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Life, Love, and Happiness
Stikki the Squirrel follows a young grey squirrel who tumbles his way through one adventure after another and, along the way, makes some new friends. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Some ideas for a book can come quite quickly, while at other times it can be a hard slog even to get going. But it was on this one rather memorable occasion, when I was standing beside my window gazing into our back garden, that I saw a family of squirrels climb tentatively over the wooden fence. A moment later, they were on the ground, moving slowly across our lawn, pausing to sniff and dig randomly in the grass. I watched their playful interactions quickly turn into a full-blown display of speed and agility as the youngsters abandoned the protection of their mother’s side to dart among our shrubs and trees with growing confidence, and of course, mischief. I smiled, then gasped, as a host of possibilities set my mind buzzing.
And so, Stikki the Squirrel was born – well, in my head to start with. I wanted to make the story light-hearted and entertaining for young children to read, and for them to imagine my little characters and the urban setting in which they live.
We, as a family, enjoy encouraging squirrels into our garden, filling their squirrel feeder daily with nuts and seeds for them to eat. We have witnessed several generations grow up and leave to find their way in the world. Ever since that day, we have been entertained by these intelligent, charming, furry little animals.
Although not every day, watching our squirrels is a happy, entertaining experience, because on occasion, urban foxes enter our garden on the hunt for an easy meal. Domesticated cats like to lie in wait among the shrubs, hoping to ambush a squirrel foraging on the ground. The squirrels’ acute senses warn them of danger, and they quickly climb over the fence or scale up the side wall of our house to escape. But when the three species meet, there is usually trouble. We have witnessed scuffles and near misses that have made us gasp in fear for the squirrels’ survival. But squirrels are quick and clever, usually evading these predators with ease.
We have grown very fond of our rodent visitors. Noting their athletic behaviour and individual personalities. They are adorable little animals that inspired me to write about a family of cheeky grey squirrels and the discoveries, dangers, lucky escapes, and the good friends they make along the way.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Each of my characters in Stikki the Squirrel represents a unique glimpse into the world of nature from an individual animal’s perspective. I have combined a light-hearted tale with humour, interspersed with facts about squirrels’ lives, and their interactions with predators, including the natural habitat in which they thrive.
My little characters have hopes and dreams, which is quite normal as squirrels, like all animals, are intelligent, caring, and resourceful. Squirrels are good at problem-solving; we have all seen a squirrel navigate a maze, or climb a vertical pole, or scoot across a tightrope with ease in its determination to claim the food at the end of the man-made obstacle course. Squirrels show affection and anger, too. Squirrels are territorial and will respond to family members, warning each other of any approaching danger by issuing a rasping, throaty call that carries on the air.
Stikki the Squirrel carries a message about protecting endangered species to the detriment of others. A tale of adventure, learning about life, its pleasures, and its hazards. Whilst making wonderous discoveries, and friends who help and support each other on the road through life, love, and happiness.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
This is a hard question to answer because the entire book was such an enjoyable experience to write and illustrate. Without giving away any spoilers, I think one particular scene comes to mind that had me chuckling – it was when Stikki first met Rella. He was so awkward and unsure of himself. A typical teenager.
There were many other scenes in Stikki the Squirrel that end in a hilarious, eye-watering way. Read the book yourselves and see what happens to Stikki and his woodland friends.
What story are you currently in the middle of writing?
I am taking a break from writing at present, because I am busy finalising my new book. Title: Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits, book two, publication date, February 28th, 2026. It is a very busy, exciting time, working with my publisher to get my new book and my illustrations ready for the printing press, plus tinkering with some weird and wild ideas for another book.
Author Links: Goodreads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Readers’ Favorite – 5 Star Review.
“We must always be wary of the longlegs for they are unpredictable and puzzling.”
Join Stikki the Squirrel on his madcap adventures as he leaves his nest and sets off to explore the world around him. Mischievous and a little reckless, Stikki manages to get himself into scrapes at almost every turn.
When Stikki and his sisters, Mollie and Tia, venture out of their familiar surroundings for the first time, life changes dramatically for our little explorers.
Danger and peril lay on their chosen path – and, as with every exciting adventure, there are spills and thrills and good friends to be made along the way.
A whimsical, heartfelt story of friendship, bravery and love for each other.
The Circle of Life Continues
The Adventures of Troy Home Again follows a bald eagle who discovers companionship and sets out on new adventures with his partner by his side. What is your process for capturing the thoughts and feelings of animal characters?
We have two dogs and two cats. After a while, you really get to non-verbally communicate with them. As the fourth book of the Troy series, it’s been wonderful developing these characters over the years. Although they are animals, they certainly have their own distinct personalities.
Do you have a favorite scene in this story? One that was especially fun to write?
This book was so much fun to write and illustrate. I especially love the last page. Troy and Aliana in their nest, with their two little baby eagles about to hatch. The circle of life continues.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently writing?
I’m writing a psychological thriller that should be completed soon.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The book includes a glossary of “The 20 Words” at the back of each book that offers simple definitions of words highlighted throughout the story to help increase a young child’s vocabulary. Parents will enjoy reading these books to their toddlers. Elementary school children will love reading these heartwarming tales of friendship and adventure on their own.
Author and Illustrator, Hope Kelley, is Owner of ECBYbooks, a fully integrated online bookstore. She is also Producer, Director, and Writer for Hope Kelley Productions & South 16 Films. Ms.Kelley hosted and directed the tv program, SA Style, in San Antonio, Texas. She was awarded the honor of directing and producing a documentary, Project Hope, in Washington, D.C. Ms. Kelley is also a talented journalist, anchor, actor, and spokeswoman who has appeared in films, tv programs, and commercials. Ms. Kelley was awarded the UIL Scholarship in Music to the University of Texas at Austin. As a classical clarinetist, she has performed in symphony orchestras. Ms. Kelley graduated from the University of Texas at Austin earning a Degree in Broadcast Journalism. She began her broadcasting career as an Intern and Journalist for ABC Austin, and at the Dallas ABC News Bureau at the Capitol of Texas. As an artist and illustrator, you can find her work on her gallery at ECBYart.com.
As a published Author and Illustrator, her books, The Adventures of Troy A New Home, The Adventures of Troy Rescuing Lily the Lamb, The Adventures of Troy the Bald Eagle, The Adventures of Troy Home Again, The G Sin, and her novel, Fire in Forgotten (Winner of the International Impact Book Award in Historical Fiction), are available in thousands of bookstores worldwide. Ms. Kelley also enjoys helping other writers achieve their goals as published authors. Learn more at HopeKelley.com
YOU Yoga: Finding Your Inner Shine
YOU Yoga takes readers on a wonderful journey into mindfulness and self-discovery. It follows the rhythm of yoga as a way for children to connect with their hearts and find their inner light. The story moves through gentle rhymes that guide readers to breathe, stretch, and listen within. Each page feels like a warm reminder that calm and peace live inside us, waiting to be found through stillness and love.
I really liked how simple and soothing the language is. It doesn’t try too hard, and that’s what makes it work. The words flow like a lullaby, and there’s a kind of cozy calm that permeates the book. The imagery feels familiar yet magical. It’s like being told that everything you need is already there, you just have to notice it. That message hit home.
The illustrations by Yulia Potts make everything come alive. They glow with color and warmth. The charming watercolor illustrations perfectly capture each moment with whimsy that is suitable for a young audience. The story feels more like an experience than a traditional narrative. It’s not about a plot, it’s about a feeling. And that feeling is peace.
I’d recommend YOU Yoga for parents who want to introduce mindfulness and self-love to their kids in a gentle way. It’s a perfect picture book for bedtime, classrooms, or yoga sessions with little ones. Adults might even find themselves taking a deep breath while reading it. It’s not just a children’s book, it’s a reminder for all of us to slow down, breathe, and shine a little brighter.
Pages: 26 | ISBN:979-8-89138-690-7
The Chameleon Who Couldn’t Change Colors
In this charming picture book, readers meet Frilly, a determined little chameleon who calls a lush rainforest home. Surrounded by her friends Camy and Oscar, both able to shimmer through endless hues, Frilly stays the same brilliant shade of green. More than anything, she longs to turn red, her favorite color.
Fueled by curiosity and courage, Frilly embarks on a spirited adventure filled with sunshine, laughter, and one daring plunge into a puddle of red paint. For a fleeting, radiant moment, she feels transformed, until danger slithers close. Mistaken for prey by a hungry snake, Frilly quickly realizes that her true green hue isn’t a flaw at all, it’s her saving grace. Through this heart-pounding yet illuminating encounter, she learns that being herself isn’t just enough; it’s extraordinary.
Marques weaves a story rich in warmth, humor, and gentle wisdom. The Chameleon Who Couldn’t Change Colors is a luminous celebration of individuality and the joy of self-acceptance. Frilly’s emotional journey captures the universal yearning to belong while reminding readers that authenticity shines brighter than conformity.
Camy and Oscar bring texture and tenderness to the tale, standing by Frilly as steadfast friends who help her see her worth. The acrylic collage illustrations are nothing short of stunning, each page alive with color, movement, and tropical vibrancy. Young readers will find themselves pausing to admire the details, immersed in a world that feels both wild and wondrous.
Tucked at the end are fascinating chameleon facts, adding an educational twist to an already captivating story. Heartfelt, imaginative, and visually delightful, Marques’s book belongs in classrooms, libraries, and bedtime rotations alike. It’s an inspiring reminder that our uniqueness is not something to hide, it’s what makes us shine.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0FPT1NPV8
Bunny and Fawn: The Midnight Creature Mystery
Bunny and Fawn: The Midnight Creature Mystery by Michael Lingo is a delightful and heartwarming children’s story brimming with curiosity, courage, and gentle humor. The tale introduces readers to Bunny and Fawn, who, after a devastating event, must leave the comfort of their cozy hollow log and begin anew in a different corner of the forest, accompanied by their steadfast friend, Bear.
Life in their new woodland home seems peaceful until one night, a strange noise breaks the quiet. Fear ripples through the trio, yet Bunny’s curiosity outweighs her fright. Determined to uncover the truth, she ventures out the next day in search of the mysterious creature. Along the way, they meet Truffles, a timid pig equally frightened by Bunny, Fawn, and Bear. What begins in fear soon turns into friendship, and the four spend a joyful afternoon swimming and laughing together.
Lingo crafts a story that feels alive, almost cinematic, each scene unfolding with the charm of an animated short. The illustrations, lush and nature-centered, bring a soothing tranquility to the pages and perfectly match the tone of the narrative. Bunny’s fear of the unknown is deeply relatable; many children will recognize themselves in her cautious curiosity. Moving to a new place can feel daunting: new faces, unfamiliar sounds, strange shadows. Yet, through Bunny’s journey, young readers learn that the things that seem frightening in the dark often lose their power in the light of day.
Equally touching is the friendship between Bunny, Fawn, and Bear, a reminder that change feels easier when you’re not facing it alone. Bunny and Fawn: The Midnight Creature Mystery is more than a bedtime story; it’s a gentle lesson in bravery, empathy, and the comfort of companionship. Lingo’s work captures the magic of childhood wonder while reassuring readers that fear can give way to friendship, and that even in unfamiliar places, warmth and kindness can be found.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0FNQGCMPW
Pigs Really Can Fly!
Horace in Space follows a little pig with big dreams who wants nothing more than to venture into the great beyond. Where did the idea for this book come from?
I’ve written children’s books for about a decade now. I always wanted to write a book for kids and the ISS. Then it hit me – Pigs really can fly! And that started the entire idea.
Is there anything from your own childhood included in your characters’ traits and dialogue?
Not so much. We had a telescope when I was little, and we looked at the moon and stars. But the ISS fascinates me. I’ve timed and researched when the ISS will fly over my area on a particular night. I get away from city lights and, clear as day, one can watch it orbit from one point in the sky until out of view. I’ve taken pictures and videos. One can easily find out when it will next be over their locale. It is visible in the daytime as well.
Why was it important for you to include facts woven throughout Horace’s narrative?
Facts are facts. My children wanted to know facts from the books I read to them, and that means I want to give out some facts for children to think about, ask more questions, expand their minds to move forward.
Can young readers look forward to more adventures from Horace? What are you currently working on?
Horace may have more adventures, or I will choose another baby animal. Horace In Space is book number sixty-one for me, so I’m also slowing down a bit. Next up is a children’s book or adult sci-fi.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Horace in Space
Mary L. Schmidt’s latest children’s book follows young Horace, who is no ordinary pig. He’s a dreamer with his snout pointed firmly toward the stars. His greatest ambition? To venture into space. Yet, despite his lofty hopes, he quietly doubts that his dream will ever lift off. Until, unexpectedly, it does. A formal invitation arrives, and Horace is headed to the International Space Station.
Horace in Space is a delightful children’s book that effortlessly blends whimsical storytelling with factual space education. Tailored for children aged 1 to 8, this charming tale is brief in length, fitting for young attention spans, but rich in imagination and heart. The book’s vibrant illustrations serve as both emotional cues and narrative anchors, helping children see what Horace feels, thinks, and experiences.
Schmidt captures Horace’s sense of awe with genuine warmth. His naive excitement, so relatable for young readers, evolves into a more grounded understanding as his fantasy meets the real-world challenges of space. In doing so, Schmidt crafts a gentle lesson: reality might differ from dreams, but that doesn’t make it any less extraordinary.
The book strikes a thoughtful balance between imaginative adventure and educational value. Without ever sacrificing the fun, it introduces children to life in orbit, from the thrill of liftoff to the peculiarities of floating in microgravity. Facts are woven naturally into the narrative, ensuring that learning feels organic rather than instructional.
While Schmidt’s prose may not echo the playful cadences of Dr. Seuss or the clever wordplay of Shel Silverstein, Horace in Space still stands as a delightful addition to any young reader’s collection. Horace himself is an endearing protagonist, one whose journey feels ripe for expansion. It’s easy to envision this story as the launchpad for a larger series.
Horace in Space delivers more than just a tale about a pig in orbit; it offers young readers a chance to explore, imagine, and discover alongside a character who is every bit as curious and wide-eyed as they are.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0F9VX3XZ7
What’s Wrong With Tom: A Veterinary Tale of Courage and Compassion
What’s Wrong With Tom: A Veterinary Tale of Courage and Compassion is a charming and educational story that’s perfectly tailored for young readers. At its heart is Thomas, a cheerful, free-spirited cat who loves to roam and explore his world. One morning, however, his playful routine is interrupted by a mysterious pain. Confused and uncomfortable, Thomas relies on his caring parents and the devoted Critter Care Crew to uncover the problem: he’s having trouble urinating.
Thanks to a minor surgery, plenty of support, and an extra dose of affection, Thomas recovers smoothly and is soon back to his old, adventurous self. His journey offers young readers a gentle, reassuring introduction to the idea of veterinary care and the healing power of compassion.
Dr. Gal Chivvis delivers a captivating narrative that balances entertainment with education. The language is accessible, the pacing is thoughtful, and the storyline keeps readers engaged without overwhelming them. One particularly delightful element is the inclusion of a machine that translates animal speech into words, an inventive touch that sparks imagination and adds a layer of whimsy.
The illustrations are vibrant and expressive, bringing Thomas’s world to life with warmth and humor. Each page invites young readers to pause, observe, and enjoy the visual storytelling, which complements the text beautifully. Thomas’s playful personality shines through, especially in scenes that depict his curiosity and love for exploration.
Chivvis masterfully conveys an important message: while medical procedures may seem frightening, they are often necessary and manageable with the right support. Through Thomas’s experience, children learn that recovery can be quick and that bravery comes in many forms.
The addition of a glossary at the end is especially thoughtful. It serves as a springboard for conversation between adults and children, clarifying medical terms in a way that is easy to grasp. This not only reinforces comprehension but encourages dialogue about health, care, and empathy.
What’s Wrong With Tom is both a delightful story and a valuable teaching tool. Whether read at home or shared in a classroom, it offers young readers comfort, knowledge, and inspiration. I look forward to more works from Dr. Chivvis, and her unique blend of heart and insight is a gift to children’s literature.
Pages: 35 | ASIN: B0FLZSL47R
LITERARY TITAN 