McKinney Falls State Park : A Waterfall Escape in Austin

McKinney Falls State Park:

Looking for an easy outdoor getaway without leaving Austin? McKinney Falls State Park is one of Central Texas' most popular natural attractions, offering scenic waterfalls, peaceful hiking trails, swimming holes, camping, and fascinating history—all just minutes from downtown.

Whether you're planning a family picnic, a weekend camping trip, or simply want to escape the city for a few hours, this guide covers everything you need to know before visiting McKinney Falls State Park.

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Where is McKinney Falls State Park?

McKinney Falls State Park is located just 13 miles southeast of Downtown Austin, making it one of the easiest Texas State Parks to visit for a day trip.

Address:
5808 McKinney Falls Parkway
Austin, TX 78744

The park spans approximately 641 acres along the banks of Onion Creek, where water has carved beautiful limestone ledges and small waterfalls over thousands of years.

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Why Visit McKinney Falls?

Unlike many Texas state parks that require a long drive, McKinney Falls offers a true nature escape within the city limits.

Visitors come here to enjoy:

• Beautiful limestone waterfalls
• Natural swimming holes
• Easy hiking trails
• Mountain biking
• Camping
• Wildlife viewing
• Historic ruins
• Family picnics
• Photography

It's one of those rare places where you can spend anywhere from two hours to an entire weekend.

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Park Hours

The park is open daily.

• Gate Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Park Office: 8:00 AM – 4:15 PM
• Visitor Center: Friday–Sunday: 9 AM–4 PM; Tuesday–Thursday: Noon–4 PM.

Since the park frequently reaches capacity during weekends and holidays, it's a good idea to reserve your day pass in advance.

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Admission Fee

Current day-use admission:

• Adults (13 years and older): $6
• Children (12 years and under): Free

Visitors with a Texas State Parks Pass receive free entry.

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Geography and Natural Features

McKinney Falls sits along Onion Creek, where flowing water has shaped layers of limestone into broad rock shelves, pools, and waterfalls.

The park's landscape includes:

• Limestone creek beds
• Bald cypress trees
• Oak woodlands
• Wildflower meadows
• Open grasslands
• Creekside cliffs

One of the park's most famous residents is Old Baldy, a bald cypress estimated to be more than 500 years old.

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Upper Falls vs Lower Falls

The park features two main waterfalls.

Upper Falls

Upper McKinney Falls is the most photographed area of the park.

Highlights:

• Wide cascading waterfall
• Calm swimming area
• Easy access
• Popular photography spot
• Large limestone rock formations

This is usually the busiest section during summer weekends.

Be aware that water levels are low in Summer. It is best to visit the falls after heavy rain.

Drive to the upper falls parking area, it is a very short walk to the upper falls. 

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Lower Falls

Lower McKinney Falls is quieter and feels more secluded.

You'll find:

• Smaller cascades
• Scenic rock formations
• Fewer crowds
• Great picnic spots
• Peaceful creek views

Many visitors enjoy walking between the two waterfalls using the park trails.

Drive to the Lower Falls parking area; it is a short walk from there, less than a mile to reach the waterfalls. You will walk on the rocks to reach a shaded area that has a good view of the waterfalls. 

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Hiking Trails

McKinney Falls has over 7 miles of hiking trails, including several miles of paved paths suitable for beginners.

1. Onion Creek Hike & Bike Trail

• Approximately 2.8 miles
• Easy
• Paved
• Great for families
• Popular for walking and biking

We did this hike on a cloudy summer day. Even though it's humid, most of the trail is shady and runs along a nice path between the trees. You can also see many cacti on the way. 

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2. Homestead Trail

A short walk that leads to several historic sites, including:

• Thomas McKinney's homestead ruins
• Historic gristmill
• Horse trainer's cabin

History lovers shouldn't miss this trail.

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3. Rock Shelter Trail

This trail leads to a prehistoric rock shelter believed to have been used by Native Americans centuries ago.

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4. Flint Rock Loop

One of the park's longer hikes features:

• Woodland scenery
• Wildflowers in spring
• Birdwatching opportunities
• Peaceful forest sections

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5. Lower Falls Trail

A short scenic hike connecting the campground with Lower Falls.

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Swimming

Swimming is one of the biggest attractions during warmer months.

Visitors can cool off in Onion Creek beneath both waterfalls.

Keep in mind:

• Water levels depend on recent rainfall.
• Flash flooding can occur after heavy rain.
• Rocks become extremely slippery when wet.

Always check park conditions before entering the water.

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Camping

McKinney Falls offers several overnight options.

Campers can choose from:

• Water and electric campsites
• Cabin rentals
• Youth group camping
• Group facilities

Most campsites include:

• Picnic table
• Fire ring
• Water hookup
• Electric hookup
• Nearby restrooms with hot showers.

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Facilities Available

Visitors will find plenty of amenities throughout the park, including:

• Visitor Center
• Restrooms
• Hot showers
• Drinking water
• Picnic tables
• BBQ grills
• Playground
• Parking areas
• Fishing access
• Bike-friendly trails
• Group pavilion
• Cabins
• Campground
• Educational exhibits

The park is well maintained and suitable for visitors of all ages.

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Wildlife You May See

Bring binoculars—you might spot:

• White-tailed deer
• Armadillos
• Great blue herons
• Painted buntings
• Cardinals
• Turtles
• Butterflies
• Lizards

Spring is particularly beautiful when wildflowers bloom throughout the park.

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Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best season for:

• Wildflowers
• Comfortable temperatures
• Full waterfalls
• Birdwatching

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Summer

Great for swimming, but expect high temperatures and larger crowds.

Arrive before 9 AM if visiting on weekends.

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Fall

Excellent hiking weather with fewer visitors.

The bald cypress trees begin showing warm autumn colors later in the season.

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Winter

A peaceful time for photography, hiking, and camping.

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Tips for Visiting

• Reserve a day pass online during busy seasons, as the park often reaches capacity.
• Wear shoes with good grip—the limestone rocks can be slippery.
• Bring plenty of water, especially in summer.
• Pack sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Pets are welcome but must remain on a leash and are not allowed in swimming areas.
• Check weather forecasts before visiting, as heavy rain can raise Onion Creek quickly.

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Nearby Attractions

If you're spending the day in South Austin, you can also visit:

• Lady Bird Lake
• Barton Springs Pool
• South Congress Avenue
• Circuit of the Americas
• Downtown Austin
• St. Edward's Park

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Is McKinney Falls State Park Worth Visiting?

Absolutely!

McKinney Falls State Park combines waterfalls, easy hiking trails, swimming, history, and camping into one beautiful destination just minutes from downtown Austin. Whether you're traveling with young children, looking for a scenic picnic spot, or planning a weekend camping adventure, it's one of the best outdoor escapes in Central Texas.

Its accessibility, family-friendly trails, and year-round beauty make it a must-visit for both locals and visitors exploring Austin.

Until next time,

Twice by Mitch Albom - [Book Review]

This post may contain affiliate links; clicking on those links may earn us some commission without any additional cost to you.

Book Details:

Title: Twice

Author: Mitch Albom

Genre: Psychological fiction, time travel fiction

Publisher: Harper

Print Length: 320 pages

Source: A copy from the local library

Blurb:

A GOOD MORNING AMERICA BOOK CLUB PICK • AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

What if you got to do everything in your life—twice? The heart of Mitch Albom’s newest novel is a stunning love story that dares to explore how our unchecked desires might mean losing what we’ve had all along.

When he is eight years old, Alfie Logan discovers the magical ability to get a second chance at everything. He can undo any moment and live it again. The one catch: he must accept the consequences of his second try—for better or worse.

He grows up correcting his mistakes and saving himself from adolescent embarrassments. He even takes foolishly dangerous risks, just to see what it’s like to come close to death, before tapping back to safety.

Eventually, Alfie turns his gift to his love life, studying his crushes and going back to make himself more appealing. In time, he falls deeply in love with Gianna, the woman he believes is the one. He seems to find contentment.

But as the years pass, Alfie’s eye begins to wander. Which is when he learns a lone caveat to his power: once he undoes a love, that person can never fall in love with him again. Knowing if he gives into to temptation, he will risk losing what he has with Gianna, Alfie makes a choice that changes his life forever.

The book begins many years later, after an ailing Alfie is arrested for allegedly cheating and winning millions at a casino roulette wheel. As a curious detective interrogates him, he slowly uncovers Alfie’s incredible story, and its most unlikely conclusion.

In Twice, America’s favorite storyteller, Mitch Albom, is at the top of his powers. A love story that is enchanting, probing, and clairvoyant in matters of the heart, Twice will make you think, weep, and overflow with love from beginning to end.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This is easily another 5-star read for me this year! Then again, that's not too surprising because it's written by Mitch Albom. I've previously read The Time Keeper and Tuesdays with Morrie, and both left a lasting impression on me. Twice continues that tradition with its thought-provoking story and emotional depth.

The story follows Alfie, a man with a remarkable gift: whenever he wants, he can relive a specific moment in his life simply by saying "Twice." Imagine being able to rewind an awkward conversation with your partner, fix a mistake, or make a different choice altogether. It's a fascinating concept, and Mitch Albom explores it in a way that feels both magical and deeply human.

As Alfie starts revisiting moments from his past, the story becomes increasingly layered. There are times when the back-and-forth movement through time can feel a little complex, but the narrative remains engaging and keeps you invested in what happens next.

What did I love?

The concept itself is what drew me in. Who hasn't wondered what they would do if they could get a second chance at certain moments in life?

I also loved how the story unfolds. Albom reveals information gradually, keeping the mystery alive and making each chapter hard to put down. The pacing works well, balancing the emotional moments with the more intriguing aspects of Alfie's gift.

What really stood out to me, though, was the message behind the story. While Alfie can revisit the past, he quickly learns that second chances don't guarantee perfect outcomes. Some things simply cannot be changed. He can't bring back someone who has died, and he can't force someone to love him in exactly the same way as before. Every attempt to alter the past comes with consequences, making the story both moving and thought-provoking.

Overall

Twice is a beautifully written novel that's easy to read yet filled with meaningful ideas. It's a compelling look at human nature, regret, love, and the choices that shape our lives. Most importantly, it's a gentle reminder to appreciate what we have in the present instead of constantly wishing for a different past.

If you enjoy stories that blend a touch of magic with heartfelt life lessons, Twice is definitely worth picking up. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

My Rating: 5/5

Until next time,

Sphere Las Vegas Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

Sphere Las Vegas Travel Guide: 

If you're planning a trip to Las Vegas, chances are you've already seen the giant glowing Sphere lighting up the skyline. But here's the thing—the outside is only half the experience. Once you step inside, you'll realize why everyone has been talking about it.

Photo by Andri Aeschlimann on Unsplash

Whether you're visiting for the new The Wizard of Oz immersive show or simply want to experience one of the most technologically advanced entertainment venues in the world, here's everything you need to know before you go.

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What is the Sphere?

The Sphere is unlike any traditional theater or concert venue.

Instead of a regular movie screen, you're surrounded by a 160,000-square-foot wraparound LED display with stunning 16K resolution. Add in over 167,000 speakers, haptic seats, wind, scents, fog, lighting effects, and environmental simulations, and it feels less like watching a show and more like stepping inside it. 

Photo by Filipe Freitas on Unsplash

Located just east of the Las Vegas Strip near The Venetian, it's easy to reach by foot, rideshare, or taxi.

This is one of the most memorable shows that we have been to as a family. It is expensive, but the price is worth it for one watch for sure. 

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The Wizard of Oz at Sphere

Photo by Chuang XY on Unsplash

The newest headlining attraction is The Wizard of Oz, but don't expect a simple screening of the classic 1939 movie.

Instead, the film has been completely reimagined for Sphere using AI-enhanced visuals and immersive effects while preserving the original performances and soundtrack. The result feels somewhere between a movie, a theme park attraction, and a live experience. (The Washington Post)

Expect to experience:

• Massive panoramic visuals surrounding the audience

• Seats that vibrate during action sequences

• Wind during the famous tornado

• Fog and mist effects

• Custom scents throughout certain scenes

• Flying effects and environmental surprises

• Incredible spatial audio that makes every direction feel alive

Our Experience:

I haven't watched the original Wizard of Oz movie before, so it is interesting for me. I loved how the tornado effect is shown and how we felt really getting sucked into the air. 

I also loved how the gardens are shown in the movie, the butterflies flying before your eyes, snow falling on you, and the apples falling from the tree. These experiences are wonderful and worth the price. 

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How long is the show?

The experience lasts about 75 minutes.

There is no intermission, so it's a good idea to use the restroom before taking your seat.

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Ticket Prices

Prices vary depending on:

• Day of the week

• Time of show

• Seat location

• Demand

Typical ticket prices are approximately:

Seating	Price Range
Upper levels	$100–140
Mid-level sections	$140–200
Premium seats	$200+

Weekend shows generally cost more and often sell out weeks in advance. (No Cover Vegas)

We could grab tickets that morning for an evening show. It was a last-minute addition to our plan. But this experience stayed memorable in our trip.

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Best Seats at Sphere

One of the biggest questions everyone asks is:

Where should I sit?

The good news is that there really aren't many bad seats.

Best overall experience

The sweet spot is generally:

• Middle of the 300 Level

• Sections around 305–307

• Middle rows

These seats give you the perfect balance between seeing the entire dome without constantly looking straight up. (Vegas Sidekick)

Budget option

The 400 Level is surprisingly good.

Since the screen wraps around you, being higher actually helps you appreciate the full scale of the visuals.

Seats to avoid

Some seats in the back rows of the 100 Level can have partially obstructed views due to the overhang. Check the seating map before booking. 

We were waiting for this Emoji to show up :-)

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When Should You Arrive?

This is probably the biggest mistake first-time visitors make.

The Sphere is enormous.

Even after entering, you'll spend time:

• Going through security

• Finding your section

• Walking up multiple levels

• Looking around the atrium

• Buying snacks or merchandise

Doors usually open 45 minutes before showtime.

I would recommend arriving 45–60 minutes early, especially for evening or weekend shows. (No Cover Vegas)

We arrived around 1 hr ahead. The Sphere changes the themes and colors often, so we took photos admiring the colors and themes. 

After we were allowed inside, we explored some interactive exhibits before going to our seats. 

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Is There Late Seating?

No.

The show starts promptly, and late seating is generally not allowed because it would disrupt the immersive experience.

If you're running late, you may not be admitted. (Vegas Sidekick)

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Is It Motion Sickness Friendly?

Most people are perfectly fine.

However, if you're sensitive to:

• motion simulators

• VR experiences

• IMAX movement

• flashing lights

you may experience mild dizziness during certain scenes—especially the tornado.

The venue also uses:

• loud sound

• flashing lights

• fog

• wind

• scent effects

• pyrotechnics

If you have medical concerns, it's worth reviewing the show's accessibility information beforehand. (Yodel)

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Can Kids Watch It?

Yes!

The show is recommended for ages 6 and up, and every guest needs a ticket regardless of age.

The Wizard of Oz is especially enjoyable for kids.

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Food and Drinks

Inside the atrium, you'll find:

• popcorn

• drinks

• cocktails

• snacks

• Sphere-themed souvenirs

• Wizard of Oz merchandise

Prices are similar to what you'd expect at a major sporting event or concert venue.

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Parking

You have several options:

• Sphere parking garage

• The Venetian parking garage

• Palazzo parking garage

• Uber or Lyft drop-off

If you're driving on a busy weekend, allow extra time since traffic builds quickly before each show. (Vegas Sidekick)

We took an Uber from our hotel to avoid parking charges and the hassle of searching for parking.

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Is It Worth Buying Tickets in Advance?

Absolutely.

While weekday morning shows sometimes have availability, weekends, holidays, and evening performances often sell out. Booking ahead also gives you a better chance of choosing your preferred seats. 

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Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit

✔ Arrive at least 45–60 minutes early.

✔ Visit the atrium before the show—it has interactive displays and great photo opportunities.

✔ Choose the middle 300 Level if it's within your budget.

✔ Wear comfortable shoes since you'll do more walking than expected.

✔ Don't spend the entire show recording videos. Some of the most memorable moments happen when you're simply looking around.

✔ Stay a few minutes after the show, as there are often additional displays and themed experiences in the lobby that many visitors rush past. 

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Is the Sphere Worth Visiting?

Even if you've never seen The Wizard of Oz, the Sphere is worth experiencing at least once.

The technology alone is unlike anything else currently available. It combines cinema, live entertainment, theme park effects, and immersive storytelling into one unforgettable experience.

If you're only planning to see one paid attraction in Las Vegas beyond the casinos, this is easily one of the best choices. Whether you're traveling with family, visiting as a couple, or exploring Vegas for the first time, the Sphere delivers a truly unique experience that you won't find anywhere else.

Travel Tip: If you're staying on the Strip, consider booking an afternoon show. You'll avoid some of the evening crowds and still have plenty of time to enjoy dinner, a show, or the nightlife afterward.

Until next time,

Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney - [Book Review]

     

This post may contain affiliate links; clicking on those links may earn us some commission without any additional cost to you.

Book Details:

Title: Beautiful Ugly

Author: Alice Feeney

Genre: Psychological thriller, thriller, mystery

Publisher: Flatiron Books

Print Length: 320 pages

Source: A copy from the local library

Blurb:

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER from the author of His & Hers, now a #1 Netflix show, and the hit bestseller My Husband's Wife!

“Her best book yet.” ―Harlan Coben
The million-copy bestselling Queen of Twists Alice Feeney returns with a gripping and deliciously dark thriller about marriage. . .
. . . and revenge.

Author Grady Green is having the worst best day of his life.

Grady calls his wife to share some exciting news as she is driving home. He hears Abby slam on the brakes, get out of the car, then nothing. When he eventually finds her car by the cliff edge the headlights are on, the driver door is open, her phone is still there. . . but his wife has disappeared.

A year later, Grady is still overcome with grief and desperate to know what happened to Abby. He can’t sleep, and he can’t write, so he travels to a tiny Scottish island to try to get his life back on track. Then he sees the impossible – a woman who looks exactly like his missing wife.

Wives think their husbands will change but they don’t.
Husbands think their wives won’t change but they do.

“Magnetic and jaw-dropping.” ―Mary Kubica, bestselling author
"Unforgettable." ―Chris Whitaker, bestselling author

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This gripping thriller follows a bestselling author whose life is turned upside down when his wife mysteriously disappears. Struggling with grief and unable to move forward, he retreats to the secluded island of Amberley to finish his next novel. The trip is encouraged by his agent and a close family friend, who hope the peaceful setting will help him heal and rediscover his creativity.

But Amberley is far from the quiet escape it appears to be. The island is filled with secrets, hidden histories, and unexpected connections—one of which ties directly to his missing wife. When he unexpectedly encounters her on the island, the mystery deepens, and nothing is quite what it seems.

Beyond the suspense, the story explores relationships, the secrets people keep, and the sacrifices and compromises we make for those we love.

What I Loved

I thoroughly enjoyed the storytelling. The narrative is engaging from the very beginning, and the suspense keeps building with every chapter. It was one of those books that was difficult to put down.

The multiple points of view add depth to the story and make the mystery even more compelling. There are plenty of unexpected twists and revelations that keep you guessing until the end. I also loved the atmospheric setting—the island's unpredictable weather, its isolated landscape, and its intriguing residents all contribute to the book's eerie and suspenseful tone.

The pacing felt just right. The story unfolds steadily, revealing clues at the perfect moments without ever feeling rushed. I especially appreciated that the climax felt believable and grounded rather than overly dramatic.

Overall

A fascinating, immersive thriller packed with mystery, secrets, and surprising twists. If you enjoy atmospheric suspense and character-driven mysteries, this is definitely a book worth picking up. It's easy to see why Goodreads readers have been recommending it so highly—it was one of my favorite thriller reads of the year as well.

My Rating: 5/5

Until next time,

Mira's Baking Adventures: The Unicorn Cake by Liana Grey - [Book Review]

 This post may contain affiliate links; clicking on those links may earn us some commission without any additional cost to you.

Book Details:

Title: Mira's Baking Adventures: The Unicorn Cake

Author: Liana Grey

Genre: Children's math fiction, Children's book

Publisher: Kitchen Chemistry

Print Length: 40 pages

Reading Age: 6 to 8 yrs

Source: A review copy from the author

Blurb:

Will Mira's homemade birthday cake be delicious, or a math disaster? In this early reader chapter book that explores STEM through baking, seven-year-old Mira wants to surprise Grandma Rose with a homemade cake shaped like a unicorn (because who doesn't love unicorns?)

There's just one problem. Mira has never used a recipe before, and it's full of baking mysteries: What does 1/2 mean? How do you measure flour? How do you turn a rectangular sheet cake into a unicorn? And how much allowance money will be left after buying special ingredients?

As Mira solves one puzzle after another, she discovers that baking is really just math in disguise.

A warm, funny book for kids who love:

• Cooking and baking
• Problem-solving
• Real-life STEM
• Ivy + Bean and The Questioneers series

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This book is about Mira, who wants to surprise her grandmother with a self-baked cake for the first time. This book is a chapter book for early readers (6 to 8-year-olds) introducing STEM concepts.  

It is not only a cute little story of Mira and her relationship with her family, but it is also educational. 

What I Loved

I loved the characters first! Mira's dad, who tries to help her by operating the oven and keeping the surprise a secret; and Mira's sister, who helps her understand the measurements needed for baking. 

I liked the way the elements related to measurements and fractions are included in the story. So, the book is educational and a good read. 

An interesting read for curious kids who love math and baking. It's an introduction to the concept of fractions. Parents will enjoy reading this book to their kids. 

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

About the Author:

Liana Grey is an author, baker, certified teacher, and the founder of Oak Leaf Cooperative Schools, a network of outdoor preschools.

Before becoming an educator, Liana trained at pastry school and made desserts at a New York City restaurant. She's been combining her love of baking and teaching ever since, directing and writing grants for nonprofit educational programs, including STEM enrichment, and believes that the "real world" - whether the kitchen or the forest - is the best classroom. Mira's Baking Adventures and Isha Evans, Eco Detective are her first children's book series.

Until next time,