Kimberly McCreight’s debut novel, Reconstructing Amelia, is a very powerful book that is a must read.  The story explores many of today’s difficult societal issues:  the complicated world of parenting, working mothers, how children are bullied and the effects on their emotional stability, the

Kids love adventures, especially ones with gooey slimy creatures!

“Space Warriors” is a live-action film about kids who attend Space Camp in Huntsville, AL and have quite the adventure. Though it is a fictional story, it is based on a real place and according to KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gerry O., age 11, it “feels very real and positive.” All of our film critics agree that this is a fun and exciting film that inspired them to want to visit the real Space Camp. Adam C., Age 7, KIDS FIRST!

According to 13-year-old KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Brianna B, "It has action, suspense, a little humor and one great climax." This PG-13 film even has a great message about being there for your family. Listen to the KIDS FIRST! Coming Attractions radio show (url link to show to hear our film critics discuss "Fast & Furious 6." Here's what Brianna has to say about this action-packed film.

I was recently quoted in an article on the health benefits of shopping. The article, in Medical Daily, is timely as it discusses this topic with regard to Memorial Day sales.

From the animators at Blue Sky Studios comes a new animated feature film with a female protagonist, "Epic." If you like fairy tales, then you will love this film. A teenager finds herself transported to a deep forest setting where a battle between the forces of good and the forces of evil is taking place. She bands together with a rag-tag group characters in order to save their world -- and ours. Rated PG, it's the perfect film to share with your kids this holiday weekend. As 13-year-old KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Brianna B says, "I absolutely love this film.

Alison Buckholtz’s book, Standing By: The Making of an American Military Family in a Time of War is a very powerful reminder that the families of those serving are also heroes in the War on Terror.  This Monday is Memorial Day a reminder to Americans that there are those who pay the ultimate sacrifice.  Their children and spouses will never have their loved ones to share in their accomplishments and majo

Want a positive film that portrays teamwork and friendship for your superhero loving or LEGO loving child? Look no further. Just out on DVD and Blu-ray, "LEGO Batman: The Movie - DC Superheroes Unite" will not let you down. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Gerry O., age 11, says this DVD teaches us that "sometimes you can't do things all by yourself, you need help" and that relationships aren't always easy. To make this an even more exciting gift for your favorite LEGO kid, it comes with a Clark Kent/Superman LEGO mini-figure! 

Star Trek into Darkness is the second movie based on the original TV series and, for those of us who grew up watching this show, brings back all our favorite characters - Captain James Kirk (Chris Pine), Spock (Zachary Quinto). Uhura, (Zoe Saldana), Bones (Karl Urban), Scotty (Simon Pegg and Sulu (John Cho). The storyline also is reminescent of those of the past but fleshed out with 3D, great character development, outstanding sound effects and good acting throughout. Our youth film critics were wow'd by the film.

As a continuation of Part I, below is the second half of signs you may have a toddler.  Based on my final score of 100%, we are neck deep in "toddler" at home:

(5) You eat really healthy.  Until the kid is asleep.

When my son is awake, we are incredibly healthy.  We sing songs about trying new and healthy foods.  We smile as we ingest carrots: MMM...this is so good, you'll love it!