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Icy The Iceberg
Icy the Iceberg is a sweet little children’s book about a snowflake-turned-iceberg named Icy, who goes on this long emotional journey through the water cycle. It starts with him forming from vapor and becoming a happy, floaty snowflake, but then he gets buried under layers of snow for centuries and eventually becomes this huge, majestic iceberg. He gets to float in the ocean, make friends with whales and otters, and have the time of his life… until he starts melting. But don’t worry, it loops back around when he turns into vapor again and floats up into the sky, ready to start his cycle all over. It’s science meets story time.
What I loved most was how the book gave real feelings to a snowflake. Icy goes from joyful and curious to scared and lonely, then back to joyful again. It really hit me when he was buried under all that snow for hundreds of years. And then that comeback moment on page 26 when he finally cracks free and splashes into the ocean was fantastic. The book’s voice is simple but so full of heart. Kids will get the science, sure, but adults will see a metaphor for life, change, growth—all that deep stuff hidden in a floating snowflake.
The artwork is adorable. Each spread has this cheerful, crayon-colored vibe, and the “Color Me” pages give it a whole activity-book feel that’s just brilliant. And don’t get me started on the animals! That whole section where he makes friends with sea creatures and even gets a surprise visit from a polar bear was wholesome and reminded me of how friendship can come from the most unexpected places.
Icy the Iceberg made me feel warm and fuzzy inside. It’s the perfect picture book for curious little readers who love stories with heart and a bit of science thrown in. It’s also great for parents or grandparents who want something thoughtful but not preachy. I’d recommend it for anyone who likes their bedtime stories with a side of wonder and a little tug on the heartstrings.
Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0F461HMGS
The Jellybean Gospel and the Born-Again Bunny
In The Jellybean Gospel and the Born-Again Bunny by Wanda Carter Roush, readers are invited into a whimsical yet spiritually rich tale where caterpillars in Egg Land hang their cocoons in anticipation of a greater purpose of awakening to help Mr. Easter Bunny prepare his Easter baskets. But among them is one curious little larva who chooses a different path. Her reasons are never fully explained, adding a gentle layer of mystery to her journey. She settles near the windowsill of a young boy’s room, unknowingly selecting a place filled with turmoil.
This young boy, frustrated and distant, often clashed with his family. He was disrespectful toward his parents and sister, struggled in school, and neglected his responsibilities at home. Though his family spoke to him with concern and love, their words seemed to fall on deaf ears. Then, one Sunday, as the family prepared for church, the boy reluctantly agreed to go. That decision would change everything.
During the sermon, something stirred within him. The message of the Jellybean Gospel broke through his resistance. He learned of Jesus and how he died for our sins, rose again, and offered salvation to anyone willing to receive it. Each color of the jellybeans symbolized a truth: black for sin, red for Christ’s blood, white for purity, and a new beginning. This vibrant symbolism touched the boy’s heart. He repented and embraced a fresh start.
The little larva, witnessing this remarkable change, was so moved that she shared the story with Mr. Easter Bunny himself. Inspired, he decided that every Easter basket from then on would include jellybeans with each color, a reminder of grace, redemption, and the transformative power of faith.
This story is nothing short of wonderful. It beautifully captures the essence of Easter and presents it in a way that is accessible and heartfelt for children, without coming across as overly preachy. The use of jellybeans as a teaching tool is both clever and engaging. It’s a concept that sticks and is simple enough for kids to understand, yet powerful enough to leave a lasting impression, even on adult readers. Personally, I now see jellybeans through a new lens, each color telling a piece of the Gospel story.
Alicia Renee’s illustrations are a perfect match for the narrative. Bright, cheerful, and in line with Easter’s pastel palette, her artwork brings every page to life. Each illustration enhances the text, offering young readers a visual treat that deepens their connection to the story. Renee’s whimsical style complements Roush’s message with charm and heart.
The Jellybean Gospel and the Born-Again Bunny is not just a seasonal read, it’s a timeless tale that can be shared year-round. With a blend of faith, fun, and vibrant imagination, this book will leave children and adults feeling uplifted and inspired.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DWKRJ71Z
Looking for Unicorns on Safari
Looking for Unicorns on Safari is a super sweet and whimsical picture book that follows Lotta, Leo, and their mom on a safari adventure through Africa. Lotta is on a mission to spot a real unicorn—with glittery wings and a rainbow mane, of course—while her brother and mom enjoy the sights of more traditional animals, like lions, zebras, and giraffes. Each page is a colorful spread packed with animals dressed up in fun outfits and some fun Swahili words sprinkled in along the way. It’s part story, part seek-and-find, and all kinds of fun.
This picture book made me smile from page one. It’s got that perfect mix of silly and sweet that kids just eat up. The illustrations by Nita Candra are just gorgeous. There’s this one part where the giraffe is “on stilts, reaching up to the leaves,” and I had to pause and just appreciate how imaginative and playful it all looked. You can tell this children’s book was made with a lot of love.
One thing that stood out to me was how the story never shuts down Lotta’s belief in unicorns. Even though we see a bunch of real animals, no one ever says, “Unicorns aren’t real.” Instead, the story just rolls with it. That moment near the end when Lotta finally sees her unicorn? Pure joy. And the ending, where Mama calls the kids her “two monkeys”? Adorable. Plus, I think it’s really neat that the book also donates a portion of its proceeds to Save the Children. It adds a little heart to the magic.
Looking for Unicorns on Safari is a lovely read for little kids who still believe in magic—and for grownups who wish they still did. It’s perfect for bedtime, storytime, or any time you want to go on a little adventure without leaving the couch. If you’ve got a kid who loves animals, dress-up, or magical creatures, this one’s a total win.
Pages: 36 | ISBN: 9783952620724
The Viking, the Ditch, and the Bathrobe (Shawn From the Shed: Book 3)
The Viking, the Ditch, and the Bathrobe is the third book in Alan Frost’s engaging Shawn From the Shed series. This modern fantasy and sci-fi tale once again follows Shawn, Johnny, and Ella as they navigate the perils of time travel. This time, their adventure lands them in 10th-century Denmark during the Viking Age. With a mission to recover an item of historical importance, the trio finds themselves entangled in the rough-and-tumble life of Viking society. Amidst the challenges, they uncover secrets that hint at a deeper narrative shaping their time-hopping journeys.
This book dives straight into the action and history, delivering a vibrant depiction of the Viking era. Frost’s writing makes the past feel alive, capturing not just the external world of 903 Denmark but also the intricacies of Viking culture. The descriptions are vivid, from the bustling markets to the quiet, tense moments in longhouses. What stands out is the depth with which Frost explores Viking society, challenging stereotypical notions of Vikings as mere raiders. He weaves in their roles as traders, explorers, and complex social beings, adding layers of authenticity to the narrative. The plot balances action and humor effortlessly.
Frost injects lighthearted moments into the story, making it accessible and enjoyable, especially for younger readers. The dialogue is crisp and keeps the pace brisk, ensuring that even historical explanations feel engaging rather than heavy. The humor, mixed with historical detail, makes this book a standout in the time travel genre. Frost’s ability to blend education with entertainment is the book’s greatest strength. Readers don’t just follow a thrilling adventure; they gain insight into Viking trade, language, and social structure.
Frost paints a nuanced picture of a society often reduced to caricatures. He highlights the motivations behind their actions—raiding as a product of economic necessity rather than mindless violence—giving readers a richer understanding of the era. The story also excels in accessibility. Aimed primarily at children and young adults, its fluid writing and adventurous premise ensure appeal for a broader audience. Frost’s style is light yet engaging, making complex history feel approachable. The inclusion of humor and relatable characters like Johnny and Ella adds to the book’s charm, while Shawn’s experienced perspective anchors the story.
While the book is enjoyable, it does lean heavily on its formula of action-driven missions in historical settings. For readers familiar with the earlier installments, the structure may feel predictable. However, the richness of the Viking setting and the educational elements help offset this, keeping the narrative fresh.
The Viking, the Ditch, and the Bathrobe is a delightful addition to the Shawn From the Shed series. It’s an excellent pick for kids and young adults who love time travel, history, and a bit of humor in their adventures. Frost’s blend of action, education, and comedy ensures an engaging read for all ages. If you’re curious about the Viking Age or simply enjoy a well-crafted time-travel tale, this book is worth your time.
Pages: 162 | ASIN : B0DN87RSQV
Capturing a Snapshot in Time
Monsters and Magic in the Blue Ridge Mountains invites young readers on an enchanting journey through the folklore and traditions of the Appalachian region, sharing a blend of cultural insights, local superstitions, weather-predicting methods, and even paranormal legends. Why was this an important book for you to write?
My last living grandparent passed away last year and I realized as my own children are getting older that all of the knowledge, stories, and culture that I grew up with would be gone as well if I didn’t take a moment to write it all down. I wanted to create a memoir to honor their memories and also highlight the culture I loved as much as my own grandparents. They were very good to me and I miss them terribly. This non fiction memoir captures the essence of what I learned from them growing up in the Blue Ridge Mountains and hopefully captures a snapshot in time for future generations.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I wanted readers to understand how the culture of Appalachia was formed and all the people groups who contributed. It is very diverse and unique culture within the United States with its own folklore, superstitions, and knowledge. I wanted readers to get a sense of the people with a positive portrayal of the culture.
Did you find anything in your research of this book that surprised you?
When I was researching about the folklore stories I heard, I was surprised how many real investigations and even times when national geographic got involved look into these stories. Many of them were reported in the newspaper and gained attention across the nation, even ending up portrayed in movies.
What next book are you working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am currently working on a picture book about a little swamp creature who wants to learn how to be a monster. Its a very cute tale and will be a fiction story with hand lettering for the script. It is a bit more labor intensive than some of my past books, but I am enjoying the process. I hope to have the pages illustrated and ready to print by the end of the year. I am aiming for Halloween time in my head so it will correlate with the holiday season!
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website
Perfect for teachers and students exploring cultural studies, this memoir offers an authentic and positive perspective on Appalachian traditions, blending history, nature, and folklore into a resource that will enrich any classroom or home library.
Macie and the Magic Veggies
Macie, an enthusiastic five-year-old, adores vegetables so much that grocery shopping becomes a thrilling adventure. She eagerly awaits her mother’s announcement of their next trip to the store and even sings her own cheerful tune while selecting her favorite veggies. In Macie and the Magic Veggies, author Peter Contardo brings this love for fresh produce to life with a heartwarming tale that blends education with fun.
Recognizing Macie’s passion, her Grandpa surprises her with a special outing to a local farm, where she can learn firsthand how vegetables grow. There, she meets Farmer Lundyn, who introduces her to the wonders of planting. As Macie discovers, seeds flourish with the nurturing touch of soil, sunlight, and water, eventually transforming into the delicious vegetables she cherishes.
This charming children’s book is not only entertaining but also highly educational. Contardo cleverly weaves excitement into the storyline, making the learning process feel magical. Young readers will likely be inspired to explore gardening themselves, perhaps even persuading their parents to start a home garden. The book’s emphasis on the natural elements that help plants thrive, soil, sun, and water, reinforces a valuable lesson about the beauty of nature’s cycle.
Beyond teaching the basics of vegetable growth, Macie and the Magic Veggies introduces an essential message about community and contribution. By following Farmer Lundyn’s process from planting to harvesting, children gain an appreciation for the hard work behind the food they eat. The story subtly highlights the role of farming in sustaining communities, fostering gratitude for those who dedicate their lives to growing nutritious food.
Adding to the book’s appeal, two interactive pages at the end enhance the reading experience. The Questions for Kids section encourages young readers to reflect, with prompts like, “What’s your favorite color and favorite veggie?” and “The magic secret of growing veggies is love. How do you show love to plants and pets?” Meanwhile, the Activities for Kids page offers creative projects, such as planting seeds and designing a “Grown With Love” sign using crayons, markers, or paint. These engaging elements extend the story’s impact beyond the final page, making it an excellent tool for parents and educators.
Visually, the book is a delight. The vibrant illustrations burst with color, filling each page with captivating images that perfectly complement the text. The artwork invites young readers to pause and explore every detail, adding to the overall charm of the story.
Macie and the Magic Veggies is a delightful blend of entertainment and education, perfect for children eager to learn about where their food comes from. With its engaging storyline, vibrant illustrations, and meaningful life lessons, this book is a must-read. Highly recommended for young readers and their families!
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DQFJRJ73
The Ghost of the Deserted House
The Ghost of the Deserted House by Tuula Pere is a delightful children’s story about summer adventure, friendship, and a little mystery. Oliver and his best friend, Liam, spend their vacation at a summer cottage. What starts as an ordinary trip filled with fishing, homemade soup, and comic books takes an exciting turn when the boys decide to sleep in the attic of an old, deserted house. Their nighttime adventure quickly becomes suspenseful as an unexpected visitor appears, leaving the boys to wonder if the house is truly haunted.
I adored the way the story captured the magic of childhood summers. The setting felt so familiar. Lazy afternoons by the lake, the excitement of sneaking away, and the slight fear of the unknown. Oliver and Liam’s friendship was the heart of the book. The scene where they build their own sleeping nest in the attic brought back memories of my own children making forts and creating their own worlds.
The suspense was well done without being too scary. The moment Liam woke up to a dark figure looming over them was both thrilling and funny. I loved how the author balanced fear with lightheartedness, especially when the “ghost” turned out to be Oliver’s snoring father. As a mother, I appreciated that the book delivered excitement without crossing into anything too frightening. It gave just the right amount of mystery for young readers.
One of my favorite aspects of the story was how it encouraged independence. Oliver and Liam made their own plans, problem-solved, and experienced small risks in a safe way. While they did sneak away, their intentions were innocent, and the story ultimately reinforced the importance of communication.
I would highly recommend The Ghost of the Deserted House for young readers, especially those who love light mysteries, sleepover adventures, and stories about friendship. It’s perfect for kids who enjoy books like The Boxcar Children or The Magic Tree House series.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 9528201873
Stormy Sailing
Stormy Sailing tells the story of Liban, a young boy on an endless journey with his refugee family, searching for a place to call home. From the first pages, you can feel the exhaustion of his parents and the weight on his little shoulders. The story follows Liban and his father as they are separated from their family, forced to build a makeshift boat, and sail into the unknown, hoping for a reunion on the other shore. The ending, though bittersweet, leaves you with a sense of relief.
What I loved most about this picture book is how real it felt. Liban isn’t some larger-than-life hero, he’s just a kid trying to be brave. The moment when he begs his parents not to leave his old uncle behind? That one really got me. It’s heartbreaking because you know he’s right, but there’s no good choice. And then there’s his dad, always trying to stay strong, even when you can tell he’s just as scared. The scene where he promises Liban, “Tomorrow everything will be better,” even though they both know that’s not true, was so raw and honest.
The writing is simple but powerful. It doesn’t waste words, which makes every moment hit harder. Watching Liban and his dad gather scraps and somehow turn them into something that could carry them across the sea was oddly hopeful. It was messy and desperate, but it was also kind of beautiful. And when Liban says, “No one else has anything like this!” you can feel the pride in his voice, even though you know how fragile that little boat really is.
Then came the storm. That scene was terrifying. And when Liban’s dad tells him, “As long as I stay afloat, don’t let go!” I actually teared up. The stakes were so real. It’s not a story where you know everything will be okay. This is survival.
Stormy Sailing is for anyone who wants a story that makes them feel something. It’s not just a children’s book, it’s a book for anyone who’s ever felt lost, scared, or hopeful. It would be a great read for older kids who can handle serious topics, and for adults who want a deeper, emotional story in a simple, beautiful package.
Pages: 42 | ISBN : 9528202071
LITERARY TITAN 