Blog Archives
Matti and Anty. The Secret World of Icelandic Ants
What do you get when a quiet, curious little boy meets a tiny, equally curious ant? A charming, unlikely friendship that blossoms into a magical adventure full of fun facts and heartfelt moments. Marco Mancini’s Matti and Anty: The Secret World of Icelandic Ants is a bilingual story, written in both English and Icelandic, that gently teaches kids about the fascinating lives of ants through the lens of an imaginative friendship. Matti, more into bugs than roughhousing, stumbles upon Anty, a two-legged, talking ant who watches kids from afar and is ready to share her world. As their secret bond grows, so does the reader’s knowledge of how ant colonies work, all thanks to this unique storytelling twist.
I found myself smiling through most of this book. The relationship between Matti and Anty is just so sweet and sincere. There’s no drama, no over-the-top silliness, just two very different little beings connecting through curiosity. When Matti learns that there are ants in Iceland, the story takes a fun, informative turn. Anty explains how their hive works and even shows him around. I loved that part. It made me think back to my own childhood, when the tiniest things felt like huge discoveries. The writing is warm and friendly, and the tone stays playful while sneaking in real science in a way that doesn’t feel like a lesson.
The side-by-side translation is such a cool feature. I don’t speak Icelandic, but I loved seeing both languages on the page. It adds this extra layer of cultural richness that you don’t often get in children’s books. And the illustrations are gorgeous. Laufey Jonsdottir has such a gentle, expressive style. You can feel the emotion in Anty’s tiny face and the awe in Matti’s wide eyes. The visuals really help bring their little world to life. There’s one image of Matti peeking into the grass where Anty stands waving, it’s so tender and curious, it stuck with me.
This book also hits that sweet spot where education and storytelling meet. I came for a cute kids’ book, but I ended up looking up Iceland’s insect history afterward. Who knew ants in Iceland were so rare? That’s what I love about stories like this, they open doors to more questions, more learning. It’s not just about bugs; it’s about noticing the little things around us, respecting nature, and nurturing curiosity.
If you’ve got a child who loves nature, bugs, or just a good heartwarming story, Matti and Anty is a perfect pick. Great for reading together at bedtime or even for early school science units. It’s simple, sweet, and full of wonder. It left me wishing I had an Anty of my own when I was a kid.
Pages: 45 | ISBN : 978 9935 542 36 6
Mrs. Wiggles and the Numbers: Patterns
This children’s book is all about a group of number characters who are out at recess and get invited by their teacher, Mrs. Wiggles, to play an “I spy” game—but with patterns! Each number finds different repeating patterns in things like gardens, frogs, chickens, and even eggs. Poor Number Zero doesn’t get it at first, but by the end, he figures it out in a super satisfying way by painting a colorful 1–100 chart. It’s cheerful, it’s bouncy, and it makes patterns feel like a playground adventure.
The rhyme and rhythm in this picture book are really fun. It feels like a song you’d want to sing out loud while reading. The language is simple without being boring, which is a tricky balance to get right. The way the story weaves in real examples of patterns—visual, numerical, even animal stripes and dots—makes the idea stick without it ever feeling like a lesson. And the artwork is bright, colorful, and packed with little things to point out. It kept me smiling the whole way through.
But what really got me was how Zero has this little arc—he starts out confused and a bit nervous, and then he ends up making this huge discovery. It’s sweet, empowering, and a little inspiring. It’s one of those books where the message sneaks in without you realizing it: trying matters, noticing the world is fun, and even when something feels tricky, you can figure it out. It’s not preachy, just kind and encouraging.
If you’ve got a preschooler or kindergartener who’s starting to explore numbers or getting curious about patterns, this kids’ book is perfect. It’s also great for teachers looking for a light way to introduce math thinking. I’d recommend it for ages 3 to 6, especially kids who like to count or love to find “what’s the same.” This book has heart, color, and brains.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0F3Y48WSM
Finding Hanna’s Happy Place
Hanna’s on a mission. Her day starts with cookies and toys, but something still feels off, she can’t seem to find her Happy Place. So she heads outside with her trusty dog, Puppy B, and sets off on a heartwarming journey through the mountains. Along the way, she meets a buffalo, a fox, a moose, a bear, and a snowy owl, each with their own idea of happiness. In the end, with a little help from her furry friend and a wise owl’s advice, Hanna discovers her Happy Place was right at home all along.
I really enjoyed this picture book. I’m always hunting for stories that not only capture my kids’ attention but also spark meaningful conversations. This one hit the sweet spot. The writing is gentle and warm, with a natural rhythm that made it a dream to read aloud. I appreciated how the story gave space for emotions. Hanna doesn’t quite know why she feels off, and that confusion is something kids really relate to. It doesn’t rush to fix the problem. It gives it air and lets it unfold. And the way the book wove in mindfulness without calling it that was brilliant.
The part where Hanna imagines her Happy Place and it’s not some big, wild adventure but sitting by the fire with her family? That moment had me. There’s a cozy magic to the message that feels like a hug. The hand-drawn illustrations are soft, sweet, and full of personality. Puppy B is the kind of character kids instantly fall in love with. My kids were giggling, pointing, and asking if we could read it again.
If you teach young kids or have young kids, Finding Hanna’s Happy Place is a gem. It’s perfect for talking about feelings, imagination, and what it means to feel at peace. I’d recommend it to families, educators, counselors—anyone who wants to help kids understand themselves a little better. It’s warm, wise, and wonderful.
Pages: 49 | ASIN : B0F5NMDZZS
Charlie, Bob and Me (Harry) The Big Wet
Charlie, Bob and Me (Harry) The Big Wet is a gentle, charming story about three animal friends, Harry the koala, Bob the wombat, and Charlie the platypus, grappling with the harsh realities of drought and flooding in their native Australian bush. The tale follows the trio as they first suffer through a dry, crumbling landscape and then face the overwhelming aftermath of sudden, torrential rain. Through it all, their bond stays strong as they look out for each other, adapt to change, and find hope even in chaos.
One of the things I loved most about this book was the dynamic between the three friends. It’s light, witty, and super heartwarming. There’s this early scene where Harry gets trapped under a tree branch again, and Bob sighs, “Harry, when are you going to learn?” That mix of exasperation and care instantly hooked me. It felt real, like siblings bickering with love. The humor is never overdone, just sprinkled in, and it brings the characters to life without stealing the weight of their situation.
What surprised me was how much emotion was packed into a relatively simple story. When the rain finally comes after weeks of drought, it should feel like a relief, and it does, but it also brings fear. Charlie’s burrow is flooded. Bob’s home is swamped. Even Harry, safe up high, chooses to stick with his friends. That kind of quiet loyalty is heartwarming. And then there’s the arrival of the three women, Connie, Kathy, and Sylvia, who bring food and care. It’s such a tender moment of human kindness stepping in when nature goes full throttle.
The writing is honest, and the language is simple, but it carries weight. I also really appreciated how the book didn’t shy away from the reality of environmental issues. It’s a story for kids, sure, but it respects the intelligence of the reader. It shows the fragile balance of the ecosystem and how animals struggle and help each other.
Charlie, Bob and Me (Harry) is one of those quiet little gems that sneaks up on you. It’s full of warmth, laughs, and a subtle urgency about the natural world we all share. I’d recommend this to young readers, but it’s also for anyone who needs a reminder that friendship, kindness, and community matter, especially when the skies turn wild. If you’re an animal lover, a softie for nature, or just in need of a cozy read with a message, this book is well worth your time.
Pages: 30 | ISBN : 1838759786
Polar Post: An Erutuf National Park Novel
Polar Post follows siblings Reese and Dean and their hilariously food-motivated golden retriever, Tutu, on their third magical trip to the mysterious and whimsical Erutuf National Park. This time, they’re whisked off to the Arctic, where talking animals, pirates in tuxedos, and frozen palaces await. The kids land smack in the middle of a secret mission to hide an important map from sneaky villains, and it’s up to them (with some help from a card-trick-loving polar bear) to keep the park safe. It’s playful, unpredictable, and full of heart.
Dean’s steady stream of puns and dad-joke humor is remarkably well-executed. Lines like “King Henry the 1/8!” had me laughing early on, and the witty one-liners continue throughout the book. Tutu is another standout with her fixation on treats and spontaneous dog-centric observations (“Treats are things!”) add a layer of charm and levity that made me smile consistently. The humor never feels forced; instead, it strikes a natural, effortless tone that captures the playful dynamic of sibling banter in a genuinely engaging way.
Then there’s the whole magical adventure part, which hit that sweet spot between fantasy and nature-loving wonder. The idea of a national park that teleports kids to different ecosystems and lets them talk to animals is just… genius. The ice palace, with its glittering walls and crazy sled tunnel, was like a dream. And I loved how the book layered in real facts about polar bears, narwhals, and climate issues, but in a way that didn’t feel preachy. Dean’s virtual reality moment on glacier ice? Gave me actual chills. Kathy Cherry has this way of sliding in learning moments without killing the vibe. It’s smart.
I also appreciated the sibling dynamic between Reese and Dean. They feel like real kids. Reese is the organized, logical math-lover, while Dean’s just vibing through life with a joke in one hand and a snack in the other. Their bond felt warm and familiar, but not sugarcoated. And it was nice to see that Reese had some nerves, especially about the pirates. She’s not just the “smart” one; she’s a full person with worries and hopes. The scene where she uses math as a calming technique in the maze? Weirdly beautiful.
Polar Post is a heartwarming, funny, and clever story with a whole lot of imagination. It’s clearly aimed at middle-grade readers, but honestly, I had a blast reading it as an adult. If you’re a teacher, a parent, or just someone who loves talking animals, secret missions, and a little eco-magic in your stories, this one’s for you. Highly recommend.
Pages: 106 | ASIN : B0DK89TZWQ
A Breed of Their Own
Being Middle follows a young girl feeling overlooked and underappreciated as the middle sister in the family, who gradually learns that being in the middle is pretty special. What was the inspiration for your story?
My middle child Ellie was the inspiration for writing this book. I always joke that middle children are a breed of their own because they are so difficult to raise, but there are so many overlooked advantages and qualities that only middle children have. I wanted this book to be a nod to what Ellie puts us through and why she’s so uniquely special to our family.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I always write in rhyme because rhyming books are powerful tools for building foundational literacy skills in early readers. In addition to being engaging and fun, rhyming books help kids anticipate what’s next and aid in sound and pattern recognition.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I loved writing about the middle child getting the hand-me-down shoes because I could actually hear Ellie’s voice in the sentence. Vanessa Alexandre also captured her expression so well!
What is the next book that you are working on, and when is that book due out?
I’d love to build on the BEING ME series and I am tossing around ideas for book #3. HINT – I think for that book, I’m going to focus on how I feel different from others since the first two books were about my children feeling different.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | Website | Amazon
Being Middle is a heartwarming and playful picture book that celebrates the special role of middle children in family dynamics. With lyrical rhymes and relatable scenarios, it captures the ups and downs of being caught between a big sibling and a little one. From sharing cramped car rides to getting only hand-me-downs, the story explores challenges with humor and honesty—while ultimately revealing why being in the middle is something to treasure.
The second installment of the award-winning Being Me series, this book is perfect for middle children who sometimes feel left out and for families looking to celebrate their unique dynamics. Full of warmth, charm, and an empowering message, Being Middle is perfect for ages 4-8.
Order now to celebrate the middle child in your life—because the middle is a great place to be!
Being Middle
Lori Orlinsky’s Being Middle is a heartwarming picture book that speaks directly to the woes and wonders of being the middle child. Told through the eyes of a young girl caught between her older and younger sisters, the story starts with frustration and ends with pride. She laments hand-me-downs, cramped car rides, and cold showers, classic middle-child grievances, but slowly learns that being in the middle isn’t just tolerable. It’s kind of amazing.
What really grabbed me was the honesty in Ellie’s voice. That opening line “My tummy is achy, and I feel quite queasy” sets the stage for a raw, relatable peek into the middle-child mindset. She feels overlooked and underappreciated, evoking a strong sense of empathy as her emotions unfold on the page. The moment she laments receiving only hand-me-down shoes is both humorous and strikingly relatable, an all-too-familiar reality for many middle children. When she remarks, “Most of the time, they don’t even call me the right name,” it brings to mind the common mix-ups that happen in families with multiple children, a small detail that rings true and adds to the authenticity of her experience.
What truly sets this book apart is its thoughtful shift in tone. Rather than dismissing Ellie’s feelings, her mother gently reinterprets them, offering a new and affirming perspective. The line, “There’s a sis to look up to and one who looks up to you,” stands out as particularly poignant, reframing the middle child role as one of unique connection and importance. In this way, being in the middle transforms from a source of frustration into a powerful metaphorical bridge. The comparison to the center of an Oreo, universally regarded as the best part, adds a lighthearted yet effective touch, reinforcing the message with humor and warmth.
Visually, the illustrations by Vanessa Alexandre add a playful, expressive energy to the story. They carry just the right mix of whimsy and warmth. Every pout, eye-roll, and smile feels familiar, especially for anyone who’s ever been stuck in the middle seat. The layout flows well, too, making it perfect for a bedtime read or a classroom circle.
I found Being Middle to be a thoroughly enjoyable and meaningful read. It strikes a careful balance of thoughtful without being didactic, and heartfelt without veering into sentimentality. I would recommend this book to families with multiple children, particularly those with a middle child who may be struggling to find their place. It would also serve as a valuable resource for educators seeking to initiate discussions about family roles, emotions, and self-worth. Even for readers who are not middle children themselves, the book offers a charming reminder to appreciate the value found in the spaces between, whether in families, food, or everyday life.
Pages: 24 | ISBN : 0881441058
Sharing the Message of God’s Love
The Jellybean Gospel and the Born-Again Bunny follows a little larva who makes her cocoon in the window of a troubled boy and watches him transform after hearing a moving sermon about jellybeans and their connection to the Gospel. What inspired your story?
The inspiration for The Jellybean Gospel and the Born-Again Bunny came from my desire to share the message of God’s great love with little ones, especially during Easter, a season of new beginnings. Spring symbolizes renewal, and just like the boy in the story, Little Larva undergoes her own transformation into a butterfly, representing hope and new life.
I have six grand-littles, and I want each of them to know God loves them. This book is for them and all the Littles of the world—whether they’ve heard of Jesus and what He did for them or not. I wanted to create a story that uses something familiar, like a bunny and jellybeans, to show children how deeply loved they are and how the message of Easter speaks to that love.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
In The Jellybean Gospel and the Born-Again Bunny, I wanted to focus on a few key educational elements that would resonate with children. First, I wanted to show the concept of transformation and how change can lead to something beautiful, just like the caterpillar becoming a butterfly. It’s a simple yet powerful way to explain growth and renewal.
Another important aspect was introducing children to the idea of God’s love in a way that’s easy to understand and remember. I wanted to show that we are always loved and can change for the better. The connection between jellybeans and the Gospel is a fun way to help children understand that God’s love is sweet, abundant, and available to all. I also wanted to spark curiosity about Easter and its deeper meaning, making it accessible to kids who may not be familiar with the story of Christ’s resurrection.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Alicia Renee?
Working with Alicia Renee on The Jellybean Gospel and the Born-Again Bunny was an absolute dream! We share a passion for little ones knowing Jesus, and that made this collaboration a perfect fit for bringing the story’s message to life.
I sent Alicia the manuscript and told her I wanted her to have the creative freedom to bring the illustrations to life as she saw fit. Having worked with her before on my book Angel on Assignment, I already knew the incredible talent she possesses. She transformed my words into illustration notes that sounded amazing, then brought the story to life in such an incredible way. The illustrations are truly stunning, and I genuinely love working with her.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m excited to share that my next book, Where Would You Go with Magical Balloons?, is already illustrated and just needs to be designed for print. This book is especially close to my heart as it was created to celebrate National Give a Bunch of Balloons Month on the National Day Calendar. This initiative celebrates another day in the life of a child with an incurable disease or a life-altering illness, offering them a moment of joy and hope. It’s an uplifting story that encourages kids to dream and embrace the gift of today, with balloons as a symbol of happiness and possibility. After all, who doesn’t love to see a bunch of balloons? You can’t help but smile when you see them! I think this month can equally have an impact on the giver as much as the young one receiving the balloons. I’m looking forward to this book complementing the month celebrated in June and helping spread joy and hope during National Give a Bunch of Balloons Month.
Author Link: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Little Larva should be in Egg Land with the other caterpillars, but she wandered off…
Now dangling from a mischievous boy’s windowsill, her cocoon trembles. Then unexpectedly, a colorful bag of jellybeans changes everything.
Inspired by the boy’s transformation, Little Larva takes flight, spreading the good news to Mr. Easter Bunny and beyond.
Join Little Larva, Little Lad, and Mr. Easter Bunny as their story begins a new tradition in Egg Land: Easter baskets filled with the colorful message of God’s love, one jellybean at a time.
What you’ll find inside:A FUN EASTER STORY – A rhyming tale of a butterfly, a boy, and a born-again bunny.
JELLYBEAN GOSPEL POEM – A colorful way to explain the life-changing message of the Gospel to children.
ABCs OF SALVATION – Introduce little hearts to the simple steps of Salvation. ~Accept, ~Believe, ~Confess. Includes Bible verses.
IDEAL FOR YOUNG READERS – Designed for ages 4-8, for grades K- 3, this picture book engages readers to explore faith, and the miraculous change made possible because of Jesus.
This book is perfect for children’s church leaders, Sunday School teachers, and grandparents who wish to introduce little hearts to the love of Jesus.
Discover the sweet message of faith and transformation in this whimsical Easter adventure—share the joy of the Jellybean Gospel with a child today!
LITERARY TITAN 