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Alli the Alligator: A Children’s Book About Kindness, Bullying, Courage, and Celebrating Differences
Readers are introduced to Alli the Alligator, a friendly, fun-loving alligator who wants nothing more than to make new friends and enjoy life. She loves playing games in the river with her brother and cousins. One day, Alli notices children nearby jump-roping, swimming, and laughing together. They look different from her, yet she dreams of joining them, playing alongside them, and even going to school as they do. Her parents agree to send her to Swamp Elementary, but Alli quickly discovers that the other students are not as welcoming as she had hoped.
Alli the Alligator is a charming, heartfelt story with a meaningful message for young readers. It gently teaches the value of kindness, inclusion, and celebrating differences. Alli’s zest for life is delightful, and her eagerness to try new things makes her easy to love. Many people feel uncertain around what is unfamiliar, but Alli reminds readers that stepping beyond our comfort zones can lead to wonderful discoveries.
Alli’s courage and bright spirit make her an especially memorable character. It is difficult to watch her face rejection from the other children at first. Still, she never gives up. She also never responds with unkindness. Her selflessness, bravery, and empathy help the students at her school see that Alli is not so different from them after all. She simply wants what every child wants: friendship, play, and a place to belong.
The illustrations are beautiful and bring warmth, color, and emotion to the story. Each page strengthens the message and helps Alli’s journey come alive. This book would be a wonderful addition to classrooms, libraries, and homes. It gives young readers an engaging way to understand inclusion, practice empathy, and recognize that everyone has something special to offer.
Pages: 32 | ISBN : 1665310693
Living In The Moment Method
Bart Bantam The Flying Rooster follows a small bantam rooster who has big dreams of flying, offering young readers important lessons about believing in themselves. Where did the idea for this story come from?
The inspiration for this book actually began 25+ years ago. You see, I am a father of two sons, and when I needed to wake them up for primary school, I coerced them to get up and get ready by using a chicken’s voice. The irritation of my chicken voice worked supremely well! In 2014, I bought an iPad and started doodling. It came to me with a sketch of a bantam rooster and a vague outline of a story. A barnyard chicken is not very large; however, a smaller Bantam, with an even smaller voice, sparked my imagination. Wouldn’t it be surprising if this small rooster did what others were incapable or unwilling to do? As a former therapist, I witnessed the struggles of children in families. I saw Bart as a friend to anyone needing a friend, and a voice to convey a message to further help others in a meaningful way.
What was your favorite scene in this story?
This is an easy answer for me. I gravitate to the final page of the book where Billy, a former bully, has reformed into an appreciative young rooster whose life has changed forever. Billy can’t contain his gratitude, and he lifts the bantam roosters in his wings as the teacher and classmates cheer them on.
The artwork in your book is wonderful. Can you share with us a little about your illustration process?
I am both a writer and an illustrator of my books. Both tasks are challenging to say the least. I am currently using an art program called Procreate. This app allows scenes to be stacked like pages in a book. The tools I use while drawing allow my story to develop. I build the storyline as I draw. Let’s back up a bit. I had the idea for the chicken, then the idea for a Bantam rooster. Finally, alliteration kicked in and Bart Bantam became the main character’s name. As I began drawing young Bart, it helped me see his unique personality. I felt my way through the book page by page, and as I drew, I developed the narrative and the story’s conflicts and resolutions. I believe they call this technique “Pantser.” “Flying by the seat of your pants.” Or as I have laughingly renamed it, “Living in the moment method.” There is an honesty and freshness to this technique in my humble opinion, though editing has become an important collaborative tool.
Can we look forward to more books for young readers soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes indeed! So far, The Tales of Bart Bantam series has a total of four books. Also, there is a supplemental coloring book encouraging young children to express themselves in coloring their favorite characters of Bart and his friends. I also have an adorable non-fiction children’s story about carving a rabbit out of a dead tree stump. As you can probably guess by now, I’m just getting started with this new-found love of writing and illustrating books. Thank you again for your attentiveness. Kindly yours, Papa Fred.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
★★★★★ “… Brimming with charm, gentle humor, and an uplifting message, (this book) offers inspiration without ever feeling heavy-handed. …Young readers will find a hero in Bart’s boundless enthusiasm.” – Literary Titan
Get ready for an adventure like no other! Join Bart Bantam, a young rooster with big dreams, as he navigates life on the farm with his mother, Mama Betty. But things take an unexpected turn when Bart finds himself in a showdown with the school bully, a rooster much larger than him. With the help of a new friend named Buddy, they set out to do what no other chicken has done before, “Fly!” But when danger strikes, Bart and Buddy must use their newfound skills to save the day. Will they succeed? Find out in the thrilling tale of Bart Bantam The Flying Rooster!
This story highlights:
achieving goals
perseverance and resilience in doing hard things
handling peer pressure around a bully
showing kindness and compassion to others
the power of friendship
Bart’s journey will warm your hear and inspire readers of all ages. From beautifully hand drawn illustrations with vivid color and detail to a tender story from the author’s heart about friendship and forgiveness, Bart’s kindness leads the way!
This book is a true labor of love. It is a created by a dedicated author who uses his own story and illustrations from his own hand (No AI) to help children in a meaningful way. Large 8.5×11 pages bring the characters to life and engages the reader whole heartedly. Premium color and glossy pages make these illustrations dynamic to grab one’s imagination. This short story is perfect for shared reading with little ones or as independent reading for primary school readers ages 7 and up.
If you enjoyed books like Charlotte’s Web and Stuart Little, you’ll love Bart Bantam The Flying Rooster. So don’t wait, grab your copy now and lose yourself in the wonders of Bart’s World.
Bart Bantam The Flying Rooster
Bart Bantam the Flying Rooster, written and illustrated by Fred Pollard, delivers a warm, spirited tale that appeals to readers of every age. Brimming with charm, gentle humor, and an uplifting message, it offers inspiration without ever feeling heavy-handed. Geared toward children ages 5–8, the story follows Bart short for Bartholomew Bantam, a small bantam rooster with an outsized dream: to fly. In a world where chickens stay earthbound by instinct and self-doubt, Bart pushes past limits with courage, kindness, and a determination that refuses to dim. His journey becomes a reminder that self-belief can lift even the most impossible dreams off the ground, a theme that resonates with anyone who has ever reached for something beyond their grasp.
The illustrations bring the story to life with vivid color and lively detail. Each page feels animated and inviting, pulling young readers deeper into a landscape shaped by whimsy and perseverance. Pollard’s artwork mirrors the cadence of the narrative, making the book a natural fit for family read-aloud moments. Beneath its playful tone, the story carries a deeper truth: differences are not drawbacks but quiet strengths waiting to be acknowledged and celebrated.
What resonated with me most was its message, one that stirred ambitions I’d long tucked away. Dream boldly. Rise above ridicule. Keep going when the world insists you can’t. Even under the weight of Billy’s bullying, Bart and his friend Buddy leap to help when danger threatens him. Forgiveness, bravery, and self-trust intertwine here with surprising depth. Pollard takes a simple premise, a rooster determined to fly, and uses it to explore resilience, kindness, and the grace of choosing compassion over resentment.
Bart Bantam isn’t just another children’s comic; it’s a feel-good reminder that small wings can still carry enormous dreams. Young readers will find a hero in Bart’s boundless enthusiasm, while adults will appreciate the quiet wisdom tucked between the lines.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0DYNS8LK6
The Ballad of Levi Locust
Levi Locust, a musical bug with a passion for playing his banjo and singing country songs, embarks on a heartfelt journey in Janice Hostetter’s The Ballad of Levi Locust. Despite his enthusiasm, Levi struggles to find an audience that appreciates his music, leaving him feeling dejected and alone. Determined to find a place where he and his music belong, Levi continues his arduous quest for acceptance and peace.
Hostetter’s story is a beautifully written, rhyming narrative that captures the essence of perseverance and hope. The text flows effortlessly, making it an enjoyable read-aloud experience. As Levi encounters numerous challenges on his journey, readers are drawn into his world, rooting for him at every step.
Akjima Monnaf’s vibrant and full-of-life illustrations perfectly complement the charm and warmth of the story. Each page is a visual delight, adding depth and fun to Levi’s adventure. At its core, Levi’s story is a powerful testament to determination and friendship. The narrative’s compact size belies its profound message, which resonates deeply as Levi’s journey concludes with a brilliant and heartwarming resolution. This tale of a lone bug’s quest for belonging is both personal and universal, celebrating the indomitable spirit of pursuing one’s passion against all odds.
The Ballad of Levi Locust, by Janice Hostetter, has a genuine, heartfelt message. It’s a story that touches the heart and reminds us all of the importance of perseverance. This delightful children’s book is suitable for readers of all ages. Whether read aloud at home or shared in a group setting, Levi’s incredible journey offers fun and inspiration for everyone.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0D38FFC4Y
Sophie and the Swans
Sophie and the Swans, written by Holly Peppe and illustrated by Aeron Cargill, is a beautiful and meaningful children’s book that will leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages. This book follows a young and compassionate girl named Sophie who lives on Fernwood Lake and enjoys watching and feeding the swans there. Sophie has created a bond with the pair of swans she has named Romeo and Juliet. One day, she sees Romeo in distress and rushes to see what is wrong, only to find a strange boy on the shore throwing rocks at them. She stands up to the boy, telling him that swans do not like bullies. Later she meets a nice boy about her age and discovers the bully is his brother and her new neighbor.
This children’s book provides readers with facts about swans and teaches children how they can deal with bullies in an empathetic and positive way. Standing up to a bully is hard, but Holly Peppe has shown that it can, indeed, be done and done in a way that fosters understanding and compassion, teaching children that just because someone is rude or a bully does not mean they are not deserving of help and kindness.
Holly Peppe has written a story that shows people are capable of change when others model kindness and compassion despite negative behaviors and attitudes. Cargill’s vibrant illustrations allow younger children who cannot yet read to follow the story and grasp the message while bringing out the beauty of swans.
Sophie and the Swans is a valuable educational story for both children and adults. It shows the good in people and their ability to change. Peppe’s story empowers readers to stand up to bullies and defend those who cannot defend themselves, whether it be children or animals. This lovingly-penned children’s book would make the perfect addition to a school or home library.
Pages: 36 | ISBN : 1947187147
One-Of-A-Kind
In A Cat Named Puppy, a cat teased for his unusual name finds support from his brother and learns that his worth is not determined by others. Where did the idea for this story come from?
My real-life cat named Puppy was the inspiration. I wanted a dog but a friend of my brother’s cat just had a litter of kittens and she had to get rid of the kittens fast because her little girl was allergic to kitten hair so I took a cat instead of getting a dog. And I got my other cat Stitch about a year later.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Well, the real-life Puppy always had to deal with people commenting on his name and his weight he was a big boy. So I figured I could incorporate them into a story for children. And the idea is that although comments will be made in life as long as you realize you are special and one-of-a-kind. That should make you feel pretty good about yourself.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
When he chased the toy cars because he liked chasing hot wheel cars when he was younger. But all the scenes are special as Stitch passed away in July of 2023, and Puppy passed away in January 2024. It just makes the book more special to me.
What is next for Puppy? Do you have more books planned?
Well, I currently have a few like early reader first chapter book series they are A Cat Named Puppy Goes To School, A Cat Named Puppy Halloween Adventure, and A Cat Named Puppy And The Christmas Mystery. And I am currently working on another children’s book and it will be A Cat Named Puppy Learns About Colors.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
A Cat Named Puppy
James Breznicky’s A Cat Named Puppy is a heartwarming tale that beautifully illustrates the importance of self-esteem and embracing one’s unique identity. The story follows Puppy, a shy cat burdened by a name that makes him the target of teasing from other animals. Struggling with acceptance, Puppy feels isolated as even the dogs don’t see him as an equal. Puppy’s journey takes a turn for the better thanks to his supportive brother, Stitch, who helps him see beyond the hurtful words of others. Stitch’s encouragement reminds Puppy that there are those who care for him and that his worth isn’t determined by the opinions of others. Set in a loving home, the story underscores the critical role of a supportive environment in fostering self-confidence.
A Cat Named Puppy is an engaging story in which Puppy learns to shift his focus away from negative judgments and embrace the love and care around him. Many children will relate to Puppy’s struggle and find inspiration in his journey toward self-acceptance. The narrative conveys an essential life lesson: our differences make us unique, and recognizing the love we receive can bolster our self-esteem.
The book is enhanced by striking illustrations that use warm and comforting colors, particularly notable for their effective play of light and shadow. The inclusion of a photo of the real Puppy and Stitch at the end adds a delightful personal touch to the story. Breznicky’s writing style is simple and accessible, using short rhymes and clear ideas to communicate profound emotional truths. A Cat Named Puppy explores Puppy’s distress extensively, setting the stage for the uplifting message about the importance of developing a strong self-concept and embracing positivity.
A Cat Named Puppy remains a compelling story that also emphasizes the values of family unity and respect. It’s a book that will teach young readers to tap into their inner strength and celebrate what makes them unique.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0C2S71NT3
The Selfish Shellfish
The Selfish Shellfish is a charming and poignant tale about the transformative power of sharing and kindness. Set in a vibrant underwater world, this children’s book follows a shellfish who learns the hard way that selfishness leads to loneliness. Through colorful illustrations and rhythmic prose, Middlebrooks takes readers on a journey from isolation to community, highlighting the importance of empathy and friendship.
One of the standout aspects of The Selfish Shellfish is its engaging writing style. Author Carlos Middlebrooks crafts a whimsical narrative, making it accessible to young readers while also resonating with adults. The rhyming verses add a musical quality to the reading experience, which is particularly effective in maintaining the attention of children.
The book’s illustrations by Brent Plooster are colorful and cute. The vibrant artwork brings the underwater world to life, with each page offering something new and exciting for the eyes to explore. The depiction of the great Haylie tree, with its rainbow-hued branches and delicious fruits, is particularly mesmerizing and a beautiful symbol of the joy and abundance of sharing. The visual storytelling complements the text perfectly, making the emotional journey of the shellfish even more impactful.
One of the book’s most compelling parts is the Selfish Shellfish’s emotional transformation. His journey from being an isolated ruler in his self-made castle to a humbled participant in a vibrant community is handled with sensitivity and insight. The moment he realizes that “Marco Polo is more fun with a team” is both simple and profound, encapsulating the essence of the book’s message.
The Selfish Shellfish is a delightful and meaningful picture book for children and adults alike. Its beautiful illustrations and rhythmic storytelling make it an engaging read, while its message about the importance of sharing and community is timeless and essential. I highly recommend this book for parents looking for a story that combines entertainment with a valuable life lesson and for educators seeking a vibrant and thoughtful addition to their classroom library.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CLDM63NV
