
Calling all book-loving families, storytime superstars, and parents of tiny page‑turners!
Does your kid devour books like snacks, or melt into your lap the moment you say, “Once upon a time…”?
We’re swimming in amazing children’s book submissions — a wonderful problem to have — but there are simply too many for us to review on our own. And saying “no” to authors who pour their hearts into these stories? It hurts our book‑loving souls.
So… we had an idea. A fun one. A community-powered, story-celebrating, book‑sharing idea - and a chance for you and your littles to receive free children’s books in exchange for writing honest reviews.
By
Birgit Sund on January 29, 2026

Book reviews are essential for authors—especially indie authors who rely on visibility, word of mouth, and authentic reader feedback. As a community of readers, parents, and book lovers, we love supporting fellow writers and helping great books find their audience.
We also believe deeply in fostering a love of reading in children and making books accessible to families in our community. This program supports authors while also putting more stories into the hands of young readers.
This Read & Share Book Review Program connects children’s book authors with real readers and provides honest reviews that are shared on the Live Grow Play Austin blog, newsletter, and Facebook page, with many reviewers also choosing to post their honest review on Amazon.
By
Birgit Sund on January 27, 2026

When your children outgrow their toys, books, and gear, these items still have plenty of life left in them. Rather than letting them gather dust in the garage or sending them to a landfill, Austin offers numerous nonprofits eager to give these items a second chance with families who need them. But here's what matters most: not all organizations accept used items, and their specific requirements vary widely. Here's a list of organizations that accept used items.
By
Birgit Sund on January 7, 2026

If you’ve got a young bookworm in the house—or just want to spark a love of reading—The Kids Bookshop in Leander is a must-visit. This locally owned treasure is all about making books fun, affordable, and accessible for kids of all ages.
After four years of running everything straight out of her garage, owner Ann Kimura has transformed The Kids Bookshop into a beautiful, cozy storefront where families can browse shelves of gently used children’s books instead of digging through boxes. What makes The Kids Bookshop special? Read on for details.
By
Birgit Sund on October 1, 2025

If you’ve ever wished your favorite indie bookstore could just
show up at your local market, brewery, or boutique event—wish granted. Meet Wandering Pages, the mobile bookstore cruising through the Texas Hill Country and turning ordinary weekends into literary treasure hunts.
Discover more about Wandering Pages and see where this charming mobile bookstore will pop up next.
By
Birgit Sund on September 18, 2025

Award winning children’s and maternity consignment sale Just Between Friends Williamson County is coming back to Leander on September 24-27, 2025!!
JBF Williamson County is a bargain hunter’s dream with 28,000 sq ft of quality items inspected by a recall specialist for 50-90% off of retail prices.
Bring your family, friends, besties, or make it a meet-up for your Mom group. Children, strollers, and wagons welcome.
Read on for details and enter for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate or one Prime Time Shopping pass.
By
Birgit Sund on September 12, 2025

Summer is a time for exploration, creativity, and new experiences—and what better way to embark on an adventure than through books? Whether kids are relaxing by the pool, curled up in a hammock, or on a road trip, reading keeps their minds engaged and their imaginations soaring. Plus, with so many summer reading programs offering exciting rewards, kids can stay motivated while having fun!
By
Birgit Sund on May 29, 2025

Children’s books are powerful tools for shaping young minds, fostering empathy, and promoting diverse perspectives. Whether you’re a parent building a home library or an educator cultivating inclusivity in the classroom, a thoughtfully curated selection of books can make a lasting impact.
This guide showcases 150 incredible books by 100 authors, highlighting stories that celebrate culture, identity, and belonging.
By
Birgit Sund on May 20, 2025

Kindergarten graduation is a thrilling milestone for your little one, signaling the end of their early educational journey and the start of new adventures. What better way to commemorate this achievement than with a special and one-of-a-kind gift?
Say goodbye to typical crafts and games because we've compiled a list of 12 fun and extraordinary graduation gift ideas that are guaranteed to bring a smile to their faces. So, let's dive in and discover that perfect present!
By
Birgit Sund on May 7, 2025

The City of Bee Cave and the Bee Cave Public Library will host their fourth annual free Books and Bees Festival on April 12 at the Bee Cave Galleria.
As a hub of literacy for children and adults, our Bee Cave Public Library hosts programs year round that serve hundreds of families in the area and beyond. As a Bee City USA affiliate, the City of Bee Cave is dedicated to educating the public and helping conserve this most important insect. Our one-of-a-kind Books & Bees Festival helps accomplish our two missions - share fantastic literature with kids and adults alike, featuring high-profile, bestselling authors – and teach our residents and their kiddos more about bees! We have so many fun activities, entertainment and readings in store, you will not want to miss this FREE event!
By
Birgit Sund on April 8, 2025