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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.
Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest: Dr. K’s Portal Through Time
Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest is a creative blend of historical biography, time-travel adventure, and science primer for curious young readers. Through the eyes of siblings Jennifer and Daniel, who travel with Dr. K through her magical portal, we get to witness the life, struggles, and triumphs of Marie Curie. From her early days in Paris to the discovery of radium and polonium, her groundbreaking Nobel Prizes, and her wartime work with mobile X-ray units, the book manages to cover both the sweep of her achievements and the personal grit behind them.
What I enjoyed most was how the story balanced real history with an almost playful sense of wonder. Curie describes the grueling, years-long process of isolating radium from pitchblende. The children’s questions bring an immediacy to the narrative, transforming what might otherwise seem like abstract science into a vivid account of perseverance and conviction. When Curie explains that discovery is rarely linear but instead filled with challenges and unexpected turns, the insight resonates deeply. It is a lesson that holds equal weight for adults as it does for younger readers.
I also liked how the book made science approachable without dumbing it down. In Chapter One, when Dr. K explains radioactivity, she compares unstable atoms to restless kids who can’t sit still and then to bubbles that “pop” to release energy. I was struck by the moment when Daniel exclaimed, “Pop? Like popcorn?” The lighthearted exchange underscores how effectively the book employs humor to make complex scientific concepts more accessible. It’s clever, and it makes concepts that would usually be intimidating feel relatable. The writing is clear, warm, and often funny; it kept me turning the pages even in parts I already knew from history.
Another standout for me was the way the book handled Marie Curie’s resilience as a woman in science. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the difficulties she faced, whether it’s being shut out of higher education in Poland or the immense skepticism she encountered in France. The moment when she becomes the first female professor at the Sorbonne felt huge, and it was powerful to see Jennifer draw strength from that as a young girl dreaming of her own future in science.
Marie Curie’s Radiant Quest left me with a real sense of admiration, not just for Curie, but for how stories like this can inspire curiosity in kids. The mix of adventure, history, and hands-on science makes it a great pick for classrooms, families, or anyone who wants to introduce children to one of the most remarkable figures in science. If you’ve got a young reader who asks “why?” a lot or if you’re an adult who still remembers the magic of discovery, this book is for you.
Pages: 116 | ASIN : B0F6M4MVX4
Entertaining and Uplifting
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The Aswan Device follows two sisters whose father creates a parallel reality disrupting their own, and they must rely on each other to save their world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I am not really sure. Much of this story was written while I sat down at my computer with the intention of creating a sequel that would be both entertaining and uplifting for young people, and I allowed the words to flow through me and onto the page. The real work for me came in the editing and trying to make sense of what I’d typed.
That being said, I am a huge Star Wars and Marvels Universe fan, so inspiration could have been drawn from these amazing works.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
From my travels. . .
I first learned about the concept of inner-earth beings on a bus tour to Reno, Nevada twenty-three years ago. Our bus stopped at a park with large stone circles where they believed inner-earth beings were close to the surface. This inspired me to dig further.
The folklore of many First Nations cultures depicts their ancestors living within the earth. For example, the Hopi origin story has it that the Hopis used to live beneath the earth and emerged from the Grand Canyon. I traveled to the Grand Canyon to experience this place of wonder for myself. The Grand Canyon plunges so far below that it is easy to envision ancient people emerging from its depths.
The intra-earth city, Mu, in The Intra-Earth Chronicles;Book II:The Aswan Device, was modeled after places I’d seen on my travels to both Egypt and Peru; Mu is nestled on a mesa surrounded by mountains and jungle much like Machu Picchu in Peru and has pyramids like the great pyramids of Egypt.
The inspiration for Aswan, the luminous orange planet, came from my love of Planet Jupiter.
I am also a fan of the History Channel’s Ancient Aliens, and there is an episode about the possibility of advanced civilizations existing beneath the earth’s crust. There’s a lot of great inspiration for Sci-fi writers from that television show.
The multiple settings became more detailed and complex in this second installment of the series!
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away by the magical powers of characters. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
I had so many characters in so many different settings, in order to develop each character and place fully, I couldn’t spend too much time on any one character’s magical powers. I hope I succeeded in that delicate balance! 😊
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
I haven’t begun Book III yet, but I have a feeling that Sasha, Adrianne, the two Aswan Cadets, and Desoto will travel to other planets within the galaxy to experience how they are governed and have achieved peace and co-exist within the greater system of galaxies. Their travels will also lead them back to our own planet to study many more peaceful Intra-earth Civilizations.
Sasha and Adrianne will learn more about the Prophecy and will have to choose whether to accept or deny their destiny of becoming Lords of the Twelve Worlds.
My intent is that this will be an exciting and uplifting adventure filled with humor. 🙂
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
During his escape from the intra-earth, Tartarus disrupts Mu’s spinning magnetic power source, causing explosive bursts of energy to erupt onto the surface. This disruption tears the fabric of time and creates a doorway into a parallel reality. In this new reality, Tartarus reinstates the nuclear machine and positions himself as Earth’s savior in place of the sisters. With unlimited power and resources at his disposal, will Sasha and Adrianne ever be able to stop him?
In The Aswan Device by Kara Jacobson, we experience a fast-paced fantasy adventure where love and friendship prove to be the strongest weapons of all.
The Intra-Earth Chronicles; Book II: The Aswan Device
Deep within the Earth’s core lies a world of astonishing beauty and relentless strife, where two sisters, Adrianne and Sasha, bear the burden of a fractured kingdom and a legacy marred by betrayal. Their father, Tartarus, deposed yet dangerous, shatters their fragile peace by stealing a device designed to heal their fractured world. Forced into a perilous quest, Adrianne and Sasha confront not only external threats but also the unspoken tensions that threaten to divide them. Adrianne, impulsive and eager to prove herself, wrestles with her fiery temper and desire to escape Sasha’s shadow. Meanwhile, Sasha, steady and wise, strives to hold their tenuous alliance together. As they traverse dangerous landscapes and a parallel Earth where Tartarus has claimed dominion, their resilience shines. Yet the question looms: can their bond withstand the trials ahead, or will their differences tear them apart at the moment they need each other most?
The Aswan Device by Kara Jacobson is an extraordinary fusion of mythology, science fiction, and family drama, weaving a story that is both thrilling and deeply emotional. Set in an intricately crafted subterranean world, the novel follows royal sisters Adrianne and Sasha as they grapple with their father’s dark legacy while navigating the crumbling societies above and below ground. Their mission to recover the stolen nuclear device, a symbol of hope and survival, tests their love, rivalry, and endurance.
Jacobson balances adventure with emotional depth, creating a narrative that resonates with readers. The reimagining of Tartarus, blending ancient mythology with futuristic elements, immediately captivates, and the seamless integration of these themes into a high-stakes narrative is nothing short of brilliant. The juxtaposition of mythological resonance with cutting-edge technology crafts a storyscape that is both unique and compelling.
The protagonists, Adrianne and Sasha, stand out as vivid, multidimensional characters. Adrianne’s fiery determination and Sasha’s empathetic wisdom create a sibling dynamic that is as relatable as it is engaging. Their interactions capture the essence of siblinghood, brimming with frustration, humor, and unwavering loyalty. Tartarus, as the antagonist, is a commanding presence—a complex figure whose ambition and moral decay echo timeless themes of power and corruption. The supporting cast further enriches the narrative, offering moments of levity and depth, while the interplay among characters ensures readers are emotionally invested in their journeys. Jacobson’s technical expertise shines through her lush world-building and evocative prose.
For fans of Rick Riordan and the Percy Jackson series, The Aswan Device is an absolute must-read. With its fast-paced adventure, rich character development, and thematic complexity, it stands as a standout entry in the genre. Perfect for young adult and middle-grade readers, this book’s blend of science fiction, fantasy, and mythology ensures an unforgettable experience. Whether drawn to epic quests, futuristic worlds, or the intricate dynamics of sibling relationships, readers will find The Aswan Device to be an engaging and deeply satisfying journey.
Pages: 185 | ASIN : B0DK26ZY5S
The Paper Butterfly
In The Paper Butterfly, Ona Kingdon weaves an evocative narrative that captures the delicate beauty of life through the journey of a Paper Butterfly. Crafted with care by the Maker, the Paper Butterfly listens intently from within her glass cocoon until the day she takes flight. Venturing into the vast world beyond, she encounters new friends and places, all the while reflecting on her purpose as she tends to a tiny monarch egg, endearingly called the Child of the Moon. When the egg hatches, the two form an enduring bond, embarking together on the profound adventure of life.
This poignant story is more than a simple tale. It is a deeply emotional exploration of the interconnectedness of all living beings. As Paper Butterfly and Child of the Moon navigate their shared path, themes of belonging, growth, and mutual impact unfold gracefully. Through their experiences, readers are reminded that life is a fragile but sacred tapestry where every thread matters.
Kingdon deftly intertwines environmental themes, emphasizing responsibility and awareness through the trials of the monarch migration. The depiction of a veteran monarch explaining the significance of his tattered wings stands out as a highlight, offering a profound message: scars are not marks of defeat but beautiful testaments to survival. This moment encapsulates the book’s soul, leaving a lasting impression. The backdrop of Kingdon’s stunning watercolor illustrations and the depth of the storytelling create a vibrant world that captures the emotional spectrum with artistry and warmth.
A journey of joy and sorrow, resilience and loss, The Paper Butterfly speaks to readers aged 12 and up who appreciate stories that resonate deeply and provoke thought. Mortality, danger, and the unyielding forces of nature shape the butterflies’ path, making this a tale as much about courage and hope as it is about the cycles of life.
Pages: 158 | ISBN : 098671111X
PILLYWIGGIN – Lost Shadow Boys
In the perilous world of Mantelrealm, survival is a formidable challenge, particularly for Jayce, who leads a group of young boys captured by a malevolent witch during a massive battle. Despite possessing fairy magic, their escape from the blistering prison is not an option through flight. Instead, they are forced to craft makeshift tools to mine fairy dust under the vigilant eyes of mercenary dragons and enigmatic creatures known as Oddizens. Their only hope for freedom lies in a boy who managed to escape and smuggled in supplies. However, with past escape attempts having failed and time running out, they anxiously await the fulfillment of a prophecy that foretells the arrival of a girl destined to save them. But will she arrive in time?
Pillywiggin: The Lost Shadow Boys by Debbie Bishop strikes a perfect balance between the fantastical and the relatable, making it both enjoyable and profoundly meaningful. The young protagonists, despite their age, bear the weighty responsibilities and challenges typically associated with adulthood. This stark contrast between their youth and the burdens they carry evokes a deep sense of empathy. Their struggles with loss, responsibility, and survival in an unforgiving world mirror the real-life challenges many young people face today, who are forced to mature too quickly. This unexpected depth adds a compelling layer to the story, transforming it into more than just a fantastical escape. The language used in the book is highly accessible, broadening its appeal to readers as young as twelve. Though firmly within the fantasy genre, the plot remains easy to follow. This accessibility is particularly evident in how Bishop introduces and develops the story’s prophecy. Complex themes are distilled into simple, captivating explanations that younger readers can easily grasp. This simplicity does not diminish the story’s richness; rather, it ensures that even profound ideas are conveyed in an engaging and thought-provoking manner, fostering a deeper connection with the narrative. The book’s ending left me eagerly anticipating the next installment. With just a single sentence, Bishop masterfully sets up a cliffhanger that raises numerous questions about the characters’ futures and the unfolding plot. This clever narrative choice keeps readers hooked and invested, reflecting the unpredictability and open-ended nature of our own stories.
Pillywiggin: The Lost Shadow Boys excels in blending relatable, real-world experiences with its fantasy elements, making it a compelling read. Themes of youthful burdens, accessible yet profound storytelling, and cliffhangers that resonate with real-life uncertainties ensure that the narrative remains grounded in reality while offering an escape into a richly imagined world. I highly recommend this book to tween readers who enjoy high fantasy, such as The Lord of the Rings, as it serves as an excellent introduction to more complex reads. Its accessible language and relatable characters make it the perfect gateway to the high fantasy genre, preparing young readers for more challenging books in the future.
Pages: 260 | ASIN : B0DBJRNMDK
Searching for Lucky #3002: A Ben and Blue Mystery
Searching for Lucky #3002: A Ben and Blue Mystery, by Ellen Melissa Cohen, is an enchanting middle-grade mystery that captures the imagination and hearts of its readers. The story revolves around ten-year-old Benjamin, who is raised by a single mother. When a family project at school highlights his lack of a father, Benjamin’s curiosity about his father’s identity is piqued. His mother’s vague answers propel him to take matters into his own hands. Alongside his best friend Cooper and his loyal dog Blue, Ben embarks on a heartfelt quest to uncover the truth about his father.
Cohen masterfully addresses sensitive issues in a manner that is both accessible and engaging for young readers. The narrative deftly explores the challenges of growing up in a single-parent household, making it deeply relatable for many children. Ben is an endearing protagonist—intuitive, intelligent, and occasionally mischievous. His earnest quest highlights the importance of addressing complex topics with children, reinforcing the value of open communication.
The story also delivers a powerful message about the diverse nature of families. Ben’s journey teaches young readers that families come in all shapes and sizes, each with its own unique beauty. This theme is reinforced through Cohen’s thoughtful writing and the vibrant illustrations by Donald Wu. Wu’s artwork is a delightful complement to the story, bringing the characters and their adventures to life in vivid detail. Each illustration adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making readers look forward to every chapter. Cohen’s storytelling is both captivating and educational, skillfully blending mystery with meaningful life lessons. The pacing is engaging, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. Although I feel the resolution of Benjamin’s search feels a bit rushed, it leaves readers eagerly anticipating more adventures with Ben and Blue.
Searching for Lucky #3002: A Ben and Blue Mystery is an outstanding addition to middle-grade fiction. It’s a heartwarming, insightful, and thoroughly enjoyable read that both children and adults will appreciate. Ellen Melissa Cohen has crafted a story that is not only entertaining but also deeply impactful, making it a must-read for young readers.
Pages: 168 | ISBN : 1643713736
Eye of the Turtle
Eye of the Turtle is a remarkable environmental fiction novel that delivers a compelling story and serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for environmental conservation. Author Gloria Barnett intertwines a tale of adventure, friendship, and activism, creating an enlightening and deeply moving narrative.
The story unfolds on the idyllic Pontus Island, a place that becomes a sanctuary and a battleground for the young protagonist, Lucy, and her friends, Jack and Solomon. Lucy’s relocation to the island marks the beginning of a transformative journey. Her passion for the ocean and its inhabitants is infectious, and it is this passion that drives the story forward. The trio’s underwater explorations are vividly described, bringing to life the beauty and fragility of the marine ecosystem. Scenes where they encounter sea creatures entangled in plastic or trapped in debris are particularly heart-wrenching, effectively highlighting the devastating impact of human negligence on nature.
Lucy is a beacon of hope and determination. Her resolve to make a difference in the face of overwhelming odds is inspiring. Jack and Solomon complement Lucy’s character, adding layers of camaraderie and support to the story. Their dynamics are a testament to the power of teamwork and collective action in addressing environmental issues.
The author’s writing style seamlessly blends narrative flair and educational content. Descriptions of marine life and diving experiences are not only informative but also integral to the story’s progression. The educational elements are woven into the fabric of the story, making the learning experience organic and engaging. This approach enhances the reader’s understanding and appreciation of the ocean’s wonders and the importance of its preservation.
The themes of environmental conservation and activism are the heart and soul of this novel. The author does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of environmental degradation, yet the tone remains hopeful and empowering. This balance is one of the book’s greatest strengths, as it motivates young readers to reflect on their role in protecting the environment.
The blend of engaging narrative, well-developed characters, and a meaningful message creates a rich, immersive experience. Eye of the Turtle is a delightful read and a crucial reminder of our collective responsibility towards our planet. It is a novel that urges readers to look at the world with a more compassionate and proactive eye.
Pages: 181 | ISBN : 1838064303
LITERARY TITAN 