Outer Space: “We are the Planets,” The Solar System Song by Storybots

Check out this very fun space song for kids!

Evonne Blanchard is the author of, Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace,  Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage and Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon.  These are the first three books in Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures.  The author is currently working on the fourth book in the series, Amelia, the Snapperjacks and the Molten Maze.

Curious about the series? Find out more!

Ever wondered if aliens exist?  What if one needed your help?  Would you travel into outer space?  For the adventures of a lifetime!

Coming Soon!

Book Three: Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon

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Amelia and Uglesnoo land on Mercury.  They meet the Merballs, the friendly aliens that live there.  All goes well until an asteroid hits their planet.  Amelia and Uglesnoo find themselves in deep trouble.  How will they convince the Merballs
of their innocence?  And how will they manage to collect the flying shoes, escape Mercury and continue their quest to save Uglesnoo’s sister?

Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage

Amelia the Venutons cover with text

Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help.  His sister is very sick.  The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune.  With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest.  More items are needed to buy the crystal.  But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens.  Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?

“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews

5/5 star rating!  “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.

 Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace

kindle cover for upload

When is a present not a present?  When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto!  Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon.  Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help.  Should Amelia venture into outer Space?

Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews

The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

Or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.

Curious about Libra, the Scales? The Story of Libra and how to Spot this Constellation in the Night Sky

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Libra represents those born from September 23—October 22.   Libra is the seventh Zodiac sign of the year, right after Virgo.

Myth and Legend:  Way back in ancient times, the Libra constellation was known as the claws… of the scorpion!  But that dramatic description fell out of favor and the constellation over time became known as simply, ‘The Scales,’ meaning justice, balance and harmony.  It’s related to the Virgo constellation.  Virgo is shown as a beautiful young woman —and often the Goddess Astraea— who carries the scales of justice in her hands:  Those scales are the Libra constellation.   Libra is also visible in the Autumn/Fall equinox, when the days and nights are of equal length and so in balance.

Constellation:

Libra Constellation

Do we think this collection of stars actually looks like a pair of scales? The top maybe? Although you have to imagine the weighing scales at the bottom.  Personally, I think it most resembles an unfinished tetrahedron, but where’s the myth in a geometric shape?

Libra is not a dramatic constellation.  If you can find the nearby bright stars of Spica and Antares, you can then see the fainter stars in Libra.  The most visible star in Libra is the crazily named Zubeneschamail, Beta Librae!  Then there is Apha Librae and Gamma Librae.  These three stars make up the upper part of the scale.

The best viewing time for the Libra constellation is in June at around 9pm; between latitudes + 65° and – 90° in the northern hemisphere.  If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Libra constellation in the autumn/fall and winter.  Use a star map as a guide and a knowledgeable star gazer to assist you.

Extra Fun Fact: Libra means “the weighing scales” in Latin.  The scales are held by the Roman Goddess, Astraea (Dike in Greek Mythology).

Next Post—Curious about Scorpio, (October 23 – November 21). The Story of Scorpio and How to spot this Constellation in the Night Sky.

Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage.  These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).

Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?  For the adventures… of a lifetime!

Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace

When is a present not a present?  When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto!  Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon.  Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help.  Should Amelia venture into outer Space?

kindle cover for upload

Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews

The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

Or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.

 

Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage

Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help.  His sister is very sick.  The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune.  With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest.  More items are needed to buy the crystal.  But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens.  Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?

Amelia the Venutons cover with text

“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews

5/5 star rating!  “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Book Trailer: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage by Evonne Blanchard

Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage

Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage.  These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).

Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?  For the adventures… of a lifetime!

New Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage

Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help.  His sister is very sick.  The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune.  With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest.  More items are needed to buy the crystal.  But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens.  Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?

Amelia the Venutons cover with text

“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews

5/5 star rating!  “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.

Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace

When is a present not a present?  When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto!  Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon.  Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help.  Should Amelia venture into outer Space?

kindle cover for upload

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

Or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.

 “Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews

The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children

Book Trailer: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace by Evonne Blanchard

Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace

Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage.  These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).

Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?  For the adventures… of a lifetime!

Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace

When is a present not a present?  When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto!  Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon.  Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help.  Should Amelia venture into outer Space?

kindle cover for upload

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

Or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.

 “Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews

The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children

New Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage

Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help.  His sister is very sick.  The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune.  With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest.  More items are needed to buy the crystal.  But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens.  Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?

Amelia the Venutons cover with text

“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews

5/5 star rating!  “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.

 

Curious about Virgo the Maiden? The Story of Virgo and how to Spot this Constellation in the Night Sky

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Virgo Characteristics:  Virgo represents those born from August 23—September 22.   Virgo is the sixth Zodiac sign of the year, right after Leo.

Good Things about Virgo: Observant, precise, reliable.  Very robot like.  Confession, I’m a Virgo…There, I’m finally admitted it!

Bad Things about Virgo: Shyness, critical, tendency to worry. Oh, dear I, err…I mean you Virgos out there are neurotic messes!

Myth and Legend:  The constellation Virgo is associated with many myths, which differ depending on the civilization.  Even in Greco-Roman mythology, this constellation has a couple of different stories.  We’re going to focus on the most popular story, that of Persephone, a beautiful young goddess and the daughter of Zeus and Demeter.

Hades, Lord of the Underworld fell in love with Persephone.  One bright spring day while she was gathering flowers, Hades appeared out of the earth, riding a chariot with four coal black horses.  He charged towards Persephone, grabbed her and placed her in the chariot.  A chasm then appeared in the earth ahead of them and the chariot then plunged back into the underworld.

Demeter, Persephone’s mother, was the goddess of agriculture.  Furious at her daughter’s abduction, she deliberately ruined all the harvests.  Soon the people were starving.  Zeus spoke with Hades about releasing Persephone.  Hades reluctantly agreed, but persuaded Persephone- who previously had not eaten since she arrived in the underworld – to consume a single pomegranate seed.  It was a sly trick on Hades part, as anyone who eats in the Underworld may never leave it! After further negotiation with Zeus, it was agreed that Persephone would spend six months of the year with her mother.  Her mother delighted, would begin the sowing that starts in spring and leads to the summer harvest.  The other six months of the year, Persephone would spend with Hades in the Underworld.  Demeter her mother would go into mourning during this time and so the seasons of fall/autumn and winter came to pass.

The constellation was placed in the sky to commemorate the beautiful young maiden Persephone and explain the story behind the earth’s seasons.

Element Sign: Along with Taurus and Capricorn, Virgo is an Earth sign.  Earth signs are all very dull err…I mean dutiful.  They have a strong sense of responsibility to those around them and are also very reliable.  But before you nod off — when reading about all their stoic qualities —they also have a tendency to be greedy and materialistic.  Us Virgos have a dark side after all!

Glyph:  When I first saw the sign for Virgo, I thought it looks like a fanciful M, maybe meaning maiden?  Well, I was completely wrong.  Apparently, the glyph represents…intestines! Yes, you read that correctly.  The glyph for Virgo— beautiful young maiden— is the organ where all the food is processed! I’ve really no idea how they came up with that one!

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Constellation: Does the Virgo constellation resemble a beautiful young maiden?  Well you need a lot of imagination to see that.  It mostly looks like a stick figure, stuck in the sky.  But if you draw in some hair and a dress…yeah I can sort of see a young woman now.

 The best viewing time for the Virgo constellation is in May at around 9pm; between latitudes + 80° and – 80° in the northern hemisphere.  If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Virgo constellation in the autumn/fall and winter.  Use a star map as a guide and a knowledgeable star gazer to assist you.

VirgoCC

 Extra Fun Fact: Virgo is Latin for virgin.  The Virgo constellation is the second biggest and contains Spica, one of the brightest stars in the night sky.

Next Post—Curious about Libra, (September 23 – October 22)?  The Story of Libra and How to spot this Constellation in the Night Sky.

Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage.  These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).

Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?  For the adventures… of a lifetime!

New Book Two: Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage

Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help.  His sister is very sick.  The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune.  With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest.  More items are needed to buy the crystal.  But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens.  Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?

Amelia the Venutons cover with text

“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews

5/5 star rating!  “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.

Book One: Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace

When is a present not a present?  When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto!  Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon.  Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help.  Should Amelia venture into outer Space?

kindle cover for upload

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

Or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.

 “Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews

The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fun Space Facts for Children: What is a Comet? And have you heard of a Halley’s?

Halley's Comet

You’ve probably heard of a comet, but do you know exactly what it is?  A comet is a mixture of rock and ice.  It’s absolutely huge and flies through space at stupendous speeds.  The core of a comet can be anywhere from 2 to 150 miles (3.22-241.40 kilometers) wide!

Just like planets, comets revolve around the Sun.  But when they get closer to the Sun, part of the icy core turns into a gas, which in turn forms a glowing serpentine tail, stretching for millions of miles!  Some comets are so bright and beautiful; you can even see them during the day!

Have you ever seen a Halley’s, as in Halley’s Comet?  If you’re old, like me, you’ll remember the last sighting in 1986.   And if you’re young now, you’ll be getting on in years when Halley’s Comet makes its next scheduled appearance in 2061.

The English astronomer Edmond Halley, (1656-1742) first discovered this comet, and it remains the most famous comet of all.  As he researched records of a mysterious light in the sky, he found these sightings occurred in 1531, 1607 and 1682, all exactly 76 years apart.  He predicted it would next make a glowing showing in 1758.  And it did!  Ever since then it’s been known as Halley’s Comet.

Extra Fun Fact

The date is 1066.  The event is the battle of Hastings, an event that would change the course of English history.  English astrologers noted the bright light in the sky: Halley’s Comet is as fourth as bright as the moon and four times bigger than Venus.

An omen or a blessing, they pondered?  William the Conqueror thought it a, “Wonderful sign from heaven,” and for him it proved to be true.  He won the battle and the Normans took over England.   Later William commissioned the Bayeux Tapestry – to commemorate his conquest – he made sure to include his blessing from heaven.  Halley’s Comet appears in the top center of this piece of the Tapestry.  Can you spot it?

Halley Comet Bayeaux

 Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage.  These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).

Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?  For the adventures… of a lifetime!

New Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage:  Book Two

Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help.  His sister is very sick.  The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune.  With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest.  More items are needed to buy the crystal.  But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens.  Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?

Amelia the Venutons cover with text

“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews

5/5 star rating!  “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace:  Book One

When is a present not a present?  When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto!  Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon.  Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help.  Should Amelia venture into outer Space?

kindle cover for upload

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

Or

Amazon.co.uk

 “Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews

The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.” —Beautiful Books for Children

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Curious about Leo the Lion? The Story of Leo and how to Spot this Constellation in the Night Sky

shutterstock_191992340Leo Characteristics:  Leo represents those born from July 23—August 22.   Leo is the fifth Zodiac sign of the year, right after Cancer.

Myth and Legend:  In ancient Greek mythology Leo represents the lion and one lion in particular: The Nemean lion.  This lion was much larger and tougher than a normal lion.  For it was also the child of two monsters; Typhon and Echidna.    After eating lots of people in Nemea, the famous Greek hero Hercules (Heracles) was ordered to kill it, as the first of his twelve labors.

Unfortunately, the Nemean lion had an incredibly tough hide, so normal arrows and spears simply bounced off its’ golden fur.  Hercules overcame this problem with his legendary strength.  He first wrestled, then strangled the lion.  He later wore the animal’s skin as a cloak.  Its special fur helped to protect him from other dangers.

It was later placed in the sky by the Gods, because the lion was considered king of all the beasts on Earth.

Mosaico Trabajos Hércules (M.A.N. Madrid) 01

Hercules slaying the Nemean lion.  Roman mosaic Lliria, Spain: Credit Wikipedia

Constellation: The Leo constellation is a big improvement on many other star clusters, in that the body of the constellation actually does look like a large cat resting. The head however is another story.   Where’s the lion’s majestic profile and magnificent mane? This head is more hook than handsome. In fact, the whole Leo constellation honestly looks more like a coat hanger, than the mightiest of the beasts.  But as constellations go—I have to admit —it’s more realistic than most.

When can you see the Leo constellation in the night sky? Well it’s easier to spot than most, due to the body of the constellation looking like—a big cat!  The best viewing time is in April at around 9pm; between latitudes + 90° and – 65° in the northern hemisphere.  If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Leo constellation in the summer and autumn/fall. As always use a star map as a guide and a knowledgeable star gazer is a big help.

LeoCC 

Extra Fun Fact: Leo is Latin for lion.  And did you know that lions used to live in Greece?  Yes, until about 100BC, when they became extinct!

Next Post—Curious about Virgo, (August 23 – September 22). The Story of Virgo and How to spot this Constellation in the Night Sky.

Evonne Blanchard is the author of Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace, Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage and Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon. These are the first three books in Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures, an exciting series of ten books set in outer space; for children ages 6-10.

Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel into outer space?

Now Available!

Book Three: Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon

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Amelia and Uglesnoo land on Mercury.  They meet the Merballs, the friendly aliens that live there.  All goes well until an asteroid hits their planet.  Amelia and Uglesnoo find themselves in deep trouble.  How will they convince the Merballs of their innocence?  And how will they manage to collect the flying shoes, escape Mercury and continue their quest to save Uglesnoo’s sister?

To preview and/or buy the book, click below:

Amazon.com

Barnes & Noble

Amazon.co.uk

“Adventure, inventiveness, and humor merge in this quirky, appealing tale.”
—Kirkus Reviews. 

“…This third book is even more original, fun and creative! With aliens, different planets, a good dose of humor and excellent storytelling that is age-appropriate, this is one of the best kids series out there. The illustrations are pretty fun too and fit the story well.”
—I Heart Reading  

Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage:  Book Two

Amelia the Venutons cover with text

Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help.  His sister is very sick.  The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune.  With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest.  More items are needed to buy the crystal.  But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens.  Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?

“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews

5/5 star rating!  “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace:  Book One

kindle cover for upload

When is a present not a present?  When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto!  Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon.  Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help.  Should Amelia venture into outer space?

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

Or

Amazon.co.uk

Read this book and over 1 million other books with Kindle Unlimited.
 

 “Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews

The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.”Beautiful Books for Children

 

 

 

Curious about Cancer the Crab? The Story of Cancer and how to Spot this Constellation in the Night Sky

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Cancer Characteristics:  Cancer represents those born from June 21—July 22.   Cancer is the fourth Zodiac sign of the year, directly after Gemini.

Good Things about Cancer: Loyal, emotional and tenacious.  Just like a sheepdog!

Bad Things about Cancer: Moody, suspicious and insecure.  So basically you’re cute, but crabby!

Myth and Legend:   As usual we turn to the Greeks for the myths behind the cancer constellation.  It starts off with the Greek Goddess Hera, wife of Zeus being… jealous.  Hera spends most of her time on Mount Olympus being jealous of someone or other.  It’s her raison d’être.  Anyway this time Hera was jealous of Heracles, (Hercules in Latin) the famous Greek hero and spent a lot of time and energy attempting to kill him.

One of the twelve labors of Heracles, (Hercules) was to destroy the Hydra, a terrifying nine-headed water serpent.  During this battle Hera sent a gigantic crab to help the Hydra slay our Greek hero.  But Heracles (Hercules) was so strong, he crushed the poor crab with his mere foot!  For his loyal —but unfortunate service —Hera placed the crab in the night sky as the cancer constellation.

Element Sign: Cancer is a water sign.  Water signs are supposed to be extremely emotional and sensitive.  And mysterious too, like an ocean apparently, rather than a puddle!   Other water signs in the zodiac are Scorpio and Pisces.

Glyph:  The cancer glyph does not like a crab—at all, or much else.  Personally I think it looks a little like two tadpoles pausing for a chat.  But no, I’m wrong…it’s supposed to represent two breasts, because Cancers are so caring and nurturing…Okay, I’ve looked again and I still think it looks like a pair of tadpoles!

cancer-glyph

Constellation:  the constellation is even worse than the glyph.  Whoever decided this constellation could pass for a crab must have been mad.  Yes, completely stark raving mad! My cat looks more like a crab—well he acts like it occasionally—than the cancer constellation.  At best it looks like a lopsided upside down Y.  That’s about it!

If you want to look for the Cancer constellation the best viewing time is in March, around 9pm; between latitudes + 90° and – 60° in the northern hemisphere.  If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Cancer constellation in the autumn/fall.  It’s a dim constellation and can be very hard to see with the naked eye. Use a star map as a guide and the help of an experienced star gazer.

cancer-constellation

 Extra Fun Fact: Cancer is Latin for Crab. It comes from the Greek language originally and it means crabs and crayfish, as well as carcinomas.

Next Post—Curious about Leo, the Lion (July 23 – August 22)?  The Story of Leo and How to spot this Constellation in the Night Sky.

Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage.  These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).

Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?  For the adventures… of a lifetime!

New Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage:  Book Two

Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help.  His sister is very sick.  The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune.  With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest.  More items are needed to buy the crystal.  But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens.  Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?

Amelia the Venutons cover with text

“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews

5/5 star rating!  “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace:  Book One

When is a present not a present?  When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto!  Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon.  Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help.  Should Amelia venture into outer Space?

kindle cover for upload

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

Or

Amazon.co.uk

Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.”Kirkus Reviews

The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.”Beautiful Books for Children

Curious about Gemini the Twins? The Story of Gemini and how to Spot this Constellation in the Night Sky

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Gemini Characteristics:  Gemini represents those born from May 21—June 20.  It’ late spring and early summer in our calendar year, but Gemini is the third Zodiac sign of the year, directly after Taurus!

 Good Things about Gemini: Affectionate, gentle, exciting, impulsive.  Hmmm, so you sound like a big fluffy golden retriever.  Not a bad thing to be.  Don’t let the fetch thing happen though!

 Bad Things about Gemini: Indecisive, nervous, flighty and moody.  That’s the other side to you.  So you’re a bit of a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde character!

 Myth and Legend: Gemini the twins represents Castor and Pollux from Greek mythology.  They had the same mother-Leda-but different fathers.  Pollux’s father was the God Zeus-Jupiter in Roman mythology-yet again!   Castor’s father was Leda’s husband, King Tyndareus of Sparta.  Pollux was immortal, due to the handy fact that his father happened to be a God.  Unfortunately Castor his twin, who only had a king as a father-the poor thing-was merely mortal.

The two Greek brothers grew up to become famous explorers and warriors.  They sailed with Jason in search of the Golden Fleece; the story behind the Aries constellation.  Then they fought in the Trojan War:  Helen of Troy, their half sister had left her husband Menelaus, for Paris of Troy, and the brothers were determined to bring her home.

Tragically Castor dies in the Trojan War.  Overcome with grief, Pollux his immortal twin, pleads with Zeus to let his brother share his immortality.  Zeus responds by placing the twins in the night sky as the Gemini constellation.

Element Sign: Gemini is an air sign.  Air signs are thought to be abstract thinkers and intellectuals.  Other air signs in the zodiac include Libra and Aquarius.

Glyph:  The Gemini glyph does not look like a pair of twins, no matter how hard you squint.  But the symbol does make some kind of sense, as it represents the number two—in Roman numerals!

pisces-glyph

Constellation: This constellation looks exactly like twins—well if you like twin stick figures drawn by five year olds!  By as stick drawings go, it does resemble two people hand in hand.  The Gemini constellation is unique in the Zodiac, in that two stars make up the twins’ heads. Pollux as the immortal twin has the largest bright orange—cranial — star.  Castor, his mortal brother has a smaller blue white star.

If you want to look for the Gemini constellation, you can see it anytime between January and May.  The best viewing times are January  and February at around 9pm; between latitudes + 90° and – 60° in the northern hemisphere.  If you live in the southern hemisphere, look for the Gemini constellation in summer. Use a star map as a guide and an experienced star gazer to assist you is also helpful.

gemini-constellation

 Extra Fun Fact: Gemini is Latin for Twins.  The heads of the twins are represented by two stars.

 Next Post—Curious about Cancer, the Crab (June 21 – July 22)?  The Story of Cancer and How to spot this Constellation in the Night Sky.

Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage.  These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).

Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?  For the adventures… of a lifetime!

New Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage:  Book Two

Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help.  His sister is very sick.  The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune.  With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest.  More items are needed to buy the crystal.  But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens.  Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?

Amelia the Venutons cover with text

“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews

5/5 star rating!  “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace:  Book One

When is a present not a present?  When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto!  Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon.  Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help.  Should Amelia venture into outer Space?

kindle cover for upload

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

Or

Amazon.co.uk

 “Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews

The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.”Beautiful Books for Children

 

Curious about Taurus the Bull? The Story of Taurus and how to Spot this Constellation in the Night Sky

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Taurus Characteristics:  Taurus represents those born from April 20—May 20.  It’ spring in our calendar year, but Taurus is the second Zodiac sign of the year, right after Aries!

 Good Things about Taurus: Responsible, patient, stable, practical, romantic.  So Taureans can be a little dull at times, but that romantic trait comes in and saves the day for you!

Bad Things about Taurus: Stubborn, lazy, materialistic and possessive.  Wow, you are like a bull aren’t you?  A bull that likes shopping!

Myth and Legend: Zeus, leader of the Greek Gods (Jupiter in Roman mythology) fell for a young lady called Europa, a princess of Phoenicia.  In order to attract her attention, he changed form into that of a beautiful, gentle white bull.  Europa petted and played with the kind bull.  Eventually she got on his back and the bull swam into the sea, all the way to Crete (a Greek island).

Once there he revealed his true identity to Europa as Zeus, king of the Gods.  Later to commemorate their story, Zeus recreated the shape of the bull and cast it into the night sky as a constellation—the Taurus constellation!

Element Sign: This star-sign is an earth sign!  The other earth signs are Virgo and Capricorn. Earth signs are practical and rooted to the earth and their surroundings.  They also love shopping! But Taureans can be a bit like King Midas—there’s never enough gold—and we all know how that tale ended!

 Glyph:  The symbol for Taurus is the head of the bull.  And actually it does sort of look like the head of a bull…well if a five year old drew it!  But it’s still a step up from the Pisces glyph!

taurus-glyph

Constellation:  Taurus as a constellation is one of the better ones.  For one thing it’s a huge constellation and like the bull it represents, it charges through the night sky!  It also actually looks like the creature that it represents, that of a bull’s head—although a very skinny bull—making a change from the squinting and active imagination you have to use with most of the other constellations!  If you want to look for the Taurus constellation, it’s best viewed in December and January (between latitudes 40° degrees and longitude 95° degrees west)in the northern hemisphere and early spring in the southern hemisphere. A star map is useful, as well as the help of a knowledgeable star gazer.

taurus-constellation

 Extra Fun Fact: Taurus is Latin for bull.

Next Post—Curious about Gemini, the Twins (May 21 – June 21)?  The Story of Gemini and How to spot this Constellation in the Night Sky.

Evonne Blanchard is the author of, ‘Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace and ‘Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage.  These are the first two books in, ‘Amelia’s Amazing Space Adventures,’ an exciting series of ten books set in outer space (for children ages 5-9).

Ever wondered if aliens exist? What if one needed your help? Would you travel to outer space?  For the adventures… of a lifetime!

New Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage:  Book Two

Uglesnoo needs Amelia’s help.  His sister is very sick.  The only cure is a repelling crystal from Neptune.  With his Earthling friend, Amelia, they must continue their quest.  More items are needed to buy the crystal.  But Venus is full of danger and angry aliens.  Are Uglesnoo and Amelia in over their heads?

Amelia the Venutons cover with text

“A lively sequel offers a sure-handed blend of fantasy, humor, adventure, and an ingenious heroine.” Kirkus Reviews

5/5 star rating!  “Amelia, the Venutons and the Golden Cage is a wonderful children’s book that will allow your kids to get started in the Sci-Fi genre… The story is intriguing and well thought out. All in all, the author did a great job of creating an engaging story that kept my kids interested. We are definitely looking forward to the next book!”- Examiner.com

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

 Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace:  Book One

When is a present not a present?  When it’s a friendly purple alien called Uglesnoo, from the planet Pluto!  Uglesnoo needs to leave right away for the Moon.  Uglesnoo also desperately needs Amelia’s help.  Should Amelia venture into outer Space?

kindle cover for upload

Click below for a preview:

Amazon.com

or

Amazon.co.uk

 “Appealing Illustrations combine with lots of text to make this a great read for children transitioning from picture books to chapter books.” – Kirkus Reviews

The story is imaginative and fun…and a perfect book to stretch my oldest in his independent reading with something fun to keep his attention.”Beautiful Books for Children