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Inheriting Karma

I went into Inheriting Karma expecting a mystery, maybe some crime or supernatural twist, but this book was something else entirely. It’s mysterious, sure, but not in the usual “whodunit” way. It’s like stepping into someone’s mind after everything has fallen apart. The story is fragmented, poetic, and even a little trippy. It talks about guilt, fate, and what happens when your past won’t stop chasing you. It’s weird, dark, and hypnotic in a way that’s hard to explain and hard to look away from.

It wasn’t easy to follow. The writing feels like a code at times, like the story wants you to dig through the mess to find the meaning. But there’s something addictive about that. The mood is heavy, almost haunting, and I found myself flipping back pages trying to piece together what was real and what was just in the narrator’s head. It’s got that eerie, unsettled vibe that keeps you tense even though you don’t know why.

If you’re the kind of mystery reader who likes neat clues and clean endings, this might throw you off. But if you enjoy stories that play with your head, that make you question what’s happening, this book has that in spades. It’s like a psychological puzzle wrapped in poetry. I wouldn’t call it a traditional thriller, but it definitely gave me chills.

I’d recommend Inheriting Karma to readers who like their mysteries a little offbeat. Fans of surreal or psychological thrillers where the real tension comes from the mind, not the crime. It’s strange, but it’s the kind of strange that sticks with you.

Pages: 328 | ASIN : B0FM6TTGJG

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Who Are We, Really?

In Who Are We, Really?, author and illustrator Nielle P. Marques introduces readers to three inseparable tadpoles, Polly, Molly, and Joey. These best friends spend their days swimming, playing, and exploring, yet one question lingers in their young minds: Who are we, really? Each tadpole imagines what they might become: a shark, a turtle, even a dragonfly, sparking a journey of curiosity and wonder that captures the heart.

This charming story is both tender and thought-provoking. It beautifully captures the innocence of friendship and the excitement of self-discovery. What stands out most is the trio’s closeness, how they support, laugh, and dream together. Their bond gently reminds young readers that friendship is a treasure to be cherished every day.

Marques’s story also celebrates imagination without limits. As Polly, Molly, and Joey dream about their future selves, children are encouraged to do the same, to envision, to wonder, and to create. Each tadpole’s dream opens a door to boundless possibility, inspiring young minds to see beyond the ordinary and embrace their own creativity.

The illustrations, also by Marques, are a delight on every page. Full-page watercolor scenes burst with gentle hues and fluid textures, inviting readers to pause and take in every detail. The visual flow mirrors the rhythm of the story, making the reading experience both soothing and visually captivating.

Who Are We, Really? is a story that will charm readers of all ages. Its playful spirit, heartfelt message, and vivid artistry make it a book children will want to return to again and again, each time discovering something new about friendship, imagination, and the joy of growing up.

Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0DTT8BML7

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Teaching Respect For Wildlife

Mary L. Schmidt Author Interview

Clover follows a curious bunny as he guides children through his daily life, teaching readers how rabbits live, where they find shelter, what they like to eat, and the natural challenges they face. What was the inspiration for your story?

Wildlife in our backyard, especially squirrels and cottontail bunny rabbits. Their antics are fun to watch and baby bunnies are cute just like baby squirrels. We provide nuts for the squirrels and apple chunks and grapes for the squirrels and bunnies. My husband allows for one small clover patch to remain in place just for the bunnies. Truly inspiring. 

What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?

It’s important for children to know about wildlife that run through their own yards. Knowing what they nibble on and how they interact keeps children from trying to catch them, or chasing them. Watching them is fine. Nature is always a good thing. Children need to respect these furry animals. 

How does your writing process for children’s books differ from writing your romance novels, as far as getting in the right mindset and how you work?

The wildlife in our area inspires me and I always look at my past career as a registered nurse. I choose a critter and a current topic that children need to read and learn about. I used mice in a book about bullies and how to overcome being bullied. I know the start and the end, so I create a story for the middle part of the galley.

Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?

Clover is a standalone book and I’ve released four books this year. I plan to have my next one completed in 2026.  

Author Links: Goodreads | X | Facebook | Website

Clover is a children’s picture story about all things’ bunny rabbits. Clover teaches children about the life of a bunny rabbit from how they live, shelter, what they eat, and even predators. Children learn what rabbits like to eat and other animals they will or will not play with. Children need to know how wild animals interact with each other in a natural setting such as a park or a backyard. Rabbits and squirrels are everywhere in any location so children quickly identify with them. Clover loves to share in a rhyming manner what he likes to eat and how he and other bunny rabbits play. It is important for children to learn about nature and animals they may or may not see on a regular basis. Children gain a greater understanding about rabbits and wildlife, and they learn the types of food they can place outside for rabbits to munch on. The concept and principles of caring for rabbits and nature can be taught at an early age in any type of setting. Knowing how rabbits and squirrels interact starts the early process of learning about different animals right in your own backyard or park.

A Touch of Fantasy

Lisa Rita Author Interview

Bugs That Bug You is a rhyming story centered around a young boy frustrated by the numerous bugs that inconvenience him at every turn. Where did the idea for this story come from?

Yes, I experienced bugs who bugged me at the time. A very annoying fly would buzz around my head every morning and wake me up. Then a cockroach flew directly towards me. This is what inspired me to write the book.

What is it that draws you to write children’s literature?

I love the fun of it all. Usually, children’s literature has a positive tone to it, and you can add a bit of fantasy to it. This is why I love childrens literature, you can almost come up with anything you like 😊

Is there anything from your own childhood included in Fred’s character or his experiences?

Yes, we had weasels in our oats when I was a child; that’s why I added the weasels to Fred’s breakfast.

Can young readers look forward to seeing more from Fred? What are you currently working on?

At the moment, there’s nothing more from Fred. But you never know I might come up with in the future. I’m currently working on “Oh Dear, There’s Gum in My Hair,” a series of “Oh No, There’s Poo on My Shoe.”

Thank you, I hope you enjoy my books. Thanks Again

Author Website

Fred is having one of those days – bugs are bugging him at every turn!

It all begins when a fly buzzes around his head first thing in the morning. Then come the weevils in his breakfast, a moth that munches a hole in his favourite jacket, and an ant that crawls up his pants!

As the day goes on, more and more bugs appear, and Fred is getting fed up. But Mum has some wise words: don’t let the bugs bug you – enjoy the rest of the day!

A fun, rhyming story full of pesky pests, giggles, and a gentle reminder to shake off the small stuff and keep smiling.

Clover

Clover is a charming and educational picture book that gently invites young readers into the world of bunny rabbits. Written in playful rhyme, the story follows a curious bunny named Clover as he guides children through his daily life. Along the way, readers discover how rabbits live, where they find shelter, what they like to eat, and the natural challenges they face.

Blending fun storytelling with fascinating facts, the book strikes a perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Clover becomes both a guide and a friend, sharing through rhythm and rhyme what makes a tasty snack, how rabbits play, and which animals they might meet in backyards or parks. The lyrical flow makes the story delightful to read aloud, while also helping children easily remember the lessons it teaches.

One of the strongest aspects of Clover is how it introduces children to concepts of wildlife and nature in their own environments. Since rabbits and squirrels are common in many neighborhoods, children can quickly relate the story to their own observations outdoors. The book subtly teaches principles of coexistence, showing how wild animals interact with each other and their surroundings. It also offers practical knowledge, such as safe foods children can leave out for rabbits, encouraging compassion and responsibility toward nature at an early age.

Clover goes beyond being a charming story about a rabbit; it encourages young readers to notice and appreciate the wildlife around them. The book gently nurtures curiosity and respect for animals, fostering an early understanding of ecology and empathy. Parents and educators will find it an excellent resource for sparking conversations about caring for animals and protecting the environment, all through a story that feels approachable and fun.

With its combination of rhyming narration, charming subject matter, and educational themes, Clover is a wonderful choice for storytime. It captures the innocence of childhood curiosity while teaching important lessons about wildlife and the natural world. Both children and adults will come away with a greater appreciation for the rabbits that hop quietly through our backyards and parks.

Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0F63VR2X9

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Bugs That Bug You

Fred is stuck in one of those days, the kind where nothing goes right and everything seems to crawl, buzz, or flutter in his way. From the first fly that zips past his head in the morning, the mischief snowballs. Breakfast is sabotaged by sneaky weasels, a moth takes a bite out of his jacket, and an ant boldly marches up his pants. With each new annoyance, Fred’s frustration grows, yet the chaos unfolds with such playful absurdity that young readers can’t help but laugh.

The rhyming text keeps the pace snappy and musical, making it a delight to read aloud. Rhythm transforms Fred’s exasperation into comic relief, so giggles replace groans. Children will revel in the silliness of every buggy encounter, while parents will appreciate the subtle reminder tucked into the fun: sometimes, the small irritations of life aren’t worth letting ruin the entire day.

The heart of the story beats through Fred’s mum, who gently nudges him to lighten up and find joy despite the pests. Her presence grounds the tale, offering both comfort and a lesson that lingers, resilience matters, whether you’re fending off flies or bigger frustrations.

Illustrations amplify the humor, packed with detail and plenty of creepy-crawlies to spot and discuss. They invite conversation, laughter, and the chance to share in Fred’s exasperation while enjoying the spectacle.

Bugs That Bug You balances humor with heart. It’s a picture book that entertains while quietly teaching the importance of perspective. With rhyme, rhythm, and a parade of pesky intruders, it earns its place as a storytime favorite, one children will request again and again, and parents won’t mind rereading.

Pages: 29 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0FMKPNXKM

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Special Bond

Author Interview
Elba Martinez Author Interview

Where’s My Wabby Dabby? follows a young girl looking for her father, who is away on a trip, as she asks all the animals in her yard where her Wabby Dabby is. What was the inspiration for your story?

The inspiration for this book came from a time when my husband was fighting COVID. He was in the hospital, and we were only able to talk to him on the phone and on FaceTime. My husband called one night, and we saw COVID winning the battle, but our faith in the Lord kept us strong. My husband called my granddaughter his Eva wava little baby. She was very emotional and called him her wabby dabby. When I heard that, I decided to create a story about their bond, showing how she would go out and speak to animals to see where her wabby dabby went. At the time, we weren’t sure if my husband would come home, but we prayed and believed God for a miracle. He came home. It was a long road to recovery, but he was home. The same way we were unsure he would come home, I wanted to create this story for those children who maybe one of their parents were absent, and they can use their imagination to remember something special about them, which would give them peace and comfort.

What was your writing process to ensure you captured the essence of Eva and the animals she talked to?

Discovery–I observed their special bond, which prompted me to start drafting and editing.

What was your favorite scene in this story?

When Eva is in her bedroom and she hears her wabby dabby’s voice say, “Goodnight, my Ava wava little baby.”

What is the next book you’re working on, and when can fans expect it?

My next book is in the illustration stage, and it’s called The Night We Followed the Moon. I’m not sure when it will be finished.

Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon

Eva is a little girl with a big imagination. She talks to animals and insects, and only she understands them. Her Papa leaves on a trip, and she forgets he told her he was leaving. In the morning, she goes outside in search of answers. She is sure someone will tell her where her Papa went. Eva sees a bird, a squirrel, and an ant in her backyard. She knows someone will have the answer she is looking for.


Bella Brown Visits a Bee Farm

In Bella Brown Visits a Bee Farm, author J.W. Zarek introduces young readers to a lively tale filled with charm, discovery, and gentle lessons. The story begins with Grandma Yetta tending her garden, inviting her granddaughter Bella to join her. Bella emerges with arms full of tools, only to encounter a buzzing bee. Convinced she’s being chased, Bella flees in panic and begs her grandmother for protection. Patient and wise, Grandma Yetta explains that bees don’t pursue people out of malice; they defend themselves and their young when they feel threatened. Respect, she reminds Bella, is the key to harmony. To bring this lesson to life, Grandma arranges a trip to a nearby bee farm where Bella can see for herself the remarkable world of bees. Will this adventure transform her fear into fascination?

Zarek’s storytelling once again shines. Choosing to educate children about bees, creatures so vital to our ecosystem, feels both timely and delightful. The narrative is simple enough for young readers to grasp, yet it conveys essential knowledge: bees pollinate plants, produce honey, and maintain balance in nature. Presented in such an approachable and entertaining way, the message resonates. Children walk away not only entertained but empowered to treat bees with respect and curiosity rather than fear.

One of the highlights of the book is the thoughtful tip sheet at the end. Zarek includes practical insights: which flowers bees adore, why bug spray should be avoided, and how children can share what they’ve learned with others. This addition transforms the story from a charming read into an educational tool parents and teachers will appreciate.

The visual storytelling is equally captivating. Every page is brought to life by Anastasia, whose full-page illustrations are bold, colorful, and enchanting. The images don’t just accompany the text; they elevate it, pulling young readers deeper into Bella’s adventure and making the experience immersive.

Bella Brown Visits a Bee Farm is more than a story; it’s an invitation to wonder. Children will delight in the adventure, parents will value the lessons, and readers of all ages will leave with a new appreciation for one of nature’s smallest but most essential creatures.

Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0FF9C3MXF

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