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So You Want To Be A Toy Designer
So You Want To Be A Toy Designer, by Linda Soules, is a fun and eye-opening nonfiction children’s book that gives kids a real look at what it takes to create the toys they love. Rather than treating toy design like a simple dream job where people just sketch cool ideas all day, the book shows how much thought, testing, teamwork, and problem-solving go into every toy before it ever reaches a store shelf. It’s especially great for creative kids who like to draw, build, tinker, or take things apart just to see how they work.
One of the best things about this book is how clearly it explains the connection between imagination and engineering. Readers learn that toy designers don’t just ask, “Would this be fun?” They also have to think about child development, safety, materials, manufacturing, and how kids actually play. The book walks through the full process, from early sketches and prototypes to play testing, redesigning, and safety reviews.
I especially liked the prototyping section because it makes the design process feel real and exciting. The artwork showing how an idea can move from a simple drawing, to a clay model, then a 3D print, and eventually into a finished toy was one of the most interesting parts of the book for me. I like it because it helps readers see that toy design is not just about having a fun idea; it’s about shaping, testing, changing, and improving that idea until it becomes something kids can actually play with.
The layout of the book is kid-friendly, with sections about the best parts of the job, the hardest parts, surprising facts, tools designers use, and even a day-in-the-life look at the profession. The fun facts about famous toys and inventors, and the accidental creation of the Slinky, make the book even more engaging and educational. The illustrations are vibrant and helpful, and the glossary is a nice bonus for readers who are learning toy design terms for the first time.
This is an informative and genuinely inspiring career guide for elementary and middle school readers. It’s honest about the challenges, including the fact that not every toy idea works, but it still makes the field feel exciting and possible. So You Want To Be A Toy Designer would be a great choice for classrooms, libraries, career reports, or any kid who has ever looked at a toy and thought, “I could make something like that.”
Pages: 38 | ISBN : 978-1972766255
Unlock a Love of Creating
The Magical World of Poetry introduces children to poetry through a hands-on approach, teaching them about different styles and giving them the tools to write their own poems. What inspired you to blend a poetry collection with a workbook-style experience?
As an educator, I really wanted to create something that was not only enjoyable but also accessible to readers. The workbook-style experience allows students interested (either now or in years to come!) to help organize their thoughts. Hopefully, this allows readers of all ages to feel confident in their own creative abilities.
You introduce forms like haiku, cinquain, and acrostics in a very accessible way. How did you decide which forms to include?
I’ve always been interested in the different forms of poetry, having myself written haikus, acrostics, free verse poetry, and poetry in rhyme. Cinquain was new to me, too! I wanted to introduce readers to many different forms, as you never know what might unlock a love of creating.
The concrete poems and illustrations add a strong visual layer. How important is imagery in helping kids understand poetry?
I feel imagery is very important, particularly for young children. Students are sometimes intimidated by poetry, but by including fun, quirky pictures, I’ve seen kids excited to create beyond what they’ve always thought poetry “should” look like.
Will this book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
I love to dabble in all sorts of genres, having previously published an early chapter book and novel-in-verse. I hadn’t intended on this being a series, but I guess never say never!
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Website | Amazon
The Magical World of Poetry is a joyful, kid-friendly poetry collection and “how-to” guide designed to help children read, understand, and write poems with confidence. Inside you’ll find 70+ poems across kid-loved themes like animals, sports, food, weather, holidays, and fantasy, paired with charming illustrations created by young artists.
But this is more than a poetry book, it’s a poetry workshop in disguise. Young readers learn engaging poetry forms, including acrostic, cinquain, concrete (shape) poetry, free verse, haiku, and rhyme, plus a helpful glossary of poetic devices like alliteration, simile, metaphor, imagery, onomatopoeia, and personification.
This uplifting poetry book encourages creativity, vocabulary development, fluency, and confidence, while keeping content clean, age-appropriate, and encouraging. If you are looking for poetry for kids, a poetry writing workbook feel, or a classroom-friendly book that helps students read poems and write poems with joy, this collection is a wonderful fit.
Perfect for:
Ages 8-12 (and up), independent reading, class poetry collection, homeschool educators, and family read-alouds of ALL AGES!
Classrooms, homeschooling, poetry units, writing centers, and library programs will love this quirky poetry collection
Kids who love Shel Silverstein-style fun, plus kids who need a gentle, guided entry into writing poetry
Open the book. Try a poem. Then write your own magic.
The Magical World of Poetry
The Magical World of Poetry by Sandy Whiting is a warm, classroom-friendly collection that introduces young readers to acrostics, cinquains, concrete poems, free verse, haiku, and rhyme before sending them into poems about animals, sports, food, weather, holidays, and fantasy. It feels both like a poetry anthology and a gentle workbook, with prompts, definitions, playful illustrations, and an answer key that invite children not only to read poems, but to notice how poems are made.
I found the book at its best when it lets silliness and tenderness sit beside each other. A karate-kicking cat, a clownfish that refuses to act like a clown, and a snake enjoying the swing set all have that childlike “what if?” sparkle, but then a poem like “Secret Ingredient” quietly changes the air, turning baking with grandma into memory, flour, love, and ache. The book doesn’t treat children as though they can only handle jokes or only handle lessons. It trusts them with wonder, grief, goofiness, pride, and imagination.
The writing is approachable, sometimes simple, and that’s its strength. Some rhymes land with an easy bounce that would be lovely aloud, especially in pieces like “Who’s There?” and “Fun Without Sun,” where repetition gives the poems a bright, chant-like energy. Other poems feel more instructional than surprising, as though the form is carrying the piece more than the image or music. Still, I admired the clarity of the book’s purpose. The poems open doors. The concrete poems, the haiku, and the free verse pieces such as “Keep Swimming” and “Cyclone” show young writers that poetry can be funny, shaped, breathy, anxious, brave, or quiet.
The book’s real magic wasn’t in any single poem, but in its invitation to participate. It’s a book for children who are curious about writing, for teachers building a poetry unit, for families who like reading aloud, and for young readers who need permission to play with words before worrying about perfection. I’d recommend it especially to elementary and middle-grade writers who are just discovering that a poem can be a joke, a memory, a spell, or a small hand reaching toward the world.
Pages: 138 | ASIN : B0GL9QNGY5
My Friends and I Spot Fantasyland: A Puzzle Picture Book
My Friends and I Spot Fantasyland is the kind of puzzle book that feels like story time and play time rolled into one. It follows Evan and Page through a colorful fantasy world packed with hidden objects, magical creatures, and fun little surprises on every page. What makes it especially charming is that it doesn’t just ask children to read, it invites them to look closer, explore, and really interact with the book. It has that classic hidden-object appeal, with the same kind of excitement that made those puzzle pages in kids’ magazines so memorable.
One of the things I appreciated most is how fun this book feels. The illustrations are charming, and that gives the whole adventure a warmth and personality that really works for this kind of picture puzzle book. The artwork is bright, imaginative, and full of detail, so younger readers can still enjoy the search-and-find elements without getting frustrated. I also liked that there’s a light storyline running through the book, which gives children a reason to keep turning pages instead of just treating it like a random collection of puzzles.
The digital version works perfectly too, since kids can take it anywhere and enjoy the search-and-find fun on the go. The story has a fun old-school feel that reminds me of a classic text adventure mixed with a traditional search-and-find book. There isn’t a lot of text to read, but readers will find plenty of fun in soaking up the details on each page.
My Friends and I Spot Fantasyland is a fun and imaginative puzzle picture book that is perfect for children who love spotting hidden details and exploring fantasy worlds. The real joy is in the adventure of searching through each scene and discovering all the little touches tucked into the artwork. It’s an entertaining pick for children, a great shared activity for families, and the kind of book that can easily be enjoyed in classrooms. It seems like the sort of book that could keep kids happily busy while also entertaining adults.
Pages: 38 | ISBN : 978-1999481384
The What If Book
The What If Book is a quick ride through a pile of playful questions about the world. Each page tosses out a wild idea and then pokes it with another question. Superpowers, walking fish, talking dogs, ice cream oceans, and storybook jumps all show up. The book ends by handing the mic to the reader and asking for their own what-if.
I liked the tone of the book right away. It feels curious and bouncy. It sounds like a kid thinking out loud. The writing is clean and light. No heavy lessons. No finger wagging. I felt a little spark of curiosity and imagination on every page. Some questions made me laugh. The dolphin ride to school felt sweet and silly, and I loved the kindness question near the end. The ideas feel open and kind. There is room to dream without rules. The book trusts kids to think. It does not explain too much. It lets the questions hang.
Every page has a charming illustration that pulls the question off the page and makes it feel real. The colors are bright but soft and cozy at the same time. Each scene feels friendly and inviting and never too busy. The pictures do a great job of guiding my imagination without boxing it in. They add personality and heart, and my kids enjoyed pointing out several details on the page. The ice cream ocean scene was wonderful and could be a poster all on its own.
I would hand this picture book to young kids who like to wonder. It works for bedtime chats and classroom circles. It fits families who enjoy asking questions and laughing together. If you like children’s books that open doors instead of closing them, this one is a great pick.
Pages: 37 | ASIN : B0G4NPKTPY
MarlaGran- The Girl Who Wants to Live Creatively
MarlaGran is a whimsical and heartfelt picture book that follows a brave young girl named MarlaGran on a quest to discover what it means to live creatively. Born by the sea and drawn by a melody of imagination, she leaves home determined to find an answer to her burning question. Along her journey, she meets curious creatures, each showing her a version of creativity that doesn’t quite fit her. It isn’t until she dances to the rhythm within her own heart that she realizes the answer was always inside her. The story ends with her town joining in joyful self-expression, their hearts singing in unison with hers.
What I loved most about MarlaGran is how gently it offers big ideas. The writing is poetic and soft without ever talking down to kids, and it makes space for wonder. The bilingual text adds a rich layer. There’s something really moving about a story that trusts children to understand metaphor and emotion. It doesn’t hand you answers on a silver platter; it nudges you to feel them. The pacing is calm and unhurried, giving kids room to breathe and imagine.
The heart of the picture book, though, is its invitation. It’s not just a story, it’s a space. The drawing prompts and open-ended nature of the journey make this more than a read-aloud. It’s a kind of conversation. I found myself thinking about my own “innerscape” and how rarely books ask us to delve into it with kids. The message that creativity isn’t copying or performing, but tuning in to something deeply personal, is so needed right now. It reminded me of why stories matter in the first place.
I’d absolutely recommend MarlaGran to families, teachers, and therapists, especially those looking to spark emotional conversations or nurture imagination. It’s perfect for kids who dream big, who doodle on napkins, or who feel like they don’t fit into neat little boxes. Honestly, it’s also great for any grown-up who’s forgotten how to listen to their own melody. If you’re looking for a children’s book that doesn’t just tell a story but invites you to live one, this is it.
Pages: 66 | ASIN : B0FBS7RYF1
Where Is Charlotte? Or Where Is _?: A Personal Story-Song Book
Mark Gorkin, affectionately known as “The Stress Doc,” has crafted a truly unique and heartwarming children’s book, Where Is Charlotte? Or Where Is ___?, that seamlessly intertwines creativity and inclusivity. Drawing inspiration from the classic melody of “Frère Jacques,” this book transforms the familiar tune into a delightful game of hide-and-seek, following Charlotte as she playfully disappears into various hiding spots. From climbing trees and riding the breeze to nestling under cozy blankets or sneaking into closets, Charlotte’s adventures unfold with a lively rhythm that keeps readers guessing where she might be hiding next.
One of the most innovative features of this story is its invitation to personalize the experience by substituting your child’s name for Charlotte’s. This thoughtful touch turns the book into a treasured keepsake, making every child feel like the star of their own adventure. What child wouldn’t delight in seeing their name featured as the main character, cleverly finding hiding places with each turn of the page? Gorkin also impressively showcases inclusivity throughout the story. Charlotte is portrayed across a spectrum of ages and skin tones, ensuring that children of all backgrounds can see themselves reflected in the narrative. This thoughtful representation is a refreshing standout, breaking barriers of gender, age, and race while celebrating diversity in a subtle yet powerful way. The book doesn’t stop at engaging young readers; it also fosters meaningful connections between adults and children. A special section at the end provides prompts and questions for caregivers, encouraging interactive discussions that deepen the reading experience. This feature transforms the story into not just a tale, but an opportunity for bonding and creative exploration. Adding to the charm are the book’s vibrant, eye-catching illustrations. Each page bursts with color, bringing Charlotte’s adventures to life and capturing the imagination of young readers. The progressive changes in Charlotte’s age and appearance are masterfully depicted, reinforcing the book’s inclusive message while keeping the visuals dynamic and engaging.
Where Is Charlotte? Or Where Is ___? is a shining example of how children’s literature can be both entertaining and meaningful. Its personalization options, inclusive storytelling, and interactive elements make it a must-have for parents, guardians, and librarians. Young readers will return to this book time and time again, reveling in the joy of a story that’s truly their own. This delightful book comes highly recommended as a special addition to any child’s library.
Pages: 33 | ASIN : B0D7ZH3GJ8
The Unpacking Process
Moving Magic is a charming activity book designed to make the daunting process of moving less overwhelming and more fun for kids. What was the inspiration for writing this book?
I would meet with homeowners who would be getting ready to start the process of relocating. You can see that they are stressed out and usually would tell the kids to be quiet, watch TV, and we need to meet with this man about our move. I really never see families involving kids during the move. We all know it’s stressful, but kids can be included, and moving doesn’t have to be so stressful. So, I came up with this book to help families move with kids, get them involved, and make it fun. My experience gave me the different activities that are in it.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The first day box.
Homeowners pack up and just label the boxes to which room they were in. A first-day box is so important in many ways. Unpacking the most important things is comforting. This box should be packed with important, sentimental items. It’s a start to the unpacking process.
What activity in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The puzzles.
I actually made them from scratch, all of them. Thinking of moving words, connecting them together and creating the hints to complete them. That was fun, mind expericing and stepping away from my daily life.
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?
This is the only book, no series of them.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
