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Courageous Attitudes
The Tralls of Nosa follows a young girl who brings a strange and beautiful plant home as a gift for her mother, only to discover it is destructive, spreading and destroying everything its roots touch. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I live in rural Australia, and I am constantly battling outbreaks of lantana. It was introduced to Australia as an ornamental plant, but as is often the case with introduced species, it ran amok.
Lantana is a beautiful plant, but unfortunately, it’s an invasive weed that spreads easily, destroys native plants, is destructive for biodiversity, and is difficult to control. It’s also toxic for livestock, and it increases the intensity of our ever-present bushfires.
In The Tralls of Nosa, I wanted to draw attention to the problems that are caused for native flora and fauna when foreign species are introduced.
The characters in this novel were intriguing and well-developed. Who was your favorite character to write for?
Mia was modelled on my youngest granddaughter, who demonstrates compassion, trust, reliability, and integrity, and I wanted to use those positive traits to create a character that would appeal to my young readers.
Asha, Shea, Cooper, Vail. and Addie were modelled on young friends who constantly impress me with their feisty, faithful, determined, and courageous attitudes.
What was the most challenging part of writing The Trall Series, and what was the most rewarding?
The Tralls of Nosa is the final book in The Trall Series, and I had to work hard to make sure it was fresh and impactful and not a rehash of the messages or events in previous books.
The most enjoyable part of writing this book was finally solving the underlying mysteries that were threaded throughout the series.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from your series?
My aim was for The Trall Series to engender an interest in the natural environment and to make my readers more aware of the many problems it faces.
I hope that the strong, determined young characters in the series will demonstrate that you don’t have to wear a cape and do amazing stunts to be an environmental hero. Everyone can help to preserve their native flora and fauna by making small, impactful improvements in their activities.
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After destroying the village, the insidious plant forced its way into the forests and everglades, where it quickly killed all the native flora and forced the fauna to leave in a desperate search for food. As a result, the kinships of Nosa were faced with the prospect of starvation for the first time in their long history.
Now, some mysterious incomers have arrived and when it appears that they’ve cast a spell over Asha, the fief’s granddaughter leaving her in a lifeless trance, the kinships are convinced they’re the dreaded Chameleons who tried to force them out of their tralldom centuries ago.
Did they also send the plant to wreak havoc on Nosa and bring its tralls to their knees so they could finally achieve their plan to take over the tralldom?
Could these shattering events herald the end of life as she knows it or can Mia and her friends defeat the plant and the Chameleons, and save Asha?
The Tralls of Nosa is the fifth and final book in the Trall Series; an action-packed collection of portal fantasies set in the Australian bush.
It is suitable for competent readers from nine to thirteen years of age.
Whimsical Tale
How Flowers Got Their Colors follows a young shepherd living in a quiet valley where the world is stuck in just three colors, who dreams of capturing the colors of the rainbow to brighten the meadow. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
This and 18 other stories I made up as nighttime tales for my younger daughter when she was 6 and 7 years old, and is now 36 and has been CEO of the Company! I began the publishing process when I began to have grandchildren!
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
This whimsical tale is intended to convey the power of “sticking to it” or persistence when trying to accomplish something, and a willingness to listen and take a suggestion to heart and follow through to accomplish a goal.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Alejandro Echavez?
When Amplify Publishing and I commenced working together, I was sent a list of 25 artists with samples of their styles. I was asked to pick five, and then those artists sent their interpretation or rendition of a frame or two from one of my stories. Once I had those frames, I was asked to pick two, and Alejandro was one of them. His work is rich and presents the storyline beautifully. He has completed my fifth book, The Lost Locket, and is working on my sixth, Way Up North, a coming-of-age story of a young Eskimo who lives near the North Pole. Alejandro is very accessible and revises and updates his artwork through dialogue and mutual collaboration.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have completed The Lost Locket, a tale about a little girl who loses an heirloom necklace on the Golden Gate Bridge, which is collected by a pigeon and returned 30 years later when the little girl, now a mother, returns to the Bridge with her daughter. This book will be shipped in several months. The next book, Way Up North, is a story about a coming of age for a young Eskimo who lives near the North Pole and learns how to hunt whales. Alejandro is currently working on the artwork frames for this story, and the book ought to be available sometime early next year.
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Join the shepherd in How Flowers Got Their Colors, a heartfelt story about how dreams, persistence, and a touch of magic can change the world around us. This charming story reminds us that even the simplest wishes can bring remarkable change.
Discovery Can Heal Hearts
Valentino’s Adventure in Puerto Rico follows an adventurous service dog as he journeys to Puerto Rico, exploring the colorful streets, sampling the local cuisine, and immersing himself in the island’s culture. What was the inspiration for your story?
Valentino’s Adventure in Puerto Rico was inspired by my beloved service dog, Valentino, who brought so much joy, healing, and light into my life. After his passing, I wanted to keep his memory alive in ways that would uplift others, especially children and families.
I’m also proudly Puerto Rican, and my culture is such a big part of who I am. I wanted to create a story that celebrates the beauty of Puerto Rico — its vibrant streets, music, traditions, and food — through the eyes of a curious, loving service dog. It felt meaningful to blend my personal story with my cultural roots, and to show readers, especially young ones, that adventure, kindness, and discovery can heal hearts in the most unexpected ways.
At its core, this book is a love letter to both Valentino and my island. It’s a way to honor the resilience of my people, the magic of our homeland, and the loyal companions who walk beside us, often becoming the quiet heroes in our everyday lives.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
One of the most important ideas I wanted to share in Valentino’s Adventure in Puerto Rico is the value of embracing your culture and heritage with pride. I wanted young readers, especially those from Puerto Rican or Caribbean backgrounds, to see themselves, their traditions, and their beautiful island reflected in a story filled with joy, adventure, and warmth.
Through Valentino’s eyes, readers get to see how love, kindness, and curiosity can lead to unexpected adventures and deep connections with others.
Lastly, I wanted to encourage children to be open to new experiences — whether it’s trying a new food, exploring a different place, or learning about a new culture. Life’s most beautiful lessons often come when we’re brave enough to step outside our comfort zones.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I had so much fun writing the scene where Valentino visits the colorful streets of Old San Juan. Describing the cobblestone streets, the vibrant buildings, the lively music in the air — it brought back so many beautiful memories of my own trips there. I especially enjoyed imagining Valentino’s reactions to the local cuisine.
Writing his excitement, curiosity, and little misadventures made me smile. It felt like bringing him to life again in a place that means so much to me. I think readers will feel that same sense of joy and wonder when they read those moments.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Valentino and the direction of the next book?
I’m very excited about the next chapter in Valentino’s journey. The upcoming book is titled Valentino’s Courageous Adventure: The Military Move. This story follows Valentino, a brave service dog, as he faces a big life change when his family receives military orders to move — a situation many families experience, but one that isn’t often explored in children’s books.
It’s a rhyming story about bravery, hope, and finding new adventures in unexpected places. Readers will experience how Valentino feels about leaving behind the familiar, meeting new friends, and discovering that courage and resilience can turn big changes into exciting opportunities.
There will be new characters, new places, and of course, a little mischief along the way! My goal is to offer comfort to children going through similar transitions by showing that even when life changes, love, friendship, and adventure always follow close behind.
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From the lively streets of Old San Juan to the majestic Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Valentino’s adventure is full of vibrant landscapes, delicious food, and heartwarming friendships.
As Valentino explores the island, he meets Maelo, a cheerful coquí frog with a story to share. Together, they dance to the rhythm of bomba music, learn about the rich history of the Taíno people, and savor the exquisite flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine.
Through Maelo’s stories, Valentino discovers the true meaning of friendship, respect, and the importance of embracing different cultures.
With colorful illustrations and captivating storytelling, *Valentino’s Adventure in Puerto Rico* is a delightful children’s book that celebrates the joy of exploration, the power of curiosity, and the magic of new experiences. —
Important Lessons:
1. Friendship: Valentino’s bond with Maelo, the coquí frog, shows the value of forming friendships and supporting one another, regardless of differences.
2. Respect for Cultural Heritage: Through Maelo’s stories, Valentino learns about the history and traditions of the Taíno people.
3. Curiosity and Exploration: Valentino’s adventure fosters the joy of discovering new places and cultures.
4. Embracing Diversity: The book highlights the beauty of diversity and teaches children to appreciate different cultures.
5. Resilience: Valentino’s journey demonstrates the strength to face new challenges.
6. Courage to Try New Things: Valentino’s adventure encourages children to step out of their comfort zones.
Embark on this heartwarming journey and let Valentino’s Adventure transport you to the charming island of Puerto Rico. Perfect for young readers and adults alike, this tale inspires wonder, travel, and cultural appreciation in its audience.
Small Life Lessons
The Curious Quest of Little Luna follows a fox who stumbles upon a mysterious treasure map in the woods, sending her on a whimsical journey filled with excitement, challenges, and meaningful moments. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for Little Luna came from watching my own children explore with such curiosity and wonder. I wanted to create a story that encouraged that same spirit of adventure—one that blends imagination with small life lessons. Luna’s journey is not just about finding treasure, but about what she learns along the way.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
One of my goals was to subtly introduce problem-solving, emotional resilience, and the value of curiosity. Luna faces challenges that require her to think, adapt, and sometimes lean on the help of others. These moments offer gentle reminders to young readers that it’s okay to make mistakes, ask questions, or feel uncertain—as long as you keep moving forward.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Rather than one specific scene, what I enjoyed most was the process of introducing new characters as the story progressed. Each one added a unique energy and helped shape Luna’s journey in a meaningful way.
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?
The Curious Quest of Little Luna is a standalone story and not part of a planned series. Luna’s journey wraps up in this book.
Author Links: Goodreads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When Luna, a curious young fox, stumbles upon a mysterious treasure map, her quiet forest life transforms into the adventure of a lifetime. With bravery in her heart and a twinkle in her eye, she sets off to uncover the secrets of the map—but she won’t be journeying alone.
Joined by her wise owl friend Benny, the clever turtle Fin, and the fearless rabbit Tilly, Luna ventures through roaring rivers, tangled bramble paths, and the magical Starlight Glade. Together, they face challenges, solve mysteries, and discover that the greatest treasures aren’t glittering gold or sparkling gems—they’re the friendships, courage, and love found along the way.
What’s inside this heartwarming story?
A delightful tale of adventure, friendship, and bravery.
Stunning illustrations on every page that bring the magic of the forest to life.
Memorable characters who teach the power of kindness and teamwork.
Perfect for readers ages 5–10, families to enjoy together, or as a cherished bedtime story.
The Curious Quest of Little Luna is a timeless journey that inspires kids to embrace the magic of adventure and the beauty of connection. Whether read aloud or enjoyed independently, this book is destined to become a family favorite.
Discover the magic, wonder, and lessons that will stay with your little adventurer for a lifetime!
When Fred the Snake and Friends explore USA-West (Fred the Snake Series Book 9)
Peter B. Cotton’s When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA West is a playful, rhyming adventure following Fred and his friends as they travel through the western United States. From the glitz of Hollywood to the icy tundra of Alaska, the group encounters famous landmarks, wild landscapes, and even a few unexpected mishaps along the way. The book, filled with Bonnie Lemaire’s lively illustrations, is both a fun journey and an introduction to geography, history, and culture for young readers.
What makes this book shine is its whimsical storytelling. Cotton’s rhymes are bouncy and engaging, pulling kids along from place to place without ever feeling forced. Take, for example, the moment in San Francisco when Jim daringly flies through the Golden Gate Bridge, “Devilishly he flew right through it. You are not supposed to do it!” That cheeky humor, combined with the fun rhythm, keeps the story moving at a delightful pace. The book doesn’t just inform, it entertains, making each stop on the journey feel like an adventure.
The illustrations add even more charm. Bonnie Lemaire’s artwork is bright and full of personality. Each scene bursts with color and detail, making every location feel distinct. In Yosemite, when Jack helps rescue a wounded eagle, the expressive characters and dramatic action pull kids right into the moment. There’s a warmth to the way she brings these animal friends to life, making their friendships feel genuine. Whether it’s Fred grinning under the Hollywood sign or the group bundled up under the northern lights in Alaska, the images make the book feel like a travel scrapbook of unforgettable memories.
The book moves at an exciting pace, making it a thrilling journey from one destination to the next. With so many places to explore, each stop offers a glimpse of adventure before the group moves on. For children who love rich details, it might spark curiosity and inspire them to learn more about specific locations. Meanwhile, the fast-moving storyline is perfect for kids with shorter attention spans or those just beginning to explore these places. It’s a whirlwind tour full of energy, ideal for bedtime reading and sure to leave young minds eager for more discoveries!
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA West is a delightful read for young adventurers and parents who want to introduce their kids to the wonders of travel. The rhymes are catchy, the illustrations are vibrant, and the humor keeps it light and engaging. It’s perfect for kids who love animals, geography, or just a fun, fast-paced story. Whether you’re looking for a way to spark a child’s curiosity about the world or just want a fun book to read aloud, Fred’s latest adventure is a great pick.
Pages: 66 | ASIN : B0CHWMWVV6
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA Central (Fred the Snake Series Book 8)
Peter B. Cotton’s When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA Central is a lively, rhyming adventure that follows Fred and his crew as they travel across the central United States. Through colorful illustrations and playful verse, the book introduces young readers to famous landmarks, historical sites, and natural wonders, from the Alamo to Mount Rushmore and the Grand Canyon. Along the way, Fred and his friends engage in fun activities, attending a rodeo, panning for gold, and even witnessing a wedding in Las Vegas. The book is a celebration of exploration, friendship, and curiosity, all wrapped in a lighthearted storytelling style.
The whimsical rhymes and bouncy rhythm make this book a delight to read aloud. Cotton keeps the energy high with short, punchy lines that carry a singsong quality, making the journey feel even more exciting. The humor is gentle but effective, as seen when Jack mistakes a bison for an enormous cow or when Fred and Bernadette try their luck on a trapeze. These little moments add charm and keep the narrative engaging. The writing style is simple yet expressive, ensuring that kids stay entertained while subtly absorbing geographical and historical facts.
The illustrations by Bonnie Lemaire add another layer of magic to the story. Each page bursts with vibrant colors and lively characters, bringing the adventures to life. The depiction of famous locations, like the towering sandstone formations of Monument Valley and the fiery eruption of Old Faithful, captures their grandeur in a way that’s accessible to children. The expressive faces of Fred and his friends make their experiences even more relatable, whether they’re braving a storm or marveling at presidential sculptures. Lemaire’s artwork complements the story perfectly, enhancing the book’s fun and educational value.
One of the standout elements of the book is how seamlessly it blends fun with learning. While Fred and his friends are busy having adventures, young readers are exposed to American history and geography in a way that feels effortless. The mention of Crazy Horse, the importance of the Alamo, and the vastness of the Grand Canyon are woven into the storyline without feeling like a lesson. Even practical life lessons, like the warning against gambling in Las Vegas, are sprinkled in with humor. The book strikes a great balance, never too serious, never too silly.
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA Central is a fantastic pick for young readers who enjoy adventure, animals, and travel. It’s an excellent choice for parents looking for an engaging way to introduce their kids to famous American landmarks, as well as for teachers who want to add a fun book to their geography lessons. The rhymes, the humor, and the lively illustrations make this a book that kids will want to revisit, and the promise of more Fred the Snake adventures to come makes it even better. If you love books that entertain while they educate, this one is a great addition to your collection.
Pages: 48 | ASIN : B0BSVHYVGG
Meeting Adversity Head-On
Tales of Weirderland follows royal siblings who go on magical adventures throughout their kingdom and a journey of self-discovery, learning what the future might hold. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The short and somewhat uninspired answer is my children.
The more interesting answer is their imaginations and somewhat mischievous ingenuity. These stories originated from improvisational bedtime stories. They both loved hearing stories, and we loved reading to them, so it didn’t take long before we ran out of books we hadn’t read several times over. I couldn’t say who began growing bored first, them or us. So it began with a question: “If you were in a story, about you. What kind of adventure would you have?” Make us a princess and prince. Make the king sillier. We need a pet dragon. Make the ‘squid-o-pus’ rhyme.
I had three goals: to make them laugh. To tell them stories they inhabited and could help direct. And to wear them down until they could sleep. It wasn’t until they outgrew story time and being read to that I committed some of these stories to paper, so they could revisit them on their own as they learned to read. Later, as they grew, I wanted to give them fresh stories. Reflections of themselves, how I saw them growing, learning, and confronting the challenges that come with life.
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 wrote?
Both my wife and I are fantasy nerds. It was only natural we fostered that in our children. The settings were of our home and places we loved to visit. Like a park with a playground built like a castle, the woods, and streams of the Rocky Mountain Foothills. Augmented with hints of films like Labyrinth, Spirited Away, and books by Bill Peet, or Terry Pratchett. Then, in the later stories, the settings were kinder incarnations of a hospital and hospice. Schoolyards and principals offices. Courthouses and Pride festivals.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Kindness. That meeting adversity head-on with kindness first should rarely be the wrong choice to make. Asking for help can be one of the bravest things any of us can do; too often, we are afraid or ashamed to ask. Fear of embarrassment, of appearing vulnerable or incapable, stops many of us from asking. And so, when someone asks for help, we should meet them with enthusiastic empathy.
Kids are far stronger and more resilient than we know. We should trust them to solve some problems and figure things out on their own.
Families grow, shrink, change, and should be cherished. They can get lost, but also chosen and found. Life is ridiculous and we should treat it as such. Otherwise, you risk taking life more seriously than life takes you. After all, no one escapes alive.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Perhaps. Our children are all but grown now. Their adventures look far different going forward, as does our world. While I know there are many more stories to tell, I don’t know if their stories are mine to tell now. But, I know if I decide to the stories and adventures would be darker. How might Weirderland and the Wilding family survive a plague-riddled kingdom or a new tyrannical monarch?
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | BlueSky | Facebook | Linktree | Website | Amazon
In ‘The Quest for Ruben, ‘ the royal Wilding siblings must rescue a flying horse from the clutches of an evil dragon. Next, in ‘The Quest for the Mermaid’s Ruby, ‘ they heroically safeguard a mermaid kingdom from imminent destruction while on a beach holiday. Then, in ‘The Quest of the Fairy Fire, ‘ they are called upon by the King and Queen to restore the magic of the forest’s fairy guardians, safeguarding all humankind.
In their most challenging quest, ‘The Hopeless Quest, ‘ they selflessly venture into the underworld to seek aid for their ailing grandfather from the Dwarves. Finally, ‘The Luck of The Eyelash‘ and ‘The Nameless Quest‘ lead them on individual journeys of self-discovery, to learn who they truly are and what the future might hold. Experience the magic and adventure as the royal heirs navigate perilous challenges, forging their destinies in a world brimming with wonder and excitement.
Creating My Vision
Ichi-ban Goes Hiking follows an adventurous pup and her mommy as they explore mountain trails, celebrating the joy of nature and discovery, and the unbreakable bond between a dog and her family. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Ichi-ban was my first dog (1996-2010) and we shared many adventures hiking together in Colorado. She continues to live in my heart and one morning in the winter of 2024, as I was sitting quietly after breakfast, she started speaking in my head. “Hi! My name is Ichi-ban! I know, it’s a funny name…” I grabbed a notebook and kept on writing and in less than thirty minutes I had the first draft of Ichi-ban Goes Hiking.
Within a few days, I found myself with the drafts for three books and it was just a matter creating my vision for them and then slowly bringing them to fruition. I feel like these books are the perfect coming together of my love of dogs, kids, nature, writing, and graphic design.
How do your own outdoor adventures influence the book’s storytelling?
Everything that I write about in the book actually happened, although sometimes simplified a bit to be suitable for a children’s book.
What message do you hope young readers take away from Ichi-ban’s journey?
The outdoors, and life, are a fun adventure. Sure, you might make some mistakes from time to time as you learn, but that’s okay and part of growing up. You can still go on to have more fun.
Do you have plans for more adventures featuring Ichi-ban in the future?
There are three books out now and, at the moment, Ichi-ban’s adventures feel complete.
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READERS’ FAVORITE 5-STAR SEAL RECIPIENT
Life lessons all wrapped up in a fun and furry package!
Join Ichi-ban as she shares about her adventures hiking in the Colorado Rocky Mountains while growing from a puppy into a big, strong hiking dog. Her name means “number one best” and she and her human mommy are each other’s number one best hiking buddies.
Kids will love Ichi-ban’s relatable and enthusiastic personality as they follow her adventures, learning life lessons and exploring the world along the way. At the end of the day, Ichi-ban gets a bath, eats dinner and curls up in her cozy bed ready for dreams, just like her reading companions.
Beautifully illustrated and told from Ichi-ban’s perspective, this story will engage animal and nature-loving children of all ages. And every adventure is inspired by actual events!
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LITERARY TITAN 