Meet Fujimini Island's Silver Bunny!

By: Kate Camillo

Silver Bunny is a tomboy who loves surfing and going to the beach. She loves hanging out with Blue Penguin who teaches her how to surf.

Silver Bunny also knows taekwondo because Orange Bunny taught all the bunnies. Silver Bunny loves to be active and she loves to be in the sun by the beach. In Blue Penguin and the Sensational Surf, Silver Bunny accidentally drifts from her friends while surfing. She gets into some trouble when a sea monster pulls her under the water! To learn what happens to Silver Bunny and if she gets saved, read Blue Penguin and the Sensational Surf. 

Meet Fujimini Island's Orange Bunny!

Orange Bunny is a taekwondo master. She teaches taekwondo to all the other animals on the island. They love it! Although Orange Bunny looks sweet on the outside, she is very strong and quick. 

I would not get her mad if I were you. However, she believes that fighting is only necessary when it is the last option. Problems should be solved through patience and understanding. Her skills came in handy when she was able to help the animals build a raft to help the tortoise samurai. Orange Bunny is a great friend to have because she helps you find strength in yourself to help solve problems. She is powerful, but sweet and humble.

Meet Fujimini Island's Dynasty Dragon!

By: Kate Camillo

Dynasty Dragon is a red dragon on the island with a special gift. He is sometimes called White Dragon because he can shift into a cloud and becomes white. In one of the books, Black Tortoise goes on a secret mission to find Red Dragon. It is important to not scare him away.

He resides in Fu Fun Forest as told by Pink Hamster. She had a dream about a dragon who was very friendly and it happens to be Dynasty Dragon! He is a great friend to those on the island. Dynasty Dragon gets into some trouble on the island when he gets stuck on the Turtle Boat that’s going into battle! Dynasty Dragon’s mother hid him on the island because of his special powers.

The friends on the island believe he can see the future. Dynasty Dragon’s mom is very important to him, he loves her very much. Dynasty Dragon is a lot of fun and is great at hide and seek.

Meet Fujimini Island's Blue Whale!

Written by:
Kate Camillo

Blue Whale is Fujimini’s biggest friend, but he’s shy! He thinks he’s too big! All of his friends, the other animals on the island, love him! On occasion, he’s swallowed a friend or two by mistake.

He loves to have fun and just wants to be included. He tries hard to control his temper and excitement because he splashes water around if he doesn’t.

As a whale, he splashes his friends pretty easily, but he always says sorry for being too excited. He will do anything for his friends, even fight danger to make an underwater rescue happen. He is the head of Fujimini Island’s Search and Rescue Water team. If the animals on the island ever need help in the water, he is always ready to help.

Blue Whale is a great friend to have and he will always have your back.

Weddings: Celebrations Uniting Families

Written by Guest Blogger

Zainab Sulemanjee

As Muslims, many festive celebrations and rituals govern our lives. From the colourful clothes on Eid ul Fitr to the mouthwatering delicacies prepared on Eid ul Adha, we love celebrating our rituals with feelings of love, compassion and sharing. Similarly our family celebrations are also a reflection of the religious values and cultural norms present in our religion and society. The one celebration that I feel sets us apart from many other communities and cultures, is our weddings, which are not only vibrant and colourful, but deep rooted in tradition. Weddings in our part of the world are a family affair. From the initial preparation of the bride’s clothes to the food we serve, each and every detail is tended to with intricate care.

The Moms Code author Eileen Wacker also writes the acclaimed childrens books The Fujimini Adventure Series.  Many proud parents just like you appreciate multi-cultural education for your children.  Find the book series by clicking here. 

I am a working mom. Wedding preparations are joyful but require an immense amount of time, dedication and commitment. Last year, my younger sister was getting married. As the eldest sibling, I was appointed by my mom to supervise all prenuptial affairs and arrangements. Juggling between work, home, my kids and the wedding was very challenging. The invitation list was carefully constructed, cards were printed and dispatched, venue and caterer were booked, gifts for the groom and his family were purchased, the photographer and event management company were finalised, the bride’s clothes and jewelry decided as per theme of each event, and more. I also had to prepare my clothes, keep up with kids’ exams and activities, and create an agenda for guests from abroad. All in a burning hot climate. I was completely drained out before the wedding functions actually began.

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Our weddings generally last a week or two due to the numerous functions from the Milad to Dholki, Mehendi, Sangeet, Barat, Valima and many others which differ in their rituals, dress codes and arrangements. One function is the Mehendi ceremony, symbolised by a bright yellow/ orange colour and beautiful floral décor. A professional henna artist applies intricate henna on the hands and feet of the bride as a symbol of beauty, happiness and spiritual awakening. I was so preoccupied that I forgot to book a henna artist. Once guests started pouring in, someone mentioned the significance of the henna colour and its application, and realized I had forgotten a key aspect of the celebration. Determined to set things straight, I frantically called a few friends and finally managed to find an available budding henna artist. Since she was the only one I could get my hands on, I readily agreed to her rates. Apprehensive at first about how the designs would turn out, she amazed me with her skilful techniques and modern creativity. After a fun filled evening of music, dance and of course henna, I was relieved that everything went smoothly.  Sometimes it’s for the best that people don’t know everything that happens behind the scenes to pull of celebrations.

How “Rainbow Panda and the Firecracker Fiasco” Teaches Children About Consequences

Each book in Eileen Wacker’s "Fujimini Adventure Series” provides children with fun and entertainment but also integrates lessons and elements of other cultures into the story lines. In “Rainbow Panda and the Firecracker Fiasco”, Wacker not only has the children laughing along with the Rainbow Panda’s silliness, but also teaches them an important lesson about how actions can have consequences as well as the importance of listening and following certain rules. 

The sixth book in the series is an excellent example of a story that uses lessons like teamwork, problem solving, and good listening skills to help children learn while they have fun. Due to their curious nature, children can sometimes have difficulty hearing the word “no” and always following the rules, which can lead to unintended problems. Rainbow Panda, a mischievous and adventurous Panda, is a character that many children can relate to and learn from. The storyline demonstrates how good teamwork and friendships can usually create a happy ending even when problems arise. 

In addition to lessons about listening and learning consequences, Wacker incorporates many cultural elements in her storyline that may be unfamiliar to most American children, such as the customs behind Asian New Year celebrations. This unique feature helps children learn a little about cultures and traditions other than their own. 

A summary of the book:

Rainbow Panda is just itching to cause some trouble as the other Pandas on the island prepare for the New Year’s celebration. While all the Pandas are busy sweeping, cleaning, planting flowers, and writing wishes on ribbons, Rainbow Panda is busy concocting a plan that turns him into a hero. One of the most exciting parts of the New Year celebration is the fireworks display of course, but this year Rainbow Panda wants to put on a fireworks display of his own. To set his plan in motion he tries to get the help of Green Hamster, who is always eager for excitement. Will his explosive plan turn him into the New Years hero he hopes to become or just cause a whole lot of trouble? 

The book is available in print or as an ebook!

Click here to learn more about Rainbow Panda and the Firecracker Fiasco or purchase from Amazon

Why Every Child Can Relate to ‘Green Hamster and the Quest For Fun’

For children, summertime means swimming, exploring the outdoors, trying new things and most of all- lots of adventure. 

This is something that Green Hamster from Eileen Wacker’s Fujimini Adventure Series can certainly relate to. Green Hamster’s eagerness to explore, restlessness, and determination to have fun not only makes him a cute and likable character, but also a representation of many children out there. One of the most admirable qualities in a child is his or her eagerness and curiosity, but we all know that sometimes that can get them into some trouble! In his quest for fun, Green Hamster is no different.

The first installment of the Fujimini Adventure Series is a great book for summer because it is relatable, funny, and will have kids ready for their own adventure. And like the other books in the series, a small but important lesson is integrated into the story as well. 

A summary of the book:

Energetic and restless Green Hamster becomes bored with the daily activities of him and his other hamster friends and he becomes convinced that all the other animals on Fujimini Island are having way more fun. So he sets off seeking a day filled with adventure and excitement. His goal of his quest is to find which group of animals have the most fun on the Island, but meets some unexpected challenges along the way. Who do you think he decides has the most fun on the Island?

This book is available in print, for the kindle, or as an animated book.

Click here to learn more or to purchase Green Hamster and the Quest For Fun

Click below to watch the trailer for the new animated book:

Why Pink Hamster and the Big Birthday Surprise is the Perfect Book For Every Little Girl’s Birthday

Every little girl dreams about waking up on her birthday and feeling like a princess. Birthdays are very special to children because it is a time where they feel like the center of attention and able to do whatever they choose to for that day. 

For Pink Hamster of Fujimini Island, her birthday is no different. Just like every other little girl, Pink Hamster has been counting down the days till her special day and can’t wait to celebrate. When the morning finally arrives, she wakes up filled with excitement and ready for the festivities to begin. Pink Hamster’s obsession with birthday cake is also something many little girls can relate to! 

This book is perfect for all little girls for their birthday this summer, because it is something they can enjoy and relate to. In addition to a fun book about birthday celebrations, Pink Hamster and the Big Birthday Surprise also comes with some unexpected lessons about patience and not making assumptions. 

A summary about the book:

The fourth installation in Eileen Wacker’s Fujimini Island Adventure Series, stars the adorable and peppy Pink Hamster who is beside herself with excitement when she wakes up ready to celebrate her birthday. Her absolute favorite part about her birthday is the cake- so much so that she has been dreaming about it all night. As soon as Pink Hamster wakes up she races to find all her Fujimini Island friends to start her big day. Thoughts of singing, parties, dancing, presents, and of course cake fill her mind. When she finally stumbles upon her hamster friends, she realizes that no one seems to have even remembered her birthday, even her best friend Green Hamster. Is this going to turn out to be the worst birthday ever or do her friends have a little something up their sleeve?

The book is available in print or as an ebook!

Click here to read more about the series or to purchase Pink Hamster and the Big Birthday Surprise 

Why Blue Penguin and the Sensational Surf is the Perfect Summer Reading For Kids

Summer is at its peak right now with beautiful weather, sunshine, and plenty of time for relaxation. The end of July and beginning of August is also one of the most popular times for parents to take off from work and take their families on vacation. Family vacations usually entail beach visits, long car rides, and lots of downtime- and you know what is perfect for all three of those things? Reading! 

Blue Penguin and the Sensational Surf is the perfect book for long car rides to get your kids excited for their upcoming vacation. As suggested by the title, Blue Penguin and the Sensational Surf is filled with adventure, action, sun, surfing, and beaches. What better way to get your kids reading and get them pumped up for vacation than that? 

In addition to fun and adventure, the seventh installment of Eileen Wacker’s book series comes with some important lessons too. Blue Penguin is an amazing surfer, but when he starts showing off too much and bragging, there are some unexpected consequences! A new character with a connection to Japanese culture and tradition also introduces kids to some elements of Asian culture that they might not get outside of reading this book. 

A summary of the book:

The animals who call Fujimini Island home are all buzzing with excitement because today is the grand opening of the Fujimini Island Surf School. Many of the animals are eager to learn to surf, and everyone is eager to watch Blue Penguin display the surf skills he is known for. 

The penguins are hard at work getting everything ready for the special occasion, preparing drinks and hanging ribbons to welcome their guests. The time has finally come for the grand opening, and more guests than Blue Penguin expected have shown up to watch and participate. Blue Penguin is proud of his skills and just can’t resist showing off to the crowd. Unfortunately, Blue Penguin is so busy showing off he doesn’t notice that a stranger has arrived on Fujimini Island and one of the animals may be in some trouble! Who is this stranger? And will Blue Penguin stop showing off in time to notice that one of his students is in trouble?

This book is available in print as well as an ebook! 

Click here to learn more about the series or purchase Eileen Wacker’s Blue Penguin and the Sensational Surf

A Review of Eileen Wacker’s “Blue Penguin and the Sensational Surf”

The animals who call Fujimini Island home are all buzzing with excitement because today is the grand opening of the Fujimini Island Surf School. Many of the animals are eager to learn to surf, and everyone is eager to watch Blue Penguin display the surf skills he is known for. 

The penguins are hard at work getting everything ready for the special occasion, preparing drinks and hanging ribbons to welcome their guests. The time has finally come for the grand opening, and more guests than Blue Penguin expected have shown up to watch and participate. Blue Penguin is proud of his skills and just can’t resist showing off to the crowd. Unfortunately, he is so busy showing off he doesn’t notice that a stranger has arrived on Fujimini Island and one of the animals may be in some trouble! Who is this stranger? And will Blue Penguin stop showing off in time to notice that one of his students is in trouble?

As can be expected with all of Eileen Wacker’s books in the Fujimini Island Adventure series, this story is entertaining and fun for kids, but also has an important lesson embedded within it. Blue Penguin is a great surfer and should be proud of his skills, but being too proud and showing off has a price. His students are depending on him to help them and look after them out in the ocean, but Blue Penguin is so distracted by impressing the crowd, he doesn’t notice when one of his students are in trouble. Through a cute and creative story, Wacker highlights the importance to kids about not bragging and showing off, and the consequences they can have. 

In the 7th installment of her popular series, a new character with a connection to Japanese tradition is introduced to teach kids about some elements of Asian culture that they might not have heard of outside of reading this book.  

Click here to purchase the book for your kindle or hardcover at Amazon

My Review of Eileen Wacker's 'Black Tortoise and the Dynasty Dragon'

In Eileen Wacker’s fifth addition of the Fujimini Adventure Series, the animals of Fujimini Island notice a mysterious Turtle Boat on the shores of the island. The Black Tortoise, one of the Samurai Warriors, is visiting the island with a special mission- but what exactly is his mission? Orange Bunny listens in on a conversation between Black Tortoise and Brown Hamster to try and figure out what is going on. Do you ever listen in on other people’s conversations or spy on others? Orange Bunny overhears that the Black Tortoise is looking for the legendary Dynasty Dragon. Orange Bunny panics and  jumps to conclusions that the Samurai are trying to kidnap the Dynasty Dragon so she launches a special mission to try and save him. Will Orange Bunny and her friends on Fujimini Island save the Dynasty Dragon or has Orange Bunny made a big mistake? 

One of my favorite features of the Fujimini Adventure series, is how in each book Wacker introduces a subtle but important lesson that can be taken away from the reading. Underneath the silliness and fun of each story lies a message that is very relevant to kids and growing up. In Black Tortoise and the Dynasty Dragon, this message is what can happen when you listen in on others’ conversations, spy on people and make assumptions. In addition to the lesson, Wacker also introduces some fun new characters, like the Dynasty Dragon, and some new terminology, like a Turtle Boat. So not only do little readers learn lessons that are relevant to their daily lives, they also learn some new stuff that are a part of other people’s lives and cultures as well. 

The cute and creative story about not making assumptions, working as a team, and the depth of a mother's love has been rated 5 out of 5 stars on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. 

To learn more or purchase this book, click here

My Review of Eileen Wacker's 'Silent Samurai and the Magnificent Rescue'

After hearing that Samurai are coming to Fujimini Island, Purple Penguin is eager to plan a big welcome party for their guests. He runs to tell all his friends on the Island, but others don’t react the way he thought they would. Not everyone is as excited for the warriors’ arrival as he is- but why? The other animals start to worry, letting what they have heard about samurai warriors form their opinion of their visitors before they have even arrived. Have you ever made assumptions about someone else before you met them? Will the hamsters, pandas, penguins, and bunnies come together and decided to welcome their guests with open arms and friendship or will they stay as far away as possible? 

Eileen Wacker’s third edition of the Fujimini Adventure Series is cute, exciting and introduces some fun new characters. It also exposes kids to some Asian culture and history, like how purple is the color of royalty in Japan. Wacker embeds lessons within all the books of the Fujimini Adventure Series, but this book offers a few lessons that we can all learn from, including reserving our judgements of others based off of things we have heard until we actually get a chance to know them, and making new friends, offering a warm welcome to new people. This book is the perfect way to start a conversation with your kids about meeting new people, being a team player, and helping others out. 

Rated 5 out of 5 stars by Barnes and Noble, the story is available for purchase in hardcover, for your kindle, or for your nook. 

Click here to learn more or purchase the book from Amazon

My Reaction to Eileen Wacker's "Rainbow Panda and the Firecracker Fiasco"

In Eileen Wacker’s sixth addition of the Fujimini Adventure Series, Rainbow Panda is just itching to cause some trouble as the other Pandas on the island prepare for the New Year’s celebration. While all the Pandas are busy sweeping, cleaning, planting flowers, and writing wishes on ribbons, Rainbow Panda is busy concocting a plan that turns him into a hero. One of the most exciting parts of the New Year celebration is the fireworks display of course, but this year Rainbow Panda wants to put on a fireworks display of his own. To set his plan in motion he tries to get the help of Green Hamster, who is always eager for excitement. Will his explosive plan turn him into the New Years hero he hopes to become or just cause a whole lot of trouble? 

Ms. Wacker does a fantastic job of telling a fun story while incorporating cultural elements that may be unfamiliar to most American children, such as the customs and traditions behind Asian New Year celebrations. Using lessons like teamwork, problem solving, and following rules, the story puts an educational spin on a cute and funny tale of adventure and learning consequences. Rated 4.8 stars on Amazon and 4.4 stars on Good Reads, this story is definitely a crowd pleaser and one of my personal favorites of the Fujimini Adventure Series.

When asked about her motivation and inspiration behind writing the sixth book of the series, author and CEO of ONCEKids publishing, Eileen Wacker, responded; “My motivation for the Rainbow Panda book was to highlight a New Year that is celebrated by half of the world's population. I also wanted to highlight how hard it is for kids to accept rules and people saying 'NO". And to show how sometimes mischievous antics can lead to unanticipated issues. But good teamwork and strong friendships will usually ensure a happy ending. The Rainbow Panda is a rascal and I love him as a character.”

To learn more about the book or purchase it on Amazon click here

A Review of Eileen Wacker's Green Hamster and the Quest for Fun

Energetic and restless Green Hamster becomes bored with the daily activities of him and his other hamster friends and he becomes convinced that all the other animals on Fujimini Island are having way more fun. So he sets off seeking a day filled with adventure and excitement. His goal of his quest is to find which group of animals have the most fun on the Island, but meets some unexpected challenges along the way. Who do you think he decides has the most fun on the Island?

Eileen Wacker’s first installment in the Fujimini Adventure Series is a must read. The award-winning children’s book has been a hit in the Hawaiian Islands as well as many other parts of the country. Given 5 stars on both Good Reads and Amazon, the cute and educational book provides insight into Asian cultures as well as some unexpected lessons. Since its publication, the story was also given a Mom's Choice Award. 

When asked about her inspiration behind her first book, author Eileen Wacker commented; "Let's see. Green hamster and the quest for fun was the first book i wrote. I was inspired by my children and how they are always on the lookout to make sure they aren't missing out. They are also used to being on the go at all times. It's a day off and we're staying in? I'm bored! I loved the idea of a quest that would lead to the realization that their fun little lives are just right for them!"

Click below to watch the trailer for the new animated book:

Click here to purchase Green Hamster and the Quest For Fun on Amazon

My Review of Eileen Wacker's 'Red Penguin and the Missing Sushi'

In Eileen Wacker’s second book in the Fujimini Adventure Series, Fujimini Island is filled with excitement as the animals prepare for the much anticipated Moon Festival Celebration, a traditional Chinese harvest festival. All the hamsters are busily making beautiful traditional lanterns while Red Penguin is crafting her prized sushi. The other critters who live on Fujimini Island are doing all the can to help, including Blue Whale who just loves parties. Red Penguin is very proud of her sushi, and is doing a bit of showing off and bragging to the hamsters about how important it is. Suddenly, her beloved sushi vanishes. Has a simple mistake been made or is someone trying to teach Red Penguin a lesson about bragging? 

Given 4.62 out of 5 stars on Good Reads and 5 out of 5 stars on Barnes and Noble, this book is an excellent way to make kids smile and laugh along through the adventures of the Fujimini Island animals while also learning a subtle but important moral lesson about bragging. 

A customer reviewed the book on Barnes and Noble’s website, giving it a 5 out of 5 and commented:

“Red Penguin and the Missing Sushi is a clever and very funny little book. The characters are great and the story keeps children engaged. Plus, the author infuses bits of asian culture into the story. It's fun and educational!”

When asked about her inspiration behind this book author and CEO of ONCEKids Eileen Wacker responded, “My inspiration for Red Penguin and the Missing Sushi was children’s hide and seek, sushi making and bragging! It is a true adventure story involving two best friends who decide to teach a sushi making bragging chef a lesson. Of course it backfires and the importance of working together to solve a problem comes into play! I love this story and the bragging penguin is really a great friend and chef!”

Enjoy the story on your kindle, hardcopy, or as an animated book!

Click here to learn more or purchase the book

A Summary and Review of Eileen Wacker's Pink Hamster and the Big Birthday Surprise

The fourth installation in Eileen Wacker’s Fujimini Adventure Series, stars the adorable and peppy Pink Hamster who is beside herself with excitement when she wakes up ready to celebrate her birthday. Her absolute favorite part about her birthday is the cake- so much so that she has been dreaming about it all night. As soon as Pink Hamster wakes up she races to find all her Fujimini Island friends to start her big day. Thoughts of singing, parties, dancing, presents, and of course cake fill her mind. When she finally stumbles upon her hamster friends, she realizes that no one seems to have even remembered her birthday, even her best friend Green Hamster. Is this going to turn out to be the worst birthday ever or do her friends have a little something up their sleeve?

Learn more about the award-winning Fujimini Adventure series.  Purchase the books here

Rated 4.91 out of 5 stars on Good Reads and 5 out of 5 stars from Barnes and Noble, this book is sure to please. Pink Hamster is a silly and lovable character who keeps children interested from the very first sentence with her spunk and charm. 

When asked about her inspiration behind the book, author Eileen Wacker responded, "The inspiration for pink hamster and the big birthday surprise was my little girl. She's a summer baby so she never had the traditional birthday, always last minute always family. She loves birthday cake and hershey bars. I know kids living and anticipating birthdays is universal so I thought if the character that loves her birthday the most thinking everyone forgot would make a great story. I added the part about little lies as we all know how they can backfire. I also planted her dreaming of a little white dragon as a shape shifting dragon would be featured in the next story! Of course there is a happy ending as birthdays should always be happy!"

A Review of the "Blue Penguin and the Sensational Surf" DVD featuring George Takei as Blue Penguin

In Eileen Wacker’s seventh installation of the Fujimini Adventure Series, all the beloved animals of the island are buzzing with excitement. It is the grand opening of the new Fujilimini Island Swim and Surf school, and everyone is busy getting ready for the big day. Everything is going great, until news of a Kappa arrival hits the shore. A Kappa is a creature that can be found in Japanese folklore. Another name for the mythical creature is a “river-child”. The potential arrival of a Kappa is worrisome for the occupants of Fujimini Island because they are known for their naughty, mischievous behavior and tricks. However, the Blue Penguin is set out to impress with his surfing skills and does not want anything to get in the way of his perfect plan- including a Kappa- so he ignores the warnings and proceeds with his opening. And, of course, the Kappa does arrive to make some trouble, but the Blue Penguin is too busy showing off to notice. So when Silver Bunny goes missing, all the animals on the island will have to ban together to figure out a solution. 

This book provides humor and demonstrates valuable lessons as well as integrates elements of Asian culture and folklore. The author’s use of a Kappa is not only culturally significant but also very creative and unique, especially when it comes to children’s literature. Not only does the book teach a valuable lesson of the potentially negative effects of being a show-off (in the case of the Blue Penguin), it also demonstrates the value of teamwork, second chances, and peaceful conversation when trying to solve a difficult problem, rather than resorting to anger or violence. 

In addition to the book on paper, you can also bring the story to life through the DVD, featuring George Takei as the voice of the Blue Penguin. The DVD is an excellent way to draw children into the story, through both words and visuals. The voices are fun and fitting for the characters, which makes it even more enjoyable to watch. The use of animated books unites the learning reading provides with the fun pictures and sounds give. Overall, the DVD was extremely well done and an awesome addition to the Fujimini Adventure Series. I would recommend it to anyone looking to encourage a reluctant reader to become more interested in what books can offer. With the new additions of Ebooks and Books on DVD, a whole new window of learning opportunity is opened and hopefully will draw in many more little reading lovers. 

Learn more about the award-winning Fujimini Adventure series.  Purchase the books here

A Review of Lisa Genova's "Still Alice" by Author Eileen Wacker

Still Alice is one of the most potent and engaging books I’ve read in a long time. I devoured in one day, crying my way through the novel. I thought the writer was smart in setting up the story. It wasn’t beautiful life described and then goes bad. From the first scene, she forgets a word in a lecture and how to get home from a run. The reader is instantly drawn in. The characters around Alice, namely John, Anna, Tom, and Lydia, were developing precisely right. We knew just enough about them to make the story move. The reinforced and provided a mirror so we could see the sides of Alice more clearly.


Alice is an extremely accomplished woman by anyone’s standards. One of the most esteemed Psychology professors at Harvard. But it was interesting to see, even before the Alzheimer diagnosis, she had weathered challenges and shifted priorities a few times. She speaks of how her priorities shifted more than John’s after children. She changes them again when she discovers she is sick. She wants to sabbatical with John and she wants to be with her family. John is a very consistent figure. He works a lot. He has always worked a lot. He doesn’t work to hurt her but his passion for his work has always been his priority. Although Alice understands this intellectually, this still hurts her feelings. But he is extremely supportive at the same time. Liked the realism inherent in his character.

I loved the middle of the book as we see her disease and suffering through her lucid and non-lucid self. I had to put the book down when she wished she had cancer instead. It was very powerful. And telling her children. And the history with her own father. Her contemplated suicide. Her letter to herself. All compelling.

Finally, Still Alice was a smart read for me. I learned something. There was the right amount of technical language. The reader can absorb it but it doesn’t take over the story. The painful journey is story. I highly recommend the book and will definitely see the movie.

-Eileen Wacker

Still Alice, by Lisa Genova is now a major motion picture starring Julianne Moore. The film has won a variety of awards including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress, a Critic's Choice Award for Best Actress, and a Screen Actor's Guild Award, and been nominated for even more.

ONCEKids Publishing is run by literacy advocate and Mompreneur Eileen Wacker.  Click here to find her acclaimed books

Preparing For the Year of The Sheep

The Chinese New Year, one of the grandest and most important holidays of the year, is arriving February 19th, so before then there are some key things you can do to prepare! The Chinese New Year, sometimes referred to as the Chinese Spring Festival, has been celebrated for more than 4,000 years, originating during the Shang Dynasty in the 17th to 11th century BC. As you probably suspected, a holiday dating back that far in history comes with many traditions. A number of the traditions, of course, revolve around the time period when the holiday has officially begun, but some of them involve the days or even weeks beforehand. After all, a holiday this important requires some preparation! 

A huge part of the preparation and celebration of the New Year is to ensure that the upcoming year is a year filled with luck and happiness, so how exactly does one prepare to make their year the best one possible? Certain traditions repeat each New Year, but others depend on the Zodiac sign that will be represented during the upcoming year. 2015 welcomes the Year of the Sheep, more specifically the Year of the Wooden Sheep, so several of the preparations for this holiday will be unique from ones in the past. 

The key to winning the attention and empathy of the Wooden Sheep for a year of good luck and happiness is to understand what the Year of the Wooden Sheep means. As Eileen Wacker points out in her article, “Get Ready! The Sheep Are Coming”, the sheep are the artists of the Zodiac. They are kind, sweet, and generous. As a sensitive creature, the sheep is happy when surrounded by kindness and peace. If you know someone who is a sheep (anyone turning 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, or 72 this year), tell them you love them and you will be rewarded with loyalty and passion. 

In addition to the Five Elements, (Earth, wind, fire, water, and wood), colors are also often represented as part of the Zodiac signs. Since the sheep is a herbivore, green is the color that will be represented this year. This means that this year, all things green are good (yes, even vegetables for our picky eaters!). In the coming weeks of the New Year, drink green tea and embrace the peace and serenity that the sheep loves so much. 

The next way to prepare for the Year of the Sheep is a crucial one. Despite the association of sheep with farms, the sheep does not like anything to be dirty, but is rather quite a tidy animal. To please the sheep and welcome a year of good luck, be sure to de-clutter your home and office. Make room for the good luck to come by dusting and sweeping your entire home. In addition, clean out your closets and make sure the entrance way to your home is well lit. 

To find the book series that inspires these stories, click here

The next way to prepare for the New Year is a tricky one if you live in a cold part of the world, but still just as important. For a period of time each day all the way till February 19th, open your windows. This allows the “stale air of the past” to exit your home and invites the fresh air of new opportunities to flow inside. 

Use the time before the holiday to do some soul searching. Set some goals and figure out what you would like to accomplish this year. Remembering that the sheep loves peace, serenity, and kindness, avoid being moody and pessimistic this year. Also knowing that the sheep also loves generosity, perhaps donate things you don’t use anymore or don’t need while you are decluttering your home. Being as kind and positive as possible in the weeks leading up to the holiday will increase your chances of good fortune during this upcoming year. 

ONCEKids Publishing is run by literacy advocate and Mompreneur Eileen Wacker.  Click here to find her acclaimed books