Blog Archives
Come Home, Papa Jed: Bear Adventures in the Smoky Mountains
Come Home, Papa Jed! is a charming picture book that takes readers on a heartwarming journey through the Smoky Mountains. The story centers on a bear family; Papa Jed, Mama Daisy, and their two cubs, Huck and Lila. When Papa Jed goes fishing and doesn’t return as expected, worry sets in, prompting Mama Daisy and the cubs to venture into the mystical woodlands in search of him. Along the way, they encounter various woodland creatures who, despite not knowing Jed’s whereabouts, offer their help.
The story beautifully captures the anxiety of separation and the relief that comes with reunion. The forest setting, with its detailed and vivid depictions, plays a central role in evoking a sense of wonder and adventure. The idea that the natural world is teeming with life and community is gently woven throughout the story, making it a celebration of the Smoky Mountains’ wildlife and scenery.
The characters in the book, though anthropomorphized, retain their animalistic qualities, adding a layer of authenticity to the story. Mama Daisy is depicted as the caring and determined matriarch, while the cubs, Huck and Lila, embody the innocence and inquisitiveness of youth.
The pacing of the story is steady, with a mix of suspenseful moments as the family searches for Papa Jed, and light-hearted, whimsical encounters with other animals. The narrative builds tension effectively, making the final reunion all the more satisfying.
Victoria Winifred’s use of literary devices such as rhyme and repetition adds to the lyrical quality of the text. The chorus of animals calling for Papa Jed is a particularly powerful moment, both visually and emotionally. The recurring theme of community support is reinforced through the animals’ collective efforts to help the bear family, creating a heartwarming message of unity.
Winifred’s writing style is evocative and tender, perfectly suited for a children’s picture book. The fantastic artwork transports readers into the heart of the wilderness. The dialogue between the animals is both charming and clever, adding a touch of humor that will delight young readers.
One aspect of the book that stands out is its ability to blend a simple narrative with a deeper emotional resonance. The anxiety of the cubs and Mama Daisy is palpable, and their relief at finding Papa Jed is equally powerful. Winifred skillfully balances these emotions, ensuring the story remains accessible to children while also engaging adult readers.
Come Home, Papa Jed! is a delightful read for young children and their families. The story’s blend of adventure, emotion, and the celebration of nature makes it a perfect bedtime read. I would highly recommend this children’s book to parents, educators, and anyone looking for a beautifully illustrated and well-crafted story.
Pages: 57 | ASIN : B0DDCHHKFN
The Hippo Who Hated To Fight
The Hippo Who Hated to Fight is a heartwarming picture book about Kuno, a young hippo with a gentle soul living in a world where fighting and biting are the norms. Kuno is different from his four big brothers, who can’t seem to understand his aversion to conflict. Seeking solace, Kuno embarks on a journey of self-discovery, encountering Zema, a wise and kind elephant. Through their conversations, Kuno learns valuable lessons about kindness, love, and self-acceptance, leading to a transformative friendship that changes his life.
I absolutely loved this story! The writing is simple yet effective, making it enjoyable for children and adults alike. Lowe’s ability to capture Kuno’s emotions, from his feelings of alienation to his joy in discovering true friendship, is truly touching. The dialogue between Kuno and Zema is playful and deep and often brings a smile to my face, especially when Zema gently teases Kuno with her big floppy ears or talks about her insatiable appetite.
What really stood out to me were the messages woven into the story. Kuno’s journey isn’t just about fitting in; it’s about embracing who you are, even when you feel out of place. Zema’s wisdom, like her explanation that elephants don’t say “I love you” but show it through actions, adds depth to the story. It’s a beautiful reminder that love and kindness don’t always need to be expressed in words; sometimes, they’re best shown through care and compassion. These moments made the book feel like a gentle guide for any child or adult learning to navigate their path in life.
Stephen Bibel’s illustrations are the perfect complement to Lowe’s story. They’re bright and full of life and capture the essence of the characters beautifully. These images will surely captivate young readers and help them connect with the story.
The Hippo Who Hated to Fight is a delightful children’s book that I’d recommend to anyone looking for a heartwarming and meaningful story. It’s perfect for kids who’ve ever felt different or struggled to fit in, and it’s a great reminder for all of us about the power of kindness and being true to ourselves.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0D8K317L5
Empowered and Secure
Oddly and Eve: Magical Addition Pairs follows a frustrated and sad odd number who struggles with his feelings and finding friends. What was the inspiration for your story?
Many years ago, while teaching a math lesson to my youngest students, we noticed and briefly discussed that two odd numerals added together made an even number, as did two even ones. Since I tend to anthropomorphize just about everything, I began to wonder how the numerals felt about those outcomes, especially from the odd ones’ perspective. Thinking ahead to a possible book, I created a file that stayed in my desk for a long time. When I recently came across it again, I was inspired to finally write that story for my younger readers. The original title was “Odd’s Revenge,” but I decided that was a bit too negative. So, Odd led to Oddly, and then Eve appeared, and the book was born, focusing on the positivity of magical addition pairs.
Your children’s book is more than a simple counting story. You have included important lessons about friendship, acceptance, and cooperation. Was this intentional in your writing, or did it happen naturally as your story developed?
I always aim to weave meaningful life lessons into my writing to help and inspire my readers. That said, the way those themes emerged happened naturally as I wrote the story. First came Oddly with a chip on his shoulder, and then Eve’s unstoppable positivity that even Oddly couldn’t ignore forever. Professor Plus also blossomed on his own as a guide on the side, as did his camaraderie with Count Calculator.
I loved the scene in the book where Oddly and his friends are blocking the road. What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Yes, that’s a fantastic scene, and I must credit my illustrator Barry Davian, whose artistic talent brought each moment to life beautifully. What I love most about that point of the story is how Eve calmly and directly calls out Oddly on his actions while handling the situation with grace. This concept is vital because children need to learn how to respond and communicate in the moment, rather than freezing up and letting life push them around. The sooner they realize that they can steer their own course, rather than being like a cork bobbing helplessly on the ocean, the more empowered and secure they will feel as they mature.
The scene I most enjoyed writing in Oddly and Eve: Magical Addition Pairs was when Professor Plus opened Oddly’s mind to new ways of thinking, followed by his conversation with Count Calculator. With Professor Plus, I wanted to nod to one of my favorite literary characters, Professor Digory Kirke from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, particularly when he explains logical thinking to Peter and Susan. Having regularly introduced philosophy to students as early as second grade, I’ve found that children embrace this kind of thinking early on, and it’s very important to me to include that in my writing. As for my favorite illustration by Barry, it’s the one where Oddly and Eve make their amazing discovery together in a burst of energy that appears above them on page 12 of the paperback!
When is your next book coming out, and what can your fans expect?
I have many more books coming out, even this month, and throughout the year, for entire families to enjoy. Right now, I’m building a well-rounded body of work for all elementary grades, from pre-K to 6th, to increase my audience and enrich my standards-based and lively presentations during my school author visits.
Author Links: Goodreads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website | Amazon
Willie Lost, But Not Really
Willie Lost, But Not Really by Deborah Tonken is a charming children’s book that explores the natural world and the harmony between species within it. The story follows young Alora, a nature-loving girl from Maine, who discovers a newborn harbor seal pup by the sea and names him Willie, inspired by William Corbett, a historic lighthouse keeper and coastal guard.
Alora’s deep appreciation for nature is evident as she watches over Willie from a safe distance, ensuring his mother returns to him safely. This act of kindness and wisdom highlights Alora’s maturity beyond her years, as she understands the importance of not interfering with wildlife. Tonken’s storytelling is both quirky and sweet, capturing the essence of a child’s connection with nature. Alora’s cleverness and knowledge of the natural world are commendable, making her a relatable and inspiring character for young readers.
The narrative, dedicated to the author’s granddaughter, adds a personal and heartwarming touch, emphasizing the strong bond that develops between Alora and Willie. Through Alora’s perspective, readers learn interesting facts about harbor seal pups and the importance of maintaining a respectful distance from wild animals. The story concludes with Willie safely reuniting with his mother and eventually growing into a strong, happy seal. The book’s illustrations are visually stunning, using vibrant colors and intricate details to bring the natural world to life. These illustrations vividly depict the sea, animals, and landscapes, enhancing the story’s appeal and helping children appreciate the beauty of nature.
Willie Lost, But Not Really is an engaging way to teach young children about the importance of preserving nature and its elements. The book encourages a sense of curiosity and respect for the environment, making it an excellent resource for fostering an early love of the natural world in children.
Pages: 41 | ASIN : B0D2B128TK
What is the Shape of My Ears?
Learning to recognize triangles is a crucial milestone in children’s development, enhancing spatial perception and introducing fundamental mathematical concepts. Lisa M. Weckbacher’s What is the Shape of My Ears? addresses this beautifully through the engaging story of Pearl the miniature donkey and Duke the miniature horse. Over breakfast, these farm friends discuss their responsibilities in keeping the farm safe by listening for predators, a task at which Pearl excels. Duke believes Pearl’s success is due to the shape of her ears, prompting a conversation about the differences in their ear shapes and leading to an exploration of triangles, their angles, and their identification in the environment.
Weckbacher’s storytelling provides an excellent framework for explaining geometric concepts. Her clear and engaging narrative is complemented by charming illustrations that reinforce the roles of lines and points, making the learning process enjoyable. Set on a picturesque farm with a variety of animals, the story remains captivating through the characters’ humorous observations and their learning journey.
The friendly interaction between Pearl and Duke, marked by mutual respect and eagerness to learn, sets a positive example for young readers. The book also includes additional sections for parents and teachers, offering tips on explaining different types of triangles and distinguishing between triangles and pyramids, making it a comprehensive educational resource. One notable aspect is the introduction of new vocabulary, which may be challenging for some children. However, these terms are well-explained and visually represented, aiding understanding. Weckbacher’s meticulous attention to detail enriches readers with insights into spatial thinking and the significance of ear positions in donkeys. This thoughtful approach makes What is the Shape of My Ears? an ideal book for fostering a love for both reading and mathematics.
What is the Shape of My Ears?, by Lisa M. Weckbacher, is a delightful and educational story that will captivate young readers. Its blend of engaging narrative, charming illustrations, and clear explanations makes it an excellent resource for parents and educators. This book is perfect for children who are beginning to explore geometric concepts and for anyone looking to instill a love of learning and curiosity about the world around them.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0D4HLM54V
Sarah the Scarlet Ibis Saves the Caroni Swamp
The Caroni Swamp is changing. Once renowned for its beauty and rich variety of wildlife, it is now under threat from pollution caused by human settlements. Enter Sarah, a beautiful scarlet ibis, who becomes the determined activist the swamp and its inhabitants desperately need. Rallying her swamp friends, she devises a plan to combat the growing amount of garbage in the water and pollutants in the air. What begins as an effort to restore their beloved swamp quickly sparks a movement much bigger than Sarah could have ever imagined.
Kirt Seuchan’s Sarah the Scarlet Ibis Saves the Caroni Swamp is the perfect book for young readers interested in environmental conservation. Seuchan plants the seed of activism with this latest animal adventure tale. Children will delight in following Sarah through her steps to save the swamp, from organizing her friends and neighbors to involving humans and seeing her efforts grow into a massive fight to clean their ecosystem and save their cherished home.
Jonny Hossain’s illustrations draw readers into Sarah’s story, providing stunning images of the Caroni Swamp’s plant and animal life. Each page features vivid depictions of dazzling birds, exotic plants, and vibrant aquatic animals, enhancing the reader’s connection to the swamp and its plight.
Sarah the Scarlet Ibis Saves the Caroni Swamp, written by Kirt Seuchan and illustrated by Jonny Hossain, is an ideal introduction to environmental issues for children. The combination of animal fantasy and informational text offers young readers relatable characters within a solution-focused narrative. Parents and teachers will not want to miss adding this inspiring tale to their children’s libraries.
Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0D4N2M5TM
Everyone Processes Information Differently
My Brain is Magic: A Sensory-Seeking Celebration follows a little girl who explores her senses in a creative and fun manner. What was the inspiration for your story?
My inspiration is my daughter. She’s now five years old, but the book was written when she was two; we just started her assessments with medical professionals for her neurodiversity diagnosis. I wanted to give her an easy way to communicate her sensory needs to me so that I could help her to regulate and fulfill those needs.
I wanted to remind myself (and her) that everyone processes information in different ways, and that should be celebrated. I wanted to focus on how she learns and processes information from the environment and show it in a positive light. By using animals, children can verbalize and easily express their sensory needs to grown-ups, who can then help them to meet those needs. For example, I feel like an octopus, I want to touch things, or I feel like a lion, I want to be loud today.
As a two-year-old, she had a limited vocabulary, but all kids that age are familiar with animals, so that’s how the book came to be.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Sensory seekers are individuals who have a strong desire for sensory input, such as movement, touch, and sound. They may seek out intense sensory experiences and engage in behaviors such as jumping, spinning, or touching objects with different textures, so I wanted to write something that helps parents and educators to provide those inputs in a safe and meaningful way. Educators might not be aware that a child has additional sensory needs, so the book provides a way for kids to communicate this and also the jacket cover and endpapers have sensory ideas for grown-ups to help facilitate these needs. I wanted a resource that is easy for parents and educators to pull out and really practical ideas to incorporate into daily routines.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about neurodiversity and sensory processing?
A common misconception about neurodiversity and sensory processing is that sensory sensitivities or challenges are simply a matter of preference or overreaction. This misconception can lead to the belief that individuals who experience sensory processing differences are being difficult, dramatic, or seeking attention. It’s important to look at these behaviors and examine the reasons why and how we can help kids meet their sensory needs. Once these needs are met, they often find it easier to regulate their emotions and behaviors, and this facilitates their learning.
In reality, sensory processing differences are neurologically based and can significantly impact how individuals perceive and respond to sensory stimuli. Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, or sensory processing disorder (SPD), may have heightened or diminished sensory responses, which can affect their daily lives and interactions.
What is the next story that you’re writing, and when will it be published?
I have a board book called Counting to Calm due out in 2024, also with Soaring Kite Books. It’s a picture and counting book on self-regulation for toddlers. I also have a middle-grade fiction book due next year with Dixi Books set in an ecotopian future.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram
This sensory-seeking celebration shines a light on neurodiversity and sensory processing in a fun and action-packed way for all children to enjoy.
My Brain is Magic: A Sensory-Seeking Celebration
Every child is different, and they all experience different moods as well as explore their senses in their own way. My Brain is Magic: A Sensory-Seeking Celebration by Prasha Sooful introduces different fun sensory exercises as animals such as a bee, a sloth, or even an owl. These are meant to help stimulate kids and keep them aware of their senses, and we see an example of this through our main character. As she is going through her own different moods and exploring her senses in her own ways!
This book is very unique, and just seeing the first page of “What animal are you?” was very exciting. I loved reading through each animal and learning new sensory exploring techniques. As I read through the story I felt like I was transported into a child’s world, seeing her imagination and how she functions through the day.
Seeing her go through moods of being a busy bee, a tired whale, and even a loud lion was nice as it showed the truth of how you may feel. Seeing how each of her moods explored her senses was also fun, as we got to see her being a touchy octopus with her hands or a slippery fish playing in the water.
The drawings throughout the book were definitely my favorite part, as it was full of color and life, and all the characters had so much emotion. It really makes the reader feel like they are transported into this child’s world!
My Brain is Magic: A Sensory-Seeking Celebration by Prasha Sooful is a wonderful picture book and a must-have for parents! I had so much fun reading it, and I know any kid would love to read it as well. Especially with the activities it comes with for your own child to explore their senses. This children’s book is full of bright illustrations and fun writing. It’s one of the best books I’ve read all month!
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0BNT5YKGH
