Blog Archives
Frizzy Lizzy
Frizzy Lizzy, a charming children’s book by Liz Leonard, takes readers on an adventure with Lizzy as she navigates a weekend filled with biking, hiking, and unexpected turns. During a hike with her father and sisters in search of a hidden lake, the family finds themselves lost, and it’s Lizzy’s resourcefulness, with just a pocketbook and a snack, that becomes crucial to their adventure.
This book engagingly highlights the resilience and ingenuity of children. Its vibrant illustrations are a visual delight, offering young readers a feast for the eyes and complementing the narrative beautifully. Initially, one might assume the story centers on Lizzy’s frizzy hair, yet it unfolds into a deeper narrative about Lizzy adjusting to a weekend with her father, hinting at the complexities of a separated family. The portrayal of the stepmother character, depicted as somewhat irritable, opens a conversation about the diverse dynamics of blended families, an increasingly common reality in today’s society. The rhyming scheme of the book adds a light-hearted and enjoyable rhythm to the story, making it an accessible and enjoyable read for its young audience.
Frizzy Lizzy offers more than just an entertaining story; it subtly weaves in themes of family, adaptability, and the joy of outdoor adventures, making it a thoughtful addition to a child’s reading collection.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CGS18L2N
Project First Flight: Putney Hicks Inventor Adventures
In Project First Flight, author Marsha Tufft expertly crafts a narrative around our protagonist, Putney Hicks. A young, compassionate intellect with adoration for animals, Putney faces her own challenges as she grapples with perfecting her butterfly stroke and delving into an immersive school science project.
Putney is accompanied by a rich tapestry of characters in this novel, including her vibrant friend Sam and others such as Gigi, Margot, JZ, Jenn, and Jim. Together, they help Putney navigate the ebb and flow of life, all the while maintaining a delicate balance between work and play, stress and enjoyment, and learning from their shared experiences.
The main protagonist, Putney, is delightfully engaging, and Tufft’s skill in developing complex, likable characters is evident. Of particular note is the interaction with Putney’s animal companions, which will undoubtedly captivate any animal enthusiast. The wholesome tone permeating the narrative ensures this book has a universal appeal.
Tufft adeptly controls the story’s pacing, maintaining a steady rhythm that harmonizes beautifully with the plot. The beachside setting serves as the perfect backdrop, encapsulating the essence of the narrative and undoubtedly resonating with readers.
One of the refreshing aspects of this tale is Putney’s apparent enthusiasm for school—a sentiment not often found in literature. Additionally, the story ingeniously weaves educational elements into the narrative, providing readers with insights into butterflies and other exciting topics and fostering an environment of learning while immersed in an engaging plot.
Middle-grade and teen readers will enjoy the mystery and adventure the author takes them on in this novel. With relatable characters and situations that most school children endure, this book will surely capture and hold their interest. The overall experience of reading Project First Flight: Putney Hicks Inventor Adventures is thoroughly enjoyable. Tufft’s eloquent prose and compelling storytelling render this a commendable book.
Pages: 338 | AISN : B0B5LNJQSY
Mr. Fox Sells Pockets
Mr. Fox Sells Pockets, written by Mark Dantzler, is an engaging children’s book that weaves a tale of Mr. Fox, a character whose shrewd business strategy revolves around selling pockets to the townspeople, irrespective of their needs. This narrative, rich with themes of greed and deception, gives young readers a window into a world where cleverness is met with community wisdom.
The book is not only a story but also a visual delight. Its pages are adorned with bright, vivid illustrations to captivate young minds and spark conversations. The use of color is particularly noteworthy, bringing each scene to life and adding depth to the story. At the heart of this tale is Mr. Fox, depicted with a cunning personality, highlighting the consequences of prioritizing personal gain over relationships. The character’s journey is a poignant reminder of the importance of honesty and integrity. Dantzler’s storytelling skillfully imparts these values, making the moral of the story accessible and enjoyable for its young audience. As young readers follow Mr. Fox’s misadventures, they are subtly introduced to concepts of right and wrong and the downfalls associated with greed. This book not only entertains but also educates, providing a valuable lesson in a fun and thought-provoking format.
Mr. Fox Sells Pockets by Mark Dantzler takes young readers on a colorful journey into ethical storytelling. The vivid illustrations and a narrative containing a moral lesson make it an ideal read for young minds beginning to explore the complexities of right and wrong. Dantzler encourages dialogue between children and adults, making it not just a story to be read but an experience to be shared.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0CLKZBVRG
Moon Balloon
In Moon Balloon, readers are invited on a heartwarming journey that celebrates the enduring bond between a father and his child. Delving into the limitless realm of imagination, the tale follows young Charlie, who, after losing his cherished red balloon to the wind, is comforted by his father with tales of its celestial voyage to the moon. Charlie’s ensuing quest to retrieve it sees him evolve from a bicycle rider to an astronaut, guided by his father’s wisdom at every pivotal moment.
The illustrations within the pages of Moon Balloon are captivating, with a warmth and gentleness that genuinely captures the essence of Charlie’s journey. Charlie’s vivid emotions, from the lows of minor setbacks to the highs of achieving milestones, are depicted with poignant clarity. Authors Pete Gatt and Luna Andreux have crafted a narrative that is both imaginative and evocative, pairing seamlessly with concise and approachable sentences, making this an exemplary introduction for young readers venturing into the world of literature.
Moon Balloon serves as a stirring allegory on life’s journey, and the challenges met along the way. It underscores the instrumental role that parental guidance plays in nurturing a child’s aspirations. Gatt and Andreux brilliantly spotlight the cyclical nature of life, tracing Charlie’s metamorphosis from an inquisitive child to a determined adult. While some readers might find an added layer of depth enhancing, enthusiasts of heartwarming family-centric tales will undoubtedly be enchanted.
This enchanting children’s book not only fosters resilience and determination but accentuates the profound role love and dedication play in achieving one’s dreams. Moon Balloon comes highly recommended for those seeking a picture book infused with inspiration and the reaffirmation of familial bonds in a world teeming with wonder and opportunity.
Pages: 28 | ISBN : 0648230406
Coral Reefs are Worth Protecting
Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure follows two fish who wish to swim to the barrier reef in the Flordia Keys who befriend a turtle along the way. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for the book Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure was seeing a tiny sergeant major fish darting about in a sun lit tidal pool in the Florida Keys. For reasons unknown even to me at the time, I turned to my fiancé Stephanie and said “check out Sammy the Sergeant Major down there” as I pointed into the tidal pool. There were many other inhabitants in this mini ecosystem including a tiny yellow tailed snapper fish which was quickly given the name Scarlett. I have loved the natural world since childhood. As an adult, this fascination included scuba diving and snorkeling over coral reefs in Florida, the Bahamas and Caribbean among other global locations. I have seen juveniles of both species first hand hiding in the roots of mangrove trees. As an avid diver I have also seen adult sergeant major and yellow tailed snapper over coral reefs in numbers beyond counting. As I watched the two baby fish in the tidal pool, I thought, here is a story worth telling.
The art in this book is fantastic; readers are transported to life under the water in a way that they feel like they are part of the story. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Mary Wentzel?
Mary Wentzel is an extraordinarily gifted, award-winning artist. I had seen some of her wonderful work and knew that she was certainly a person with the requisite skill sets. We set up an in person meeting so that she my fiancé Stephanie Casimiro (who would be handling marketing for the books) I could get to know each other. The creative chemistry was nearly instantaneous. Mary read the first manuscript, did one trial sketch which was awesome and it was game on. We did not have rigid rules of collaboration for the development of the artwork other than “have fun with it”. Mary’s stunning artwork flows perfectly throughout the book with her vivid, one of a kind original images helping to tell the tale of Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The primary foundational goal of Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure is to factually accurately depict how a coral reef and its myriad of inhabitants, coexist in one of the most amazing ecosystems on earth. The storyline was based upon my firsthand observations while diving and snorkeling over the decades. Inspiration for artistic images of the natural world were gleaned from many sources including our undersea photos. Great effort was made to be educationally accurate. Coral reefs are places that children need to learn are worth protecting for their benefit and for the benefit of generations yet to come. These are eco-systems worth saving.
Do you have more adventures planned for Sammy and Scalett in the future? If so, when can your fans expect the next story, and where will it take them?
That is an excellent question, thank you. Fans may be interested in knowing that Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure is actually a sequel to the previously published Sammy and Scarlett’s Mangrove Adventure. To your question, I do have another manuscript in the very early stages of development for Sammy and Scarlett. More to come on that soon.
Recently, I have been busy wrapping up my fourth children’s book entitled Kiki and Slugger’s Magic Spring Adventure which is due out this fall. This is a very fun story also set in the iconic Florida Keys, which features the vivid interpretations of the natural world around us by the highly talented artist Mary Wentzel. Our fans will not be disappointed!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Instagram
Along the way, they make a new friend, a hawksbill sea turtle named Howie. Howie is a kind sea turtle who gives the young fish the guidance they need to get where they’re going and stay safe. The three quickly become fast friends and learn that they can trust one another through thick and thin. Howie protects the little fish from predators, and in return they help keep the turtle safe from the dangers of human litter such as plastic bags.
Join Sammy, Scarlett, and new friend Howie as their epic journey continues through the magnificent Florida Keys.
Sammy & Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure
The coral reef is a truly amazing place, and Sammy and Scarlett are just beginning to discover how special it is. Sammy, a sergeant major, and Scarlett, a yellowtail snapper, have been prepared for this journey by Manny the Mangrove. He has provided them with all the instructions necessary to guide them to the barrier reef. As they travel, the two encounter Howie, a sea turtle who offers to escort the pair while providing some much-needed advice on how to stay safe in the vast ocean. Howie not only shows Sammy and Scarlett the ways of the water, but he opens up a whole new world full of beauty and wonder.
Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure, written by Robert Andrew Provan and illustrated by Mary Wentzel, is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that tells the story of a fantastic journey undertaken by two fish bound to reach the barrier reef and begin their lives anew. Provan’s book is an exceptional one for young readers as it offers them both an engaging storyline complete with suspense while at the same time handing them a long list of facts about ocean life disguised neatly within a narrative.
To say this is a beautifully illustrated book is really an understatement. Wentzel depicts one of the most stunning places on Earth in what can only be described as equally breathtaking illustrations. I found myself examining the phenomenal detail in every picture as I explored along with Sammy and Scarlett. Each page brings a new and intricate representation of the plants and animals that inhabit the coral reef.
Sammy and Scarlett’s Coral Reef Adventure, written by Robert Andrew Provan and illustrated by Mary Wentzel, is a lovingly-crafted children’s picture book that would make an excellent gift for an elementary-aged reader interested in ocean life. I highly recommend the team of Provan and Wentzel to any parent or educator.
Pages: 46 | ASIN : B0C6LSXHLQ
Inspire Curiosity
Snoodles in Space follows a group of extraterrestrial visitors to Earth who are in dire need of help to save their leader and their ship. What was the inspiration for your story?
I was reading a news story about how we are producing less scientists, and I had the thought about a planet that had no scientists left because everyone was discouraged to become one. So, I wanted to write a story about discouragement but also put a light on the effect of encouragement as well.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I wanted to inspire curiosity, and taking on complex problems and having fun at the same time. Every Snoodles book also has to have a museum built. This book has a museum on space exploration. The last book had an art museum. There will be an aquarium in the next book. Kids should be excited about going to a museum, even more so these days.
The art in this book is fantastic, giving the story a comic-book quality. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Andy Case?
It was amazing and the most fun. I did the story blocks describing what I have in my head and Andy always amplified everything in his drawings. After he did the book, I flew to England just to visit Andy in Nottingham. I plan a second trip in January. I can’t thank him enough. We talk on Zoom and I have to hold back breaking down to cry because he has moved me so much!
Do you have more stories planned about the Snoodles? If so, what can your fans expect in the next story and when will it be available?
Yes! Snoodles in Space, Episode 2: The Zoodles Strike Back! I introduce Grumpy Grimy Groodleman, and the Groodle powered by stinky Grool! I do a revision of sorts on the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Story. I make the kids who didn’t do too well and probably were shamed because of the negative publicity, and turn them into the heroes in the book.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
In this follow-up book, when the Zoodle Kidoodles from the planet Zoodle abduct Norman Noodle and Sally Stroodle, the Zoodle Kidoodles threaten to take all of Earth’s noodles— unless they perform the necessary brain operation on their grand leader, Cloodle the Grand Roodle, and fix their spaceship’s failing engines.
The one problem? Norman Noodle and Sally Stroodle are simple bakers. Sour Croodleman’s Prickly Peppered Purple Propulsion Powered Pickle invention is their only hope, but will he unite with Herbie Snoodleman to save the planet?
The answer is here, in this Wackadoodle Tale from Outer Space!
Snoodles in Space: A Snoodle, the Zoodle Kidoodles, and One Happy Schmoodle
Dive into an entertaining cosmic escapade with Snoodles in Space by Steven Joseph. This captivating tale catapults us into a futuristic realm where brilliant inventors shine, introducing us to characters like Herbie Snoodleman, the mastermind behind the noodle-fueled Snoodlemobile, and Sour Croodleman, the imaginative force behind the zany Prickly Peppered Purple Propulsion Powered Pickle.
But even amidst the astonishing technological marvels, a hiccup arises in the form of the Zoodle Kidoodles, extraterrestrial visitors with an unusual request. Their leader, the illustrious Cloodle the Grand Roodle, requires a critical brain operation, and their spaceship’s engines are in dire need of repair. A humorous twist of fate lands a pair of bakers in their clutches, setting the stage for a quirky adventure.
What truly captivated me about Snoodles in Space are the clever wordplay elements that infuse the story. Not only do they provide an entertaining puzzle for young readers, but they also foster smoother reading skills. Steven Joseph’s narrative is brimming with wit, underscored by a wildly inventive storyline where the rules of a noodle-powered world bring about delightful surprises at every turn.
The journey commences on Earth, a vivid backdrop that sets an exuberant tone and establishes the characters in a playful palette of colors. This vibrant start seamlessly transitions into an interstellar odyssey, where the fantastical flourishes and takes on new dimensions. The book’s visual allure is heightened by its vibrant illustrations, bringing to life the technological wonders and the story’s unique charm.
With its comic-style format, Snoodles in Space is tailor-made for fledgling readers taking their first steps into the world of literature. However, the abundance of character and invention names might pose a challenge for some young minds. I recommend this gem to elementary school children who have embarked on their reading journey and gained some familiarity with it.
Snoodles in Space strikes a beautiful balance, making it an ideal tool to kindle a passion for reading. Its approachable text length offers comfort to young readers while the ongoing wordplay sustains their curiosity. This narrative adventure is enthralling and promises an enjoyable reading experience that young minds will treasure.
Pages: 59 | ASIN : B0BV5S8HL5
LITERARY TITAN 