Blog Archives
The Adventures of Troy Home Again
Troy the Bald Eagle has soared through many adventures, but this time, he faces a new kind of journey: adulthood. With maturity comes the yearning for companionship, for someone to share the beauty of his beloved farm and the rhythm of daily life. Though Troy loves his home and friends, life feels incomplete without a partner beside him. Fortune smiles when he spots Aliana, a graceful female bald eagle. Their connection is instant. Through gentle gestures and shared moments, the two discover they are perfectly matched. Together with the farm animals who have long been Troy’s friends, they embark on a new and heartwarming chapter.
The Adventures of Troy: Home Again is a children’s book designed for readers ages 2 to 9. Hope Kelley not only penned the story but also brought it to life through her own illustrations. The tale is short and accessible, crafted with young and beginning readers in mind. There’s no peril here, no great conflict, just the comforting story of friendship, affection, and discovery. The focus rests squarely on Troy and Aliana, offering a gentle introduction to how two creatures (or people) might notice, admire, and grow fond of one another.
As in most children’s books, the artwork carries equal importance to the text, and Kelley proves herself skilled on both fronts. Her illustrations burst with color and warmth; dogs, swans, and other farm animals practically leap from the page. Each image is lively enough to hold a child’s attention, whether the story is being read aloud or enjoyed independently. Thoughtfully, Kelley has also woven in an educational component: advanced vocabulary words appear throughout the story, supported by a glossary and fun facts about bald eagles at the end of the book.
There’s much to appreciate here: the gentle narrative, the endearing characters, and the subtle encouragement for young readers to expand their vocabulary. Simple, sweet, and visually engaging, this book delivers both charm and learning in equal measure. The Adventures of Troy: Home Again is the kind of story that can easily become a bedtime favorite, offering warmth, imagination, and just the right touch of wonder.
Pages: 60 | ASIN : B0F4T7V27D
Monsters Don’t Say Meep: Even the tiniest roar can make the biggest difference
This children’s book tells the story of Meep, a little monster who just can’t roar like the others at Monster Scare Prep School. Everyone around him belts out their big scary sounds, but poor Meep can only squeak his tiny “meep.” He tries everything, roaring in caves, wearing a pumpkin helmet, even stuffing his mouth full of gooey pumpkin guts, but nothing works. When the Monsters’ Ball goes wild with chaos and scared kittens, it’s Meep’s soft, sweet “meep” that saves the day. Turns out, his quiet voice is the one that really matters.
I loved this children’s story from the very first page. The writing feels playful and full of rhythm, like it’s meant to be read out loud with silly voices and giggles. The way author Bridgetta Tomarchio paints Meep’s struggle is both funny and heart-tugging. It captures how it feels to not fit in, especially when everyone else seems bigger, louder, or braver. The humor, pumpkin guts, fart sounds, and monster mishaps keep it light and fun, while the message sneaks up softly. It’s not about being the scariest; it’s about being yourself. And that “meep”? It’s adorable.
You can tell this story comes from a place of love, especially knowing it was inspired by the author’s son. The idea that our real voices matter, even when they sound different, is such a beautiful thing to teach kids. The vibrant and charming illustrations burst with playful energy, perfectly suited for a children’s picture book. It features a delightful cast of colorful monsters. The warm, bright color palette, combined with the monsters’ expressive faces, creates an inviting and positive atmosphere.
I’d totally recommend Monsters Don’t Say Meep for kids ages three to seven, or anyone who’s ever felt too small to be heard. It’s the kind of book that makes you smile and maybe tear up a little at the end. If you’ve got a shy kid, a loud kid, or any kid in between, this story belongs on your shelf. It’s got the kind of magic that makes bedtime stories worth staying up for.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0FQK4N98J
A Star Named Sky and Flynn the Firefly
A Star Named Sky and Flynn the Firefly is a tender and uplifting tale that will leave both children and parents smiling. The story introduces Flynn, a little firefly who senses something is terribly wrong; his glow has vanished. Overcome with sadness, he begins to cry, but hope arrives in the form of Sky, a compassionate star who drifts down from above. Through a playful game filled with affirmations and encouragement, Sky gently reminds Flynn of his worth. With every uplifting word, Flynn’s light begins to shine again, and Sky leaves him with a lasting truth: never forget who you are.
Author Vincent Watson has crafted a beautifully inspiring narrative that speaks directly to young readers. The message is clear yet profound: every child is special, and recognizing their own value allows them to help others feel special too. The game Sky teaches Flynn becomes more than a moment in the story; it is an empowering tool for children learning self-love and self-expression. The simple yet powerful phrase, “I love me,” carries weight, especially for little ones navigating complex emotions.
The illustrations add another layer of magic, vibrant and full of life, almost as if the pages themselves were animated. A particularly delightful detail is the chorus of frogs in the background, cheering on Sky and Flynn with infectious joy. By the end, the bond between star and firefly has blossomed into a nightly ritual of encouragement, love, and friendship, a reminder that shining together makes the light even brighter.
Heartwarming, visually charming, and deeply affirming, this story is more than just a bedtime read, it is a gentle guide to embracing purpose, resilience, and self-love.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0C6RBPF4G
Become Better Humans
Cows with Bangs: A Stylish Tale of Acceptance follows an artistic cow with a passion for hairstyling who is mocked by her peers, and eventually earns their respect when the famous Highland Queen comes to see her for a makeover. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for this story surfaced during a public event I attended at a local farm. This farm, Highland Hills Farm in Emmetsburg, Iowa, raises miniature Highland cows to sell as pets. I thought to myself, Oh look, cows with bangs. I knew, in that moment, I had to create a children’s book with that title. I rarely come up with a title first, but in this case, it was too cute not to. My next thoughts were bangs, hair, styles, and cosmetology. I filed the idea away for several months until I was ready to work on the story during Christmas break 2024.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
My stories contain a lesson or two to help young children become better humans. As a teacher, I am with children each day and observe their struggles. Kids are constantly learning how to master the skills they need to navigate life. In doing so, they frequently suffer from hurt feelings. Sometimes kids are misunderstood or mocked by their peers for just being themselves. This was the core situation I decided to present in the character of Claire.
Another concept I hope adults pick up on is how important it is to support kids. Taking the time and giving 100% of your attention, even if only for a minute or two, and speaking kind words can deeply affect a child. This concept was shown through the character of the queen.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I enjoyed the last scene when Claire becomes the herd’s cow-moo-tologist. That play on words always makes people laugh or smile.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently finishing up a chapter book for ages 8-12. That is Book Three in my series The Crustacean Chronicles. It completes the series, which follows Charlie’s Crabby Day and The Sand Sculpture Competition.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Amazon
Claire is an artist with a talent for styling hair, but her passions are not welcomed and her peers shun her. That is until the famous Highland Queen comes to her rescue.
The Queen praises Claire’s skills and requests a hair appointment, causing the others to reconsider their judgment and line up for their own fabulous makeovers.
This charming tale of embracing individuality and gaining acceptance will remind us of the value of being supportive and kind.
Places I Had Visited
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA West follows a travel-loving snake and his friends as they enjoy some of the sights on the West coast of the USA, from Hollywood California to Alaska and Waikiki Beach, Hawaii. What was the inspiration for the destinations they visit in your story?
Fred asked me which places I had visited and liked best.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Meeting the bear in Alaska. “If you meet a bear, be brave, shout out loud, and madly wave. Get together in a bunch to avoid becoming lunch.”
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
The old word “Eskimo” is no longer proper. We should refer to the different nations, like Inuit and Aleut.
What is your favorite place to visit, and does it hold any special meaning or memories for you?
San Francisco was the first US city I visited in 1971 while still living in England. I was impressed by its grandeur, pretty houses, sunshine, and hamburgers.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
A Double-Edged Sword
Just Like You, Papa follows a young boy who dreams of moving just like his father until he learns that even the strongest need time to rest. Did you draw from personal experiences when creating the father-child relationship?
Yes, this is the story of my son and his father. While we are an active family, and my son thrives in sports and looks up to his father, what he needs to learn is to take it easy sometimes. Ambition is a double-edged sword. I want to teach him balance in life.
How did you decide on the rhythmic, capitalized style for the book?
I love reading books to my kids, and I found I especially love those with rhythmic, simple text, and which use repetition. Kids love repetition. I explicitly aimed to achieve this effect myself. This book relies on the illustrations and bold text so that the energy jumps off the page.
What message do you hope both children and parents take away from the story?
To enjoy life to the fullest, dream big, but also to achieve a balanced outlook and enjoy the process. For example, if my son doesn’t manage a climbing route he wants to be able to do, his frustration and anger overwhelm him at times, and he needs reminding that he climbs because it is fun. He can sometimes then simply enjoy the process of learning, and take a break. He needs to learn to let go sometimes.
Was there a particular moment in the story that was especially meaningful to you?
There is no particular moment, but I like how the voice changes in the middle of the book from the perspective of the child to the perspective and wisdom of the father.
Author Links: Facebook | Website | Instagram | Amazon
We Are So Loved and Extraordinary
Live Big: Catch-M is a heartfelt and whimsical journey through self-belief, love, and the power of positivity that encourages readers, especially children, to believe in their dreams and find strength in kindness, gratitude, and connection. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for my Live Big Series came from my need to figure out how not to live in the dark when hard things happen. I lost a brother suddenly at the age of fifteen. I had no social and emotional learning or life skills to overcome such a hardship at the time. My parents did not either, and we struggled. Over the years, I went on a quest to discover ways back to my YES, to live my best life with meaning.
At a symphony with my husband, I do not know if you would call it God or divine inspiration, but it was like something whacked me over the head and said, “Kat, you need to write books about the power of a smile to help kids and everyone, live their best lives together.” I knew nothing about being an author. I was forty. I had never even met an author, but I honored the call. The best moments of my life are now watching kids hold my books like a lifeline. I hope my books help kids learn life skills to overcome adversity and live with full brave hearts, filling their heart’s treasure with the gift of CATCH-M love. How fun to all shine and share love’s wondrous power everywhere as we catch CATCH-M together!
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The two most important ideas I wanted to convey in my Live Big Series were the power of our smile and how to live our best lives together. Our smiles are such outward expressions of how we live in our hearts. Our hearts are the wellspring of life. If we can fill our hearts daily with the gift of love’s wonder, the power of CATCH-M, we can live big in our magical kingdoms and achieve our wildest dreams together. Albert Einstein said, “If you look deep into nature you will understand everything better!” The African animals in my Live Big Series all pursue their wildest dreams. The readers watch these animals discover three powerful secrets to catch CATCH-M every day and build full brave hearts where they can live big together!
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Jomike Tejido?
Jomike Tejido is an incredibly talented artist who started as an architect but found his spark by designing picture books. I have been fortunate to work with him because my Art Director, Neil Gonzales, recognized his talent. The three of us had a blast imagining how to convey the fear of a little spark, alone in the dark, facing its fear and becoming so brave-hearted that it could shine and share love everywhere. Jomike’s work takes readers on a wondrous journey through time where readers can consider how the universe, Mother Earth, and all its inhabitants came to be. What a gift to think each of us are chosen and designed to be here because we are so loved and extraordinary! If and when we believe, we too can shine and share love’s wonder everywhere!
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?
Live Big With CATCH-M is considered the first and last book in my Live Big Series. It explains the history of CATCH-M and how the gift of love’s wondrous spark came to live in all of our hearts. It can be the first book you read, in the middle, or the last. The book number on Live Big With CATCH-M‘s cover is an infinity symbol to represent the fact that love never ends and love always wins over fear. The next book fans can expect is a Live Big Playbook, a dynamic, fun workbook to inspire us to live our best lives as we catch CATCH-M every day together and build our heart’s treasure.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Book 1 of 4: The Live Big Series
Set long ago in history, in one of the best-illustrated children’s books in Kat’s best-selling, multi-award-winning Live Big series; readers follow a little love spark named CATCH-M who wakes up in the dark. No other sparks are there. CATCH-M feels alone and scared. After struggling with crazy emotions, CATCH-M finds his full braveheart and discovers how to think bigger, creating a magic moment that changes everything! BANG!
CATCH-M does good, shining and sharing love’s wondrous power everywhere. Millions of miraculous CATCH-Ms create wonders like Mother Earth, where we all can experience the fun of love and friendship. But in the wilds of East Africa, Baby Cheetah and Zebra struggle with crazy emotions too. Can they find the gift of CATCH-M, love’s wondrous spark in their hearts, and listen, using love’s powerful secrets to live big with full bravehearts?
Live Big with Catch-M’s inspirational message makes it the perfect gift for every age. Everyone, everywhere, will delight in learning love’s powerful secrets—shhh—DREAM BIG, LOVE BIG, and THINK BIG—to catch CATCH-M love every day and be extraordinary stars in our stories together!
Pure Creative Alchemy
Elf Dust follows elves as they sneak into homes before Christmas to check whether kids have been naughty or nice and leave behind a mystery surprise for children to discover. What was the inspiration for your story?
I lived in Hong Kong in a high rise. My children were quite young and eager for a fun-filled Christmas. The only problem was – Santa could not land on our roof and, of course, there were no chimneys. I had to come up with something to create magic and mystery. Elf Dust came to me driving to work one morning.
My son discovered his first elf dust and raced to the playground of our building to tell his friends. Soon I had an apartment full of kids all circling the specimen like archeologists at a dig. They were mesmerized. Then the other parents in the building used some of my dust and one by one children were rushing to announce their elf dust sitings. I can safely say it was a tie between parents and kids as to who had more fun! Parents also loved how easy it was. Me too!
But, the real testament to Elf Dust’s magic was when my son showed his younger sister her first Elf Dust. As she went to touch it, he pulled her back saying “Oh No, you can’t touch it or you’ll become an Elf.”
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The entire book was a joy. But, If I must choose it would be the scenes where the children find Elf Dust. They remind me of all the years I saw this wonderful scenario play out. The moment the Elf Dust is discovered is a moment of sheer elation for the young and the young at heart who love the magic of Christmas.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Colleen Sgroi?
It was pure creative alchemy. From our first conversation, it was clear Colleen understood what I was looking for, like no one else. It was a harmony of words and images like I’ve never experienced before. While I was eager to finish the book, I was sad when the creative process ended. Each session was a real collaboration, and the result was beyond what I hoped for. Colleen and I worked very well together sharing our ideas and visions. But it was her art and talent that brought it all together.
What next book are you working on and when will it be available?
I am working on a sequel involving Cookie and Jingle – the two elves on the cover. They’re senior elves in Santa’s brigade and will surely have some stories to tell in the future.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Have you seen Elf Dust in your house? Better check!
LITERARY TITAN 