESCAPE FROM GRIMSTONE MANOR is the thrilling 1st book in debut author Matt McMann’s spooky middle grade series. Filled with suspense & page turning clues to keep your mind guessing! Matt did a fantastic job of keeping readers on their toes! A story mystery lovers won’t want to put down! All I can say is Bravo Matt! Can’t wait to read what mysteries unfold in book two! 5 STAR FUN 

My Book Thoughts On OMAR RISING, A Middle Grade Heart Warming Tale, By Award Winning Author Aisha Saeed

 OMAR RISING by author Aisha Saeed is an middle grade (4th grade and up) book that takes readers on a journey of self-discovery! Sometimes we learn that life can be filled with disappointment, but we always have to get back up! Omar’s journey is truly heartwarming & inspiring! Watch my book review & be sure to read Aisha’s beautiful tale! A diverse read that teaches us & expands our thinking! 

My Book Review of "AMAZING" by Olympic Figure Skating Legends, Maia & Alex Shibutani!

 "AMAZING," the meaningful and beautiful picture book by Figure Skating Olympic Medalists, Alex Shibutani & Maia Shibutani, THE SHIBSIBS (Shibutani Siblings), is a perfect title because their debut book is AMAZING! They celebrate AAPI heroes through powerful words & moving illustrations by Aaliya Jaleel! This book will be a classic & pave the way for AMAZING AAPI children's books! Out on 4/18!  We need more diverse reads! 

Thank you so much Alex and Maia Shibutani! 

  

The Shibsibs have written middle grade, this is their first picture book! Follow the Shibutain Siblings exciting journey here: www.shibsibs.com 

My Book Thoughts on IZZY AT THE END OF THE WORLD by Author K.A. Reynolds

 In this video I share my book review on the wonderful author K.A. Reynolds newest middle grade novel, IZZY AT THE END OF THE WORLD, a thrilling  and heartwarming read. If you're looking for a beautiful and adventures journey to dive into, you won't be disappointed!  

My Book Thoughts on UNBREAKABLE: THE SPIES WHO CRACKED THE NAZIS’ SECRET CODE by Rebecca E.F. Barone

 In this video I review the thrilling middle grade non-fiction tale UNBREAKABLE: THE SPIES WHO CRACKED THE NAZIS’ SECRET CODE, by the talented author Rebecca E. F Barone. A page-turning story you won’t want to put down until you’ve read every last incredible & true detail! 10/10  Look for my interview with author Rebecca Barone coming in April 2023!
 

My Book Thoughts on HANA’S SUITCASE: THE QUEST TO SOLVE A HOLOCAUST MYSTERY

 “Hana’s Suitcase: The Quest To Solve A holocaust mystery” is an award winning true story written by author Karen Levine. A heartfelt tale of one woman’s journey to start a Holocaust Education Center in Tokyo, Japan, and how in the process, she uncovers the mystery of Hana’s suitcase.  An inspiring and meaningful book that needs to be read, told and shared in classrooms and libraries everywhere! 50/50!  Stories like HANA'S SUITCAST must be read so we #NEVERFORGET 

My Book Review of ON AIR WITH ZOE WASHINGTON. A Middle Grade Novel by Award Winning Author Janae Marks

 I was so lucky to receive the ARC ( advanced reader copy) of the fantastic middle grade novel ON AIR WITH ZOE WASHINGTON, by the wonderfully talented author Janae Marks! As you can see from my book review I truly loved this read with all my #kidlit heart! Watch my book review & stay tuned for my interview with Janae, coming soon! 

ON AIR WITH ZOE WASHINGTON will be on the shelves  

February 14, 2023!

My Thoughts on Author Art Spiegleman’s Graphic Novel, “MAUS,” A Holocaust Survivor’s Tale

 In this video I talk about the Holocaust graphic novel, MAUS, by the incredible author, Art Spiegelman. We are always told to “Never Forget,” but how are kids to remember, if they are never taught what not to forget?! Maus is an important, meaningful, and profound story that deserves to be told, read, and heard!  MAUS has been banned in many school districts and in countries around the world! 

MAUS is a story that must be told, read, and shared! #NEVERFORGET

My Book Review of “Daniel’s Story,” by the Brilliant Author Carol Matas. A Must Read!

 In honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day, I reviewed the moving middle grade novel DANIEL'S STORY by brilliant author Carol Matas! It's so important to shed light on what happened during the Holocaust to ensure it NEVER HAPPENS AGAIN! This story tells the heartbreaking truth. A story every  kid and adult needs to read.   Follow Carol Matas on social media and on her website at:  https://carolmatas.com/ **Look for my interview with Carol Matas coming Spring of 2023 

My bookish thoughts on the MG Novel, THE OTHER SIDE OF THE RIVER by Author Alda P. Dobbs

 Petra’s heartfelt story continues in #book2, THE OTHER SIDE OF THE RIVER, by #author Alda P Dobbs! We learn of the hardships & rewards immigrants faced coming to the US from the Mexican Revolution. A compelling #MGLit #book that evokes feelings of compassion & hope! 10/10 #read!  

My Thoughts on the Middle Grade Novel, "TAKE BACK THE BLOCK," by Author Chrystal D. Giles

 What a powerful & truly eye-opening middle grade book, by 2022 debut author, Chrystal D. Giles masterfully weaves together a beautiful #story in TAKE BACK THE BLOCK that needs to be #read in all middle school classrooms! The tale of Wes warmed my heart & educated me too! 10/10, check out this wonderful novel!🌟
 

My Thoughts on the Important and Profound Middle Grade Novel, THE ASSIGNMENT

 Since Hanukkah is upon us, I thought it would be the perfect time to share the profound Middle Grade/Young Adult novel, “THE ASSIGNMENT” by the brilliant author, Liza Wiemer. This story educated & inspired me! Tears welled in my eyes while reading it! Watch my book review of Liza’s beautiful book! 

My Bookish Thoughts on the Middle Grade Novel, “APARTMENT 713,” by Author Kevin Sylvester

 “To save the future, he must visit the past.” APARTMENT 713 is one of the best #MGLit books I’ve read all year! The fabulous Canadian author Kevin Sylvester, has truly written a masterpiece! A groundbreaking #IReadCanadian story that blew my mind & warmed my heart! A 10/10 Review! 

My Book Review of ISLAND OF SPIES, The latest & Greatest Book by Newbery Award Winner Sheila Turnage

 The Newberry Award winning author, Sheila Turnage has done it again with her newest gripping mystery tale, ISLAND OF SPIES. Full of friendship, family, and adventure, plus a whole lot more, Sheila takes readers on an action-packed, thrilling reading ride, you'll absolutely love! Watch to find out more! 10/10 read! 

My Book Review of Catherine Arguelles Debut Novel, FLIP TURNS!

 FLIP TURNS is the CAPTIVATING, can’t get enough of, debut novel, by author Catherine Arguelles! A #middlegrade coming of age #story, that pushes all the right buttons! With drama, friendship, crushes & scandals, FLIP TURNS is a page turning #read that I LOVED & know you will too! 5🌟! 

My Thoughts On The Middle Grade Mystery Novel, “Aggie Morton Mystery Queen, The Seaside Corpse!”

The masterful & talented #author, Marthe Jocelyn has done it yet again with  her newest #MGLit #adventure story, AGGIE MORTON MYSTERY QUEEN, THE SEASIDE CORPSE! Find your copy or start with book one!
 

“BAREFOOT DREAMS OF PETRA LUNA” BY AUTHOR ALDA P. DOBBS IS A MEANINGFUL MUST READ!

 In honor of #hispanicheritagemonth  I read the profound and heartwarming #novel THE BAREFOOT DREAMS OF PETRA LUNA by, #author Alda  P. Dobbs. The #story follows 11 year old Petra Luna, A protagonist inspired by the author’s grandmother who endured the same tragedies and blessings as Petra. #read  the heartfelt “The Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna” to find out where the story goes!  
 

October Spooky Middle Grade Book Recommendations!

 Since #October is the month of ghosts, goblins and ghouls, I thought I’d share a few of my favorite #middleschool mystery reads! So, if you’re in search of some thrilling, captivating & spooky fall reads to curl up to this Halloween season, look no further! Marthe Jocelyn’s “Aggie Morton, Mystery Queen Series,” and “Daybreak on Raven Island,” by Author Fleur Bradley are sure to keep you entertained this Halloween season! 

BIRDIE’S BILLIONS BOOK TALK

  What would you do if you found half a million dollars hidden between the walls of an abandoned house? That’s exactly the question protagonist Birdie has to contemplate in Author Edith Cohn’s page-turning middle grade tale, BIRDIE’S BILLIONS pub by Bloomsbury publishing! Read this wonderful story to find out what happens next!  

My Review of “The Basketball Game,” by, Canadian Author Hart Snider

 How do you deal with fear & prejudice as a kid? Huge question right! What if the hate you feel was taught by your teacher? The middle grade, graphic novel, “THE BASKETBALL GAME,”  by Hart Snider & published by FireFly is an important MUST read, about kids overcoming Prejudice & breaking barriers! 


Here's the link to info on "The Basketball Game" short film by Hart Snider & produced by The National Film Board (NFB), Canada's public film producer and distributor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyrHOKhpmIs

My Review of the meaningful Novel, "Hands" by Author Torrey Maldonado

 “Be a rainbow in some else’s cloud!” Words that will stay with me forever! I’m so grateful I had the chance to read “HANDS,” by the incredibly talented #author Torrey Maldonado. A moving #middlegrade #story you’ll want to #read from cover to cover again & again! Out in bookstores in January 2023! Pre-order you copy today or reserve it at your local library! A 10/10 Read! 

My Review on “THE EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES OF ALICE TONKS”

Calling all Middle Grade Book Enthusiasts! Join #bookish & animal-loving #autistic #tween Alice Tonks on an EXTRAORDINARY, magical, adventurous journey in “THE EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES OF ALICE TONKS” by Author Emily Kenny & published  by Rock the Boat! You won’t regret #reading this thrilling middle grade tale! Coming to the U.S. February 14, 2023! 

MY INDIE BOOKSHOP ADVENTURE vLOGS

My Indie Bookshop Adventure! Book Vlog #1

 Today, I took a wonderful trip to the “East Village Bookshop,” a Sacramento local Independent Bookshop! From bookshelves full of great reads, to yummy popsicles, to entertaining greeting cards, East Village Bookshop is a must/visit when traveling to Sacramento! 

My Indie Bookshop Adventure! Book Vlog #1

  Here's my first read aloud of my new picture book series! Come on a Jewish Cuban Journey with me, as I read aloud “TIA FORTUNA’S New Home.” A Gorgeous Picture Book, Written by the Award Winning Author Ruth Behar & Illustrated by Devon Holzwarth! Listen as I read a story of about family, traditions, and love at a local Indie shop! Hope you enjoy!

Blog it!

I READ WHAT I WANT

Reading is a right! Nobody can say what you can or can't read. You're NEVER to young or old to fight censorship!


Look for my #IReadBandBooks Featured Podcast Episodes Coming this Fall! 


If you are an author and you're book has been banned, or you know of a great book that's been taken off the shelves, Contact me at: etraintalks@gmail.com


I'd love to feature you on my podcast!

Bar Mitzvah Project

E Train Talks Book Drive is part of my 2024 Bar Mitzvah Project. I want to share as much book joy as I can, to inspired kids to love stories as much as I do!

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Shirts that Speak to me!



We Need More Diverse Books!






I wear Orange on National Gun Violence Awareness Day because kids shouldn't lose their lives due to Gun Violence! 





Love my shirt from FREADOM: Literacy for all!

PICTURE BOOK READ ALOUD EVENTS

Read Aloud at the East Village Bookshop

 Come on a Jewish Cuban Journey with me as I read aloud “TIA FORTUNA’S New Home.” A Gorgeous Picture Book, Written by the Award Winning Author Ruth Behar & Illustrated by Devon Holzwarth! Listen as I read a story of about family, traditions, and love! 

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