When I had the chance to review I Call Shotgun by Tommy Newberry, I wasn’t sure how I felt about reading a compilation book of father-to-son letters. I decided that I would give it to my husband to see if he would enjoy it. Well, that didn’t happen. As soon as I got the book, I had to open it up. Then I couldn’t stop reading. While the letters do almost seem to be a private reflection, musings of a dad to his boy, the message was clearly there.  It’s a dad’s job to impart his experiences and wisdom upon his children.  So many kids in this generation don’t get the luxury of having both parents in their lives.   For single moms, I Call Shotgun might be a good reference book to know which topics to bring up with their boys.  The verbiage in parenting boys is so different from that with girls.  This book really helps to draw that line.  Additionally, it could be used as a jumping-off point for parents.   I don’t suggest handing this to your son and having him read it.  That completely defeats the purpose of sharing your values with your children.  Instead, consider the advice and ideals expressed in each letter.   Write your own thoughts in the margins, highlight the phrases you loved, mark out what you don’t believe.  Then take your ideas and share them with your child—either in conversation or write your own letters.  Either way, you and your child will both benefit by sharing a closer relationship.

I haven’t posted about the free ebooks in the past couple of Fridays.  If it’s not a book I’d be interested in downloading, I tend not to post it.  Today’s book, though, is for the kiddos in your life!!  Who doesn’t like the Berenstain Bears?!  When we were kids, these were favorites.  My own children love them, too.  Today’s free ebooks are for the little ones.  Most of them are free on Nook only.  Enjoy reading these with your special small people!

The Berenstain Bears Chapter Book: The G-Rex Bones is free on Kindle and Nook.

This is free only on the Nook.  I love these read-to-me books because my son can look at them while I’m driving.

Along the same lines, Littler Learner’s Sing Along is also free on Nook.   This would be a fun alternative to reading a regular book while incorporating some music!

 The Tortoise and The Hare is free on Nook.

My Dog’s Got Fleas!  is free on Nook.

Cat or Dog for President is free on Nook.

I received a copy of I Called Shotgun from BookSneeze for the purposes of this review. The opinions shared here are 100% mine. This post contains affiliate links.