Category Archives: Interviews
Intuitive and Non-Logical
Love’s Cauldron traces your path from childhood wounds and self-doubt toward awakening her “witch self,” a reclamation of intuition, creativity, and the divine feminine. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Writing Love’s Cauldron made me much more aware of how the feminine aspects of myself have been shaped and impacted by my family, our culture, and the world. It was only in writing the book and talking about what I had written that I fully realized that part of my identity (and sensitivity) was that of a Healing Witch. I had not fully understood the value of my feminine sides previously.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
In a world dominated by logic, it was vital for me to look at how specific feminine qualities have been demonized. The intuitive, those who channel, and the non-logical have been made suspect and sometimes punished by mainstream culture. I also wanted to share what an emotional healing journey looks and feels like.
What was the most challenging part of writing your memoir and what was the most rewarding?
I had wanted to write this book for years. But I had not been able to sense how to weave together the ideas that were percolating. It was challenging to write a non-linear book without losing the reader. It was satisfying to have the book come together and to see that, despite its unorthodox form, it worked. It was also rewarding to have readers let me know that it had a positive impact on them.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
I hope that the readers will affirm aspects of themselves that they have not fully claimed. I wish for them to understand more about themselves and about the necessity of these undervalued aspects of each of us.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Facebook Page | Website | Book Page
Jennifer J. Lehr, LMFT, shares her journey from emotional pain and disconnection to deep self-awareness and spiritual awakening. Weaving together memories, mystical understanding, and guidance from the unseen realms, she offers a path to reconnect with our intuition, compassion, and inner voice—qualities often lost in a world that favors logic over feeling.
Through powerful narratives and sacred incantations, Love’s Cauldron redefines the meaning of “witch” as someone who embraces all aspects of themselves and holds the power to transform not only their own life, but the world around them. This is a book for anyone who has ever felt marginalized, silenced, or spiritually disconnected—and who longs to come home to their wild, wise self.
Whether you’re healing from trauma, seeking spiritual connection, or curious about reclaiming your feminine power, this book will stir something ancient and true within you. The feminine is rising—and Love’s Cauldron is a call to remember, rejoice, and rise with it.
What Can Become Life Changing
Not Just Another Brick in the Wall! follows two fifteen-year-old students, a boy and a girl (Sky McCray and Cali Snipe), who just started high school and who find out that an older high school girl was kidnapped, raped, and murdered at the school last year. Cali thinks she can help solve the case. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Cali Snipe and Sky McCray had experience being kidnapped (events that happened in the previous three novels in the series). In those stories, a local crime boss had hoped to sell them to sex traffickers for a large sum of money. Using their wits and sometimes with the help of teen friends they were always able to escape, but they are knowledgeable of what fates awaited them if their sale to traffickers had transpired. Consequently, once made aware of the kidnapping and murder of a classmate, they are determined to expose the guilty perpetrator.
Sky had always been the primary creator of the method(s) for his and Cali’s escapes in the past, so this time I wanted Cali to have the limelight in solving this new kidnapping dilemma.
As in the previous novels, friends become crucial, this time for Cali’s ability to gain insight on the criminal responsible for the crime. However, it is her own courage, ingenuity, and her determination that eventually solve the mystery and helps her bring the pedophile to justice.
Cali and Sky are your typical teenagers when not investigating crimes. Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your characters’ life?
One emotion would be the pleasure of sharing concerns and humor with close friends. Even sharing homework assignments can be bonding and enjoyable and often outrageously humorous.
One memory of my teen days was mine and my friends’ constant curiosity about our budding interest in sexuality and our confusion regarding our sexuality. Accurate information about relationships between males and females was not available to teens when I was in high school. Teens could not even take a book from the local library to read if it contained “adult” material.
I wanted to focus on both these issues for teens in my books. I wanted to highlight the joy of sharing daily experiences, mundane or otherwise, with friends. When we look back on our teen years as adults, we realize how precious and rewarding were those moments. I also wanted to include accurate and timely information on human sexuality that some of my teen readers might be seeking. I also hoped that some parent readers would realize the importance of offering tactful but accurate and enriching advice on sexual issues.
Do you think there’s a single moment in everyone’s life, maybe not as traumatic, that is life-changing?
Absolutely. Sometimes it can be a traumatic or dramatic event like a car or airplane crash or an unexpected health issue or the death of a close relative. Or it could be something as inconspicuous as something someone says to you like a teacher saying you will never learn to write well or solve math problems, or a friend saying to you that it was so out-of-character for you for the despicable way you treated another person. What is then lifechanging is not the event or what was said but how you respond to it. Your positive response to the event is what can become life changing.
What will the next book in that series be about and when will it be published?
The book is already written and published: Facing Revenge. Once again, as in most of the earlier books in the series, both Cali and Sky are instrumental in their own way in facing a challenge, a traumatic event, and finding a successful resolution. Assistance from friends is also crucial to their “survival”.
As in the earlier books, other events typical of teen life occur. Cali, Sky, and friends cope with typical teen situations with humor and with comradery.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Unfortunately, along with the excitement of adjusting to a new school environment, Cali and Sky discover that last year a student was abducted, raped, and murdered. The police investigation is at a standstill. Because of her history with kidnapping, Cali believes she might find some answers to the murder mystery. She drags Sky into her quest. Will Cali’s involvement in the murder open Cali to being a victim herself? Cali and Sky may be new to Parkington High, but they are not new to danger.
ASL Nurtures Relationships
My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere With Me follows a little boy who loves monster trucks and, after a day of playing at Grandma’s house, discovers his favorite truck is missing. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for my story came from my then-three-year-old grandson, whose boundless love for monster trucks sparked the idea. Every day, we played together—building ramps, creating challenges, and laughing joyfully. We took monster trucks everywhere. We cheered monster trucks and their drivers at our county fair’s Monster Truck Shows.The sounds of roaring engines filled our hearts with excitement.
When I had the opportunity to write a story for a contest, I quickly drafted a tale celebrating Dylan’s joy. As I wrote, I experienced an “ah-ha” moment; this was the perfect story I had longed to share since earning my Bachelor of Arts in Deaf Community Studies from Madonna University. During a class assignment, we were tasked with selecting a picture book and using our ASL skills to sign it. I went straight to the library, hoping to find a book featuring children using sign language. I was shocked to discover that there were none available.
This realization highlighted a crucial need for a children’s book that represents children and families using ASL.
That realization became the foundation for my award-winning picture book, My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere with Me – Illustrated in American Sign Language, to fill that gap.
And so, the rest of the story unfolded, reflecting not just our play but a vision for inclusive storytelling.
This activity book seamlessly integrates ASL into the story and activities, making learning fun while providing an inclusive experience for children. How did you decide what activities to include in your book?
Thank you for the kind words about our Monster Truck fun! ASL is an untapped resource with limitless potential, and learning should be a playful and enjoyable experience. Many ideas came directly from children during author visits, where they enthusiastically shared how they use ASL in their daily lives, whether it’s counting or signing to friends. Their excitement inspired me to explore how ASL could enhance play and learning, leading to the creation of our new 77-page My Monster Truck… Coloring and Activity Book.
To enrich the original story, we added time-telling activities using ASL numbers and included mazes for their fun and problem-solving aspects. I aimed to cater to all children, offering simple coloring for younger kids and engaging challenges for first- and second-graders, ensuring success and joy at every level.
With the help of Sue Mohr from The Inner Vizion, we drafted pages in Canva that included trucks, houses, and everyday scenes from My Monster Truck Series, along with matching games, math, journaling prompts, and coloring activities. Alexa Ang from Saflor Graphic Design Services then polished the pages, creating a natural flow alongside My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere with Me, illustrated in ASL.
The variety of activities invites children to explore their creativity and connection through language. My goal is to make learning ASL fun, meaningful, and a journey of discovery for every child, allowing them to build on their strengths while gently challenging them to grow.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Our My Monster Truck… Coloring and Activity Book is crafted to challenge children aged 3 to 8 across various subjects. Whether your child enjoys creative activities or has a knack for math, our book strikes a perfect balance. It gives kids the chance to explore different areas and succeed. One of our main goals is to foster a love for learning by offering activities that appeal to a wide range of interests, whether in the arts or mathematics.
A significant element of our educational approach centers around the benefits of American Sign Language (ASL). In our blog at ASL Picture Books, we frequently highlight how ASL boosts language skills, enriches vocabulary, enhances cognitive abilities, and fosters respectful relationships. With 95% of children born deaf coming from hearing families, it’s essential to emphasize that early access to any language—spoken or signed—is crucial for a child’s development.
A recent heartfelt email from a mother of newborn twins born deaf shared how our book impacted her family’s perspective. Initially filled with uncertainty, her hearing family found comfort in the relatable characters of My Monster Truck… Coloring and Activity Book, who communicate using sign language. As they worked through their hesitations, they embraced ASL, opening new communication channels and deepening their bond with their children. This journey highlights how ASL nurtures relationships and deepens the love that grows when families embrace their unique journeys.
The activities in our book are thoughtfully designed to cater to children of various ages and skill levels. For instance, the mazes are simple enough for younger kids, while the math challenges cater to those looking for something a bit more challenging. Feedback from my five-year-old twins confirms this approach, as they excitedly announced that the mazes were “way too easy!” Meanwhile, our eight-year-old dove into the math problems first.
We wholeheartedly invite families to explore our My Monster Truck… Coloring and Activity Book at ASL Picture Books. It’s a delightful way for children to learn through fun stories and engaging activities while developing empathy and respect for the DHH community.
Will this book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
Yes, there’s more to come! I’m currently working on another story — something a little silly and full of heart. Expanding the Monster Truck series is definitely a possibility, as families and teachers continue to share how much their children love it.
Each project I create shares the same goal: to inspire curiosity, build connection, and celebrate the beauty of ASL. Together, we can open more hearts and minds to the limitless potential of language and love.
If you’re interested in staying updated on upcoming projects or want to learn more about the Monster Truck series, visit ASLPictureBooks.com. You can also download our free ASL Starter Kit, filled with an alphabet chart, signing basics, and coloring pages — a great way to start learning and sharing ASL at home or in the classroom.
And don’t forget to join our email list for sneak peeks, exclusive content, and exciting updates. What kinds of stories would you like to see next? Your feedback is invaluable!
Thank you, Literary Titan, for this wonderful opportunity to share our new My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere with Me – Coloring and Activity Book with you. We are truly honored by your thoughtful review and grateful for your support in celebrating inclusive stories and the limitless potential of ASL!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | X | Instagram | LinkedIn
This little boy loves monster trucks and playing at Grandma’s house! But after an exhausting day with his big, purple, and loud favorite toy, he’s devastated to discover the shiny truck is gone!
Is it hiding somewhere? Did he leave it at Grandma’s? Will he ever see his beloved best friend again?
In this delightfully engaging story with stunning illustrations and familiar themes, Kathleen Marcath invites young readers to interact by using American Sign Language along with the characters in the book. And with 32 ASL signs shown in easy-to-understand images, downloadable educational sheets, and a QR code for ASL video lessons, kids will spark their bilingual journey through a colorful and powerful resource.
My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere with Me – Illustrated in American Sign Language is a beautiful children’s picture book. If you or your child like overcoming relatable problems, learning new things, and feel-good entertainment, then you’ll adore Kathleen Marcath’s happy ride.
Buy My Monster Truck Goes Everywhere with Me to zoom into adventure today!
A Kirkus Starred Review and Best Indie Book of 2021!
The Power of Human Connection
Washington follows a ninth-grader navigating the chaos of high school, who, after transferring to a new school, finds a group of friends and starts to build a new normalcy, until it is shattered by the sound of gunshots. What made you write a story about this topic?
The story had actually been rolling around my brain since I myself was in high school. Columbine happened when I was in freshman year, and kind of stuck with me throughout sophomore, junior and senior year. I used to walk around the halls and wonder what would I do if that happened? Where would I go? What if one of my friends was being bullied? Going there in my mind over the years created many different mixed feelings. On the one hand, it is of course a dark taboo topic and very tragic. On the other hand, it could also be a beautiful concept and very pure when paired with the strength of spirit and the power of human connection. I wanted to try to dissect all of this darkness and light through a sweeping romance with pulsing action and painful drama, all at the same time.
In many contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in this story?
I had a group of friends, like in the book. I transferred schools in my freshman year, like in the book. I also used to doodle and draw a lot. I used to go to the arcade and comic book shop after school. So, there’s many bits and pieces from my life and from people I know. But whenever I sit down to write, I never do an exact replica of myself or anybody else. Rather, I kind of Frankenstein together different composite sketches. I remix reality in a sense to fit my narrative, to better idealize a character, and to emphasize personality and contrast. It leads to an immersive experience writing it so my goal is to also lead to an immersive experience reading it.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One of the first things I remember thinking before I committed to writing this was how much I missed that younger period in my life. I missed the innocence of it. Being such close friends, you would put your arm around one another. Having nothing else to do, but to hang out and joke and have fun. So, friendship definitely was one theme. Falling in love was another, and especially first love. I thought it was interesting to explore crushes and liking one another. At the time when Columbine happened, the news outlets really blamed video games and movies and music, which bothered me quite a lot. Those were the games that we all played. Those were the movies we all watched. That was the music we all listened to. Because so many others enjoyed those things and went on to be perfectly normal and fine, I guess I wanted to counter that and examine what would really drive someone to do something so horrific in the end.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Washington?
For me, this project began as part of my practicing how to write. I never intended to try to publish a book like WASHINGTON since it is so controversial. I was gonna keep it in a drawer somewhere if agents and publishers were ever pressing me for more. However, something magical sparked on the page, and I couldn’t hide it from the world. My aim was to walk the fine line between authenticity but not glorify anything, to keep it neutral and universal, and focus on the characters in the attack, not the attacker. I want readers to go back in time, to fall in love again and have those kinds of friends again. I’ve taken many Asian literature classes and the best part was always the discussion and reflection. So, finally, I hope that there are plenty of deep talks and deep thinking long after the last page.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | X | Website
Before that dreaded day, Evan is a new transfer to Washington High School, where he’s reunited with his best friends from childhood. He’s a typical slacker who would rather sketch and daydream than pay attention in class, waiting for the bell to ring so he can go to the arcade and comic book shop after school. When he meets Judith, who aims for perfection and top honors, they slowly grow closer and closer. Evan is unsure how he feels, if he fits in or what he wants out of life. And before he can think things through, he finds out a new member of his group of friends is being bullied…
Now, Evan runs through the hallways, building to building. Where is Judith? Can he find her in time? And why does something about the shooter seem so familiar?
* * *
WASHINGTON is a former NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) project and was crowdfunded through Indiegogo. It features an Asian American love interest, geek humor and easter egg references to 90s and 2000s movies, music, video games, comic books, anime and manga. A portion of all profit goes to various charities.
A Deeply Personal Look
Nothing So Broken is a heartfelt memoir that weaves together family, friendship, and the long-lasting effects of war across generations. Why was this an important book for you to write?
This is a deeply personal book for me on multiple levels. My father was a Vietnam Veteran, and for most of my life I had little understanding of what he—and so many others—had endured. They rarely spoke about their experiences. Instead, they carried their trauma quietly, doing their best to protect their families and communities from the weight of it. It wasn’t until I began writing this story that I realized just how profoundly the Vietnam War had shaped my father’s life and, in turn, my own. With the remaining Vietnam Veterans now reaching their final years, preserving their stories feels more urgent than ever. We need to remember, to bear witness, and to ensure we never repeat the same mistakes as a nation.
I also wrote this book to honor a family that has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. The father served three tours in Vietnam and one in Korea, while the mother raised five boys at home. I still don’t know which of them had the harder job. During my turbulent adolescence, the second youngest son became like a big brother to me. When he was twenty-one, he was crippled in an industrial accident, a tragedy that shook their family and our entire community. His life, and the lives of his parents, were forever changed. This book is my way of honoring their resilience, sacrifice, and the decades-long struggle they’ve carried with grace. I hope this memoir gives them the recognition they deserve.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to show that wars don’t end with treaties or proclamations. They end in living rooms, hospitals, and family histories and their consequences echo through generations. The Vietnam War is a powerful example of this because of the long-lasting physical effects of Agent Orange. Even fifty years after the war officially ended, it still shapes my life every single day.
I also wanted to explore what perseverance looks like in its most extreme forms. Traumatic Brain Injury. Agent Orange poisoning. These aren’t the kinds of challenges most people encounter, and yet some individuals face them head-on. While writing the book, I was dealing with my own struggles and found myself constantly thinking about my father and my friend—how they managed to survive, and even rebuild, despite profound and permanent disabilities. Their resilience continues to inspire me, and I hoped to share that strength with readers.
What was the most challenging part of writing your memoir, and what was the most rewarding?
The most challenging part of writing my memoir was weaving together three stories across three different timelines. Abigail Thomas’s brilliant memoir, A Three Dog Life showed me that I didn’t need to be rigid about time or sequence. I could move back and forth between moments in each story to create a natural rhythm for the reader. Narrative flow mattered far more than strict chronology. Still, when the book came out, I worried that the shifts in time might confuse readers. So far, no one has had trouble following it.
The most rewarding part has been the response from my family, friends, and community. Many readers now see the love and respect I have for my father and my childhood neighbors. On a broader level, it has also been rewarding to hear from folks who are learning about the Vietnam War, and how poorly our veterans were treated for decades afterward. Being able to help share their plight—and to honor my father’s experiences in particular—has been profoundly gratifying. I’m very grateful that he trusted me with his story.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
I hope readers come away with a deeper understanding of resilience. We all face challenges. Most are the everyday struggles that, in their own way, help us grow and move forward. But every so often, life hits harder than we can withstand. Something breaks. Our plans are demolished, our sense of self is shaken, and we’re left standing in the wreckage asking, “What now?”
I hope my story offers a meaningful look at how two people confronted that moment and found their way through it.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
In the fall of 1990, Steven Bott was finishing up a day at work when the unthinkable happened. Several weeks later he woke up in a hospital bed with no memory, physically and cognitively crippled. He was 21 years old.
These stories are connected through Chris Richards, Larry’s oldest son and Steven’s close childhood friend. The immense challenges that followed both men would haunt Chris, shaping his life. It wouldn’t be until many years later, when faced with his own crisis, that he would be able to look past his fears and grief and find inspiration within their broken lives.
Recommended by US Review of Books
Literary Titan gold award
Change The Course of Lives and Worlds
“Gods and Guardians II” follows three friends pulled through a portal onto an Elvish starship, where Samuel is later captured on an alien world and sold into slavery, and Authur must choose to save him or free a planet from an alien race that has enslaved the native human race. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for “Gods and Guardians II” stems from the profound moral themes of doing the right thing and the enduring power of friendship and loyalty. At its core, the story explores the difficult choices one must face when loyalty to a friend conflicts with the greater good.
As Arthur grapples with the decision to save his captured friend Samuel or to take action against the alien race enslaving a planet’s native human population, the narrative highlights the strength of their bond and the sacrifices that true friendship demands. This moral dilemma not only drives the plot forward but also serves to illustrate the complexities of loyalty in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Ultimately, the story aims to resonate with readers by showcasing how friendships can inspire courage and lead individuals to confront injustice, underscoring the belief that doing the right thing, even when it’s challenging, is a powerful act that can change the course of lives and worlds.
Question: Arthur is torn between saving Samuel and helping free the enslaved human homeworld. How did you balance these competing drives?
Balancing Arthur’s competing drives to save Samuel and help free the enslaved human homeworld involved me creating a nuanced narrative that allowed him to navigate his moral dilemma while emphasizing the emotional stakes of both choices.
To achieve this balance, I focused on developing Arthur’s character deeply, showcasing his internal conflict through his thoughts, feelings, and interactions with others. By illustrating his strong bond with Samuel, readers can feel the weight of their friendship and the urgency behind his desire to rescue him. At the same time, I highlighted the plight of the enslaved humans, creating empathy for their suffering and the moral imperative to act on their behalf.
The story incorporates moments of reflection for Arthur, where he weighs the consequences of each choice, allowing readers to see his struggle unfold. Engaging secondary characters also provided different perspectives, challenging Arthur’s views and pushing him to confront his values.
Additionally, the plot presented situations where Arthur’s decisions impact both Samuel’s fate and the larger struggle for freedom, reinforcing the interconnectedness of his choices. By intertwining these narratives, the balance between saving a friend and fighting for a greater cause becomes a poignant exploration of loyalty, sacrifice, and the complexities of heroism.
This approach not only drives the story forward but also enriches the moral themes, ultimately leading to a powerful resolution that reflects the profound impact of friendship and the importance of standing up for what is right.
Question: What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Answer: In “Gods and Guardians II,” several themes were crucial to explore, each contributing to the depth and complexity of the narrative:
- Friendship and Loyalty: The bond between Arthur and Samuel serves as a cornerstone of the story. Their friendship showcases how deep connections can inspire individuals to act selflessly, even in the face of daunting challenges. This theme emphasizes the idea that true loyalty often requires difficult choices and sacrifices.
- Moral Dilemmas: The conflict between personal loyalty and the greater good is central to the plot. Arthur’s struggle to choose between saving his friend and liberating an oppressed planet highlights the complexities of morality and the weight of our decisions. This theme invites readers to reflect on their own values and the implications of their choices.
- Courage and Sacrifice: The characters are faced with situations that require bravery, not just in battle but in standing up for what is right. The willingness to sacrifice personal desires for the sake of others reinforces the notion that true heroism often lies in the courage to fight against injustice.
- Freedom and Oppression: The theme of freedom is explored through the plight of the enslaved human population. The story examines the consequences of oppression and the importance of fighting for one’s rights and dignity, allowing for a broader commentary on societal issues.
- Identity and Growth: As Arthur navigates his journey, he undergoes significant character development. The challenges he faces force him to confront his beliefs, values, and sense of self. This theme of personal growth illustrates how experiences shape individuals and lead to greater understanding and empathy.
These themes intertwine to create a rich narrative that resonates with readers, encouraging them to consider the complexities of friendship, morality, and the fight for justice.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Yes, there will indeed be a follow-up novel to “Gods and Guardians II: Escape from Durgurrum,” titled “Gods and Guardians III,” set for release in 2026. This next installment will continue to delve into Arthur’s journey as he strives to fulfill his destiny.
In “Gods and Guardians III,” the story will focus on several key aspects:
- Training on the Elvish Homeworld: Arthur, Samuel, and Jared will undergo rigorous training on the Elvish homeworld, where they’ll learn not only combat skills but also the rich history and culture of the Elvish people. This training will challenge them physically and mentally, deepening their understanding of their roles in the larger conflict and preparing them for the trials ahead.
- Exploring Magical Powers: A significant focus of their training will be uncovering their own magical powers. As they delve into their abilities, they will learn about the unique gifts each of them possesses and how these powers can be harnessed in their fight against oppression. This exploration will also introduce them to the **Fellowship of the Trinity**, an ancient alliance that embodies the balance of magic, strength, and wisdom, guiding them in their journey.
- Arthur’s Family Plight: The narrative will also follow Arthur’s mother and sister as they navigate their journey to the Emerald Lake. Their storyline will highlight themes of survival, resilience, and the bonds of family, as they face their own set of challenges in a dangerous world. This parallel plotline will create tension and emotional stakes, connecting Arthur’s journey with that of his family.
- Confronting New Threats: As Arthur and his friends gain strength and knowledge, they will encounter new adversaries and obstacles that test their resolve. The emergence of these threats will heighten the urgency of their mission and force them to confront the darker forces at play in their universe.
- Exploration of Identity and Destiny: The book will delve deeper into Arthur’s character development, exploring his struggle with his identity and the weight of his destiny. As he trains and faces new challenges, he will grapple with what it truly means to be a hero and how his choices impact those he cares about.
- Themes of Sacrifice and Choice: Continuing from the previous book, the themes of sacrifice and moral choice will be further examined as characters make pivotal decisions that will affect their futures and the fate of their world.
Overall, “Gods and Guardians III” promises to expand the rich universe established in the earlier books while exploring new dimensions of character growth, magical discovery, family dynamics, and the complexities of heroism.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Leave Them a Legacy
The Tralls of Nindarry follows two ordinary children who, while visiting their grandparents, discover a hidden realm of magical beings called the Tralls and wind up on an epic quest. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Fantasy is a wonderful genre that exercises our brains and encourages us to think outside the box.
Young people today are often presented with a world facing shattering crises and heroes that save it by blowing up the invaders or performing dangerous and unbelievable stunts.
I wanted to introduce my readers to the beauty of nature and the dangers it faced. I also wanted them to realize they could be the heroes who save it for future generations to enjoy – not by engaging in incredible feats of daring or strength but by making small changes that could have a great impact.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
The tralldoms were modelled on Badu Island, where we once lived and where we were very happy.
The setting of this story is my beloved Mt Ninderry. A beautiful mountain, shaped like a resting lion, and filled with an abundance of Australia’s amazing flora and fauna.
Of course, I needed to change some facets of the setting to accommodate the plot as it developed.
What is your background and experience in writing, and how did it help you write The Tralls of Nindarry?
I was a classroom teacher for many years, and I took classes as well in Drama, Digital Storytelling, and Creative Writing.
I also enjoyed entertaining my classes with stories of the brave tralls fighting to save their ancestral lands, but I was always careful not to impinge on the myths and legends of the traditional residents.
When I retired, I became The Storyteller and entertained children with my themed stories both locally and internationally, and I realised that even in this digital age, children love to be told stories.
When I had my own grandchildren, I wanted to leave them a legacy, so I combined some of my stories into a book and based the main characters, Bella and Gemayn, on them.
What story are you currently in the middle of writing?
My stories are complete. There are five published books in the Trall Series:
The Tralls of Nindarry
The Tralls of Mundi
The Tralls of Maruchus
The Tralls of Colum
The Tralls of Nosa
Each one covers an environmental problem impacting our natural world.
I hope these books will make young people more aware of the beauty and importance of our precious flora and fauna, and encourage them to become real heroes by taking care of their own natural environment.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Suddenly, the tralls are forced to go to war to save their ancestral lands from the evil Mr. Handley and Gemayn and his grandmother are trapped in the tralldom. During their enforced stay, Gemayn uncovers a long-held secret that links his family to the tralls. Could it shatter the emerging friendship between Gemayn, Bella, and the tralls, or will it destroy the bonds of trust that have always existed between them and their beloved grandparents?
The Tralls of Nindarry, written by emerging author Gayle Torrens, is the first book in The Trall Series; a collection of five portal fantasies set in Australia. It explores the concepts of intergenerational relationships, trust, loyalty, self-confidence, and environmental issues.
In 2024, The Tralls of Nindarry was awarded a Golden Wizard Book Prize for a fantasy book written for eight to twelve-year-old readers.
It Was All In Brawl
The Visitors follow two shapeshifting aliens observing Earth, who are horrified by what they see and travel back in time to try and intervene and save humanity. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I wanted to write a story about my pet Dax. Aa the story evolved and I added Ptoni the Pteranodon my brain wandered off on a tangent and I decided to follow the anti-religion direction.
Your characters are diverse: two alien shapeshifters, a Maine Coon, an Adelie penguin, a cow, and even a Pteranodon, all working together. What was your approach to writing the interactions between characters?
It was an all in brawl. Each scene is written fly on the wall and the characters pretty much write themselves.
Is there any moral or idea that you hope readers take away from the story?
As Ptoni says in the closing chapters “Religion Your time is up.”
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Clearing my desk of two new books. (Adult Fiction – very adult concepts) and then I’ll enjoy the fun of ” The Visitors Book 2. It will take a critical look at religion, but it will be from a different angle.
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