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Prickles the Porcupine Learns about Peace
This sweet little children’s book follows Prickles, a grumpy porcupine who just wants some quiet time to nap in his cozy forest den. But his peace is wrecked by Patty, a cheerful puppy who loves to dig and happens to be doing it way too close to Prickles’ home. As the story unfolds, Prickles tries all the wrong things—puffing up his quills, hiding, and even yelling—to make the noise stop. But it isn’t until Patty suggests they talk and work together that Prickles learns a better way: finding a peaceful solution that makes both of them happy.
We’ve all had those moments where we feel irritated or overwhelmed and just want some quiet. The way Prickles reacts—first with frustration, then anger—is pretty true to life, especially for little ones still learning how to manage emotions. I appreciated that the story didn’t shy away from showing how his actions didn’t help, and how things only got better when he chose to be kind and helpful. That’s a strong message, simply told, and it landed with warmth.
The writing is straightforward, with lots of repetition, especially of the “whish-swish” sounds—that adds a fun rhythm kids will enjoy. There’s a gentleness to the storytelling that kept me engaged, and the lesson about peace doesn’t come across as preachy. I loved how Patty responded to Prickles’ anger with calm curiosity. That turn from conflict to teamwork was touching. And the way it all wrapped up with Patty happily digging far away and Prickles finally catching some Z’s made me smile.
Prickles the Porcupine Learns about Peace is a feel-good story for kids learning about emotions and how to handle them. It’s especially great for bedtime or quiet reading moments when you want to sneak in a lesson without making it obvious. I’d recommend it for ages 3–7, or for any family working on patience, problem-solving, and being a little more like Patty.
Pages: 37 | ASIN : B0CD1MN33S
Dogg the Cat
Dogg the Cat is a playful and tender picture book about a cat who dreams of becoming a dog. His owner, kind-hearted and open-minded, doesn’t just accept this unique wish, he embraces it. With curiosity, compassion, and a bit of internet research, they explore the world of dogs together. Along the way, we learn all sorts of fun facts about dogs, from their superpowered sense of smell to their ability to understand words and routines. The book ends on a joyful note: a cat named Dogg who feels fully seen, supported, and happy just as he is (or wants to be).
I really enjoyed this wonderful children’s book. The writing is simple but clever, with just the right amount of humor and heart. It walks a fine line—playful enough to charm kids, thoughtful enough to tug gently at adult emotions. The pacing is quick, but not rushed. There’s a natural rhythm to it, and the voice of Dogg is both quirky and honest. The blend of storytelling and animal trivia is surprisingly smooth. It never feels preachy or forced—it’s more like a cat joyfully rambling on about why dogs are awesome, and it’s kind of delightful.
What really stuck with me, though, was the message. It’s subtle, but strong: you can be who you want to be, especially when someone’s in your corner. There’s something sweet and quietly profound about a story that encourages kids to follow their instincts and to love others for exactly who they are—or who they’re becoming. And the illustrations are bright and full of character. They add extra warmth and energy to a book that’s already got a lot of heart.
I’d absolutely recommend Dogg the Cat to families with little ones, especially ages 4 to 8. It’s great for animal lovers, daydreamers, and any kid who’s ever felt a little different. Teachers and librarians will also find it useful for classroom read-alouds. It’s short, funny, and ends on a sweet, positive note.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0DZW5WB11
The New Normal
Baby Brother-Itis follows a four-year-old girl who is convinced she’s come down with something called Baby Brother-Itis and spirals into a flurry of imagination, questioning what it is, whether it’s contagious, and how her world will change. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Our children were my inspiration for Baby Brother-Itis. Our son was born early during my husband’s deployment with the U.S. Army. He was born with medical complications and required a lot of extra care. Our daughter never had to “compete” for our attention it was always hers alone. With a new baby in the house and only one parent caring for both children sadly, she was feeling the strain of our “new normal”.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wrote this story 25 years ago; and put it in a filing cabinet. Periodically throughout the years I would pull it out and read it to our children. We moved 21 times in 23 years with the Army and a lot changed within our family dynamics during that time. Initially we only had 2 biological children when I wrote this; and adopted 3 more children years later. I wanted to incorporate all 5 of the children in the book. Each page is actually one of our children, with their unique characteristics.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The scene I had the most fun writing was where sister says all the baby does is “eat and sleep all day”. Our son the “baby” is now 28 and when he came home from a deployment with the U.S. Army, he reverted back to the baby and once again “eat and sleep” all day. I also love the illustrations on that page; Tullip Studio did an amazing job with the illustrations.
I find a problem with well-written stories in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned?
The question keeps coming up about another book for this story. It definitely has given me something to think about. I’m excited to say, I have been working on another book not associated with Baby Brother-Itis and hopefully it will be available later this year.
Author Links: Website | Instagram | YouTube
As her overactive imagination runs wild, she starts feeling left out, confused, and even jealous. She overhears a conversation about her “mysterious” illness, sparking a journey of self-discovery. But despite the changes, she slowly warms up to her little brother, realizing that love isn’t divided—it grows.
Saanvi’s Bad Day
Saanvi’s Bad Day is a sweet and honest look into a young girl’s very bad Tuesday and how she learns to deal with her overwhelming emotions. After a series of small but frustrating mishaps—forgotten homework, spilled lunch, a lost umbrella, and a final splash of humiliation in the school parking lot—Saanvi comes home soaked, mad, and defeated. Her father gently listens and shares a story of his own tough day, guiding Saanvi through the process of naming her emotions, accepting them, and finding simple ways to feel better. Later in gym class, Saanvi draws on these lessons to navigate another tough moment with courage and calm. It’s a story about the everyday emotional hurdles kids face and the quiet strength that comes from love, connection, and a little bit of perspective.
What I really liked about this children’s book is how tender and grounded it is. The writing is straightforward, but there’s a warm rhythm to it, like a conversation between a parent and child after a long day. The dialogue feels real. Saanvi talks the way actual kids talk when they’re upset. Her dad’s calm, understanding tone never feels preachy. He doesn’t swoop in with a magical fix; he just offers empathy and tools. That small moment of emotional coaching felt big. I love that this picture book treats children’s emotions with seriousness but not drama.
Teaching kids to name their emotions and give themselves permission to feel them was such a valuable lesson, and Sharma delivers it in a way that feels safe and relatable. No big lectures, just lived experience and gentle encouragement. I especially liked the follow-up scene at gym class—how Saanvi uses what she learned. It’s hopeful without being cheesy.
I’d absolutely recommend Saanvi’s Bad Day to parents, teachers, or anyone with a kid navigating big feelings. It’s perfect for ages 4 to 8—especially the ones who come home after school a little soggy in spirit. This book doesn’t just tell kids it’s okay to feel upset, it shows them how to ride it out and bounce back.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0DSJYJRQP
Precious One, you were worth the wait
Precious One tells the story of two parents longing for a child, their journey through waiting, hope, and faith, and the ultimate arrival of their baby boy. The book unfolds like a tender love letter from mother and father to their child, Ezra, who was born after eight years of anticipation. Each page gently narrates a new milestone—prayers, doctor visits, nursery preparation, and finally, birth—culminating in the joyful moment when their baby enters the world.
The writing is straightforward, soft, and honest, but its simplicity doesn’t water down the emotional punch. There’s a sincerity here that feels deeply personal, almost like I was being let in on a family secret or reading someone’s cherished diary. The pacing mirrors the act of waiting—slow, patient, filled with hope and small moments of quiet love. I appreciated how the story honors not just the child’s arrival but the path it took to get there. The words carry a warm, whispered comfort.
What really got to me were the little touches—the lullabies sung to a belly, the counting of fingers and toes, the image of parents dancing in a doctor’s office. These details made the story feel real. It’s heartfelt and raw in the most wholesome way. Some might find it overly sentimental, but to me, that’s kind of the point. It’s a story for parents who’ve waited, who’ve prayed, and who finally get to hold their dream in their arms. The message? That love doesn’t rush. It waits.
Precious One, You Were Worth The Wait to families, especially those who’ve struggled with fertility or waited a long time for their child. It’s ideal for parents reading to their toddlers, as well as for children to understand just how treasured they are. If you’ve ever longed for something with your whole heart, this book will speak to you.
Little Bear and the Big Hole
Little Bear and the Big Hole is a quiet and tender story about grief, healing, and connection. It follows Little Bear, who is grappling with the loss of his Papa Bear. He sees the absence as a literal hole—vast, lonely, and invisible to others. That is, until Squirrel shows up. Through shared sorrow, gentle words, and quiet presence, Squirrel helps Little Bear process his pain. Together, they slowly fill the emptiness with memories, music, drawings, and love, watching as the hole gradually transforms into something new and alive—a growing tree that carries both memory and hope.
What really got me was how this children’s book doesn’t try to fix grief or explain it away. It just sits with it. The writing is sparse but deep, almost like a poem. Every word feels picked with care. That kind of restraint makes the emotions hit harder. I actually got choked up when Little Bear screams, “I just want my Papa Bear back!” It’s raw and real and relatable. I also love how Squirrel never tries to cheer him up or make it better—she just shows up, and that’s everything. That message, especially for kids, is gold.
Visually, this book is a dream. Mirjam Siim’s illustrations are soft and warm with just the right touch of whimsy. The way the hole slowly changes in the pictures mirrors the emotional shift so beautifully, you almost don’t notice at first. It sneaks up on you, like healing often does. I wish more picture books handled hard feelings like this—with this much heart and honesty. It doesn’t feel preachy or pushy. It just breathes.
If you’re looking for a children’s book to help a child (or even yourself) make sense of loss, this is the one. Little Bear and the Big Hole would be perfect for families navigating grief, for therapists, or even just anyone who wants a beautiful story with real emotional weight. It’s gentle, but it’s not light. And I’d hand it to anyone who needs to remember that while grief is big and heavy, it’s not something you have to carry alone.
Pages: 32 | ISBN : 1760362328
The Curious Quest of Little Luna
The Curious Quest of Little Luna by JWoodall.Art Publishing is a delightful and visually enchanting tale that captures the magic of friendship, adventure, and self-discovery. From the moment Luna the Fox stumbles upon a mysterious treasure map in the woods, readers are swept into a whimsical journey filled with excitement, challenges, and meaningful moments.
Luna’s quest is anything but solitary. She’s soon joined by a lovable cast of characters, Benny the wise Owl, Fin the cautious but loyal Turtle, and Tilly the joyful Rabbit. Together, they navigate a beautifully imagined world where the real treasure isn’t gold or gems, but the friendships they forge and the truths they uncover about themselves.
Told in playful rhyming verse, the story has a lyrical charm that adds a sing-song quality to Luna’s journey. While the rhyme occasionally strays from perfect rhythm, the effort to infuse the narrative with musicality is commendable and adds to the storybook feel, especially for young readers when read aloud.
The anime-inspired illustrations are vibrant and imaginative, bringing Luna and her companions to life in creative and expressive ways. While the art style shifts throughout the book, these changes add a dynamic energy to each page, keeping the visuals engaging and fresh. Luna and Tilly embody a soft, bishojo-inspired aesthetic, while Benny and Fin have a more traditional anthropomorphic design, a mix that adds visual diversity and charm.
At its core, this is a story with a beautiful message. Luna’s final choice, valuing wisdom and inner truth over magical gain, is both touching and profound. The narrative handles the classic “the journey is the treasure” theme with sincerity and emotional depth, making it resonate rather than feel cliché. Even chapters that revisit familiar ground reinforce important lessons, enriching the overall arc.
Each character brings something special: Tilly’s effervescent energy, Benny’s gentle guidance, Fin’s steadfastness, and Luna’s quiet growth. These personalities give young readers someone to root for on every page.
Perfect for ages 7 and up, The Curious Quest of Little Luna is an uplifting, beautifully illustrated tale that’s best enjoyed together, especially by families who appreciate imaginative stories with strong messages. It’s a journey worth taking and a book worth cherishing. Luna’s adventure reminds us all that the greatest treasure lies not at the end of the path, but in the hearts we touch along the way.
Pages: 94 | ASIN : B0DXCM9K5X
Baby Brother-Itis
Baby Brother-Itis by Mary Arnold delivers a delightful blend of humor and heart, capturing the emotional whirlwind a young girl experiences as she becomes a new big sister. Convinced she’s come down with something called “Baby Brother-Itis,” she spirals into a flurry of imagination, questioning what it is, whether it’s contagious, and how her world will change. With her parents now preoccupied with feeding, diaper-changing, or simply exhausted, she can’t help but feel a little forgotten.
As her story unfolds, the big sister’s perspective shifts. Slowly, and somewhat unexpectedly, she discovers that her baby brother isn’t a nuisance; he’s actually kind of sweet. And, to her surprise, she finds herself falling in love with him.
Arnold crafts a narrative that feels both fresh and familiar, echoing the inner thoughts of many children grappling with sibling transitions. The rhyming text adds a playful rhythm that makes reading aloud a joy while helping young readers develop phonemic awareness.
One standout moment comes when the big sister attempts to Google her “condition” on a tablet. Unable to spell it, the search becomes hilariously phonetic, “Bae-bee-bruh-thur-eye-tis.” It’s a clever, modern detail that will resonate with today’s tech-savvy kids and undoubtedly earn a chuckle from adults, too.
The illustrations burst with color and energy, perfectly complementing Arnold’s witty prose. Every page invites young readers to linger and explore, making the book as visually engaging as it is emotionally resonant.
Ideal for children anticipating or adjusting to a new sibling, Baby Brother-Itis validates their worries while gently guiding them toward empathy and acceptance. It’s not just a story, it’s a warm, reassuring embrace for big brothers and sisters in the making.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0DQ73K3X3
LITERARY TITAN 