The Mat and the Cat by Kelley M Likes is a playful and engaging book that introduces children to the world of phonics in a fun way. The book is designed for emergent readers in Pre-K and Kindergarten, ages 4-6, and includes colorful illustrations by Lauren Blunck. The story features a "not-flat mat" that goes on an adventure. The book also includes 15 flashcards and aims to help children learn and practice words with the "-at" ending. The Mat and the Cat has a Guided Reading Level of D and a Lexile Level of 110L. It is a great choice for both home and classroom settings.

The concept of The Mat and the Cat is delightful and perfectly suited for a young audience. The idea of a mat as the main character is unexpected and imaginative, and adds a whimsical charm to the story. The story is designed to maintain a lighthearted and educational tone that young readers will enjoy. 

The pace is gentle and appropriate for the target age group. The use of rhythm and repetition ensures that young readers grasp the lessons and enjoy them as they practice with their flashcards. The inclusion of flashcards is a thoughtful touch, adding an interactive element that complements the story's phonics focus. The book's appeal lies in its humor and simplicity, making it an excellent tool for early literacy. The Mat and the Cat by Kelley M Likes is a solid choice for introducing children to reading engagingly.

Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite

Quest for the Momma Violin by Kelley M Likes is an educational book for young children. A young boy named Theo and his mother are doing some window shopping, and one day they notice a new store about to open. His mother wishes for it to be a shoe store, whilst Theo hasn't a clue what it could be. When the new store finally opens, Theo is delighted to see that it sells musical instruments. Theo instantly falls in love with a cello and is excited at the thought of owning one, but unfortunately, it is too expensive. What will Theo do now? Will he finally achieve his dream of owning a cello of his own? Find out in this book.

Kelley M Likes has created a wonderful book for children. The first page had me intrigued, and I got more and more eager to turn to the next. I just couldn't wait to see if Theo gets his very own cello. The writing has been kept simple to allow children to follow along with ease, and the illustrations by the incredible Mary Barrows are colorful and help bring the characters to life. Not only is this book fun to read, but it also has educational purposes. Children will learn the value of money, along with earning what they desire. I believe it will inspire children to come up with their own ideas to make money, or maybe they'll be more willing to do household chores. The possibilities are endless with Quest for the Momma Violin, and I encourage parents to pick up a copy for their child now. You won't be disappointed.

Reviewed by Amy Louise Hill for Readers' Favorite

Super Fearo: The Ant Superhero by Kelley M Likes is an action story for young readers. A little carpenter ant has managed to get inside the house, where he discovers a whole room full of superhero gear. He decides he wants to be a superhero and comes up with his name – Super Fearo! Now, he’s ready to be the greatest superhero ever – or is he? Join Super Fearo on his adventures as he learns about his powers, but can he use them to defeat the enemy?

Super Fearo: The Ant Superhero by Kelley M Likes is a story that kids are going to love. It’s a sweet tale about a carpenter ant, but it’s also educational, teaching readers about the real powers that ants have. Few people realize that these tiny creatures are the true superheroes of the insect world, stronger even than humans, and this book opens the door to plenty of amazing facts about the largest ant of all – the carpenter ant. The illustrations by Marta Serraggiotto are lovely and help the story, written in simple language, be easily understood by even the youngest readers. It’s part science, part laugh-out-loud fun, and is a smart way to get kids interested in reading. At the end of the book, kids will find a fact sheet about the carpenter ant, a diagram showing the different parts of its body, and an opportunity to draw Super Fearo’s next adventure; a good way to get young readers involved. There should be more books like this in school reading classes and in homes the world over; education is always better when it’s fun to learn.

Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite

Snout by Kelley M Likes is a children’s book that follows Snout, Fire Engine 74, and his captain, Paulie. Together, they work hard putting out city fires, rescuing cats from trees, leading every parade, and even being the stars of the Touch-A-Truck event. But one day, a brand-new fire engine arrives in town, green, sleek, and powered by a 600-horsepower engine. Suddenly, Snout and Paulie find themselves questioning their place among the city’s heroes. When Paulie suggests it might be time to retire, the two begin to wonder what it would take to become the best fire engine team in town again. Readers are invited to look inside and go through a journey of change along with Snout and Captain Paulie.

Kelley M Likes has written a heartwarming story filled with charm, imagination, and purpose. The rhythm of the story is gentle and makes it perfect for storytime. Ninnani’s soft, colorful illustrations really captured each moment. Snout and Paulie’s friendship felt genuine, teaching young readers about the importance of teamwork, how to be creative, and finding value in themselves, even when times change. Kelley M Likes did a great job of creating a universal message about reinventing oneself and embracing new possibilities. If you are a fan of similar works like The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper or Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site by Sherri Duskey Rinker, then you’ll enjoy Snout. It is an endearing and imaginative story that every child and parent would love.

Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite