Blog Archives
Jett Cooper
In Jett Cooper by MAC Hill, a young teen in rural Australia is chasing the one thing that makes him feel most alive: flying. Jett is training with his dad, Jack, and dreaming of the Blue Wolf Junior Air Competition, where a scholarship to a flying academy could change everything. Then Jack dies in a crash, and the story pivots hard into grief, blame, and a family that cannot agree on what “safe” should look like. Jett keeps getting pulled between school, his mum’s fear, and the competition he still wants more than he wants to admit. The air show weekend builds to a mid-race emergency when Ella’s plane sheds part of its wing, and Jett has to choose between finishing and helping her get down alive.
What grabbed me first was how confidently Hill writes the flying. It is detailed, but it does not feel like she is showing off. When Jett talks about the stick, rudder, and the way the air feels, you can almost feel the cockpit tighten around you. I also appreciated the simple tools she uses to keep you oriented, like the air show map and the racecourse layout. It sounds small, but it really helps the action land, especially when the racing gets fast and messy. Even the author’s note about Australian English made me smile, because it signals the book’s voice early: grounded, local, and not trying to flatten itself for anyone.
This is a young adult sports-adventure with a coming-of-age core, and it works in that lane because the competition structure is clear and the stakes keep rising, but the real pressure is emotional. The book does not rush past the shock of loss. There’s a line about grief feeling like “running in waist-high water,” and that’s exactly how the early chapters read, in a good way. I found the mum-son conflict believable even when it hurt to watch. She is terrified, he is stubborn, and neither of them has the full language for what’s going on underneath. And then Hill makes a smart, character-revealing call in the final stretch: Jett’s need to win is real, but the moment he hears “Mayday” and realizes Ella is in trouble, you can see his priorities rearrange in real time.
By the end, the book lands in a place that feels earned, with scholarships offered, big decisions made, and relationships shifting instead of snapping neatly back into place. I’d recommend Jett Cooper most to readers who like YA competition stories with real heart: people who enjoy training arcs, rivals, and high-stakes events, but also want family tension and grief handled with care. If you like aviation, you will like this book. If you do not know a thing about planes, I still think the emotions and momentum will carry you through an enjoyable story.
Pages: 308 | ASIN : B0FPXHJR8F
Tales of Weirderland: The Collected Volumes
Kyle Steenblik’s Tales of Weirderland is a whimsical and heartfelt collection of fantasy adventures following the young Prince Cael and Princess Iris. These siblings embark on epic quests in their magical kingdom, encountering dragons, wizards, and enchanted objects, all while wielding clever wit and endearing sibling banter. Written as a loving tribute to the author’s children, the book mixes humor, adventure, and the kind of wonder that makes bedtime stories come to life. The first trilogy is a playful romp of imaginative escapades, while the second takes on more mature themes of resilience and self-discovery.
Steenblik has a knack for dialogue, particularly between the children and their parents, King Joseph and Queen Elspeth. The scene in The Quest for Ruben, where their parents dramatically exaggerate the dangers of the mission—calling it “perilous,” “treacherous,” and even “very smelly”—had me laughing. It’s this kind of humor that makes the book sparkle. The wordplay, the absurdity, and the way the kids handle their royal yet totally relatable parents make the book feel like a Monty Python-esque fairy tale, but with an even bigger heart.
Beyond the humor, Tales of Weirderland excels in world-building. Weirderland lives up to its name, full of bizarre creatures like River, the miniature dragon with a chaotic grasp of grammar, and Crazy Alvin, the road builder responsible for impractical roads. One of my favorite moments is in The Hopeless Quest, when Iris and Cael encounter a wizard who imprisons people in statues—only to be outwitted by the siblings’ quick thinking. The world is both silly and immersive, with just enough logic to make the nonsense feel real.
What surprised me most was the book’s emotional depth. Though it starts as a fun, lighthearted read, the second trilogy carries a weightier message. Steenblik wrote these stories as a reflection of his children’s growth, and it shows. There are moments of struggle, of feeling lost, of facing fear—especially in The Nameless Quest, which touches on themes of identity and perseverance. But through it all, the love between Cael and Iris remains the core of the story.
This collection is a must-read for families, fantasy lovers, and anyone who enjoys a story that doesn’t take itself too seriously while still delivering heartfelt moments. If you grew up loving The Princess Bride or The Phantom Tollbooth, Tales of Weirderland will feel like coming home.
Pages: 292 | ASIN : B0D9MY1H9N
Children of the Ancient Heroes: Dreams and Nightmares
Children of the Ancient Heroes: Dreams and Nightmares, by Russell J. Fellows, whisks readers on an enchanting adventure through an alternate world with Tirza and Eli at its heart. Thirteen-year-old Tirza yearns for a life touched by magic. Her days feel routine, filled with reading, hanging out with her best friend, and caring for her little brother, Eli. Everything changes when their parents start remodeling an old bookstore. As the siblings stumble upon a forbidden book of childhood legends, reality bends. Tirza and Eli are swept into a realm bursting with magic, where legends breathe, friendships form, and danger lurks around every corner. The story leaps into high gear as Tirza and Eli find themselves entangled in a perilous plot against the benevolent Queen Penelope. In this realm, the stakes are high—two worlds depend on the courage of these young adventurers. Tirza dreams of becoming the hero she’s always read about, but Eli remains hesitant. Their journey through the magical dimension teems with whimsical and fierce encounters, their sibling dynamic adding a refreshing layer of realism and emotional depth to the fantastical narrative.
Fellows has created a rich tapestry of characters. The brave duo Merry and Ziglin fight with unwavering dedication to defend their queen and homeland, while the enigmatic Illuma weaves in and out of the shadows on missions cloaked in mystery. Queen Penelope stands as a beacon of kindness tinged with sorrow, hinting at a deeper story waiting to be unveiled. In contrast, the villains paint a picture of darkness. Ravena, while sometimes coming off as trying too hard to be menacing, still adds a sense of danger, and the soul-eater Xaphad chills the pages with whispered threats. Tirza and Eli feel authentic, ordinary children suddenly thrust into a fantastical realm where their choices matter more than ever. The grounded nature of their bond, particularly Tirza’s big-sister protectiveness and Eli’s cautious outlook, breathes life into their journey, making readers root for them every step of the way.
Beyond the magic and adventure, the novel dives into surprisingly deep themes. It tackles the “problem of evil” and explores the complex interplay between personal choice and divine intervention, adding layers of philosophical reflection to an otherwise lighthearted narrative. The sprinkling of Tolkien references adds a fun nod to fans of classic fantasy, enriching the story’s worldbuilding with a sense of homage and wonder.
Children of the Ancient Heroes: Dreams and Nightmares is a delightful, thought-provoking read that promises much for the series to come. With its blend of fantasy violence, themes of mortality and kidnapping, and philosophical musings, it’s perfect for readers aged 10 and up who love to explore magical realms. The tale ends on a note that whets the appetite for future adventures, setting the stage for a series filled with intrigue, heart, and a dash of philosophical pondering.
Pages: 193 | ASIN : B0DFX8ZQNQ
Ice Cap
Ice Cap is a wintery adventure filled with magic, laughs, and a snowman who’s just too cool to melt. A snowman named Ice Cap isn’t just your average frosty fellow. He sports a hat that powers his cell phone, rocks out on an electric guitar, and knows all the popular tunes. The story takes you through his snowy escapades, from racing down hills on his snowboard to strumming tunes for both kids and parents. Ice Cap becomes the ultimate snow-day hero, bringing the town together with fun and a big heart, even though he has to dash away when spring starts peeking in.
Author Joan Epp’s rhyming verse has a bouncy and cheerful rhythm that’ll have you singing along. The language is accessible, the kind that young readers will gobble up, but with a playful sophistication that adults can chuckle at too. Take the line, “He’s got cool sunglasses and a magical hat, that charges his cell phone so he can chat”—come on, how can you not smile at a snowman with tech-savvy charm? It feels like a joyful mix between classic winter tales and a modern-day spin on what kids actually enjoy.
What really shines in this children’s book is the imagination. Ice Cap creates full-blown adventures with snowmobiles, ice castles, and even hockey games. It’s a pure and delightful fantasy. There’s something heartwarming about how Epp brings Ice Cap to life as a character who always returns when the children need him, reminding us of those magical childhood friends we wished could stick around forever. The details are rich but relatable, like the fun twist where the kids have to text “please” to get Ice Cap to join their play.
The watercolor illustrations are a burst of vibrant joy that perfectly capture the picture book’s playful energy. Each page has lively colors. Claire Sedovic’s attention to detail is a true treat. Every page is full of whimsical touches that bring the story to life, like the expressions of pure delight on the kids’ faces when Ice Cap is in different situations. It’s the kind of art that invites kids to pause and soak in the magic.
Ice Cap is a must-read for families who love the magic of winter and the idea of a snowman who’s as much of a rock star as he is a playful buddy. It’s perfect for bedtime reading or any day when you wish the snow would stick around a bit longer. Parents, grandparents, teachers—anyone looking to spark a bit of wonder in a child’s eyes should pick this up.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DF7HSBB9
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
Steven F Seagull and The Missing Chips
Steven F Seagull and the Missing Chips, by Kitty May Gruchelska, is a delightful adventure set on the coast of Britain. The story follows Steven Fitzgerald Seagull, affectionately known as Fitzy, who embarks on another day of work alongside his fellow seagulls. Their mission is to find their sacred and favorite food: delicious, salty chips. However, a crisis strikes their home of Fry Cove when all the chips mysteriously disappear, leading Fitzy on a thrilling quest to save his hometown.
Gruchelska’s storytelling is engaging, reminiscent of an animated movie for children. The action unfolds rapidly, and the author’s lively style keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. Written from Fitzy’s perspective, the book immerses the reader in his journey as he meets a diverse cast of characters. Fitzy’s best friend Charlie is kind and tough, Percy Pigeon’s shyness is endearing, the Artful Dodger’s bravado leaps off the page, and the intrepid Ellie comes through when it matters most.
One of the many standout features in the book is the depiction of the Annual Chip Festival, where the community’s love for chips is celebrated with fervor and excitement. The scene where chips rain down like confetti is both amusing and endearing, capturing the essence of the seagulls’ joy and camaraderie. Gruchelska also excels in portraying the crisis that ensues when the chips vanish, highlighting the seagulls’ desperation and the comedic chaos that follows.
The thematic exploration of dependency and adaptability is subtly woven throughout the narrative. The protagonist’s journey from a carefree chip lover to a determined seeker of solutions adds depth to the story. Steven’s interactions with various characters, like his supportive best friend Stephanie Charlotte and the enigmatic mystic Stefania Rose, provide valuable lessons about resilience and self-belief. The scene where Steven consults the emergency seagull hotline is particularly poignant, showcasing the community’s collective anxiety and the humorous yet dire straits they find themselves in.
Steven F. Seagull & The Missing Chips is a delightful read that offers a unique blend of humor, adventure, and heartwarming moments. Kitty May Gruchelska’s ability to craft a charming world filled with memorable characters makes this book a joy for readers of all ages. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a lighthearted and entertaining story that also imparts meaningful lessons about community and adaptability. Whether you’re a fan of whimsical tales or simply in need of a feel-good read, this book is sure to leave you smiling.
Pages: 237 | ASIN : B0D73QBMX1
Kira The Kookaburra
Kira The Kookaburra, by Sharon White, is a charming children’s book set in the Australian bush. It tells the story of Kira, a kookaburra with a beautiful singing voice and a unique sense of style, marked by her impressive hat collection. The book weaves a story of self-discovery and self-love as Kira navigates her feelings of being different and ultimately finds joy in her own uniqueness.
Sharon White’s writing is both engaging and accessible, particularly for younger readers. White’s ability to create a vivid and colorful world is one thing I truly enjoyed about this story because it made the Australian bush come alive. There are sections where the dialogue appears to be more direct, possibly aiming to clearly communicate its messages to a young audience. While this approach has its educational merits, I feel it might also be observed that integrating these messages more seamlessly into the storyline could enhance the overall narrative flow.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its exploration of themes like self-acceptance, diversity, and the importance of friendship. The way Kira’s journey is portrayed, from feeling sad about being different to celebrating her unique traits, is both heartwarming and empowering. The inclusion of various animals, each with their own personality and opinions, adds to the richness of the narrative.
The illustrations, also by Sharon White, are charming and colorful. The vibrant colors and expressive characters complement the narrative well and capture the essence of Kira’s world and her emotional journey. The easy-to-read text and colorful images are effective in engaging younger readers.
Kira The Kookaburra is a delightful read for children, especially those aged four to eight. It offers an engaging story with important messages about self-love and acceptance. This picture book’s visual appeal and positive themes make it a worthwhile addition to any young reader’s library.
Pages: 92 | ASIN : B0DBM6XGKJ
A Unique Superpower
The Birth of Agent Big Butt: Butt of Steel, Heart of Gold follows a newborn boy who is born with the superpower of explosive farts that can defeat any advisory. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
As a family, we love telling stories. So, one night, while making up silly stories, an image of a big butt newborn popped into my mind. Immediately, the story began to unfold. It would be a story about a baby with a big steel butt that can fart the most powerful farts. The farts could form into anything he needed, and this baby decided to use these powers for good.
Big Butt is an entertaining character with a superpower that will make kids laugh and encourage them to want to read more of his story. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
There are many children fart books. We wanted to add a different spin to our version. We also wanted the humor in the book to be more than just farting. We wanted a character that was immersed in real world challenges who had many crash courses…dealing with family, friends, and bullies. And in that a lot of humor was discovered. We also wanted a main character that was lovable and cute – and our illustrator, Tom McWeeney, captured our ideas perfectly!
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
As a newborn, the main character had to deal with the learning curves of life, such as not only understanding his feelings but the feelings of others. He learned that sometimes there is no clear right or wrong. He also had to learn how to be responsible with his powers. So, when he faced insults from bullies or attacks from the media, he had to give a mature response. In short, he had to grow up fast.
Where does the story go in the next book and where do you see it going in the future?
In Book 2, The Defeat of Agent Big Butt: Out of Gas, Agent Big Butt loses all his powers and has to deal with a rampaging mechanical big butt operated by his nemesis Justin. It was pretty fun exploring what AB (our hero’s nickname) was like without his powers, as well as coming up with all the new, dastardly farts used by Justin.
In Book 3, The Brainwashing of Agent Big Butt: Under an Evil Smell, we see what AB is like when he goes over to the dark side. Writing a villainous AB was so exciting!
As for the future…AB3 was the last book in the series, but many fans have expressed an interest in an Agent Big Butt movie. It is definitely part of our vision!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
With a wild doctor pursuing him, this walking, talking newborn – known as Agent Big Butt – has to navigate the life of a superhero while dealing with newfound fame, going to school, making friends and defeating bullies, all before his first birthday.
