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Children Love Misha
Misha the Travelling Puppy ABC takes young readers on an adventure from Australia to Zimbabwe that sparks curiosity and fosters a love for learning. What was the inspiration for your story?
I am an avid traveler, and I recognize how important it is for young children to learn about the world. I have a series of children’s books called Misha the Travelling Puppy, and Misha has adventures in Australia, England, America, India, and beyond. I also have coloring books, t-shirts, and plush toys – the children love Misha!
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I know that ABC learning is so imperative, and why not mix it with learning about different countries as well. I like that this book mixes literacy with geography. The book is written in rhyme and it has the most iconic facts to teach young children about each country.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Svetlana Pikul?
Sveta is a great artist to work with. I would give her the description for each country, send some images for inspiration, and she would no doubt come up with something beautiful and original.
What is Misha and her friends’ next adventure, and when can readers expect their next story?
I have just published Misha the Travelling Puppy Italy! That is a culinary adventure learning about all types of famous Italian food. The Christmas title is also new; Misha is called to help Santa Claus. The next country Misha goes to will be France.
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“Misha the Travelling Puppy ABC” is an engaging and educational book for children that takes them on a journey around the world. Each letter of the alphabet is paired with a country including fun and interesting facts about the culture and tradition.
Misha and her puppy friends travel from Australia to Zimbabwe. This ABC book is a wonderful tool for parents and teachers to engage children’s curiosity and imagination while promoting global awareness and literacy skills.
With rhyming text by Natalia Hooker and charming illustrations by Svetlana Pikul, this book is the perfect way to introduce children to the countries of the world and the English alphabet. Don’t miss out on this delightful journey with Misha.
Tuck, Cluck & Buck: The Quest for a Pup’s New Home (Tucker Tails)
Tuck, Cluck & Buck: The Quest for a Pup’s New Home by Hope Chambers is a heartwarming tale that beautifully explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and animal welfare. At its core, this story follows Tucker, affectionately called Tuck, a playful and adventurous puppy whose curiosity leads him to a life-changing journey. When Tuck falls from a truck and is separated from his human companion, he is left to navigate an unfamiliar world. Determined to find a new home, Tuck sets out on an adventure, using his keen sense of smell to guide him. Along the way, he encounters Cluck, a friendly duck, who offers companionship and support. Together, they embark on an unforgettable journey, soon joined by Buck, a skunk with a heart as big as his courage.
What makes this children’s book particularly special is its ability to foster empathy in young readers. Tuck’s journey is not just one of survival but one of emotional growth, teaching children the importance of compassion toward animals. The theme of pet abandonment is addressed in a way that reinforces the responsibility that comes with caring for pets while also encouraging adoption as a loving option for animals in need. Hope Chambers weaves rhyming verses into the narrative, adding a lyrical charm that makes the story flow effortlessly. The playful language enhances the sense of adventure and makes the book a delightful read-aloud experience.
One of the most touching elements of the book is its conclusion, which features a real photograph of Tuck along with his heartwarming adoption story. It’s a perfect touch that brings the narrative full circle. The illustrations are another standout feature. They are vibrant, detailed, and lifelike, capturing the expressions of both humans and animals in a way that radiates warmth. The camaraderie between Tuck, Cluck, and Buck is vividly brought to life, creating a sense of genuine companionship that resonates throughout the story.
Tuck, Cluck & Buck: The Quest for a Pup’s New Home is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book that entertains and educates. It encourages children to treat animals with kindness while also emphasizing the joys and responsibilities that come with adopting a pet.
Pages: 49 | ASIN : B0D77ZMJJR
Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats
Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats, written by Jeffrey Hope, is an engaging tale of adventure and camaraderie, set in the picturesque town of Cricket Cove, Maine. The story centers on two brothers, Sam and John, who, inspired by their father’s new high-powered fishing boat, dream of becoming professional spies. Their journey, however, is far from smooth as they face challenges from the bully-minded Johnson brothers and grapple with their parents’ concerns for their safety.
Hope’s storytelling is rich and immersive, bringing the setting of Cricket Cove to life with vivid descriptions that transport the reader into the heart of the boys’ adventures. His writing style is both descriptive and visually stimulating, adding layers of intrigue to the plot. The author skillfully navigates the boys’ escapades, weaving in multiple twists and misadventures that keep the reader engaged from start to finish. The narrative begins with the brothers gaining access to their father’s boat, marking the start of their quest to become spies. Despite the various obstacles they encounter, including dealing with bullies and overcoming their parents’ worries, Sam and John remain undeterred. Their resilience and unwavering determination provide a valuable lesson for young readers, encouraging them to stay hopeful and persistent in the face of challenges.
The characters in Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats are well-developed and likable, with each one possessing depth and background that adds richness to the story. The bond between Sam and John is particularly heartwarming, showcasing the strength of family ties and the importance of supporting one another. In addition to its captivating plot, the book imparts important life lessons, emphasizing themes of forgiveness, resilience, and positivity. It’s a story that not only entertains but also inspires, making it a great read for young audiences. Jeffrey Hope has crafted a memorable adventure that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next twist in Sam and John’s journey.
Pages: 214 | ASIN : B0D528KZK8
Rhyming Riley, The Dog That Rhymes All the Time
Rhyming Riley: The Dog That Rhymes All the Time by Tracy Markley is a delightful celebration of the joy, loyalty, and fun that dogs bring into our lives. Riley, an endearing Labradoodle, invites readers into a day in his life, narrating his experiences with warmth and charm. He introduces himself, shares his quirky behaviors, and showcases the tricks he knows. Riley also discusses his favorite pastimes, such as watching the world go by and enjoying the sounds of his toys. His routine highlights the care he needs, from daily walks and grooming to having a cozy spot to rest. And, of course, no day is complete without savoring his beloved dog treats.
Tracy Markley’s writing shines with its engaging, easy-to-understand style. Her use of short, rhythmic phrases paired with a lively sense of humor makes the story accessible and entertaining. She masterfully blends playful storytelling with educational moments, like reminding readers of the importance of cleaning up after their pets—a subtle but essential lesson for young readers, particularly those learning about pet care. The story is a fantastic resource for teaching children the responsibilities that come with owning a pet, from daily tasks to the long-term commitment needed to keep animals healthy and happy. It also emphasizes the emotional connection between pets and their caregivers, helping young readers understand how their actions affect their pets’ well-being. The illustrations, while generally appealing, have moments where the style feels inconsistent. Riley’s design is charming, but some images featuring hyper-realistic elements clash with the otherwise whimsical tone. A more uniform artistic approach would have enhanced the visual experience.
Rhyming Riley offers a fun, engaging way for children to learn about the responsibilities of pet ownership. The rhymes make it memorable, while the story encourages empathy and a deeper understanding of a dog’s needs. Young readers will not only enjoy Riley’s adventures but also walk away with valuable lessons on caring for animals.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0DBW289TY
Respecting Differences
Maxzyne Goes Aquamarine follows a young girl attending a CPR training who discovers a myriad of mystical underwater creatures battling to save their environment. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I love to read the newspapers each morning – one local and one international. I came across the story of an ongoing battle between an international water bottling company’s use of a beautiful water spring for its product. The water use was being contested by the local government and environment-protectors.
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?
My favorite part of world and story building is the research. I live in Florida, a water state, and in this book I wanted to showcase that particular environmental feature in Maxzyne’s third adventure. An underwater mission in a mythical world of ancient nixies, naiads and double-crossing fire salamanders was too much fun to imagine and write.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Getting along with others is always a theme that resonates with me. Maxzyne has to learn to work with Oliver, a nerdy and overbearing partner in this underwater adventure. It’s quickly apparent that egos only get in the way. Thankfully, by the end, both characters admire and respect their differences, finding ways to cooperate and help save the sacred springs from destruction. Respect for the environment is also prominently featured in this book. I walk the beach every day and hate to see the litter left behind by daily visitors. Plastic, in the form of water bottles, is an unfortunate invention that must be swept into the dustbin of history before it chokes all earth’s tributaries, seas, and creatures.
Can fans look forward to more adventures from Maxzyne in the near future?
Absolutely! She’s hard to keep up with, but I think she just may have a jaunt in space soon…
Author Links: Website | Book Review
Will Sereia, the vain water hag in cahoots with greedy Westbrook water-bottling company, prevail in her evil plan?
Maxzyne must work with an overbearing Eagle Scout classmate, Oliver, in a battle that tests the wits and will of two very unlikely partners. Can they survive each other and this dangerous aquamarine sphere that needs their help to exist?
Choosing Animal Companions
Sally Mitts Finds A Home: The Story of A Shy Shelter Kitten follows a shy little kitten who is accidentally left behind when her family moves and must find a way to survive. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Since I was a child I have been rescuing cats and kittens from the streets and from shelters. I feel the suffering of abandoned animals acutely. And each one brought me so much happiness in return, with their love and their marvelous, unique personalities. But many had been traumatized. It took time, patience, and genuine commitment to win their trust.
When I wrote Sally Mitts Finds A Home, I wanted to show people that every animal, like every human being, comes with a formative backstory that we don’t know. And it’s important to approach them with compassion and humility.
The animals that people often bypass in shelters -the quiet ones, the seniors, the special needs animals – are so very deserving of love and attention, too. And they are often the most euphorically loving. I hope Sally Mitts’s story encourages people to look beyond the surface when choosing animal companions and consider them.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
That’s really a toss-up between when Sally discovers the wonders of a garden after always living inside a house, and when she is happy in her new home.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
It helps children learn:
~How to cope with unexpected situations
~How to discern and trust good instincts
~To empathize with others’ experiences
~To understand the importance of adoption
~kindness to animals
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Sally Mitts and the direction of the second book?
The second book, Sally Mitts And The Land Of Imagination will be published on October 26, 2024. In it, Sally follows some shoes who are walking along without any feet in them to a mysterious red door with the word IMAGINATION written over it. Inside the door, she meets fantastical creatures, paints the sky, meets a shirty mole, engages a fog monster, and has many adventures and challenges.
Our imaginations fire the dreams that we long to come true. And Sally discovers that you can do what you really want to if you follow those longings.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | Website | Amazon
PURPLE DRAGONFLY BOOK AWARD
For fans of spunky heroines, Sally Mitts Finds A Home: The Story Of A Shy Shelter Kitten is a heartwarming tale about a lost kitten who finds her way back to love and home.
Accidentlally left behind, brave little Sally weaves her way though adventures on city streets and gardens. Ending up in ananimal shelter, she learns about the lives of other street cats, especially her good friend, the spirited Charlie the Tailless. But when Charlie is adopted, gentle Sally finds herself very shy with potential adopters. The shelter keepers worry Sally is too shy to ever be adopted. Until a quiet man offers her the chance to trust again.
From this warm and touching story, children learn about facing new situations, the power of friendship, learning empathy for others, and trusting good instincts.
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
Maxzyne Goes Aquamarine
Maxzyne Goes Aquamarine, by Caroline Lee, is a whimsical dive into the adventures of an eleven-year-old girl, Maxzyne Merriweather, who stumbles into an underwater world filled with naiads, nixies, and a plethora of aquatic creatures during what she expected to be a mundane CPR class in Florida. The story quickly shifts from CPR dummies to a full-blown fantasy adventure where Maxzyne must help save the enchanting Liliana Springs from a greedy corporation intent on draining the natural springs for profit. This book weaves environmental awareness into a captivating narrative that blends fantasy and reality in a way that is sure to captivate young readers.
From the get-go, I was drawn to Maxzyne’s quirky, headstrong personality. She’s the kind of protagonist who makes you grin with her quick wit and eye-rolling disdain for teamwork, yet you can’t help but root for her as she navigates a world that’s as foreign as it is fascinating. One of my favorite moments is when she impulsively decides to borrow a paddleboard to investigate a group of mermaid-costumed girls, only to find herself pulled into the magical depths of Liliana Springs. This scene perfectly captures her adventurous spirit and the book’s blend of reality with fantasy.
The writing is lively and vivid, filled with enough detail to make the underwater world of Liliana Springs come alive without bogging down the pace. The way Caroline Lee introduces environmental themes like water conservation and the impact of pollution feels natural and engaging. The book immerses readers in a story where the stakes are high, and the consequences of human actions are made clear through the eyes of both magical and real-world creatures.
I particularly appreciated the character of Glenys, the naiad queen, whose mix of wisdom and urgency makes the environmental message resonate without feeling forced. Oliver’s character serves as a nice foil to Maxzyne. His know-it-all attitude and obsession with facts contrast sharply with Maxzyne’s more impulsive nature, making their interactions both amusing and educational.
Maxzyne Goes Aquamarine is a delightful read that I would highly recommend for young readers, especially those who love fantasy adventures with a touch of real-world issues. It’s perfect for kids who have a curious mind and a passion for the environment, or who simply enjoy a good, magical adventure.
Pages: 248 | ISBN : 978-0990661757
LITERARY TITAN 