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A Universal Appeal
Imogen and the Silent Depths is a whimsical and haunting fantasy where a carousel horse awakens in a cursed seaside carnival and must embrace her identity to break an ancient sea witch’s spell. What inspired you to make a carousel horse your protagonist?
I wanted to write an original character for the lead. I know most people might prefer a unicorn as a main character. However, there seemed so many unicorn stories defining every moment and characteristic of what a unicorn must be, how it would behave, I felt I needed more wiggle room. I needed a lead that could explore old topics and morals in a new way.
Omenthia is a chilling villain. Was she drawn from folklore or a personal creation?
I honestly read a great deal of folk lore. As far as villains, I was partial to The Baba Yaga, Mommy Fortuna and the Morrigan as a youngster. However, I created the Sea Witch from my own imagination. I normally only write bullies, ergo I felt Omenthia had to become more terrifying in each chapter in order to keep the reader rooting for Imogen.
The story balances whimsy with darkness. How do you approach tone when writing for younger readers?
Although the story is aimed at older readers, I believe it can also appeal to a younger audience. I never talk down to anyone, especially children. They live in the same world we do. They are much more sophisticated than we tend to imagine. So the story has a universal appeal.
What message or feeling do you hope readers carry with them after finishing Imogen and the Silent Depths?
The point of the book is for the reader to explore their own ideas and opinions about each philosophical question posed in the book. I wrote this book hoping these topics would come up in conversations that the readers might have. The only way for us to stretch our understanding is through the experiences of one another. Or more simply, if you’ve done something you regret, it’s never too late to grow. If you learned from it, turn from it.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Imogen sets out on a soul-searching journey, uncovering buried secrets and reflecting on what it means to truly live. Can she break the curse and restore the carnival to its former joy? Or will the fairgrounds remain a haunted shell of their past?
The Sea Ghost Comes is the first book in The Accursed Carnival Series by Angel Dunworth: a philosophical fantasy that delves into the mystical and the emotional. Exploring the meaning of life through magic, melancholy, and adventure, this unforgettable tale is as thought-provoking as it is imaginative.
Imogen and The Silent Depths; The Sea Ghost Comes Book 1 of the Accursed Carnival Series
Angel Dunworth’s Imogen and the Silent Depths: The Sea Ghost Comes is the first book in The Accursed Carnival Series. It’s a whimsical and eerie tale that begins in a mysterious seaside town where a traveling carnival sets up camp against local warnings. The story spirals into a magical clash between mortal joy and ancient curses, led by a wicked sea witch named Omenthia. At the heart of the novel is Imogen, a carousel horse brought to life by accident, and perhaps fate, who must discover her true self to break the curse and restore the carnival. Alongside vibrant characters and a dash of folklore, the book charts a journey of identity, courage, and the deep magic hiding in forgotten places.
Dunworth’s prose has a sing-song lilt to it, often reminding me of a classic fairy tale, but with a sharp, modern twist. I liked the mood she created. It’s wistful one moment and spine-chilling the next. Imogen’s journey is emotionally honest, especially for a character who isn’t human. I found myself rooting for her in a way that surprised me. The dialogue could sometimes be overly expository, but the rhythm and tone carried it. I appreciated how the story never talked down to younger readers. It assumed they’d rise to the language, the mystery, and the moral weight of the tale.
There were moments where the pacing slowed, especially when side characters were introduced and quickly dropped. The narrative sometimes bounces between Maggie, Jove, the sea witch, and various side plots. Still, I never felt bored. If anything, the book seemed to burst with too many ideas rather than too few. Dunworth’s imagination is big, maybe even a little wild. And while not every idea landed for me, I admired her commitment to telling a big-hearted and deeply magical story.
Imogen and the Silent Depths is a story I’d recommend for readers young and old who still believe in hidden magic, talking horses, and the fight between good and evil. It’s ideal for fans of Neil Gaiman’s Coraline or Kate DiCamillo’s The Magician’s Elephant. This book is a reminder that even overlooked things can become heroes.
Pages: 182 | ASIN: B0F8KVZWC4
The Person We Love Most
Transparent Like Tears follows a young boy’s journey to self-discovery as he supports his sister through her battle with cancer, uncovering the courage and self-worth he never knew he had. How did you approach portraying Aiden’s emotional journey authentically?
My daughter suffered brain cancer. I was young, 23, when she was born, already ill. I was also weary, having never before approached raising a child. When she was finally diagnosed by age 5, I felt certain I would break and did for a while.
That pain didn’t stay. It wasn’t like that at all. In reality, a mother goes on auto-pilot making appointments for specialists, labs, and clinics. I wrote this from a brother’s standpoint so that I could finally feel those feelings and put them to rest. Yet, it had to be through a sibling’s eyes, so that I could remove myself and see clearly. As a mother I was still too close to the fear to see the miracle of the cure.
Was there a specific moment or character in the book that was particularly challenging for you to write?
Writing the piece where Torah is banging her head bloody on the wall, in order to, “Bang the headache out” was the absolute worst scene for me. My daughter had done that a thousand times and it was terrifying. It was as if it had happened only yesterday. That pain has remained untouched after all of these years.
Can you share any insight into how you developed the sibling bond between Aiden and Torah?
The only way I was able to do that was to carefully navigate all of the loony things that I thought up to comfort my child. We become quite inventive when the person we love most is suffering. We learn to empathize on a deeper level. We design comfort for our loved-ones at that point.
What message or feeling do you hope readers take away from Transparent Like Tears?
My daughter lived. She beat cancer, graduated 16th highest in the state and recently married in my home. You CAN win this one! I wish I could give that message to anyone being diagnosed. Keep the faith, because in that faith lies a great many forms of healing.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
As Torah’s illness consumes him, Aiden wonders if he even matters… except to her. Why do some friends vanish when times get tough? Through the heartache, Aiden learns that in order to truly help his sister, he has to learn to see himself beyond the invisibility he feels. He’ll need to be strong, open up, and face the fear inside him, all while being the brother Torah needs him to be.
This powerful and emotional story is about family, friendship, and the strength to face life’s toughest challenges. Based on a true story, this book will educate and comfort. It also strives to give hope to family, friends and those affected by the disease.
Transparent Like Tears is a story that speaks to the heart and reminds us all what it means to truly be seen.
Transparent Like Tears; A Child’s Story of Cancer
Family, personal struggles, and the pursuit of inner strength often define our most profound experiences. Transparent Like Tears by Angel Dunworth is a poignant exploration of these themes, offering a heartfelt story about a young boy’s journey to self-discovery while supporting his sister through her battle with cancer. The novel follows Aiden Banks, a boy who feels invisible amidst his parents’ constant arguing and his own struggles with self-worth. When his younger sister, Torah, is diagnosed with cancer, Aiden is thrust into a situation that demands more from him than he ever thought possible. Her illness becomes a catalyst for him to confront his fears, reassess his place in the world, and uncover the courage to help Torah by recognizing his own value.
From the opening pages, this story gripped me emotionally. Aiden’s pain, confusion, and sense of invisibility were so vividly portrayed that I felt immediately drawn into his world. His struggles with family dynamics and his quest for self-worth were deeply authentic and relatable. Yet, it was the raw intensity of his journey, particularly when faced with Torah’s diagnosis, that struck me the most. Aiden’s emotional turmoil and his determination to support his sister while grappling with his own insecurities felt real.
As the narrative unfolded, it elicited a powerful mix of heartache and hope. Watching Aiden grow, confront his fears, and ultimately realize his own strength was nothing short of inspiring. The story left me reflecting on the importance of seeing ourselves clearly during challenging times, as well as the impact our courage can have on those we love.
Transparent Like Tears is more than a story about a family coping with illness. It is a testament to love, resilience, and the transformative power of being truly seen. Few books have affected me as deeply as this one. Angel Dunworth has crafted a rare gem, offering readers a heartfelt reminder of the strength within us all, the importance of connection, and the hope that can be found even in life’s darkest moments. For anyone seeking a story of family, friendship, and courage, this is an unforgettable read.
Pages: 129 | ISBN: 1956581553
The Fabric of Childhood
The Victorian Era is an engaging blend of storytelling and historical facts centered around Queen Victoria’s reign. What inspired you to write this children’s book?
I really struggled in History class. We were taught the dates of Historical events. It seemed like that was all that we were taught. I’ve always felt that History needs to come alive for kids to understand it.
Why did you feel it was important to incorporate rhyme throughout your text?
Rhyming is fun for kids. Music, nursery rhymes, and children’s poems–these are the fabric of childhood. If you want kids to learn, turn it into a game.
What is one misconception you think children have about learning history?
Well, as with all school subjects it’s boring to kids. Sometimes tedious.
Learning doesn’t have to be that way. Anything can be a game if it is done creatively. We have to start teaching children in the way that they learn. Children learn the most through play.
Can you give us some insight into where Book 2 will take young readers? When will it be available?
I’m not certain. I have several planned, but only 2 started. In the future, there will be one that gives a history of the contributions of monks. Another is planned for the Medieval Era. In addition, I am playing with an idea for a History of children’s literature. Whichever is done and polished first will be the next in the series.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
History’s easy to understand in The Victorian Era:
History for Kids Who Hate History, Book 1.
Come along and play with us today!
Award-winning author, artist and poet, Angel Dunworth, makes learning fun. Her cut-paper illustrations bring a colorful edge to days of old. With poetry, sing-alongs and puzzles, what could be better than education? Everyone in the family can enjoy History For Kids Who Hate History. It’s the perfect addition to any library or classroom!
The Victorian Era: History for Kids Who Hate History Book 1
Angel Dunworth’s The Victorian Era: History for Kids Who Hate History is a lively and whimsical dive into the fascinating time of Queen Victoria’s reign, as told through the eyes of Punxy, a playful character with a magic guitar that whisks them back in time. The book is a blend of storytelling, history, and imaginative engagement aimed at young readers. It makes the past approachable by weaving historical facts with vibrant illustrations and a touch of humor.
One of the standout qualities of this book is how it distills complex historical ideas into digestible bits without ever feeling dry. The story of Alice explaining how Lewis Carroll invented Alice in Wonderland is both charming and informative. Carroll’s whimsical storytelling origins, as recounted on a boat ride for Alice Liddell, capture the spirit of creativity that defines this era. I found myself smiling at how cleverly Dunworth uses rhymes to make details stick. This technique makes learning feel like a game.
Another highlight is how the book juxtaposes modern life with Victorian innovations, helping kids connect with the past. Punxy’s excitement over seeing an old-fashioned phonograph and realizing it’s now combined into our smartphones is pure joy. The playful “dance of joy” Punxy shares adds a layer of fun and relatability to what might otherwise feel like a dull history lesson. The book also touches on cultural aspects, like poetry and literature, with anecdotes about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. This section shows how creativity in the Victorian era shaped modern storytelling.
The Victorian Era, by Angel Dunworth, is a delightful read that excels in making history fun for kids. Its mix of colorful illustrations, engaging dialogue, and clever rhymes makes it perfect for young readers who might typically shy away from traditional history books. I’d recommend it to children between ages 7 and 12, parents looking for interactive learning tools, or even teachers wanting to add a splash of fun to their curriculum. This book truly rocks and not just because of Punxy’s magic guitar!
Pages: 45 | ASIN : B0DK9PHSH5
The Story Just Seemed to Evolve
On the Wings of Wishes: True Magic Still Lives follows a young girl and magic seeker who spends her days searching for enchantment and hunting fairies, convinced that magic is the only thing that can solve her problems. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
It actually just began as a colorful picture of an old village in England. There was so much color and magic that I felt I would cheat it’s value if I didn’t write a description. The story just seemed to evolve from there.
Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your story?
Yes and no. To be fair as a young adult and into middle age, I’ve always worked with kids. I’ve taught, tutored, worked in the public schools, day-cares and as a nanny. One hears so many things.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The most important scene for me was the one in which they are trapped in the lighthouse. While they are sitting there in desperation, the peace that Ash felt when she was in the church seems to wrap itself around her. She then knows that magic is real. She realizes that what she’s felt while sitting in the church stays within her.
Will there be a follow-up book on this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
No. I rarely do series books. I like to start each of my works with a clean slate.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
On The Wings of Wishes
Ash, a magic seeker, spends her days searching for enchantment and hunting fairies, convinced that magic is the only thing that can solve her problems. As she continues her quest, she begins to discover that magic is everywhere, often found in the most unexpected places. But just as she starts to unravel these mysteries, disaster strikes. A Category 5 hurricane threatens her village, putting not only her family but her entire community at risk. Ash finds herself wondering if there’s enough magic to save everything she holds dear.
In On the Wings of Wishes: True Magic Still Lives, Angel Dunworth invites readers into a world brimming with magic, offering a story that feels timeless and appeals to readers of all ages. The book effortlessly taps into that childhood sense of wonder, where an ordinary girl can become a hero, and magic can be found in the most unlikely places. The journey Ash embarks on is one that feels familiar yet fresh—it’s not about being a superhero but about being a regular girl trying to save her home and the fragile state of her parents’ relationship. What stands out most is how Dunworth uses this magical narrative as a metaphor for a broken home. Seeing the world through Ash’s eyes, a child frightened that her world might fall apart, adds a layer of emotional depth to the story. Despite her fear, she discovers hope and magic along the way, which makes the book not just a tale of adventure but one of resilience and belief in the unseen. Dunworth captures that delicate balance of fear and wonder, making it easy for both children and adults to relate to the emotions and lessons within the story. I absolutely enjoyed the writing style. It’s beautifully simple, with a flow that’s easy to follow, making it accessible for younger readers while still captivating for adults. The language used is charming and fits perfectly with the magical tone of the story. The characters, including Ash, don’t feel fully fleshed out, so you don’t get the chance to truly connect with them on a deeper level. This lack of development sometimes keeps the reader at a distance from the story’s emotional core.
On the Wings of Wishes is a delightful read, filled with heart and imagination. It’s perfect for readers who long to recapture that childhood sense of wonder or for young readers ready to lose themselves in a world where magic is real, and hope is always just around the corner. Angel Dunworth has crafted a lovely, whimsical story that reminds us all that true magic still lives even in the darkest moments.
Pages: 107 | ASIN : B0D9GLX5X6
LITERARY TITAN 