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The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat Who Got Lost in Africa: Book 4: The Baboons
Casper the Cat embarks on a heartwarming and eye-opening journey through the African jungle in Jennifer Ussi’s The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat Who Got Lost in Africa. Surrounded by her jungle friends, Casper learns how animals coexist, communicate, and care for one another. When Evelyn, a brave young baboon with only one arm, attempts to comfort a crying leopard cub without its family’s consent, chaos ensues—sparking an unexpected conflict between the baboons and leopards. Amid the tension, Casper is puzzled. Why should compassion lead to such turmoil? Can understanding bridge the divide between two angry tribes, or will the jungle descend into battle?
What makes this story shine is its message of empathy and perspective. Through Casper’s calm reasoning and Evelyn’s pure-hearted actions, children see that kindness can change how others view a situation. Even when danger looms, Casper puts aside fear to help others see that Evelyn’s gesture came from love, not defiance. The story beautifully reminds readers, young and old, that seeing the world through another’s eyes often leads to peace and understanding.
Adding charm to the narrative is a playful dose of humor. Henry, the mischievous elder baboon, and his spirited twin sons fill the pages with laughter and light moments. Their antics offer children a joyful reminder that humor can strengthen bonds and lift spirits, even in tense times. The vibrant personalities of the jungle’s inhabitants make this tale not only educational but utterly delightful to read.
Illustrator Lekshmi Bose brings Ussi’s vision to life with artistry and care. Her detailed, neutral-toned illustrations enhance the natural beauty of the African wilderness. Every page feels alive, each animal expressive, each scene immersive.
The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat Who Got Lost in Africa is far more than a children’s tale; it’s a celebration of empathy, curiosity, and unity. Readers of all ages will not only enjoy its adventure and humor but also gain insights into African wildlife and conservation, meeting creatures such as leopards, baboons, helmeted guineafowl, and even playful squirrels.
Pages: 82 | ASIN : B0FNR626PT
Pippin’s Outback Adventure
Pippin’s Outback Adventure by Julia Seaborn is about a brave little black poodle named Pippin who goes on a camping trip in the Australian outback. Along the way, he makes friends with all sorts of animals—kangaroos, koalas, wombats, even budgies!—and ends up helping a dingo family during a big, scary dust storm. It’s a story about kindness, bravery, and working together, all wrapped up in a fun animal-filled journey.
I loved the cozy beginning with Pippin by the campfire. It felt like a classic camping tale but with just enough mystery to make it fun for kids. That whole scene where the dingoes show up and ask for water? Heart-melty stuff. My kid was glued to the page, and I’ll admit, I was too. It’s such a gentle way to introduce empathy—Pippin doesn’t hesitate to share. And it’s not preachy. It’s just nice. The artwork is so bright and full of color, and I absolutely loved how we could see every one of Pippin’s emotions.
The part with the dust storm was written in a way that feels adventurous but not too scary. I liked how Pippin didn’t just hide in the cave—he actually ran back out into the storm to rescue the dingo pups he met earlier. I loved when he says, “We look out for each other at home, and we look out for each other in the outback too.” It’s such a simple message, but it really lands.
Also, the variety of animals was a hit at bedtime. We had to stop and look up pictures of budgies and wombats afterward. The book even includes some fun animal facts and questions at the end, which gave us a chance to talk more about what we read. Hopscotch the kangaroo, with her tail-balancing tricks and friendly nature, was definitely a favorite character in our house.
Pippin’s Outback Adventure is a warm, adventurous children’s book that celebrates friendship and teamwork. It’s perfect for kids around 4 to 8, especially animal lovers or curious little explorers. Honestly, if you’re a parent who likes books that teach kindness in fun ways without hitting you over the head with it, this one’s worth picking up. Plus, it might just make you want to plan a trip to the outback.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DY13YVB3
The Bonds of Siblings
The Dream follows a girl with the unique ability to communicate with animals who has a dream sending her and her brother on a dangerous quest. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Great question. Breakfield and Burkey wanted to create a fantasy for young people, hoping it would increase their interest in reading. We added games at the end of the print version to reinforce the learning aspects of reading. For a portion of the story, we used the foundation of a First-Place award we earned for our One Act play.
Your characters are wonderfully emotive and relatable. Were you able to use anything from your own life to inform their character development?
We are delighted you enjoyed our characters. We invite anyone reading this story to share their favorite character and why. Rox was particularly taken with the dragon. Yes, we pulled from our youth when imagination drove playtime. Memories of interactions with our siblings helped frame the relationship between Destiny and Valerian. Characteristics of our respective children are also woven into the relationship. The strong bonds of siblings will withstand any obstacles.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One aspect we felt was important is following your dreams to help make them a reality. Another is helping others without thinking of what it might give you. Too often, young people today ignore a problem or situation where their involvement could make a positive difference. We hope the young readers will discover other positive elements from The Dream.
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 Dream is a stand-alone story, and we do not currently envision it as part of a series. However, we have some ideas for other stories targeting this age group that we are keeping on hold for now. Our next project will be aimed at the young adult audience, with the final installment of our Enigma Heirs Trilogy, titled Enigma Jewels, set to be released in the spring of 2025.
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Destiny has a gift. Her brother, Valerian, believes in her but still must protect her. Her confidence is unshakeable, and her heart is pure. To protect her, Valerian must accompany her on the quest.Will Valerian’s devotion to Destiny overcome his doubts?
When will he see the dangers along the journey as opportunities?
Can he learn to communicate with the animals like Destiny?
Join the quest to find out how to reach goals with the help and cooperation of others. Helping others can change the outcome. You may go faster by yourself but travel further with valued friends.
The Dream
The Dream, written by Charles Breakfield and Rox Burkey, is a spirited young adult fantasy that follows siblings Destiny and Valerian as they venture beyond the safety of Settlefore’s walls in search of a deeper truth, spurred by Destiny’s vivid dreams. Their journey takes them through enchanted forests, encounters with mythical creatures, and challenges that test their bond and courage. The story combines elements of adventure, imagination, and personal growth, all while exploring themes of destiny, trust, and transformation.
I found the writing style engaging, though at times overly descriptive. The authors excel at creating vivid settings, like the forest paths and the towering figure of Soarant the dragon, which feel alive and magical. However, I felt some dialogue was overly explanatory, pulling me out of the moment. I appreciated the humor sprinkled throughout, particularly Valerian’s grumbles about Destiny’s whimsical dreams and her growing ability to communicate with animals. The ideas in The Dream shine when the characters confront moral dilemmas. Destiny’s insistence on helping the wounded Tusker, despite the danger, demonstrates her pure-hearted bravery. This moment reminded me how even small acts of compassion can ripple outward. Conversely, Valerian’s reluctance felt relatable—who hasn’t second-guessed a big decision when safety was at stake? The balance between his pragmatism and her optimism drives much of the story’s emotional depth. By the end, the tale wove itself into a thoughtful reflection on courage and change.
The Dream is a delightful read for young adults who enjoy fantasy adventures with heartwarming lessons. It’s particularly suited for readers aged 14 and up who value stories about self-discovery and the power of dreams. While it occasionally stumbles in pacing and dialogue, its imaginative world and endearing characters make it a journey worth taking. I’d recommend it to fans of The Chronicles of Narnia or Howl’s Moving Castle. Let your imagination run wild with this enchanting tale!
Pages: 51 | ASIN : B0DLYPDLGM
Gentle Lessons
The Adventures of Lucky Rocky follows a fun-loving and adventurous puppy who loves to spend time with his friends and learn valuable life lessons and problem-solving skills together. What inspired this series?
This series was born out of my desire to create a joyful book that teaches children about friendship, kindness, and helping each other. Rocky the puppy is a friend who, together with his friends, takes little readers on fun and heartfelt adventures. I wanted children to see warmth in these stories and learn valuable lessons while simply enjoying tales of friendship.
What ideas were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to show that kindness and friendship make life brighter and more interesting. Through Rocky’s simple and relatable adventures, children can see how wonderful it is to support each other and enjoy being together. These stories are filled with gentle lessons that teach children to help, share, and be attentive to others — qualities that are so meaningful to cultivate from a young age.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I especially enjoyed writing the scene in the first story where Brisket hides under a bucket, accidentally causing a commotion in the yard. It’s a fun and a little chaotic moment, with a lot of laughter and unexpected twists. Brisket’s mishap adds humor to the story and shows children that even when things don’t go right the first time, they can laugh about it, especially with the support of friends.
What will the next book in the series be about, and when will it be published?
The next book will continue Rocky’s adventures with his friends. It will bring new characters and explore more themes of friendship and helping each other. We’re planning for its release soon so that children can enjoy the warm, happy world of Rocky and his friends once again.
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The book combines the best stories from this series and is sure to bring joy and happiness to kids and their parents alike.
In this edition:
beautiful illustrations that capture attention
engaging stories that children will want to read to the end
simple sentences printed in large font for easy reading
It is perfect for bedtime reading for children aged 3-5 and for reinforcing independent reading skills in children aged 6-8.
There is nothing more thrilling for a child than fun adventures!
Fun adventures are the motto of the book’s main character, Lucky Rocky, a brave puppy who loves to spend time with friends and learn new things!
Why is Rocky called Lucky?
What helps him stay positive, smart and kind?
What discoveries does Rocky make in each new story?
Find out together with your beloved child by reading this exciting book, which:
• is great for children aged 3 years and older
• contains cute hand drawn illustrations that children love
• is filled with love, support and care for our little ones
• teaches your child the basics of friendship, kindness, mutual assistance and respect in a fun and easy way
• includes funny incidents and clever plotlines that will interest the child so that they will want to go back to them again and again
• consists of short stories, ideal for reading before bedtime – or at any other time
• is a good fit for first-time readers, new parents, and primary school teachers
• is a perfect gift for birthdays, holidays or any other important events
• will take you and your little treasure on a real adventure together
Books are small steps towards a big future!
Take this step! Take this book with you! Give your child the gift of a wonderful story!
The Adventures of Lucky Rocky: Two-in-One Edition
The Adventures of Lucky Rocky: The Magic of Friendship, by Ricardo Demi, is a charming children’s book that revolves around a puppy named Rocky and his heartwarming adventures with friends. It is part of the Magic of Discoveries series and is designed to teach children essential values like friendship, kindness, and bravery. Each chapter offers a delightful story in which Rocky and his friends learn life lessons through fun, friendship, and problem-solving. The first story focuses on friendship, while the second explores kindness, and both are filled with whimsical adventures that appeal to both children and their parents.
One of the things I really enjoyed about this book was its simplicity and clarity. The author knows his audience well and writes in a way that’s easy for them to understand. The tone is friendly and engaging, making it feel like a bedtime story told by a beloved family member. For instance, in the story where Rocky and his friends get lost in the forest during a storm, the suspense is just enough to keep children intrigued without causing fear. Grandma Owl’s rescue introduces both a new character and a lesson in kindness, setting an excellent example of how we can rely on the kindness of others in times of need. I found the storytelling to be relatable and filled with teachable moments.
The artwork and descriptions are another big highlight for me. The vivid descriptions made it easy to imagine scenes. The illustrations brought the adventures to life. I can easily see how children would be enchanted by this world of playful animals, friendly owls, and a wise Grandpa. The narrative strikes a nice balance between humor and life lessons, like Brisket’s clumsy attempts at hiding in a bucket, which brings a bit of lightheartedness into each story.
The Adventures of Lucky Rocky is a heartwarming and enjoyable book perfect for young readers, especially those between 4 and 8 years old. It’s an ideal read for parents who want to introduce their children to concepts like empathy, friendship, and problem-solving. It’s also a great option for bedtime stories, thanks to its gentle tone and positive messages. I highly recommend it for anyone looking to share meaningful, simple life lessons with their children in a fun, engaging way.
Pages: 78 | ASIN : B0DCVGV239
Moose and Frog Go for a Walk
Moose and Frog Go for a Walk is a charming children’s book that teaches kids the value of patience and the consequences of acting too quickly. Moose and Frog, two close friends who love spending time together, set out on a walk through the woods when Moose notices the changing colors of the leaves. They both eagerly pack their picnic baskets and head off, but Moose, in his excitement, rushes ahead without waiting for his friend. His haste lands him in trouble. He gets his foot stuck in a pile of rocks. Luckily, Frog is there to help him, reminding readers of the importance of friendship and teamwork.
Patience is a vital lesson for children, as it helps them manage frustration and approach situations calmly. It also encourages them to be considerate of others, taking the time to think before acting. Author Janice Hostetter delivers these themes through a delightful story that balances entertainment with valuable life lessons. The narrative flows smoothly, with characters that feel real and relatable despite their differences. The moral of the story is clear, and the resolution of the plot is quick. It is the perfect read to keep the attention of young readers.
Hostetter’s illustrations, which are bright and full of life, add a unique artistic touch that deepens the reader’s connection to the story. The large, expressive eyes of Moose and Frog are particularly captivating, adding warmth and charm to the characters.
Moose and Frog Go for a Walk is an engaging adventure that introduces children to important social skills in a fun and accessible way. Hostetter’s unique blend of storytelling and vibrant illustrations makes this a delightful picture book that is perfect for helping young readers understand patience, friendship, and the importance of thinking before acting.
Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0DB5QZ614
Connections to Real-World Experiences
No Dog Food, Please! follows a Labrador Retriever as he transitions from city life to a rural farm, aiming to adapt to his new environment while navigating the challenges of family dynamics and seeking acceptance. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for this story was our dog Chipper, a Maltese Poodle (Malti-doodle) who preferred what we were eating to dog food. We learned how to balance what he wanted with what was good for him. No Dog Food, Please! began as a poem about his dietary preferences. It evolved into a book over a period of years.
What inspired you to choose a Labrador Retriever as the protagonist in No Dog Food, Please!?
I have been intrigued by the ability of various dogs to work with humans for many years – as police dogs and guide dogs for the blind, for example. It’s incredible but true that some dogs can even be trained to smell certain types of cancer in humans. Besides being increasingly amazed by what dogs can be taught to do, I have always enjoyed being around animals. My husband is an animal lover as well, and we took our son to visit several farms when he was younger. Getting back to your question…Labrador Retrievers are intelligent, friendly animals. I knew that a Lab would fit in nicely with a story revolving around active farm children and the adults in their lives. The more I worked on the book, the more I found humorous ways to contrast the boisterous nature of the dog with Grumpy Grandpa’s old-fashioned ways.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
When I was a kid, I liked reading funny stories that also had connections to real-world experiences. As an adult, I enjoy writing books that are humorous and can potentially help children solve problems in their lives. In the case of this book, the problems centered around differences of opinion in a multigenerational family. Also, in No Dog Food, Please! I enjoyed creating parallel adoption stories focusing on Jack and the youngest child, Ben, who developed a strong bond, and exploring how the rest of the family had to adjust their lives following the adoptions. I worked on this book in my spare time for a few years, adding scenes as I thought of them, and then weaving everything together.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have completed my first children’s picture book, which I expect to publish later this year. The protagonist is also an animal, but one that is much smaller than a dog. In addition to pursuing my writing interests, I’m fortunate to be part of a great group of writers called Author Reader Connection. We have begun to do virtual author visits at schools. In February of this year, we spent a week with some talented students and their teacher in Maui, Hawaii. Working in groups or individually, the students were given the choice to write and publish a picture book, a comic book, or a poetry book. Here’s a link to a poetry book created by a group of those students. Rising From the Ashes: Our Stories of Lahaina – A Poetry Collection. All of the poets and artists featured in this book are from Lahaina, several of whom were displaced by the Lahai…
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LITERARY TITAN 