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Have Fun With Your Fandom
How to Celebrate Your Fandom is an interactive guidebook structured around 52 activities designed to help fans of any age dive deeper into their chosen fandoms, showing readers that you are never too old to find your passion. What was the inspiration for the original and fascinating idea at the center of the book?
NICHOLAS SEIDLER: We had an experience at a convention, in which we went to a panel on fanzines, and the presenters at the front of the room were talking about how difficult it is to make one. I was honestly totally disappointed in the panel, because doing a fanzine is as simple as writing down your thoughts on a piece of paper, making copies of it, and sharing it with others who are interested in the same topic. The point of entry should be so simple and available to everyone, but the fanzine editor presenters — in an attempt to make themselves a bit self-important – were giving bad advice to the audience. It actually demotivated the new and younger fans in attendance. After that panel, we had a conversation about how we needed to give fans better advice and encourage anyone to be a part of whatever fandom they are interested in!
STEVEN WARREN HILL: Together, we all became friends through our shared interest in several fandoms. We sought to express our enthusiasm for promoting “best practices” among fans by fostering positivity, encouragement, representation, and camaraderie, while rejecting the negative aspects of certain portions of fandom.
LIBBY SHEA: When I was brought into the project, the original idea for the title was “How to Be a SuperFan.” To me, that felt like we were setting a “higher level” of fan, which could very easily be used to separate and discourage those that may already feel excluded. All I could think of is 8-year-old me being told “Oh, you aren’t a superfan because you haven’t done everything in the book” and that set a negative tone for something that we all wanted to be very positive. So, we transitioned away from putting a label on fans to focusing on how to be more involved in what you enjoy. All of us (the authors) have become friends by being in the same fandom and celebrating what made our friendship as strong as it is, is the core of what inspired this book.
ROBERT WARNOCK: We’ve seen too much negativity in fandom over the years. We wanted to write something that was inclusive and non-judgmental, especially if someone was just starting out in their fandom.
What were some ideas that were important for you and the other writers to share in this book, and how did you come up with the activities you suggest?
ROBERT WARNOCK: It was important to keep the activities at the beginning fairly simple, so we didn’t intimidate new fans. We started thinking of activities in a brainstorming session at a convention.
LIBBY SHEA: Because this is a book aimed primarily at kids, teenagers, and those just entering into the fandom space, we really wanted it to be a guide of how to be an overall positive influence in fandom. So often you hear of fans taking it too far and forgetting that everyone they interact with are still people. The activities are there to give you a starting place. We originally came up with over 100 ideas, but wanted to focus on 52, so that you could do one a week for a year and allow yourself to deep dive into your fandom. They are in order from easiest to (our perceived) most difficult to complete. When coming up with our final list of ideas, we tried to keep in mind what it would actually look like for a younger child to complete them. We kept the ideas generic enough so that if you had limited money or resources, you could still have fun and feel like you’re a part of something.
STEVEN WARREN HILL: Coming up with the ideas was a lot of fun. Some of the ideas stemmed from odd things we did ourselves when younger. Once we had a long list of ideas, we grouped them in several different ways (such as by difficulty, and how much we liked each one) and also eliminated the ones that were too similar to others. As Libby said, we decided the final list should number 52, so they could be weekly goals, adding another functional facet to the book.
NICHOLAS SEIDLER: We also realized that fandom was a very broad topic – and we wanted to give advice that applies to them all. Whether someone is a bibliophile, a sci-fi fan, interested in gaming, likes to cheer for a sports team, enjoys horseback riding, music, or whatever, the advice in the book applies to their interests. We chose to select activities that everyone can do, regardless of ability, and they become more complex further into the book, as a person’s fandom and experience grows.
What are some tips you have for older generations that are just now learning to embrace the world of fandom and feel behind the curve from the younger generations, or even like a fraud for not being involved sooner?
LIBBY SHEA: It’s okay that you found your fandom when you did. It’s not about younger or older, and it’s not about how long you’ve been in the fandom. Everyone walks different paths to get to where they are. What matters is how you show up to engage today. Feel safe and confident in the knowledge that you are a fan now and that’s all that matters.
STEVEN WARREN HILL: I used to bristle somewhat at younger people joining the same fandom that I’ve been in for decades, for the usual flawed reasons, until I realized that without young people joining my fandom, the fandom would just keep aging until it died. We need to remember, first and foremost, that if someone says they are a fan of something, then they ARE, even if they enjoy it in a different way. Conversely, for older people who have privately been fans of something and are only just stepping into fandom, my number one tip is to treat all your fellow fans as equals, regardless of anything, especially their age or the extent of their knowledge.
ROBERT WARNOCK: It’s never too late to get started. Your involvement can be as immersive as you want it to be. Be observant early on in your involvement to get a lay of the land, so to speak.
NICHOLAS SEIDLER: Be your authentic self. If you love something, own it – most people will love you for it. It’s our interests and fandoms that make us interesting.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from How to Celebrate Your Fandom?
LIBBY SHEA: Everyone has to start somewhere. When you finally get to the point of feeling fully immersed in your fandom, embrace others who are just starting out, pass this along to them, and join in their journeys.
ROBERT WARNOCK: That anyone can be involved in whatever fandom they choose, at whatever level they choose.
STEVEN WARREN HILL: That it’s okay to focus on positivity! Not just the positivity of your specific interest, but positivity among your fellow fans and across other fandoms.
NICHOLAS SEIDLER: And have fun. We interviewed over 30 fans from ages 5 to 101 years old (their interviews appear in the book) and that was the advice they each shared with us — have fun! I think that’s what our book is all about.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Fandoms build friendships and communities through many engaging activities. With the help of this book, you can learn new ways to enjoy being a fan. Inside are numerous pathways that one can connect with others with similar pursuits! Whether it is through starting a collection, dressing in cosplay, writing a blog, or attending a convention, each of these brings happiness to those who participate.
This book also contains interviews with fans of all ages (5 to 101), who tell their stories and share how they participate in their hobbies. Celebrate your fandom and the things that you enjoy the most! Fun Things to Do! New Things to Learn! Cool Things to Try!
How To Celebrate Your Fandom
How to Celebrate Your Fandom is both a guidebook and a love letter to the communities that form around shared passions. It is structured around 52 activities designed to help fans of any age dive deeper into their chosen interests. From writing an elevator speech about your fandom, to hosting watch parties, making crafts, or even creating charity projects, the book celebrates creativity, connection, and joy. The later sections include interviews with fans of all ages and backgrounds, showing just how wide and welcoming fandom culture can be. The tone is encouraging, lighthearted, and inclusive, with constant reminders that there is no “wrong” way to be a fan.
I loved the spirit of this book. It feels like a big hug from the fandom world, the kind of thing that makes you smile while reading. The writing is simple, but it’s clear that the authors want everyone to feel included and safe. I especially liked the emphasis on kindness and respect, because fandoms can sometimes get messy. The little tasks are fun and surprisingly practical. Even something as small as decorating a bag with fan art or sending someone a compliment reminded me of why I fell in love with my own fandoms in the first place. It’s not just about stuff. It’s about joy, and that comes across on every page. The charming sketch artwork scattered through the book gives it a playful, handmade feel that makes the whole thing warmer and more inviting.
Some of the activities, like “put a photo of your fandom on your phone wallpaper,” made me smile because I already do that without thinking twice. But then I realized that’s part of its charm. The book isn’t about reinventing fandom, it’s about celebrating even the small things. It’s almost childlike in tone, but there’s a sincerity here that cuts through cynicism, and in a world that’s often harsh, that kind of sincerity is refreshing.
I think this book would be a wonderful fit for younger fans just starting out, or for families who want to share fandom activities together. It’s also a sweet pick for anyone feeling jaded and looking for a reminder of why being a fan matters. If you’ve ever cheered too loudly at a game, cried at a show finale, or stayed up way too late talking about your favorite character, you’ll find something here that sparks a smile. It’s not heavy reading, but it is heartwarming, and sometimes that’s exactly what we need.
Pages: 135 | ASIN : B0DGN4VSLK
Social-Emotional Learning
Liam’s Lost Sparkle follows a young girl excited for Art Day at school who discovers a classmate is sad because his best friend has moved, so she offers to help him complete the rocket ship that his friend had been building. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration came from those small but powerful moments in childhood when empathy shines the brightest. I wanted to capture that magic—the way kids notice when someone’s feeling left out or sad and instinctively want to help. The idea of Art Day felt perfect because creativity brings people together, and something as simple as finishing a rocket ship can feel like rebuilding a broken world for a child. I kept thinking, what if one small act of kindness could light up someone’s whole world again? That thought became the heart of Liam’s story.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
One of my biggest goals was to weave social-emotional learning naturally into the story. I wanted children to see empathy in action—not as a lesson being taught, but as a choice that feels good and makes a difference. Friendship, kindness, and teamwork were essential themes because they’re real-life skills kids need every day. I also wanted to show problem-solving—how helping someone isn’t about having all the answers, but about caring enough to try. If kids walk away thinking, “I can be a helper too,” then I’ve done my job.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I absolutely loved writing the scene where the classroom transforms into a creative wonderland for Art Day. There’s this buzz of excitement—paint splashing, glitter shimmering, little imaginations running wild—and right in the middle of it, you see the contrast of Liam feeling lost. Then comes that turning point where the main character offers to help him finish the rocket. That moment gave me chills because it’s where kindness takes center stage. Writing it felt like watching a gray day burst into color.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can young readers expect in the next story?
Yes! Liam’s Lost Sparkle is the very first book in the Brave Kids Series, and I’m so excited to share that the next adventure will be coming out this fall. Young readers can expect another heartwarming story that celebrates courage and kindness—this time exploring a whole new challenge kids face every day. It’s going to be filled with big feelings, brave choices, and moments that show just how powerful empathy can be. Stay tuned—it’s going to be amazing!
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
When Liam’s best friend moves away, his sparkle fades—until a classmate asks, “Is your heart feeling kind of… cloudy?” This award-winning social skills book for kids helps:
Understand big feelings with gentle metaphors (“shadowy moods,” “lost sparkle”)
Practice kindness through relatable examples (“You can sit with me,” “Let’s build together!”)
Spark conversations with 8+ discussion questions and a “Feelings Detective Glasses” activity
Perfect for:
Parents seeking bedtime stories with emotional depth
Teachers building SEL skills (aligned with CASEL standards)
Counselors helping kids navigate friendship changes
Kindle Exclusive Features: Read-along mode (Enhanced typesetting for young readers)
Vibrant illustrations optimized for Kindle Fire/tablets
Bonus QR code for free printable activities
Bertie and The Garden of Wonders
In Bertie and the Garden of Wonders, Mandy Woolf crafts a delightful and heartwarming tale of friendship and discovery. Poor Bertie, a faded beachball, spends his days on a shelf, watching the children choose other toys over him. Feeling neglected, Bertie yearns for the vibrant beauty of the garden he can see through the open door. Determined to experience the garden’s wonders, Bertie rolls himself outside and encounters Puff Ball, a soft, white fluffy flower who unexpectedly begins to talk to him. Delighted to make a new friend, Bertie and Puff Ball enjoy each other’s company, sharing entertaining stories and working together to protect Brian, a bee in need. As the seasons change, Bertie learns that Puff Ball must leave for a while but promises to return. The story leaves readers eagerly wondering whether Puff Ball will keep her promise, adding an element of suspense and anticipation.
The unique friendship between a flower and a beachball teaches children valuable lessons about the beauty of diverse friendships. Woolf’s storytelling is both fun and endearing, emphasizing that differences can make friendships special. The interactions between Bertie and Puff Ball also highlight the importance of teamwork, showing young readers that collaborating can help solve problems.
Adding to the book’s appeal, Woolf includes engaging activities at the end of the story. These activities encourage children to continue enjoying the adventures of Bertie and Puff Ball beyond the pages of the book. From crafting their own Bertie and Puff Ball to exploring their surroundings in search of plants and animals, children can extend the story’s magic into their own lives.
Elmira Georgieva’s illustrations beautifully complement Woolf’s narrative. The artwork is not only enjoyable to look at but also enhances the storytelling, making readers feel as if they are part of the adventure. Each page invites readers to immerse themselves fully in the story, with illustrations so vivid they seem almost tangible.
Bertie and the Garden of Wonders is a charming book that teaches children the true meaning of friendship. Mandy Woolf’s engaging storyline, coupled with Elmira Georgieva’s delightful illustrations, makes this book a must-read for young readers. I highly recommend it for its endearing message and captivating presentation.
Pages: 32 | ISBN : 978-1923020597
Simple Questions With Positive Responses
Play With Me follows a young child and their companion who go on a picnic adventure and explore their world and invite young readers along to join them. What was the inspiration for your story?
Do you want the official answer or the truth? Official answer: I saw a TED talk about how kids learn to talk with questions. Someone asks, “What’s your name?” They answer. Someone asks, “What color do you like?” They think about it and answer. It’s how most conversations begin—a question and an answer. So that’s what I wrote. (That’s all true, it’s just not the full truth. For that…see below.)
The secret, unofficial answer is that I watched a relative reading to my granddaughter and was surprised that he just read the words. There was no pausing, no interacting, no questions with the child. That’s when I realized many people don’t know how to “read” a book with a toddler or how to engage the child in the book. So, I wrote the questions and the interactions to help the adults engage with their child and the book together.
And I’m thrilled, thrilled, thrilled with how it turned out!
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Lorraine Nam?
That was all RISE publications. My incredible editor Nicole Fox chose Lorraine, and I was over the moon. Lorraine made sketches that the art director critiqued. I was shown them, but mostly said, “OMG that’s gorgeous!” And voila, beautiful book!
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I needed the book to be interactive. Simple questions with positive responses. My editor and I discussed what activities to portray. I was happy with all her suggestions because, for me, it’s about the question/answer format of the book.
Will this children’s book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
A series! (A Playdate Series)
Book 1 – Play With Me. Releases April 2, 2024
Book 2 – Play with Me Outside Releases June 11, 2024
Book 3 – Play Games with Me. Releases Nov 11, 2024
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
This board book series invites young readers to take part in a playdate activity of their choice, thereby empowering them with autonomy and validation. The picnic playdate models balanced and shared play, creating a positive experience that will provide readers with a reference for what caring and considered friendship looks like. Many toddlers and preschoolers consistently ask for someone to play with them, and this book provides just that for the quieter moments of the day. Simple language and gentle questions will help children develop their social skills by practicing conversations, all while engaging them in fun and familiar topics.
A World of Wonder
![A World of Wonder by [Ford, Brent A., Hazlehurst, Lucy McCullough]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51iyKPisWAL._SY346_.jpg)
A World of Wonder by Brent A. Ford and Lucy McCullough Hazlehurst is an educational combination of photographs and poetry, designed to be enjoyed by parents and children together. Giving the latter an interest in the world and to act as a starting point for appreciating its wonders. It consists of 41 high-quality, color images of nature and natural phenomena across the globe, each paired with a relevant, short poem – some newly written for the book, and some classics. The interactive copy has links to further information related to each photo.
The first thing that struck me was the quality of the photos, which are expertly-framed, beautiful shots of a range of animals, scenery, and weather across the globe, as well as views from beyond the upper atmosphere. As an adult, I still wonder at many of them, so it must be magical for a child. They evoke multiple emotions – some are dramatic, some cute, some calm – but all are of a suitable nature for young children, as should be expected.
The accompanying poems are apt for the stated age range of 3-8, and grade level K-2; they’re short, accessible and fun to read aloud. Some are humorous, while many are more instructive about the habits of animals or natural processes. They match well with the photos, and explore different aspects of life on Earth.
The combined variety of photos and poems are ideal for promoting conversation of all kinds between parents and children; it’s easy to tell that the authors have experience in education. Not just parents, but teachers could certainly get a lot of use out of this book, too.
It’s not particularly long, and because it’s designed to be picked up and put down, it seems perfect for different attention spans and available periods of time. It could be used at bedtime, or for car journeys.
The amazing choice of photographs enables you to revisit this book many times, so parents can ask different questions to highlight different points and to introduce more complex ideas as their child grows. This flexibility of use would is a huge draw for parents. It would be ideal for guessing games – trying to remember the photo from the poem, or even the poem from the photo. Budding artists could get some great inspiration from it, and it could be a very useful starting point for crafting projects or for guided research about animal habits and habitat.
I appreciate the authors’ aims and the work that they have put into the book in order to achieve them. A World of Wonder truly delivers on the wonder that it promises.
Pages: 88 | ASIN: B072LJWBSZ
LITERARY TITAN 