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One Grain of Sand
This sweet children’s book by Ruthie Godfrey starts with a colony of ants who are thrown into chaos when what they think is an earthquake turns out to be a dog named Scruffy digging with wild abandon. Their carefully built home is in shambles. Just when things look a little hopeless, an elder ant shares how the colony was first built—patiently and bit by bit, “one grain of sand at a time.” Inspired by that wisdom, the young ants rally together and rebuild their home through teamwork and determination. It’s a simple message wrapped in a colorful and heartwarming tale.
There’s something so powerful about how the book takes such a big idea—perseverance—and shrinks it down into something kids can really get. I loved the part where the elder ant said, “Each day we worked. Little by little, bit by bit.” It’s the same thing I tell my students when they’re frustrated with math or trying to read a big book. The story doesn’t shy away from showing how hard things can feel at first, which makes the ending so satisfying.
And oh my goodness, the illustrations! Pablo D’Alio nails it. The ants are full of personality, especially the one in the purple cap—my kids started cheering when he rallied everyone. The expressions are priceless, and the way the chaos of the dog turns into organized teamwork by the end is just awesome.
One Grain of Sand is a gem. It’s the kind of picture book that’s fun to read out loud, sparks big conversations, and leaves kids feeling like they can do big things—even if it’s one tiny step at a time. I’d recommend it for any classroom, especially early elementary. It’s also a great pick for bedtime reading with a message that sticks. Teachers, parents, counselors—basically anyone raising or teaching little humans—this one’s for you.
Pages: 37 | ASIN : B0D8RCYXF4
Instigating a Sense of Adventure
Hedgehog’s Winter follows a hedgehog full of energy and curiosity who isn’t quite ready to hibernate, so he bundles up in his warmest winter clothes and ventures outside, eager to embrace the snow-filled world around him. What was the inspiration for your story?
For a child, exploring and experiencing the magical world of winter is wonderous! I wrote Hedgehog’s Winter to capture the enchanting spirit of the season, and instigate a child’s curiosity and sense of adventure.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The storyline was originally written in a lyrical format, as a lullaby or whimsical ode to winter and nature. At the same time, incorporating various animals and concepts about hibernation, the book was written as an organic educational tool, as well.
When I visit classrooms, I spark conversations with young students about wintertime – what happens? How does the natural world around us change? Why don’t you see a snake during Christmastime? Where do chipmunks go when the season is snowy? It’s a wonderful way to engage their inquisitive minds. I offer students the opportunity to grow more appreciative and aware of what the season offers us.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Jeanne Ee Wei Yen?
My wonderful editor had everything to do with acquiring the illustrator. The watercolor media Jeanne used exemplify the mood and conjured a winter wonderland.
What next book are you working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m excited about my upcoming book, Grandma Yogini, a fun story to introduce children to yoga and meditation. Grandma is not your typical, run-of-the-mill Granny. She’s spunky and happily greets the team of neighborhood kids to show them a few fun yoga moves. The kids decide: best grandma visit ever!
Author Links: GoodReads | BlueSky | Facebook | Website
But his friends, Bear, Raccoon, and Chipmunk, don’t want to play. They are ready to hibernate in their warm dens.
So, Hedgehog puts on his hat, his coat, and his mittens and tries to find someone to have a winter adventure with him. As he skates on the frozen pond, he wonders what a falling snowflake tastes like. Then, Deer arrives and helps him build a snowman and find a piece of bark for a sled.
After sledding, Hedgehog and Deer share some leftover berries. But Hedgehog’s eyes are growing sleepy. He still doesn’t know what a falling snowflake tastes like as he walks toward his warm burrow. Only then, at the last minute, a little bit of magic happens.
Hedgehog’s Winter
As autumn fades into winter, Hedgehog savors one last playful moment with his friends in Hedgehog’s Winter, a charming tale by Raven Howell. Raccoon, Chipmunk, Snake, and Bear are all preparing for hibernation, ready to settle into a season of slumber. But Hedgehog, full of energy and curiosity, isn’t quite ready to rest. With no companions left to play with, he bundles up in his warmest winter clothes and ventures outside, eager to embrace the snow-filled world around him.
As he frolics through the winter landscape, one question lingers in his mind—what does a snowflake taste like when it lands on the tongue? His solo adventure takes an uplifting turn when his friend, Deer, appears. Together, they revel in the season’s magic, building a snowman and enjoying the crisp, snowy air. Eventually, even Hedgehog begins to tire, realizing that perhaps, after all his fun, a long winter’s nap sounds rather inviting. But just as he makes his way home to his cozy burrow, something special happens—something that makes his journey even more memorable.
This delightful children’s story radiates warmth and charm. One of its most endearing qualities is Hedgehog’s ability to find joy in solitude. Despite his friends being unavailable, he remains cheerful, confident, and eager to explore. Howell beautifully conveys a meaningful message: while playing with friends is wonderful, there’s also value in learning to enjoy one’s own company. Young readers will find comfort in Hedgehog’s self-assurance, discovering that moments of solitude can be just as fulfilling as time spent with others.
Jeanne Ee Wei Yen’s illustrations complement the story with breathtaking beauty. Nearly every page showcases her soft, detailed artwork, rendered in muted tones that perfectly capture the tranquility of a winter’s day. The imagery enhances the narrative, bringing Hedgehog’s adventure to life in a way that feels both whimsical and serene.
In sum, Hedgehog’s Winter is an enchanting read that will resonate with audiences of all ages. The story is heartwarming, the characters are irresistible, and the illustrations add an extra layer of charm. This book is a must-have for any child’s collection—kudos to Ms. Howell for crafting such a delightful wintertime tale!
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DRWF6NS8
I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng
S.P. Somtow’s I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng celebrates the limitless imagination of childhood with charm and originality. The story follows a suburban boy who stumbles upon Moo Deng, a newborn pygmy hippo, while browsing online. Instantly captivated, he becomes so enthralled that his mother plans a trip to Thailand to visit the zoo where Moo Deng resides. They stay with his Uncle Somtow, who helps coordinate the visit. When they finally arrive at the zoo, a long line threatens their plans. Uncle Somtow considers giving up, but the boy’s determination keeps them in place. While they wait, his imagination takes flight, spinning magical adventures where he and Moo Deng share whimsical moments together.
The book’s theme is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity. The protagonist’s fascination with Moo Deng becomes a driving force, teaching children the value of pursuing their passions wholeheartedly. His family’s unwavering support creates a nurturing environment that further underscores the importance of encouragement. Somtow skillfully illustrates how creativity not only fuels joy but also builds resilience. Faced with frustration during the long wait, the boy channels his emotions into vivid daydreams, transforming a tiresome experience into a fantastical journey. Meanwhile, Uncle Somtow enriches the moment by sharing intriguing facts, turning the wait into an opportunity for discovery.
Visually, the book dazzles with its illustrations. They burst with fantasy elements and intricate details, enhanced by striking light and shadow effects. Somtow’s writing, on the other hand, is precise and engaging, seamlessly weaving together real-world events and the protagonist’s imagined escapades. Each scene flows effortlessly into the next, delivering a narrative brimming with wonder and excitement.
At its heart, I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng inspires children to chase even the wildest dreams. It’s a joyful reminder that imagination, perseverance, and the support of loved ones can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. S.P. Somtow’s tale brims with warmth and creativity, making it an enchanting read for young dreamers and the families who encourage them to reach for the stars.
Pages: 67 | ISBN : 978-1940999388
My Large Wild Animal Book
My Large Wild Animal Book is a nature adventure for kids, full of facts about various wild animals. Each page introduces a new animal with its scientific name, habitat, group names, and diet. The book showcases well-known animals like the Black Bear, Bison, and Polar Bear with illustrations that aim to capture the beauty of these creatures. It’s an easy guide for young ones to learn about wildlife, from rocky cliff-loving mountain goats to tundra-wandering caribou.
This children’s book serves as a fantastic educational resource by offering clear, simple explanations about wild animals’ habitats, diets, and group names. Which I think is perfect for young children. It also introduces scientific terms in an easy-to-digest format, helping to build a child’s foundational knowledge of wildlife.
The writing is straightforward and simple. I liked how each animal’s description was broken down into clear sections, but at times, it felt a bit dry. For instance, the section on Black Bears mentions their habitat from Alaska to Mexico and their love of honey, but there isn’t much excitement in the way it’s presented. I think the book could’ve benefited from a few lively anecdotes or fun facts to jazz it up.
What stood out to me were the animal group names. Did you know a group of bears is called a “sleuth or sloth”? These little nuggets of information are memorable, and I could see kids being surprised by them. The author did a good job peppering these in, though I wish there were even more of these delightful surprises scattered throughout the book.
The illustrations in this educational picture book are lovely. I think they work well for children who are trying to understand these animals. The colors and details reflect how majestic and calm each animal is, like the solemn Kodiak Bear or the noble Moose.
My Large Wild Animal Book is great for young animal lovers, especially kids who are just starting to learn about wildlife. It’s a good introduction for children who want to learn about the habitats and diets of wild animals. It would work well as a classroom resource or a bedtime story for kids who dream of forest adventures and snowy tundras.
Pages: 39 | ASIN : B0855PCD6S
A Magical Process
Harriet’s Hungry Worms follows a young girl who is given the task of taking care of the worms in her family’s compost bin while learning valuable lessons about sustainability. What inspired your story?
Harriet’s Hungry Worms was inspired by my children’s curiosity about the environment and their eagerness to contribute to sustainability at home.
My children were learning about the environment, but with texts that weren’t connecting with them through their ‘childhood’. While there were many educational books about environmental topics, I noticed that some of them could be overwhelming for young children due to their fact-heavy nature.
I’m a big believer in keeping things light-hearted, fun, and simple in order to naturally inspire genuine interest in children and create positive habits for life – especially when it comes to the environment. My aim was to write an eco-book that wasn’t didactic – instead sparking children’s interest in worm farming in a fun way and showing them how simple it is for them to try at home.
I wrote the first draft with my three children – Tom, Ben, and Evie – who are just as excited about bringing Harriet’s Hungry Worms to life and sharing it with their friends.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Melissa Johns?
Working with Melissa was an absolute delight! Her unique style using recycled materials brought the story to life in such an inventive way.
Melissa’s creative process of repurposing everyday items into beautiful collages captures the heart of the book, extends the sustainability discussion, and aligns perfectly with the theme of giving new life to what might otherwise be discarded.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to share the message that caring for the environment doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating—it can start with small, fun activities like feeding kitchen scraps to worms!
The book emphasises the value of turning waste into something beneficial, inspiring young readers to see composting as a magical process.
I also aimed to encourage kids to see themselves as little “worm warriors” who can make a real difference in the world, even from their own backyards.
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?
Yes, Harriet’s Hungry Worms is the first in what I hope will be a series of fun and inspiring eco-picture books. I have another book coming out with EK Books in 2026—stay tuned! Readers can expect more eco-adventures filled with fun characters and plenty of hands-on ways to learn about sustainability and caring for our planet.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
This funny, engaging eco story invites young readers to follow the adventures of Harriet’s ravenous compost worms as they munch their way through their wide and wonderful weekly menu.
Harriet’s nine-hundred-and-eighty-three hungry worms live in a shady corner of her backyard in a big, green box. They spend their days munching on anything from Aunt Tilda’s herbal teabags to the sports pages of Uncle Sam’s paper. Harriet watches and waits, eventually deciding the worms are ‘so BORING.’ Until one day, the worms leave Harriet a big surprise … worm wee!
Packed with worm facts, Harriet’s Hungry Worms is the ideal companion for worm warriors and curious composters keen to roll their sleeves up and put their kitchen food scraps to good use.
Continuing the sustainability message, inventive illustrations incorporating recycled materials bloom from each page, breathing beautiful life into this fun-filled story.
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
Monster Problems A to Z
Monster Problems A to Z, by Stacie Green, is a delightful children’s alphabet book that cleverly blends mythical creatures with narratives addressing mental health challenges. Through vivid storytelling and engaging handwritten vocabulary, this book offers a fresh perspective on both fantasy and empathy. It encourages readers to explore complex emotions in a fun and educational manner, with vivid illustrations that draw readers into a world where monsters have problems just like the rest of us. The book is especially fun to read aloud, making it a wonderful addition to any child’s library.
One of the standout features of this whimsical children’s book is its imaginative approach to teaching the alphabet. Each letter is paired with a mythical creature and a relatable problem, making learning both engaging and meaningful. For example, A is for an Anxious alien, setting the tone for the book’s blend of whimsy and realism. The use of mythical creatures to personify various mental health issues is both clever and effective, providing young readers with a gentle introduction to complex topics. The writing in this book is both playful and impactful, striking a perfect balance that keeps children entertained while also delivering important messages. The illustrations are vibrant and full of character, bringing each mythical creature and their respective problem to life. The attention to detail in the drawings enhances the storytelling, making each page a visual treat.
Monster Problems A to Z is a fantastic book for young readers. Its blend of fantasy and real-world issues makes it a unique and valuable resource for teaching children about the alphabet, empathy, and mental health. The book is ideal for parents, teachers, and caregivers looking to introduce these topics in an accessible and enjoyable way. Whether you’re reading it aloud or letting children explore it on their own, this book is sure to be a hit.
Pages: 56 | ASIN : B0CW1L7NHL
LITERARY TITAN 