Blog Archives
Acceptance Starts With Asking Questions
In Happy Thoughts: Going to the Aquarium, a young girl with autism overcomes her anxieties with the help of her friends when she visits the aquarium and makes a new friend. Why was this an important story for you to share?
It was important because it’s rare to see anything let alone a book from a child with Autism’s point of view. Also, it was because Emma does not use her mouth to talk; she uses her cards and writing. This is something not seen at all in the literary book world. I thought that should be changed. I wanted to children to see themselves in Emma and families to see their loved ones. There is something so magical in seeing yourself in a book, and I wanted to bring that to children and families.
Is there anything from your own life in the characters in Happy Thoughts?
Yes, I am very passionate about animals and animal conservation. What better way to encourage children to want to learn about animals than to write about a visit to the aquarium? In the book, some of my favorite marine animals are shown, too. There really are no books that show Beluga whales, and that was important to me. They are beautiful, smart, and silly creatures that I thought should be showcased.
What is one thing you hope young readers can take away from Emma’s experience?
There are many different ways to talk. Also, talking differently makes us beautiful. Embrace your friends and family members who may talk differently or have anything that makes them different. Or go up to the little different one and become friends with them. Ask your teachers how and about what Autism is. Acceptance starts with asking questions to learn.
What next book are you working on, and when will it be available?
The next book that will come out is called Mischievous Cat Brothers, and it is book two in the Cat Brothers series. It should come out this summer and will be illustrated by the amazing individuals of Brainstorm Productions. The younger brother will narrate it, Snowball, making it a bit more silly.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Amazon
Grab your copy of Award Winning author, Lisa Jacovsky’s Happy Thoughts: Going to the Aquarium today!
Magical Atmosphere
Whispers in the Breeze follows the mystery of the missing kings of the Wangoorie tribe and their fight to keep evil from taking over the tribe. What was the initial idea behind this story, and how did that transform as you were writing the novel?
The idea that I had to write Whispers in the Breeze was one of many reasons. It was always going to be a narrative with a lot of twists and turns and the unexpected with a splash of mystery. I wanted to express my ideas on how to be resilient and have the faith and strength to overcome any obstacles that life has thrown at you. Another is to educate in a positive way on how society is judgemental with the slightest imperfection in people who have a disability. Acceptance of yourself and a strong will to thrive and be successful in all that you do was a key message. Also having faith and love from your family is the most powerful weapon one has, and with that support, you can conquer the world.
Whispers started out with a boy with a disability in mind. Then I thought about what lessons he could learn and what troubles he could find himself in. The story was built around his character. While I worked in the primary school, I used my knowledge from one of our school’s teaching tools that helped build up students’ confidence. So I wanted to share that with others. The thoughts of good versus evil added to the storyline as well as a love story between the parents and the bond they shared as a family. Justice also played a huge part in the outcome for the family and their tribe. I first wanted to write 3 books. The first was all about Zengie and his mother Mallee. The second one was about his Father Wango and the third was about the three of them together. In the end, I changed it to three parts.
What was the inspiration for the culture of your characters? Is it modeled after any particular society?
The inspiration for the culture of the characters was formed in my mind by the beauty of the jungles and rainforests. The magical atmosphere of mists and the aromas of moist foliage reminded me of my childhood growing up near the mountains and the time we played as children hiding in the giant trees and vines of the rainforest. The cold trickling streams and waterfalls with the crisp breezes also became part of the story. I remember my imagination used to run wild with fairies and magical beings while in the mountains, also the eeriness of silence when you wandered away from the others and how scary thoughts would take over reality. This also formed part of the emotions in the characters. I modelled my tribes on a mixture of African tribes and their spiritual and religious beliefs as well as my own.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The important themes in the book were. Love, honour, loyalty, compassion, respect, resilience, and empathy. A think ‘outside the box’ and follow your heart and dreams. Life is full of highs and lows and how you deal with these become the person you are.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Currently, I am working on the next book called Shifting Sands. It is a continuing story of the Wangoorie people. This time the story is about Zengie’s sister Veelah and her struggles with depression and anxiety as she struggles with the loss of her mother Mallee and her inner self doubts as her psychic abilities grow stronger and more erratic. I don’t know how long it will take to write, but it is a work in progress.
Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When ancient traditions are broken, spirits are called upon. The ancestors are furious as their deep slumber is disturbed. To their despair, chaos, mayhem, and unjust, greet them on their resurrection. When the two rightful heirs mysteriously disappear, the scales of justice and order are off balance and unpredictable.
Wango and his son Zengie are of royal blood, destined to join the line of successors as their forefathers before them.
Wango and his wife Mallee were the protectors of Zengie and the Wangoorie tribe. Now, Mallee is alone, vulnerable, and in danger. Will she find strength and gain her freedom from the manipulative clutches of the evil Zulu?
Follow this intriguing mystery as trust is shattered and lives are ruined. Survival is the key to unlocking the past and building a future, where the foundations of the Wangoorie tribe depend on the survival of humanity.
Will balance and stability return to reclaim the peace and harmony of the Wangoorie people? Read on, and solve the mystery of the missing kings.
The Star Of This Book Uses A Wheelchair
Medieval Mashup follows a boy who is struggling with accepting himself and wants to fit in with the cool kids. What was the inspiration for your book?
The inspiration behind this and all my stories is my late son, Leigh. He was born with a physical disability and struggled many times to keep up with his peers from a very early age. The difficult situations Leigh, the character, encounters in these stories are loosley based around Leigh’s child-hood.
Leigh struggles with wanting to be cool and still be himself. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s personality?
Of course, the “real” Leigh, my son. He had a beautiful, shy caring nature and a little cheekiness about him which often surfaced when he was feeling confident. Unfortuantely, his lack of confidence with body image and mobility was always a major concern for him.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
It was important to highlight some of the issues that children with limited mobility face which other children and adult, may or may not have considered.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
Book 3 in Leigh’s Wheelie Adventures is currently in production and will again highlight another issue children with special needs may encounter.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Leigh’s Wheelie Adventure series continues with Medieval Mashup (Book 2).
A special book focusing on the challenges children with different needs face on a daily basis.
Leigh just wants to look brave and strong…
Leigh, Tara, and Cosmo are making costumes for the school’s Medieval Fair. But Leigh is afraid of looking silly and keeps snapping at his friends. Will Leigh overcome his fear of not looking cool and make up with his friends?
Based on the true story of Leigh who was born with a severe physical disability.
A beautifully illustrated story of courage, friendship, and fun.
QR Code on back cover to watch the full video and read along
Medieval Mashup
Medieval Mashup by Charlene McIver is about a boy named Leigh who wants nothing more than to win the school’s Medieval costume contest. Leigh is in a wheelchair and wants to prove that despite his disability, he can be cool, brave, and strong. His friends Cosmo and Tara try to help Leigh come up with ideas, but he doesn’t like any of them. Leigh gets angry with his friends for suggesting silly or impractical ideas for his wheelchair. Eventually, Leigh gets tired of their ideas and rolls outside for a few minutes to collect himself. After taking a break, Leigh realizes he needs to rethink and lets his friends help him come up with a fun costume that is funny and strong.
I love how Cosmo and Tara accept Leigh the way that he is and encourage him to embrace being himself. He is naturally silly, so he should not try and hide that part of himself or change just to fit in with the “cool” kids.
His friends accept his disability and do not treat him as less of a friend because of it. Instead, they try and include him in all their fun ideas, and when he mentions that he can’t do something because of his wheelchair, they problem-solve to come up with a solution that will work. The message to children that they can be creative and find solutions is excellent in a world where many people look for a quick answer.
This well-written picture book is illustrated by Caroline Keys, and is filled with images of inclusion, realistic situations, and expressive characters. As this children’s book focuses on emotions, seeing the characters’ faces so clearly helps young readers understand the feelings that Leigh and his friends are going through.
Medieval Mashup is a heartwarming picture book about inclusion, friendship, and confidence. The children in the story are relatable to young readers and will help them develop their own confidence and see what real friendship looks like.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 0648417883
The Silly Adventures of Petunia and Herman the Worm
Ever seen a worm with two arms, two hands, and a smiling face? Herman the worm is a unique creature, to say the least, and sadly, not many people are friendly towards this little guy. After scaring Ms. Walker so badly that she passes out and drives her car off the road, Herman is about to give up on humankind when he meets sweet Petunia and her father. The Silly Adventures of Petunia and Herman the Worm by Sam Baker follows an unlikely duo that come up with all sorts of shenanigans and have lots of laughs along the way.
This heartwarming story is absolutely wonderful. There are so many important messages in this book and life lessons that kids can learn from. Acceptance is the main message in this charming book. Many people try to get rid of Herman the moment they see him. Mr. and Mrs. James scream when Herman lands on their windshield, and they try whatever they can to get rid of him. Ms. Walker faints at the sight of Herman even though he smiles and waves, trying to look as friendly as possible. Only sweet and kind Petunia, who is not deterred by his appearance or strangeness, accepts him for who he is.
Another really amazing message in this book is change. Change is inevitable and scary. For kids, this is a lesson that’s learned the hard way. Herman goes through a big change and this scares Petunia, her father and their family friend, Emma. But it soon becomes clear that this is just a natural part of Herman’s lifecycle.
The illustrations by Ann Hess in the book remind me of classic children’s books like Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you see? The style is akin to realism using chalk or acrylic paints, and the grainy texture gives the pictures a more cartoony look. I like this style best when there is a lot of detail and focus on the subject of the illustration. A great example of this is the first illustration of Mr. Wilson, whose expression of admiration for his prize green tomato is very apparent in his raised eyebrows and pursed lips. I found it funny that Herman starts calling Emma’s Daddy, “Daddy” because that is what Emma refers to him as.
The Silly Adventures of Petunia and Herman the Worm is a light-hearted and well-meaning book. There are many life lessons for kids to learn through reading about Herman and his adventures.
Pages: 108 | ASIN : B07CRYXRRH
Developing the Human Spirit
Glenville Ashby Author Interview
In Anam Cara you speak of the ‘soul friend’ as the bridge to enlightenment and creativity. How did you discover your ‘soul friend’ and how has it helped in your life?
The soul friend can emerge at any point of time in your life. There is hardly a need to go out and seek a soul friend. Doing so makes the process artificial and inauthentic. There is a saying: When the student is ready the master will appear. This principle applies to the Anam Cara. There are times in our lives when we are challenged, tested and at the very point of folding someone appears to listen, to guide and counsel. The Anam Cara does not provide us with answers but his or her presence facilitates the learning process. Notable is that the Anam Cara is not a spirit guide or discarnate being. The key attribute of the Anam Cara is the power of listening and the ability to subtly guide others toward discovering their own truths.
I have been fortunate to have a number of Anam Caras and do believe that their presence in my life has accorded me the ability to experience and explore truths without criticism and condemnation.
In this audio book you guide readers through 42 confessions to the soul. Why do you think these are essential for spiritual growth?
The 42 confessions are comprehensive and pertain to every aspect of human consciousness. The principles are timless, cross-cultural and aim at developing the human spirit with virtue, righteousness and kindness.
How do you see Anam Cara working in conjunction with, or supplementing, Buddhist and Christian principles?
The Anam Cara is neither Christian nor Buddhist. In fact the Anam Cara is found in every culture and clime The Anam Cara can only strenghten the principles of the great faiths. I am here reminded of St Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises where the Anam Car is referred to as a confessor.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
My next book, “In Search of Truth: A Course in Religious Psychology” will be available in March 2018. It offers incredible insights into metaphysics, philosophy, religion and spirituality. The reader is encouraged to conduct his or her own research and to challenge the various themes presented. The subjects covered will no doubt stir debate.
Author Links: Twitter | Facebook | Website
![Anam Cara: Your Soul Friend and Bridge to Enlightenment and Creativity by [Ashby, Glenville]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51Y14utmKgL.jpg)
This essential reading teaches us how to transform our lives by showing gratitude, acceptance and forgiveness. Your Anam Cara or Soul Friend, or confessor is never is judgmental and facilitates this process by listening and listening.When we remove our psychic blockages and barriers we begin to experience the fathomless potential of our soul, the very source of creativity ad intuition. Eric Ober, media consultant and former President of CBS News, calls Anam Cara, “an inspirational book that will maximize our quality of life.”
A Journey That Can Take A Lifetime
Deborah Dolan Hunt Author Interview
Same Inside, Different Outside is a wonderful children’s book that teaches biology and promotes diversity. Why do you think this is an important message to teach children?
I’m a nursing professor and one of the courses I teach is on Culture and Cultural Concepts which has certainly changed my worldview. I thought I had a good understanding of the various cultures and their beliefs and practices, however, one of the big lessons I learned was that becoming culturally competent is a journey that can take a lifetime. This made me realize that we need to teach children at a very young age to celebrate their uniqueness yet understand how in many ways we are all very similar. As a nurse, I also believe that children need to learn about the inside and outside of their bodies and although some of the concepts may be difficult for a younger child it is never too early to start introducing concepts that can be built upon as they complete their educational journeys.
I loved the pictures in this book. What was the art direction like?
Thanks, I loved the pictures, too. I worked very closely with my illustrator. Initially, I placed notations throughout the manuscript detailing my ideas for the illustrations and where they should be placed. Xavier, of course, used his creative and artistic abilities to bring the illustrations to life. It was fun to collaborate with him on this project and we really worked well together. Final edits were completed based on the input of the Waldorf Publishing team which certainly strengthened the book.
What do you hope young readers take away from your story?
First, and foremost I hope the readers enjoy the story and want to read it over and over again. Secondly, I hope they begin to understand that although we are unique and look different on the outside we are also very similar, especially on the inside. Lastly, I hope they begin to understand how some of the major parts of their bodies work. And that skeletons are really not scary and are somewhat like superheroes because they protect all of our insides.
Will you be writing more kids books that tackle other social issues?
Yes, although I’m currently working on the second pug book I’m also in the early developmental stages of inviting the readers back to Emma’s kindergarten class where I will address other social issues that help children to understand that although in some ways we are very similar it’s okay to be different.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Instagram
Today is a very exciting day for Emma’s kindergarten class. Emma, Robert, and the rest of the student’s don t understand how they can all look so different on the outside, but look very similar on the inside. So Dr. Shaw is coming to visit, and she’s bringing Mr. Bones, who is a real life-size skeleton. Mr. Bones is going to help Dr. Shaw teach her lesson about the human body. Dr. Shaw has also brought a cool body screening machine with her so the children can see what their insides look like.
The Impact and Significance of Family
Allie Frost Author Interview
I’m With You is a gripping novel that follows young Remiel as she tries to evade assassins sent by her father to avenge the death of his wife. What was the inspiration for the setup to this thrilling novel?
Remiel is the backbone of the story – I had the idea for her character first, and the plot evolved from there. I’m With You is a very character-driven story in general, so once I established the basic plot, my ideas shifted around to fit the characters. I shaped their personalities and relationships, then molded the remainder of the plot to connect them and aid their development.
The book starts in the industrial city of Kelvar. I found this backdrop to be detailed and interesting. What did you use as a starting point to create such a vivid backdrop to the story?
I did a summer semester abroad in England during my college years and spent a lot of time in London, but I also traveled to several other cities and towns, and I drew a lot of inspiration from the places I visited. During my time there, I got to study history, architecture, writing, and various other subjects, which influenced the initial framework for Kelvar and the nation of Empirya. I also aimed for a less “modern” time period and took additional inspiration from 1930’s/40’s America. For Kelvar specifically, I drew from particular parts of both London and New York City.
The relationship between Remiel and her brother Ciarán is intriguing. What themes did you want to capture when creating these characters and their relationship?
One of the main messages I hoped to convey through the story is the impact and significance of family, which is partly expressed through the sibling bond between Ciarán and Remiel. Even when their lives are flipped completely upside down, they can always rely on one another. I also utilized their relationship to illustrate the theme of acceptance, as Ciarán accepts Remiel for who she is despite her “gift,” and that encourages him to accept others as well. In a way, I view their bond as the heart of the narrative, which serves to fortify their connections to the other characters.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I am working on a YA fantasy novel that will (hopefully) become a series, and I hope to put it out soon! I also have ideas for a potential companion novel to I’m With You – like a collection of short stories or something similar – but nothing set in stone.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
When fifteen-year-old Ciarán Morrigan eavesdrops on a conversation between his father and two mysterious strangers, his life–and the life of his little sister, Remiel–is changed forever. After their father makes a startling decision, the Morrigan siblings are forced to flee the only life they’ve ever known and embark on a dangerous adventure across the nation of Empirya. With the help of a disinherited vagabond, a cynical violinist, a fire-juggler with a fierce temper, an aspiring mechanic, and a cheerful librarian, Ciarán and Remiel must fight to escape those who have been hired to hunt them. But will Remiel’s dark secret prevent the Morrigan children from finding a place they can truly call home?
LITERARY TITAN 