For Kids: The Oakwoods Series by Kathy J. Perry | Stories That Build Character and Heart - A JustReads Blog Tour and Giveaway!
* I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
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Welcome to the Blog Tour for the Oakwoods Series by Kathy J. Perry
Hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours
About The Oakwoods Series:
Author: Kathy J. Perry | Publisher: Chickadee Words | Release Date: April 4, 2025
Genre: Early Reader Chapter Books (Ages 5-8)
These warm stories invite readers into a woodland world that feels very classic and fun. Kids will like meeting the animals in the Oakwoods series. As they read about the animals' adventures, friendships, and foibles, they'll also discover timeless lessons that feel authentic to the characters and the Oakwoods world—and also applicable to our daily lives.
Teachers and parents of young readers transitioning from picture books will appreciate the easy-to-read font, a glossary, “What If?” discussion questions about the story and application to real life, and a “Did You Know?” section with surprising facts about the real animal. (i.e. blue jays aren’t really blue!)
My Review:
The Oakwoods Series charmed me with its sweet, woodland setting and delightful animal characters that reminded me of beloved favorites like Heartwood Hotel and The Adventures of TumTum and Nutmeg. Each story holds charming illustrations and short adventures with character-building themes, perfect for young readers—and for parents and educators looking for fiction that’s both wholesome and educational. I loved how the author weaves real-life animal facts into the stories, grounding the stories in nature and giving them an added layer of richness.
In Pip’s story, he wrestles with laziness and distraction—something many kids can relate to—and learns the value of hard work. A quiet, but powerful lesson about developing a strong work ethic early in life, balanced with the reminder that there’s still room for fun and play.
In Sally’s story, she wrestles with being cynical and using hurtful words. When she herself receives words that aren’t kind, she learns the value of being a friend, sharing a kind word and how to make new friends.
Benjamin Bat’s story is that of selfish conceit and ego. A tangle with an owl leaves him unable to fly and he learns the value of humbling himself and being grateful for a new friends who help him in a time of need.
Nuts the Squirrel’s story was perhaps my favorite, as she learns to work together with others to share and be fair, instead of squabbling. I could almost imagine this entire conversation happening between the squirrels in our own backyard as they bristle their tails and chatter animatedly at each other!
Last, but not least, Jeremy Jay is a sweet soul who has a disability. He believes in himself, but worries no one will like him. While cute, the idea of a mate was a little too mature for my first grade reader (I think she would have enjoyed it more if it was a group of friends he found acceptance in, rather than in a mate), but the story was still cute and we loved that he didn’t let anything dissuade him from always trying, and being, his best.
At the end of each book was a discussion guide that made reviewing the stories for comprehension and learning fun, a glossary for learning big, new words, and a Did You Know? section of exciting, educational content that we enjoyed! These are great for children who are reading well or used as a read-aloud (in our case!).
These stories aren’t just adorable—they’re purposeful, encouraging, and full of heart. I would absolutely recommend The Oakwood’s Series to families, homeschoolers, and anyone looking for character-driven tales that spark wonder, teach truth, and leave little hearts a little stronger by the final page.
Note: These stories are not faith-based, but the morals align with Biblical values, in my opinion.
About the Author:
Of the many jobs I’ve held in the past, including thirty-five years of designing and constructing stained glass windows part-time, teaching was one of the most enjoyable for me because investing in kids is so important. To this end, I continue to encourage good character with clean, moral stories kids and teens love to read. Good books make such an impact.
Writing is hard work, but there’s nothing like a good story to run off with your imagination. When things are flowing, it’s like a vacation. Sometimes the best ideas come in the middle of the night. When not writing, you’ll find me painting with watercolor, doing school visits, writing a blog, interviewing other writers, designing websites, working as an administrative assistant part-time, and renovating houses. Is this retirement? Apparently so! I’m loving every minute of it with my husband of 43 years.
Connect with Kathy J. Perry by visiting kathyjperry.com to follow her on social media and subscribe to email updates.
