Blog Archives
Dogfish and the Gift of Inclusion
In Dogfish and the Gift of Inclusion, Rita Reed crafts a heartwarming tale of friendship, acceptance, and joy. The story begins as Dogfish discovers a birthday invitation from his friend Wally the Whale Shark. The celebration is set in Coral Park, Los Cabos, Mexico, a short swim away for Dogfish and his diverse group of ocean friends. Each of Dogfish’s friends brings their unique traits and challenges to the group. Elly uses earmuffs to manage her sensitivity to sound, Angelfish relies on hearing aids, and Wally uses a wheelchair. Despite their differences, these friends form an unbreakable bond, accepting each other for who they are. Their story is a celebration of inclusion, reminding readers that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves friendship and love.
The book’s central theme of inclusion sets it apart. While other children’s books may touch on medical conditions or disabilities, this one shines by focusing on how these differences make each character unique and valuable. The friends’ shared joy and mutual respect underscore a vital lesson: our differences should be embraced, not barriers to connection. Craig Cartwright’s vibrant illustrations bring the story to life, captivating readers of all ages. Each page bursts with color and detail, immersing readers in the underwater world. Cartwright’s artistry spans children’s books, editorial illustrations, character design, and storyboarding, and his expertise enhances every aspect of this book. Rita Reed’s background in art, design, and architecture enriches her storytelling. The Dogfish Tales series reflects her commitment to spreading messages of love, positivity, and inclusion. With this book, she achieves that beautifully, delivering a story that resonates deeply with readers.
Dogfish and the Gift of Inclusion is a must-have for school and public libraries. Its message of celebrating uniqueness and fostering inclusivity makes it an invaluable resource for teaching children important values. This book encourages young readers to embrace their own differences and include others with kindness and respect. Highly recommended!
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DJ9N61B3
Someone I Love Has Died: A Grief Activities Book For Children
Grief is an inevitable part of life’s rhythm. While the cycles of living and loss are universal, the death of a loved one can leave us struggling to make sense of the emotions swirling inside us. Someone I Love Has Died: A Grief Activities Book for Children by Catherine and Jenny Stephenson offers gentle, compassionate guidance for children navigating the often-overwhelming journey of grief. This thoughtfully designed book pairs supportive explanations with engaging activities, creating a space for understanding and healing.
Grief is rarely simple, and for children, it can feel even more confusing and isolating. The Stephensons’ book provides clarity and comfort, balancing emotional insight with actionable steps to help readers of all ages. As someone currently processing a personal loss, I found the book’s tender tone and clear guidance deeply reassuring. The activities, easy to follow and beautifully illustrated by Hiruni Kariyawasam, foster reflection and calm. The inclusion of a wellness checklist and practical advice for seeking support adds an extra layer of utility to this already invaluable resource. Above all, the book emphasizes an empowering truth: grief is deeply personal, and it’s okay to feel however you feel as you heal. One of the book’s most touching messages is its reminder that love never truly fades. Even in the depths of sorrow, the bond we share with those we’ve lost remains a part of us. This hopeful perspective gave me a sense of peace during a particularly challenging time, and I believe it will resonate with many readers. The blend of emotional wisdom and practical tools makes this book a steady companion for anyone experiencing loss.
Accessible and heartfelt, Someone I Love Has Died is a must-have for families, educators, and caregivers supporting grieving children. Its gentle activities, comforting illustrations, and uplifting messages make it an ideal guide for those looking to take their first steps toward healing. Whether for a young child or a sensitive adult, this book provides encouragement, empowerment, and a path toward embracing life’s next chapter.
Pages: 45 | ASIN : B0DDD31YP4
Cake, Lemonade, and Sprinkles
Cake, Lemonade, and Sprinkles is a vibrant children’s book about London, a thoughtful young girl grappling with what costume to wear for a party. Unsure whether to stand out or blend in, she wrestles with self-expression versus social norms. Guided by her mom’s encouragement to celebrate her individuality, London designs a unique spacesuit costume that reflects her love for science and technology. By the end of the party, her confidence shines as she leads her friends in a joyful costume parade, embodying the book’s central message: embrace your true self.
What I loved most about this picture book was its sweet and empowering message, delivered in rhyming verses that roll off the tongue. The line, “You, my love, are one of a kind. Like a star in the sky, you’re a unique design,” was particularly touching. It struck me as a beautifully simple way to affirm individuality. The cadence of the writing makes it perfect for reading aloud, and it holds just enough whimsy to captivate young readers while still delivering a meaningful message. The transition from London’s self-doubt to her decision to create a unique costume was a great way to show her thought process. I liked reading about her different ideas and how she also thought of what her friends were going to wear.
The illustrations are another standout feature for me. They’re bright and cheerful and perfectly complement the playful yet reflective tone of the story. When London imagines her costume, a glowing spacesuit accessorized with a telescope, it’s depicted with such charm that I found myself smiling. The visuals bring the scenes to life and help underscore the book’s theme of celebrating creativity and self-expression.
This book is an absolute delight for kids who love imaginative tales and for parents who want to reinforce the value of being true to oneself. I think it’s especially ideal for children who may need encouragement to step into their own light. If you’re looking for a children’s book that’s both fun and meaningful, Cake, Lemonade, and Sprinkles should be at the top of your list.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DLPHCGZB
Moving Magic: Moving with Children
Moving Magic is a charming activity book designed to make the daunting process of moving less overwhelming and more fun for kids. It blends practical advice, interactive activities, and creative exercises to help young readers understand and embrace the concept of moving to a new home. From setting up a garage sale to designing a “First Day Box,” this book keeps children engaged while offering parents a helping hand during a hectic time.
I loved how this book turns a stressful event into an exciting adventure. The activity where kids draw their current home and imagine the new one really stands out. It’s a mix of creativity and emotional preparation, which can help kids visualize the change in a positive way. I found myself wanting to grab a crayon and join in. The “Box Sorting Word Match” game is another great touch because it sneaks in lessons about organizing and responsibility while feeling like playtime.
The writing is simple and upbeat, which suits the audience perfectly. The light tone and direct instructions make it easy for kids to follow, even without adult intervention. It’s clear the author knows how to keep things fun without being too wordy.
One of my favorite parts is the “New First Day Box” activity. It encourages kids to focus on what’s most special to them and ensures their favorite things are at hand during the move. It’s a subtle way of showing them that their happiness and comfort are priorities, even in a time of change. The inclusion of word puzzles and coloring pages is another win because they’re not just distractions but also ways to spark conversations about the move.
Moving Magic is a delightful read for families gearing up for a move. It’s ideal for kids, but parents might find it just as helpful for keeping the move organized and fun. If your family is packing up soon, this children’s book could make all the difference in turning a challenging time into an exciting new beginning.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0CW2GYJNY
Little Sock
Little Sock by Peter Nesbitt delivers an enchanting tale about a small sock with a big personality and an even bigger desire to find where she truly belongs. Alongside her sister, she lives a quiet, repetitive life: they endure the wash and dry cycles, rest in a drawer, and wait to be worn by a sweet young girl. But one fateful night, Little Sock makes a bold decision—to leave home in pursuit of freedom and happiness. Despite her sister’s warnings about the dangers outside, she pushes past her fears, setting off on an adventure that promises to reshape her life. Her journey ultimately leads her to a new home with a girl and her mother, who welcome her with warmth and offer her a brand-new purpose.
Nesbitt’s storytelling shines, weaving a tale that speaks to the courage it takes to face the unknown and pursue one’s dreams, even when the path is uncertain. His writing is both accessible and rich, using brief, powerful sentences to convey a story filled with heart and depth. Remarkably, Little Sock’s character, though an inanimate object, is brought to life with genuine dreams and emotions, creating a narrative that feels both relatable and endearing. This unique perspective on an everyday item invites readers to see familiar objects with newfound appreciation. The illustrations add an extra layer of charm, capturing a classic storybook aesthetic. The nighttime scenes are particularly stunning, with starlit skies that evoke a sense of magic on every page.
Little Sock is a delightful and uplifting story that celebrates bravery, self-discovery, and the joy of following one’s heart. Peter Nesbitt’s charming narrative and captivating illustrations come together to create a heartfelt journey that resonates with readers of all ages. It’s a story that reminds us of the beauty in seeking out new experiences, finding where we truly belong, and cherishing the small wonders around us. Perfect for bedtime reading or quiet afternoons, Little Sock is a treasure that children and adults alike will return to again and again.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 9798985350920
Silas on Sundays
Silas on Sundays tells the story of a young child, Silas, who explores a world of possibilities each day of the week, except on Sundays. At home, Silas is free to imagine and embody different roles as a quarterback, a dancer, an astronaut, and more! But when Sunday comes around, Silas feels limited, especially by church expectations. After several humorous attempts to avoid church, Silas’s parents finally understand, leading them to a new and inclusive church that celebrates Silas’s true self. This heartfelt children’s book brings themes of acceptance, identity, and the joy of finding a supportive community.
Each weekday, Silas has a new dream or passion. Tuesday is for cheerleading, Thursday is all about karate. These imaginative scenes are alive and remind me of how my own kids play, switching roles in a snap. I loved the vibrant illustration of Silas “karate-chopping through six solid blocks of wood” on Friday, it’s over-the-top but perfect for a child’s world where anything feels possible. The story embraces Silas’s playfulness and curiosity, which feels so true to how children are experimenting with who they are or want to be.
The scenes on Sundays took me right back to childhood. Silas’s reluctance and even the inventive ways of “accidentally” skipping church were funny and heartfelt. When Silas “makes a HUGE breakfast” to delay going, it’s clever and relatable. But beneath the humor, there’s an undertone of discomfort with the structured setting of church, where Silas can’t fully express themself. As a mom, this hit home. Seeing that Silas doesn’t feel quite right in a space where expression is restricted was eye-opening and a good reminder of the need for flexibility and empathy in how we introduce traditions.
The turning point, when Silas’s parents took them to a new church, was my favorite. Silas meets Matt, who’s volunteering, and Silas finds acceptance in a church that’s open and affirming. When the new church welcomes Silas with “rainbows and toyboxes and music,” it feels liberating. And the fact that Silas finally finds joy on Sundays was moving. The illustrations here are beautiful and full of color, showing Silas’s happiness in a way words couldn’t alone.
I’d highly recommend Silas on Sundays for parents who want to discuss identity, acceptance, or finding inclusive spaces. It’s an uplifting picture book that tackles big ideas in a way that’s easy for kids to grasp. It’s heartfelt, real, and, in many ways, just the kind of story I wish I’d had growing up.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0D7TZ9WM5
The Angry Vacuum
The Angry Vacuum takes readers on a thrilling space adventure with sibling superheroes Laura and Sid, who are back to save the day but this time from an out-of-control AI vacuum! In this second book of the emotional intelligence series, the stakes are higher as the vacuum isn’t just cleaning up dust, it’s sucking up all the positive emotions. As it grows stronger with each joyful feeling it consumes, Laura and Sid must act quickly before their world is drained of all happiness.
Authors Jomo Jesus Thomas Suriel and Jomo Gamal Thomas seamlessly blend action and emotion in the story. The concept of an AI vacuum feeding on good emotions is creative and fun, but it also cleverly highlights how negative emotions can feel overwhelming when all the positive ones are gone. The urgency of the situation keeps readers hooked, while the deeper lesson that emotional intelligence is the key to overcoming big problems runs throughout the story. It’s a fun way to teach kids that emotions are powerful, but with the right tools, they can manage them. I enjoyed how Laura and Sid use their emotional intelligence to solve the problem, rather than brute force. The siblings don’t just fight the vacuum—they understand that to defeat it, they need to regulate their own feelings and use teamwork. The message is simple but effective: even in the face of a “supervillain,” understanding your emotions can save the day. This makes the story not just entertaining but educational, giving kids valuable lessons in emotional self-regulation.
The Angry Vacuum is a delightful follow-up to the first book in this series. It’s filled with action, humor, and heart, and it teaches important life skills in a way that feels fresh and engaging. Perfect for kids who love superheroes and parents who want to introduce emotional intelligence in a fun, accessible way. Whether read at bedtime or in the classroom, this is a story that empowers young readers to face their emotions with confidence.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0DFWXZ5Q4
The Emotions Volcano
The Emotions Volcano is an exciting and heartfelt picture book that tackles the big subject of emotional intelligence, turning it into a superpower for young readers. Laura and Sid, the story’s superhero siblings, use their special powers to help others (and themselves) navigate strong emotions. In this adventure, they face a real challenge—a classroom full of kids stressed out by a math test, and the nearby Rage Peaks threatening to erupt. Can Laura and Sid stop the volcanic explosion of feelings before it’s too late?
What makes this book stand out is how it takes a complex idea like emotional intelligence and turns it into a thrilling story. The metaphor of emotions as a volcano works brilliantly for young children, showing how feelings can build up and eventually explode if not managed. I loved how the authors Jomo Jesus Thomas Suriel and Jomo Gamal Thomas used relatable scenarios like a math test to show kids that everyone faces emotional challenges, and there are ways to deal with them. The adventure is engaging, and the superhero twist adds excitement that keeps young readers invested. The illustrations are an added bonus as it brings the story to life. I felt like I was watching a cartoon about superheroes. The authors include practical tools and tips for identifying and handling emotions, which is incredibly helpful for parents and teachers looking to make emotional regulation part of daily life. The exercises are simple but powerful, making emotional intelligence approachable for both kids and their families.
The Emotions Volcano is a wonderful tool for teaching emotional intelligence to young readers. It’s fun, it’s educational, and it leaves kids with a real sense of how to handle their big emotions in healthy ways. The fact that it’s written by a child makes it even more special. The Emotions Volcano is a perfect pick for parents who want to spark conversations about feelings.
Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0DF32MB3Z
LITERARY TITAN 