Blog Archives
Pixie and the Elethunk
Pixie and the Elethunk by Angel Dunworth is a whimsical and heartwarming story that follows a young child’s imaginative adventure in search of the perfect pet. A young girl named Katie dreams of owning an exotic animal like an “elethunk,” believing that such a unique pet would make her unique and special. With the help of a magic pixie, she gets her wish granted, only to discover wild animals are not quite what she expected. Through a series of humorous and eye-opening experiences, Katie learns an important lesson about appreciating the love and companionship of her loyal dog, who was there for her all along.
What I enjoyed most about this book is how it skillfully conveys its moral in a way that feels both fun and relatable. The story is simple yet impactful, illustrating that sometimes what we truly need is already within our reach. The imaginative scenarios with the elethunk, giraffe, and lion are not only entertaining but also serve as clever metaphors for the unexpected consequences of our desires. The writing is rhythmic and engaging, making it an ideal read-aloud story for children. The illustrations by Angel Dunworth are another highlight of the book. They are vibrant and full of life, perfectly capturing the whimsical tone of the story. Each page is a visual delight, with cut-paper illustrations that add depth and texture to the narrative. The combination of colorful art and playful text makes the story come alive, keeping young readers captivated from start to finish. One aspect I particularly appreciated is the book’s subtle message about gratitude and contentment. The pixie’s advice to “count your blessings every day” is a timeless reminder that happiness often comes from appreciating what we already have. This lesson is conveyed in a gentle, non-preachy manner that feels natural within the story’s context, making it accessible for children and thought-provoking for adults.
Pixie and the Elethunk is a delightful and meaningful read that I would highly recommend for young children and their parents. It’s perfect for bedtime storytelling, with its charming illustrations and a message that resonates well beyond the final page. Whether you’re looking to entertain or impart a valuable life lesson, this book is a wonderful choice.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 1956581464
The Hippo Who Hated To Fight
The Hippo Who Hated to Fight is a heartwarming picture book about Kuno, a young hippo with a gentle soul living in a world where fighting and biting are the norms. Kuno is different from his four big brothers, who can’t seem to understand his aversion to conflict. Seeking solace, Kuno embarks on a journey of self-discovery, encountering Zema, a wise and kind elephant. Through their conversations, Kuno learns valuable lessons about kindness, love, and self-acceptance, leading to a transformative friendship that changes his life.
I absolutely loved this story! The writing is simple yet effective, making it enjoyable for children and adults alike. Lowe’s ability to capture Kuno’s emotions, from his feelings of alienation to his joy in discovering true friendship, is truly touching. The dialogue between Kuno and Zema is playful and deep and often brings a smile to my face, especially when Zema gently teases Kuno with her big floppy ears or talks about her insatiable appetite.
What really stood out to me were the messages woven into the story. Kuno’s journey isn’t just about fitting in; it’s about embracing who you are, even when you feel out of place. Zema’s wisdom, like her explanation that elephants don’t say “I love you” but show it through actions, adds depth to the story. It’s a beautiful reminder that love and kindness don’t always need to be expressed in words; sometimes, they’re best shown through care and compassion. These moments made the book feel like a gentle guide for any child or adult learning to navigate their path in life.
Stephen Bibel’s illustrations are the perfect complement to Lowe’s story. They’re bright and full of life and capture the essence of the characters beautifully. These images will surely captivate young readers and help them connect with the story.
The Hippo Who Hated to Fight is a delightful children’s book that I’d recommend to anyone looking for a heartwarming and meaningful story. It’s perfect for kids who’ve ever felt different or struggled to fit in, and it’s a great reminder for all of us about the power of kindness and being true to ourselves.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0D8K317L5
El éxodo de los cátaros
El éxodo de los cátaros is a riveting historical fiction novel set in the early 13th century during the Albigensian Crusade. The story follows Ermessenda de Castellbó, a noblewoman with ties to the Cathar community, as she navigates the tumultuous political and religious landscape of medieval Languedoc. Her journey is fraught with danger, alliances, and the quest for survival amid the crusade’s brutality. The narrative seamlessly blends historical facts with creative liberties to fill in the gaps, offering a vivid portrayal of a time marked by conflict and faith.
One of the best things about this book is its exploration of the characters’ inner lives and motivations. Ermessenda is portrayed as a strong and compassionate woman, deeply committed to her people and faith. Her relationship with Robi is tenderly depicted, providing emotional depth to the narrative. The author skillfully illustrates the conflicts between personal loyalties and the harsh realities of war. For instance, Robi’s torment over the fate of Carcassonne and his desperate attempts to protect his loved ones highlight the human cost of the crusade.
Mariana Vernieri’s writing is both engaging and evocative, bringing the medieval setting to life with rich descriptions and intricate details. The opening scene in the camp of Toulouse, where soldiers rest uneasy with the threat of the Crusaders looming, sets a compelling tone. Vernieri captures the atmosphere perfectly, from the camaraderie among the soldiers to the palpable tension and the personal struggles of characters like Robi, Ermessenda’s beloved. The dialogue is natural and period-appropriate, which enhances the immersion into this historical era.
El éxodo de los cátaros is a compelling read that offers a nuanced view of a complex historical period. Mariana Vernieri’s meticulous research and vivid imagination bring the past to life, making it an enjoyable read for fans of historical fiction. This book is particularly suited for readers interested in medieval history, religious conflicts, and strong, character-driven narratives.
Pages: 798 | ASIN : B0D8H92D8L
Bones Are Amazing
Nurse Florence, Tell Me About the Bones follows three friends who, after seeing a classmate recovering from a broken arm, ask the school nurse about how broken bones heal. What was the inspiration for your story?
Simply, it was time to write a book about bones. Bones are amazing and kids should know how they work.
You provide a lot of interesting information and present difficult concepts in a way that is understandable to even those outside the medical field. Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
Eating nuts and seeds are also good for your bones.
How do you hope your work will impact your readers?
There is a nursing shortage in the United States and it continues to grow. We need more kids interested in the health professions. I hope to make health information accessible for all so that many, many people will consider a career in the health sciences. The health professions are very challenging for many reasons, and we need capable minds pursuing jobs in these fields. I hope these books help prepare more future scientists.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
In 2023, we published a book every 10 days. In 2024, we have accelerated to a new Nurse Florence® book every 5 days. We have also launched a mental health series for teenagers and adults titled Nurse Dorothea. We publish a new Nurse Dorothea every 5 weeks. The next book is published in order of completed drawings so I kind of never know which will be the next. I have about 30 other children’s book series in mind and hope one day to be a full-time author so that I can write three books a day. This is a lot of fun for me.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
SiP
SiP, by Marius Trevelean, is a delightful blend of adventure, humor, and heartfelt characters. The story follows Jim Moss, a boy tasked with saving Earth from being discarded. The narrative begins with Jim’s severe aquaphobia, stemming from a near-drowning accident. Fearing he’ll never fulfill his dream of joining the Navy like his hero father, Jim’s life takes a dramatic turn when a giant red and white drinking straw descends from the sky and anchors itself in the Atlantic Ocean, sucking up the battleship his father commands. Together with his inventor uncle, Professor Bartholomew Banks, a crew of fishermen reminiscent of pirates, and a host of extraterrestrial allies, Jim must overcome his fear of water to thwart the alien responsible for Earth’s potential condemnation.
Written in a style reminiscent of Terry Pratchett and Douglas Adams, complete with a playful nod to the latter via the number 42 bus, this book is ideal for teenagers aged 13-17. The story’s core theme of friendship shines through Jim’s diverse companions—from his loyal friend Ben and his eccentric uncle to the eclectic group of fishermen, stranded aliens, and even the very alien threatening Earth. Jim’s kind-hearted nature leads him to help the giant alien understand the best qualities of humanity, even at great personal risk.
SiP features clean, well-crafted humor, exemplified by playful jabs at Flynn’s appearance, Peg’s wooden leg, Captain Shanty’s exaggerated tales, Hello’s unique voice, Aunt Muriel’s indifference, and Professor Banks’ seemingly impractical inventions. The crisply-written narrative makes for an easy yet impactful read, combining light-hearted moments with touching themes.
SiP, by Marius Trevelean, is a captivating and enjoyable read that masterfully blends humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments. Through the journey of Jim Moss and his eclectic group of companions, readers are treated to a story that celebrates friendship, courage, and the resilience of the human spirit. Trevelean’s witty and engaging writing style ensures that both teenagers and adults alike will find much to love in this imaginative tale. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a delightful escape into a world where humor and heroism go hand in hand.
Pages: 320 | ASIN : B0CR75WVNL
What Not To Do When Your Husband Dies: Neuroscience & Mindfulness As Tools To Navigate Grief
Grief is a profoundly personal experience, and while there is no universal solution, certain guidelines can help navigate the journey. T.J. Marchitelli, in her deeply personal and poignant book, What Not to Do When Your Husband Dies, offers an insightful guide on coping with grief and life after the loss of a spouse. Drawing from her own experiences, Marchitelli shares intimate stories, particularly the events surrounding her husband’s sudden death. She chronicles their life together, from their meeting in the vibrant Buddhist community of Manhattan to raising a family in East Hampton. This narrative backdrop sets the stage for a thoughtful exploration of grief, illustrating how our past and relationships influence our grieving process.
Marchitelli’s writing is both heartfelt and practical. She explores common pitfalls of grief, using her own mistakes and learnings to highlight what others might avoid. This approach makes the book relatable and accessible, offering readers a sense of companionship and understanding. Her reflections on her husband’s sudden death and its immediate aftermath are raw and unfiltered, providing a candid look at the shock and disorientation following such a profound loss. Her honesty about the debilitating nature of grief is refreshing, emphasizing that this book is not a way out but a way through. One of the author’s strengths is maintaining an approachable tone even as she discusses profound loss. She balances personal anecdotes with research-based insights, explaining how grief affects the brain and providing a framework for readers to understand the physical and psychological impacts of loss.
A key takeaway is the importance of self-care and a strong support network. Marchitelli emphasizes that losing a loved one is not a time to test one’s strength but to let others provide support. She suggests mindfulness and meditation as coping tools, adding a spiritual dimension to the narrative. Throughout the book, Marchitelli’s tone remains compassionate and encouraging. She acknowledges the uniqueness of each person’s grief journey while providing universally applicable advice. She hopes to serve as a beacon of light for those navigating the dark and confusing emotions of grief, guiding them toward rebuilding their lives with strength and grace.
Writing about grief with such openness is incredibly brave, and allowing readers into such a personal space is admirable. What Not to Do When Your Husband Dies is emotive, informative, and transformative. Its foundation on real-life experiences, supported by scientific insights, makes it a credible and valuable guide to grief. T.J. Marchitelli’s heartfelt writing is both comforting and helpful, making her unafraid exploration of her own pain a generous gift to her readers.
Pages: 154 | ASIN : B0CJKSZ111
Sally Mitts finds A Home
Sally Mitts Finds A Home: The Story of A Shy Shelter Kitten, by Shain Stodt, is a heartwarming and engaging children’s book that follows the adventure of a young kitten named Sally. When her family moves to a new house, Sally, scared by the noise and commotion, hides and is inadvertently left behind. When she finally emerges from her hiding place, she finds herself alone in an empty house. Hungry and frightened, Sally ventures outdoors in search of food, encountering a garden filled with butterflies, worms, and flowers. She is soon discovered by a kind couple, but her fear drives her to run away, leading her through unfamiliar streets and loud honking cars, further away from home and into a state of being lost. Sally, now far from her loving home, faces uncertainty about her future. What unfolds next is Sally’s journey at the shelter and her subsequent adoption by Fred Mitts.
The story, while beginning with a sad and anxious twist, evolves into a tale of hope and kindness. As a reader, I initially felt heartbroken that Sally’s family left her behind. However, the narrative took me through an emotional journey fraught with anticipation. The moment Sally met Fred Mitts, I shared her skepticism but was relieved and hopeful when Fred took the time to bond with her. His kindness and patience offered a comforting resolution to Sally’s ordeal. Children will undoubtedly be captivated by Sally’s adventure and will root for her to find a new, loving family.
The hand-drawn illustrations by the author add a charming and colorful dimension to the story, making each page visually engaging and enhancing the narrative. The illustrations create a soft and welcoming atmosphere that complements the storyline perfectly.
Sally Mitts Finds A Home: The Story of A Shy Shelter Kitten is an enchanting tale that children will love. The story teaches valuable lessons about kindness, resilience, and finding new beginnings. This book marks the start of what promises to be a delightful series of adventures for Sally and her readers.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0CVJYN6DC
LITERARY TITAN 