Third Annual Penelope's Prize Children's Picture Book Awards
2023 Contest Rules and Information
Contest:
RDF Book Reviews will be hosting its 3rd Annual Children’s Picture Book Contest! The spirit of the contest is to bring light to the wonderful world of early childhood literacy! With thousands of books entering the children’s book space each year, RDF Book Reviews is committed to sharing, and highlighting, these remarkable stories. All children deserve to experience the gift of great storytelling.
Awards:
Rules:
Judging Process:
Timeline:
January 1, 2023 - Contest Opens
March 31, 2023 - Contest Closes
April 1, 2023 - Contest Judges Announced
May 1, 2023 - Top 25 Notified
May 10-20, 2023- Fan Favorite Voting
May 21, 2023- Fan Favorite Notified
May 25, 2023- Top 10 Honorable Mention Notified
June 1, 2023- Judge’s Selection Notified
Awards and Recognition:
Registration Fee Submission:
Venmo - @Robert-DeFinis
PayPal - [email protected]
Please contact me at [email protected] with any questions.
NOTE: When submitting to the contest, you assume all responsibility that the work is yours to submit and fully authorized to participate in the contest. There will be no refunds of registration fee once work is submitted.
RDF Book Reviews will be hosting its 3rd Annual Children’s Picture Book Contest! The spirit of the contest is to bring light to the wonderful world of early childhood literacy! With thousands of books entering the children’s book space each year, RDF Book Reviews is committed to sharing, and highlighting, these remarkable stories. All children deserve to experience the gift of great storytelling.
Awards:
- Judge’s Top Selection 2023 (Top Prize, 1 selected overall by judges)
- Honorable Mention 2023 (10 selected overall by judges)
- Fan Favorite 2023 (Top 25 selected overall by judges and then fans will be given 10 days to vote for their overall favorite)
Rules:
- Children’s Picture Books (only).
- Published on or after April 1, 2021.
- Indie or traditional publication accepted.
- Submissions must be digitally submitted (PDF) via email ([email protected]) before midnight (US EST) March 31, 2023. Watermark is fine. All submissions are destroyed post contest. However, winners may have selected content (such as cover) used for promotional reasons by contest organizers.
- $15.00 registration (early bird) fee before/on February 1, 2023 per book entry. $20.00 after February 1, 2023 per book entry. All registrations must be submitted before midnight (US EST) March 31, 2023.
- Registration fee will only be accepted through Venmo Or PayPal and BEFORE you submit your PDF book file.
Judging Process:
- Three panel jury will review top 50 entries narrowed down by Dr. Robert F. DeFinis (RDF Book Reviews).
- Three panel jury will narrow 50 to top 25 for “Fan Favorite.” Those authors will be notified. Fan Favorites will be posted on RDF Book Reviews Instagram Page for ten calendar days (TBD) and fans will be able to vote (“like” on Instagram). The most likes will be awarded “Fan Favorite 2023.”
- Three panel jury will narrow the top 25 to 10. These ten will receive “Honorable Mention 2023.”
- Three panel jury will select one overall book to be awarded “Judge’s Top Selection 2023.”
- All judges will use a rubric for official scoring and evaluation of each book.
Timeline:
January 1, 2023 - Contest Opens
March 31, 2023 - Contest Closes
April 1, 2023 - Contest Judges Announced
May 1, 2023 - Top 25 Notified
May 10-20, 2023- Fan Favorite Voting
May 21, 2023- Fan Favorite Notified
May 25, 2023- Top 10 Honorable Mention Notified
June 1, 2023- Judge’s Selection Notified
Awards and Recognition:
- Official contest award seal to use on your books and/or for other promotional purposes.
- Official certificate/medal of distinction (Judge’s Top Selection, Honorable Mention, Fan Favorite).
- Press Release with a distribution of over 100 publications.
- Recognition on RDF Book Reviews social media account.
Registration Fee Submission:
Venmo - @Robert-DeFinis
PayPal - [email protected]
Please contact me at [email protected] with any questions.
NOTE: When submitting to the contest, you assume all responsibility that the work is yours to submit and fully authorized to participate in the contest. There will be no refunds of registration fee once work is submitted.
| pp_contest_flyer_2021.pdf |
Children's Books by Dr. Robert F. DeFinis
Dexter and Dalton's Detective Agency
(Coming Winter 2025)
The Great Robbini
The Great Robbini is one of the best young magicians in all Levitationville! There is just one problem…no one knows just how magical he really is. Robbini must figure out how to master his own STAGE FRIGHT so the world can finally see his greatest trick!
Dr. Robert F. DeFinis uses a little bit of magic to tackle one of our biggest fears – stage fright! This new collaboration with illustrator Flor Piazza is sure to entertain, inform, and cast a spell over all ages!
Dr. Robert F. DeFinis uses a little bit of magic to tackle one of our biggest fears – stage fright! This new collaboration with illustrator Flor Piazza is sure to entertain, inform, and cast a spell over all ages!
eBook Available on Amazon
Official Trailer: The Great Robbini
Official Book Launch Tour
Official Book Launch Reviews
"The Great Robbini is a delightful and concise tale that follows young Robbini on a transformative journey at Hocus Pocus Elementary School as he overcomes the stage fear to showcase his magic tricks to an eager audience. The vibrant illustrations beautifully capture the characters’ emotions, adding depth to the story. This heartwarming and uplifting narrative imparts essential lessons about confidence and self-esteem, making it a valuable read for children.
A standout element of The Great Robbini is the touching bond between Robbini and his father. Throughout the story, Robbini's father stands as a pillar of unwavering support, offering guidance and encouragement during moments of doubt. This endearing father-son relationship resonates with readers of all ages, leaving a lasting impact.
In its entirety, The Great Robbini is a remarkable book that teaches children valuable lessons about confidence and self-esteem. Its uplifting narrative and captivating illustrations inspire readers, leaving them feeling inspired and optimistic. I highly recommend this book to anyone in search of a positive and uplifting story for children."
Review by: Prasad Chandrasekaran, Author of Ram & The Miracle Tree
"A heartwarming story of a child magician with stage fright, teaching children valuable lessons about the importance of perseverance, determination, and self-belief when facing common obstacles and challenges in life. The Great Robbini beautifully showcases the power of determination and the support of loved ones. Robbini’s fear persists until he receives valuable advice from his father, prompting a change in his perspective. The vibrant and charming illustrations are a perfect complement to the story. A valuable addition to any classroom library, or home bookshelf."
Review by: Cheryl L Jordan, Author of Mama, Who Lives in the Forest and Little Rabbit Discovers Spring
“This is a story of a young and potentially up and coming magician who is known for performing great tricks. In the beginning, we are introduced to a world of magic school which the main character attends. However, we soon discover he must overcome stage fright in order to perform his famous magic trick. My 8-year-old daughter read the book and loved the facial expressions of the characters. She also found the names of the places comical. This book is great to teach any child about stage fright whether they are about to give a presentation or perform in front of an audience. The book is not too long, and young readers will remain attentive and excited to see the ending. A great bedtime read or can be read to teach about stage fright as needed.”
Review by: Mariam Shapera, Author of 'Up Up You Go Jo!'
“The Great Robbini is a sweet story with a valuable lesson that addresses stage fright. It is magical and creative with a lesson that’s relatable to many children and adults! I would definitely recommend reading this book to kiddos who love magical stories!”
Review by: Katie Reed, Author of the Wizard and the Lizard Series
“The Great Robbini offers a glimpse into an imaginary town where a struggling magician almost gives up on his craft. I love how the story twists and turns. Yet it provides a wonderful reminder of how the support of your friends and family, combined with a never give up attitude, can turn a hopeless situation around. The illustrations are colorful and simple but are spot-on! Highly recommend!”
Review by: Janice Blanchett, Author of The Second Chance Farm
"The Great Robbini" is an enchanting children's book that weaves a heartwarming tale of courage, perseverance, and the transformative power of self-belief. Young readers will be captivated by Robbini's magical journey as he overcomes stage fright to become the greatest magician in Levitationaville. This book entertains, inspires, and teaches important life lessons. Children will cheer for him as he discovers his inner strength and learns to believe in himself. The book delivers an empowering message that resonates with young readers, encouraging them to follow their dreams and overcome any obstacles that come their way. It is a must-have addition to any young reader's library and a perfect choice for parents and educators looking to instill confidence and perseverance in children.”
Review by: Maria Cedolini Thompson, Author of Our 20/20 Journey Back to School, Lucky the Leprechaun on the Loose, and Anything is Popsicle, Messages of Perseverance.
“What a cute imaginative book for children to enjoy reading about the concept of magic and believing in oneself. The author has cleverly incorporated the essence of attending magic school. The Great Robbini suffers from stage fright. With the help of his father will The Great Robbini overcome this? I love the names Hocus Pocus Elementary school and of course the town called Levitationville and putting it on the map. Recommended reading for 4+ age range.”
Review by: Karen Henton, Author of The Snozzeralls Series
“As a communications professor, I found this book quite enjoyable. Public speaking is an important skill, yet most people are fearful of speaking or presenting in front of an audience. Teaching children techniques on how to overcome this fear is such a wonderful idea. I also enjoyed the illustrations and the introduction to the magical town of Levitationville.”
Review by: Arian T. Moore, Author of Juneteenth Jellybean
“The Great Robbini, the best magic student at Hocus Pocus Elementary School (located in Levitationville) has a problem. Like many students, magical or not Robbini struggles with stage fright. Although he gets plenty of encouragement from classmates, it isn’t until he takes his father’s advice to change his outlook to conquer his fear. This is a wonderful story for children about perseverance and determination. As a former teacher of youngsters Robbini’s age, I highly recommend this book to be added to any primary grade teacher’s classroom library.”
Review by: Christian Kueng, Ed.D., Author of Caleb’s Adventures with Granddad and Digger the Colony Worker Ant
"Hocus Pocus Elementary, located in Levitationville, where children learn about all the tricks magicians use. The Great Robbini was the best student at the school. The only problem with the Great Robbini; stage fright, he could not perform his magic. Will he ever overcome this stage fright? You will have to read the book to find out. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and fun. The author and illustrator put together a great book with a great message."
Review by: Susan Reynolds, Author of Nosey Nelly Visits the Aquarium
"The great Robbini is a sweet, short story about a boy who learns to overcome his fears and insecurities, being able to show everyone in his school how great he is at what he likes to do. The illustrations in this book represent very well how these emotions can feel and drag us down,
as well as what overcoming them feels like. This story has an uplifting father and son moment in which the dad, with great empathy shares
the type of advice that can help any child learn how to develop their inner confidence. This book is a great addition to anyone’s library, and especially for kids who may be struggling with pressure of others expectations, fear of not being good enough, or stage fright."
Review by: Veronica Parra, Author of Elephants are Awesome
"I read this book and thought it was lovely and such a great topic to discuss. We all have doubts and feel like we are not good enough. This is a wonderful book to address those issues."
Review by: Martina Parker, Author of Grateful Grainne
"The Great Robbini is a delightful children's book that takes young readers on a magical adventure filled with wonder, excitement, and valuable life lessons. Written by an incredibly talented author, this book captures the imagination and inspires young minds to believe in themselves and the power of perseverance.
The story revolves around Robbini, a young magician with big dreams. Robbini's passion for magic is infectious, and readers will quickly find themselves rooting for him as he faces various challenges on his journey to becoming a renowned magician. From practicing tricks in his tiny bedroom to performing in front of a large audience, Robbini's determination shines through, encouraging readers to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Throughout the book, important themes such as perseverance, self-belief, and the value of hard work are skillfully woven into the narrative. Robbini's journey is not without obstacles, but he never gives up. This message resonates strongly with young readers, teaching them the importance of resilience and determination in the face of challenges."
Review by: Rana Boulos, Author of the Nature Speaks Series
A standout element of The Great Robbini is the touching bond between Robbini and his father. Throughout the story, Robbini's father stands as a pillar of unwavering support, offering guidance and encouragement during moments of doubt. This endearing father-son relationship resonates with readers of all ages, leaving a lasting impact.
In its entirety, The Great Robbini is a remarkable book that teaches children valuable lessons about confidence and self-esteem. Its uplifting narrative and captivating illustrations inspire readers, leaving them feeling inspired and optimistic. I highly recommend this book to anyone in search of a positive and uplifting story for children."
Review by: Prasad Chandrasekaran, Author of Ram & The Miracle Tree
"A heartwarming story of a child magician with stage fright, teaching children valuable lessons about the importance of perseverance, determination, and self-belief when facing common obstacles and challenges in life. The Great Robbini beautifully showcases the power of determination and the support of loved ones. Robbini’s fear persists until he receives valuable advice from his father, prompting a change in his perspective. The vibrant and charming illustrations are a perfect complement to the story. A valuable addition to any classroom library, or home bookshelf."
Review by: Cheryl L Jordan, Author of Mama, Who Lives in the Forest and Little Rabbit Discovers Spring
“This is a story of a young and potentially up and coming magician who is known for performing great tricks. In the beginning, we are introduced to a world of magic school which the main character attends. However, we soon discover he must overcome stage fright in order to perform his famous magic trick. My 8-year-old daughter read the book and loved the facial expressions of the characters. She also found the names of the places comical. This book is great to teach any child about stage fright whether they are about to give a presentation or perform in front of an audience. The book is not too long, and young readers will remain attentive and excited to see the ending. A great bedtime read or can be read to teach about stage fright as needed.”
Review by: Mariam Shapera, Author of 'Up Up You Go Jo!'
“The Great Robbini is a sweet story with a valuable lesson that addresses stage fright. It is magical and creative with a lesson that’s relatable to many children and adults! I would definitely recommend reading this book to kiddos who love magical stories!”
Review by: Katie Reed, Author of the Wizard and the Lizard Series
“The Great Robbini offers a glimpse into an imaginary town where a struggling magician almost gives up on his craft. I love how the story twists and turns. Yet it provides a wonderful reminder of how the support of your friends and family, combined with a never give up attitude, can turn a hopeless situation around. The illustrations are colorful and simple but are spot-on! Highly recommend!”
Review by: Janice Blanchett, Author of The Second Chance Farm
"The Great Robbini" is an enchanting children's book that weaves a heartwarming tale of courage, perseverance, and the transformative power of self-belief. Young readers will be captivated by Robbini's magical journey as he overcomes stage fright to become the greatest magician in Levitationaville. This book entertains, inspires, and teaches important life lessons. Children will cheer for him as he discovers his inner strength and learns to believe in himself. The book delivers an empowering message that resonates with young readers, encouraging them to follow their dreams and overcome any obstacles that come their way. It is a must-have addition to any young reader's library and a perfect choice for parents and educators looking to instill confidence and perseverance in children.”
Review by: Maria Cedolini Thompson, Author of Our 20/20 Journey Back to School, Lucky the Leprechaun on the Loose, and Anything is Popsicle, Messages of Perseverance.
“What a cute imaginative book for children to enjoy reading about the concept of magic and believing in oneself. The author has cleverly incorporated the essence of attending magic school. The Great Robbini suffers from stage fright. With the help of his father will The Great Robbini overcome this? I love the names Hocus Pocus Elementary school and of course the town called Levitationville and putting it on the map. Recommended reading for 4+ age range.”
Review by: Karen Henton, Author of The Snozzeralls Series
“As a communications professor, I found this book quite enjoyable. Public speaking is an important skill, yet most people are fearful of speaking or presenting in front of an audience. Teaching children techniques on how to overcome this fear is such a wonderful idea. I also enjoyed the illustrations and the introduction to the magical town of Levitationville.”
Review by: Arian T. Moore, Author of Juneteenth Jellybean
“The Great Robbini, the best magic student at Hocus Pocus Elementary School (located in Levitationville) has a problem. Like many students, magical or not Robbini struggles with stage fright. Although he gets plenty of encouragement from classmates, it isn’t until he takes his father’s advice to change his outlook to conquer his fear. This is a wonderful story for children about perseverance and determination. As a former teacher of youngsters Robbini’s age, I highly recommend this book to be added to any primary grade teacher’s classroom library.”
Review by: Christian Kueng, Ed.D., Author of Caleb’s Adventures with Granddad and Digger the Colony Worker Ant
"Hocus Pocus Elementary, located in Levitationville, where children learn about all the tricks magicians use. The Great Robbini was the best student at the school. The only problem with the Great Robbini; stage fright, he could not perform his magic. Will he ever overcome this stage fright? You will have to read the book to find out. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and fun. The author and illustrator put together a great book with a great message."
Review by: Susan Reynolds, Author of Nosey Nelly Visits the Aquarium
"The great Robbini is a sweet, short story about a boy who learns to overcome his fears and insecurities, being able to show everyone in his school how great he is at what he likes to do. The illustrations in this book represent very well how these emotions can feel and drag us down,
as well as what overcoming them feels like. This story has an uplifting father and son moment in which the dad, with great empathy shares
the type of advice that can help any child learn how to develop their inner confidence. This book is a great addition to anyone’s library, and especially for kids who may be struggling with pressure of others expectations, fear of not being good enough, or stage fright."
Review by: Veronica Parra, Author of Elephants are Awesome
"I read this book and thought it was lovely and such a great topic to discuss. We all have doubts and feel like we are not good enough. This is a wonderful book to address those issues."
Review by: Martina Parker, Author of Grateful Grainne
"The Great Robbini is a delightful children's book that takes young readers on a magical adventure filled with wonder, excitement, and valuable life lessons. Written by an incredibly talented author, this book captures the imagination and inspires young minds to believe in themselves and the power of perseverance.
The story revolves around Robbini, a young magician with big dreams. Robbini's passion for magic is infectious, and readers will quickly find themselves rooting for him as he faces various challenges on his journey to becoming a renowned magician. From practicing tricks in his tiny bedroom to performing in front of a large audience, Robbini's determination shines through, encouraging readers to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Throughout the book, important themes such as perseverance, self-belief, and the value of hard work are skillfully woven into the narrative. Robbini's journey is not without obstacles, but he never gives up. This message resonates strongly with young readers, teaching them the importance of resilience and determination in the face of challenges."
Review by: Rana Boulos, Author of the Nature Speaks Series
The Class Election
Molly and Samuel are running against each other for 5th Grade Class President! They’ve been best friends since the 1st grade, but things are about to change. Can these two work together to make things better, or will the election divide the entire 5th grade class?
It’s hard to find candidates and politicians today that demonstrate the qualities we want in our elected officials. Should we be demanding more from them? Should candidates and politicians be setting a better example for our youth? The Class Election is a rhyming book that reminds us that civility, ideas, and working together should be the basic standards for our system of democracy.
The Class Election is the third book by Dr. Robert F. DeFinis in which he takes on contemporary issues facing educators, parents, and children. Like his first two books, How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER! and Lady P’s First Day, Dr. DeFinis writes to help children make sense of what they are experiencing in today’s world.
It’s hard to find candidates and politicians today that demonstrate the qualities we want in our elected officials. Should we be demanding more from them? Should candidates and politicians be setting a better example for our youth? The Class Election is a rhyming book that reminds us that civility, ideas, and working together should be the basic standards for our system of democracy.
The Class Election is the third book by Dr. Robert F. DeFinis in which he takes on contemporary issues facing educators, parents, and children. Like his first two books, How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER! and Lady P’s First Day, Dr. DeFinis writes to help children make sense of what they are experiencing in today’s world.
eBook Available on Amazon
Lady P's First Day
Lady P and her older brother Robbie are in for a BIG surprise! School is CANCELED! How can this be? Lady P has waited her whole life to go to kindergarten and now it might not happen!
A child’s first day of school is a treasured memory. It symbolizes a new journey of learning, developing, and personal growth. With over 50 million children returning to school this fall, we know that things will be a little different in the new Coronavirus world we’ve had to adjust to. Lady P’s First Day introduces readers to a little girl that’s entering kindergarten. She’s waited so long for her moment to go to school, and now her time has come. However, things don’t exactly go to plan. Lady P soon comes to understand what school really means and how change isn’t always bad. Author Dr. Robert F. DeFinis writes a timely tale about the uncertainty of a new school year. This book is primarily written for early childhood readers, parents, and educators.
A child’s first day of school is a treasured memory. It symbolizes a new journey of learning, developing, and personal growth. With over 50 million children returning to school this fall, we know that things will be a little different in the new Coronavirus world we’ve had to adjust to. Lady P’s First Day introduces readers to a little girl that’s entering kindergarten. She’s waited so long for her moment to go to school, and now her time has come. However, things don’t exactly go to plan. Lady P soon comes to understand what school really means and how change isn’t always bad. Author Dr. Robert F. DeFinis writes a timely tale about the uncertainty of a new school year. This book is primarily written for early childhood readers, parents, and educators.
eBook Available on Amazon
Official Trailer: Lady P's First Day
Windchime Storytime - Lady P's First Day
Lady P's First Day Book Activities
Back to School Book Launch at the Lansdale Public Library
Dr. DeFinis Receives Proclamation from Mayor Garry Herbert
Lady P's First Day Blog Tour (Dates and Bloggers)
2020 National Read a Book Day
In The News
Articles, Blogs, Interviews, Podcasts, Letters, and Reviews
Lady P's First Day
Montco Children's Author Touches On School In The Age Of COVID (8/20/20)
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Author Interview - Ramona Portelli Blog (8/22/20)
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Book Review - The Book Badger (8/31/20)
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Book Review - Johnny Oddsocks Blog (9/2/20)
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Book Review - My Kidz Bookshelf Instagram Bog (9/1/20)
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Book Review - Y.Y. Chan Blog (9/3/20)
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Author Interview - The Sassy Writer (Audio 9/3/20)
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Book Review - Jacquelyn Dodd Blog (9/4/20)
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Book Review - The Spoonie Mummy (9/5/20)
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Interview - Pink Cloud 9 Podcast (9/5/20)
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Author Interview - Deborah Kalb (9/7/20)
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Book Review - Language During Mealtime (9/7/20)
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Book Review - Luna's Library (9/8/20)
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Interview - C.Q.P. Moments Podcast (9/23/20)
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How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER!
"How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER!" is my new children's book in response to the current global COVID-19 pandemic. This short rhyming eBook helps children to learn the importance of making healthy choices such as washing their hands, covering their cough and sneeze, and practicing social distance so we can defeat the CORONA MONSTER. Parents are searching for ways to help their children make sense of what's going on in the world, and this book allows them to create that space.
eBook Available on Amazon, Apple, Smashwords, and Kobo
Video Book - YouTube Channel (Subscribe)
"Can't Catch Me!": Original Song by Deb Krol
Official Song of "How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy,Creepy, Slimy Corona Monster!"
Chilliwack music teacher pens children’s song about COVID-19 (9/6/20)
(Click)
Corona Monster Song – In Time For School From “Tiny Tinkles” (9/7/20)
(Click)
'Can't Catch me': Chilliwack music instructor teaches kids about
COVID-19 through song (9/8/20)
(Click)
World Book Day 2020
RDF Books celebrated 2020 #WorldBookDay all across the globe! A special thanks to Mrs. Stevens for sharing my book with her students at Maedgen Elementary (Texas), and James-Martin (South Africa) for demonstrating how to keep the #CORONAMONSTER away!
National Superhero Day 2020
RDF Books celebrated National Superhero Day by sending out the signal to all superheroes to help defeat the CORONA MONSTER! Children had the chance to read their NEW favorite book and learn what they can do to help stop the virus!
2020 Teacher Appreciation Week
RDF Books and Scoops 'N' Smiles Ice Cream partnered on May 10, 2020 to honor area teachers. Scoops has become a local favorite over the last four years in the Malvern (PA) area. Owners, Akain and Yusef, were also former students of Dr. DeFinis. Customers received a FREE eBook of "How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER!" Check out SCOOPS here!
Virtual Storytime - May 29, 2020
It was great seeing all my new friends on Friday, May 29, 2020 as we read my new picture book, “How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER!” All attendees received an Activity Book (PDF), FREE eBook code to download their very own CORONA MONSTER book, and a Video Book reading!
Here are some of the questions we considered while reading the book...
- Is it okay to be mean? How does it make you feel when someone is mean to you?
- What is fear? What are some of the things you fear? How can we overcome our fears?
- When should you wash your hands?
- Do you know what social distance means?
- What does it mean to be brave?
- Can you tell me what doctors and nurses do?
- Why is it important to be thankful?
- Do you miss seeing family and friends?
Keep exploring and discussing what’s happening with your children. We aren’t completely in the clear, and there will certainly be changes to what life and school could look like in the fall.
I'm looking forward to my virtual classroom visits all next week, and during the month of June! If you are interested in having a virtual visit for your class or organization, please feel free to contact me!
Here are some of the questions we considered while reading the book...
- Is it okay to be mean? How does it make you feel when someone is mean to you?
- What is fear? What are some of the things you fear? How can we overcome our fears?
- When should you wash your hands?
- Do you know what social distance means?
- What does it mean to be brave?
- Can you tell me what doctors and nurses do?
- Why is it important to be thankful?
- Do you miss seeing family and friends?
Keep exploring and discussing what’s happening with your children. We aren’t completely in the clear, and there will certainly be changes to what life and school could look like in the fall.
I'm looking forward to my virtual classroom visits all next week, and during the month of June! If you are interested in having a virtual visit for your class or organization, please feel free to contact me!
Authors Unite To Fight COVID-19
Authors Unite To Fight COVID-19 is made up of several children’s book authors that have written new books to assist children with the complexity of the Coronavirus Pandemic. Through words and illustrations, these authors provide comfort and some good advice.
Check them out TODAY!
Check them out TODAY!
In The News
Articles, Blogs, Interviews, Podcasts, Letters, and Reviews
How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER!
Area Author's Children's Book Helps Kids Cope With Corona Crisis (5/5/20)
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Scoops 'N' Smiles is offering free copies of the new children's e-book "How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER!" (5/8/20)
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A Monster That All Can Defeat - Johnny Oddsocks - Guest Blog (5/8/20)
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Chat and Spin Radio Interview - Inspiration for New Book - Host Ron Clark (5/8/20)
Interview Starts @ 1:48:00
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Warrior Book Mom - Instagram - Blog Review (5/14/20)
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ENYI Foundation for Community Development - Letter and Video (5/14/20)
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Dove and Dragon Radio Interview - Host M.L. Ruscsak (5/16/20)
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Book Review - BookishBearx Blog (5/17/20)
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Author Interview - ARYEMANSAYSSO.com (5/19/20)
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Book Review - Proof Positive Blog (5/20/20)
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Book Review - K's Mum YouTube Channel (5/20/20)
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Book Review - FILMYLOOP.com (5/20/20)
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Author Interview - Living & Thriving with Rustie - Blog Talk Radio (5/21/20)
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Author Interview - A Cup of Coffee with Nydia Raquel - Blog (5/24/20)
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Book Review - Jhbooksblog - Julie Haiselden (5/25/20)
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ALUMNUS’S CHILDREN’S BOOK ABOUT CORONAVIRUS A VIRAL HIT (5/26/20)
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Author Interview - The Sassy Writer (5/28/20)
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Books in Homes Australia - Letter (5/29/20)
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Book Review - The Children's and Teens' Book Connection (5/31/20)
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Kidliophile - Kids Magazine: Must Read Book For Kids - June 2020 Issue (6/1/20)
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Book Review - Twirling Book Princess (6/4/20)
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Book List & Review - 5 COVID-19 Books for Kids-The Book Badger (6/4/20)
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Author Interview - Amazing Grace Podcast with Tamala Coleman (6/5/20)
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Book Review - Adi Etc YouTube Channel (6/6/20)
(Click)
Author Interview - Let's Get Literary Podcast (6/10/20)
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Author Interview - Ridenour Publishing (6/12/20)
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Book List & Review - 5 Books About COVID-19 to Read With Your Child (6/15/20)
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Author Interview - The Brian Shepard Show (6/19/20)
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Special Thanks
RDF Books would like to thank those that have continued to support this new project. Your generosity is helping to get this book in the hands of thousands of children!
- National Library of South Africa
- FunDza Literacy Trust (South Africa)
- FreeKidsBooks.org (Online)
-University of Louisiana Monroe (Online)
- Learning Stewards (Magic Ladder e-Picture Books)
- Milford Public Children's Library (Delaware)
- Poolville Library (Texas)
- Giant Leaper Learning Solutions for Children (United Kingdom)
- STG Global (Australia)
- ENYI Foundation for Community Development (Nigeria)
- New York City School Library System (New York)
- Books in Back Bookstore (Michigan)
- Make Way For Books (Arizona)
- Rad Child Podcast (Online)
- Tbeeillustrations.com (Online)
- Books in Homes (Australia)
- Early Childhood Education Network (Online)
- SECC Spiritual Life Connect (Online)
- Smart Kids Playground (Vietnam)
- Smart Learning Centre (Maldives)
- Scoops 'N' Smiles (Pennsylvania)
- Dr. Mary Kay Keller (online)
- Norah Reads (YouTube Channel)
- The Cozy Chair (YouTube Channel)
- Adi Etc (YouTube Channel)
- Storytime With Mr. Read (YouTube Channel)
- Ruthy's Reading Room (YouTube Channel)
- Read Aloud For Kids (YouTube Channel)
- Judy's Books (YouTube Channel)
- Popcorn and Books (YouTube Channel)
- Brainiac Builder - Kids TV (YouTube Channel)
- Mr. Will Turner - Educator (YouTube Channel)
- Reading With Tony (YouTube Channel)
- Schools Out (YouTube Channel)
- Storytime with Shamita (YouTube Channel)
- Brown Newsprint (YouTube Channel)
- Story Time with Ms. Danielle (YouTube Channel)
- The Book Brothers (YouTube Channel)
- JJ Story World (YouTube Channel)
- Let's Read! (YouTube Channel)
- Planet Liberty (YouTube Channel)
- National Library of South Africa
- FunDza Literacy Trust (South Africa)
- FreeKidsBooks.org (Online)
-University of Louisiana Monroe (Online)
- Learning Stewards (Magic Ladder e-Picture Books)
- Milford Public Children's Library (Delaware)
- Poolville Library (Texas)
- Giant Leaper Learning Solutions for Children (United Kingdom)
- STG Global (Australia)
- ENYI Foundation for Community Development (Nigeria)
- New York City School Library System (New York)
- Books in Back Bookstore (Michigan)
- Make Way For Books (Arizona)
- Rad Child Podcast (Online)
- Tbeeillustrations.com (Online)
- Books in Homes (Australia)
- Early Childhood Education Network (Online)
- SECC Spiritual Life Connect (Online)
- Smart Kids Playground (Vietnam)
- Smart Learning Centre (Maldives)
- Scoops 'N' Smiles (Pennsylvania)
- Dr. Mary Kay Keller (online)
- Norah Reads (YouTube Channel)
- The Cozy Chair (YouTube Channel)
- Adi Etc (YouTube Channel)
- Storytime With Mr. Read (YouTube Channel)
- Ruthy's Reading Room (YouTube Channel)
- Read Aloud For Kids (YouTube Channel)
- Judy's Books (YouTube Channel)
- Popcorn and Books (YouTube Channel)
- Brainiac Builder - Kids TV (YouTube Channel)
- Mr. Will Turner - Educator (YouTube Channel)
- Reading With Tony (YouTube Channel)
- Schools Out (YouTube Channel)
- Storytime with Shamita (YouTube Channel)
- Brown Newsprint (YouTube Channel)
- Story Time with Ms. Danielle (YouTube Channel)
- The Book Brothers (YouTube Channel)
- JJ Story World (YouTube Channel)
- Let's Read! (YouTube Channel)
- Planet Liberty (YouTube Channel)
Commitment to Building Strong Communities
Programs, Projects, and Recognition
The greatest impact we can have on others is by serving our community and creating opportunities. Dr. DeFinis has been heavily involved with several nonprofit organizations that provide literacy initiatives, early childhood programs, scholarships, workforce development training, technology resources, after school programs, and advocacy. Officially, Dr. DeFinis has served on the Board of Directors for Reading Recycled, Team Children, Teach Rwanda, THANKS Society, The Asherah Foundation, St. Mary Catholic School, and the Boston Legacy Foundaion.
Literacy Programs
Philadelphia SMART CEO Award
Philadelphia READS 20th Year Celebration
Reading Recycled
Read-A-Bot
Champion For Literacy
Philadelphia Phillies Literacy Night
Philadelphia Reading Olympics
Lucky Old Sun NYA Annual Book Drive 2023
Supporting Reading Recycled and The Jacoby Book Bank
Philadelphia Social Innovations Awards - Education
Boston Legacy Foundation
Boston
By Robert F. DeFinis
