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Bringing Magical Worlds to Life
Posted by Literary_Titan

Little Creatures follows a science-loving twelve-year-old girl who recently moved from the city to a quiet town and discovers that her backyard and bedroom wall are hiding a magical mystery. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
“From an early age, I was captivated by tales of fairies and elves—”Peter Pan” was my favorite. Alongside my love for stories, I had a deep passion for art, often spending hours sketching in my room. Around the age of twelve, I dreamed of writing a story about tiny elves hidden within the walls of a house. Life moved on, and that idea remained just a dream.
Today, as an author of adult fantasy, I decided to challenge myself by creating a children’s book. Instantly, my imagination returned to that twelve-year-old version of me—the one who longed to bring magical worlds to life. Now, I’ve finally fulfilled that dream and proudly checked it off my bucket list.”
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away with the magical powers characters have. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
“Because “Little Creatures” is a children’s story, I aimed to keep the supernatural powers simple and the narrative easy to follow—engaging young readers without overwhelming them with excessive detail.”
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
“The central theme of “Little Creatures” is that good always triumphs over evil. In a world often filled with chaos and destruction, I believe it’s important for children to experience stories with hopeful, fairytale endings—nurturing their imagination and reinforcing the power of positivity.”
Will this novel be the start of a series or are you working on a different story?
“Absolutely! I’ve already completed the sequel, “Rise of the Thramgrim,” and I’m excited to share that a third installment, “Curse of the Sandman,” is also in the works. This series is just beginning to unfold, and I can’t wait for readers to experience the journey ahead.”
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Instagram | Website
Can a science-loving girl save a place where magic rules?
When twelve-year-old Zowie Lillian Saintclair moves from bustling Houston, Texas, to the quiet town of Greenwood, Arkansas, with her family, everything seems normal until she begins to spot little creatures that only she can see hiding in the shadows of her backyard.
And just as she thought things couldn’t get any more bizarre, she discovers something otherworldly living within her bedroom walls. That’s when she realizes her life is about to change in ways she never imagined.
Perfect for readers of all ages who love fantasy, adventure, and a smart heroine who isn’t afraid to explore the unknown.
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Posted in Interviews
Tags: action, adventure, author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, Children's book, collections, ebook, fairy tales, fantsy, folk tales, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, myths, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, Shana Congrove, story, writer, writing
Stikki the Squirrel
Posted by Literary Titan

Stikki the Squirrel follows a young grey squirrel who tumbles his way through one adventure after another. The story starts with his birth and early life high in the sycamore tree, then quickly spins into a mix of funny accidents, curious discoveries, close calls, family trouble, and moments of surprising bravery. Stikki explores gardens, meets odd critters, picks fights with birds, gets stuck in nearly everything, battles winter storms, saves his sisters, confronts dangerous cats, and even wanders far past home, where he meets new friends and learns how big and strange the world can be. It’s a lively travelogue of a squirrel who never stops bouncing from one situation to the next.
I found myself laughing when Stikki blundered into those slugs, toppled into the pond, or freaked out over his sisters building that giant snow creature. The writing feels soft and warm at times, especially when the family snuggles together for winter, and then suddenly it turns chaotic with chases and scuffles. I loved how the author gave the animals such strong personalities. Mollie’s bossy. Tia’s sweet. Stikki’s curious to the point of being ridiculous. The mix made the whole story feel alive and, honestly, pretty cute.
Some parts pulled me in more than I expected. When the cats attacked, I got tense and sat there rooting for this tiny squirrel who thinks he’s invincible. And when Stikki got lost, the mood hit differently. I felt a little knot of worry, like oh no, this goofy fluffball has really messed up this time. The book swings between silly and heartfelt, and I enjoyed that balance. It kept me flipping pages because I genuinely wanted to know what trouble he’d get into next. Also, the world feels cozy even when it’s dangerous. The writing paints the gardens, trees, snow, and forest in a way that makes me want to sit outside and watch real squirrels do their thing.
I’d say this children’s book is great for younger readers who like animal stories filled with adventure and gentle humor. It also works for adults who enjoy a light, warmhearted tale that doesn’t take itself too seriously. If you want something sweet, lively, and packed with small emotional moments, Stikki the Squirrel hits that spot nicely.
Pages: 200 | ASIN : B0C69J8CR8
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Posted in Book Reviews, Five Stars
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, Children's book, children's mice and animal stories, children's small animals, ebook, emotions and feelings, goodreads, indie author, Jane H. Wood, kindle, kobo, literature, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, Stikki the Squirrel, story, writer, writing
The Adventures of Belle Bear
Posted by Literary Titan

The Adventures of Belle Bear tells the story of a cheerful polar bear cub who lives in snowy Mount Bearia with her loving grandmother, Baba Bear. Life is warm and cozy even in the cold. Then everything changes when they must move far away to sunny Calibearia. Belle Bear struggles with loneliness, new faces, and a school where she feels totally out of place. With Baba Bear’s steady encouragement and a magical new orange cape, she slowly finds her courage, makes friends, and discovers that who she is has always been enough.
This picture book captures that weird mix of excitement and fear that comes with starting over. The writing is simple in the best way. It feels comforting. I loved how Baba Bear’s words repeat like a song. It made me smile every time because it reminded me of the kind of thing a real grandma might say. The gentle rhythm of the book pulled me in. I didn’t expect to feel so moved by a polar bear pep talk, but here we are.
Moving, making friends, trying to fit in. It all felt honest. That moment when Belle Bear loses her cape on the journey felt symbolic in a way that surprised me. When the new cape appears as she speaks those affirmations in the mirror, it feels empowering. The story doesn’t pretend that being brave is easy, and I appreciated that. The artwork in the book is bright, friendly, and the characters are full of personality. Every character looks lively and expressive. The colors are soft but cheerful, which gives the whole book a cozy vibe. Each animal has its own charm. The style overall feels playful and comforting, perfect for a children’s book about friendship and courage.
By the end, I felt genuinely happy for Belle Bear. The book wraps everything up with this sweet feeling of hope, and it left me wishing every kid could hear Baba Bear’s nightly reminder. I’d recommend this book for kids who might be moving, starting a new school, or feeling unsure of themselves. Honestly, it’s also lovely for any child who just needs a confidence boost or a comforting story at bedtime. It’s warm. It’s kind. It’s the sort of book that stays with you.
Pages: 32 | ISBN : 1966786506
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Posted in Book Reviews, Five Stars
Tags: author, bear books, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, Children's book, ebook, family, friendship, goodreads, indie author, Kathy Akopov Guillory, kindle, kobo, literature, nook, novel, pictuer book, read, reader, reading, self-esteem, social situations, story, The Adventures of Belle Bear, writer, writing
We Are All Travelers
Posted by Literary_Titan

The Hundred Lives of Ashfern the Fox follows the journey of a wise fox from an enchanted forest who, from the moment of his birth, is marked by innate wisdom and an awareness of the past lives he has lived.
The writing in your story is very artful and creative. Was it a conscious effort to create a story in this fashion, or is this style of writing reflective of your writing style in general?
Though The Hundred Lives of Ashfern the Fox is only my twelfth publication, my path has already wandered through many genres. For years I have been drawn toward a more lyrical, breath-like style of writing—words that move with the quiet rhythm of wind through leaves. This book felt like a natural deepening of that evolution.
So yes, the artistry was intentional, but it was also instinctive—my prose simply following the currents it was always meant to follow.
Was it important for you to deliver a moral to readers, or was it circumstantial to deliver an effective novel?
My intention was to illuminate the gentle spirit of animism—the understanding that every stone, river, creature, and tree carries its own life and dignity. I hoped readers might feel a tender reverence for the world around them.
Additionally, the deeper messaging of The Hundred Lives of Ashfern the Fox rose from a very personal place: I wanted to write the book I have needed to read my entire life. I have died a thousand deaths in my own ego, heart, and mind to bring this story into the world, fully illustrated and fully alive.
Beyond its lessons, the book is meant as a lantern for the wandering heart: a source of quiet comfort, a glimmer of hope, and a reminder that we are all travelers in this strange, marvelous, ever-unfolding world.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
My next children’s book, Delilah’s Dreamlight Candles, will arrive on December 1st—a small offering of light for the winter season. Alongside it, I am shaping Books Two and Three of my Godslayer Trilogy, both set to be released in 2026.
The first book, The Infinydon, was my debut novel and was honored with the Literary Titan Silver Award in 2022, a milestone that still fills me with quiet gratitude.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
“IN A FOREST older than thunder and younger than sleep, where moss whispered secrets and the stars forgot to wink, a silver-furred fox was born beneath a lunar eclipse…”
So begins the unforgettable journey of Ashfern the Fox, a creature both wild and wise, born of starlight in a lush, enchanted forest. In this luminous, thought-provoking tale, award-winning author and artist MC Lorbiecke invites readers of all ages into a world where every river stone, fern, and fallen feather holds a spirit of its own.
Told in lyrical, poetic prose and brought to life with rich, fantastical illustrations, The Hundred Lives of Ashfern the Fox gently explores the beauty of impermanence and the eternal rhythm of life, death, and renewal. Rooted in the indigenous concept of animism, the story reminds us that nature is not a backdrop but a living, breathing presence, one that sees, remembers, and loves.
As Ashfern moves through a hundred quiet lifetimes , forgetting, remembering, and becoming, readers are offered a comforting vision of a world where loss is not an ending, but a transformation. This book speaks softly to those carrying grief, reminding them that nothing is ever truly lost; it is only changed.
A perfect companion for quiet moments, thoughtful hearts, and curious minds, The Hundred Lives of Ashfern the Fox is a timeless fable for anyone learning how to let go while holding on to wonder.
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Posted in Interviews
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, Children's book, children's classics, children's short stories, collection, ebook, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, MC Lorbiecke, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, story, The Hundred Lives of Ashfern the Fox, writer, writing
Be Willing To Try
Posted by Literary_Titan

Love is Golden follows a golden doodle who works as a therapy dog and teaches his friends what therapy dogs and service dogs do. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration came from my sister’s dogs. She was taking Ted to therapy dog training classes, while his little sister Rosie had to stay home. This made me think about the big brother, little sister dynamic. I thought it would be fun and a little different to tell the story from the dogs’ perspective. At the time, I was also teaching at a high school where therapy dogs would visit, and I saw firsthand how much joy and comfort they brought to students. That experience inspired me to write a cute story that also shares an important message about never giving up.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Overall, I wanted this book to focus on empathy, compassion, and resilience. I hope kids come away knowing that they can do anything if they’re willing to try. Sometimes one thing doesn’t work out, and that’s okay, you just try something else. I’m hoping the book will encourage kids to think about the many ways they can be helpful and to recognize the unique talents that make them who they are.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Nomrota Saha?
I found Nomrota on Fiverr.com. She lives in India and is an aspiring art student. The process was amazing! I shared my manuscript, she would share the line drawings, the flat versions and then the final versions of each page. It was a really nice collaboration, in which she was able to take my words and make them come to life through the images.
Will this novel be the start of a series or are you working on a different story?
I started with “We Love Nacho” and then “Nacho Loves Salsa” and then I wrote this book. It wasn’t meant to be a series but the characters carry throughout. This book mainly features the dogs, with an appearance of my nephews, but Nacho is seen throughout all of the books. I have a few more ideas in mind. I’d love to make this book bilingual, as I went back and did with my first two books, and I’m currently working on the companion, “Love is Golden Coloring and Activity Book”. What comes after that, we shall see!
Author Website
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Posted in Interviews
Tags: Amy L Watkins, author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, Children's Beginner Readers, Children's book, Children's Dog Books, ebook, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, Love is Golden: Lessons From a Therapy Dog, nook, novel, picture book, read, reader, reading, story, writer, writing
Merry Christmas Missy Moo
Posted by Literary Titan

Readers are introduced to Missy Moo, a spirited and lovable cow who carries herself like the star of the farm. Everywhere she goes, she brings a whirl of movement and joy, dancing through her day with the kind of carefree energy that instantly draws young readers in. Her love of dancing isn’t just a hobby, it’s who she is. But one snowy afternoon, as she twirls along a snowy path, her enthusiasm gets the better of her. She slips, tumbles, and becomes buried in the cold, fluffy snow. Startled and disappointed, Missy Moo realizes that she simply can’t dance her way through winter without something to keep her safe and warm. Mittens, she decides, might be exactly what she needs.
Worried that she won’t make it to town in time to buy presents for her friends, she begins to lose hope. That’s when Mr. Cat arrives, offering both comfort and assistance. His kindness sets off a chain reaction across the farm. One by one, the animals rally together, determined to help Missy Moo regain her snowy-day confidence. Their teamwork results in a pair of handmade mittens created with care, and, in the sheep’s case, a generous donation of wool that leaves them humorously bare.
When Missy Moo slips on her new mittens, her spirits soar. She can finally dance again, freely, joyfully, and without fear of falling. The simple gift restores not only her confidence but also her holiday cheer.
Merry Christmas, Missy Moo is a warm, charming Christmas tale that celebrates friendship, generosity, and the magic of helping one another. Missy Moo’s playful personality makes her a wonderfully relatable character for young readers, while the lively illustrations add humor and heart to every page. It’s a delightful story that encourages kindness and highlights the joy found in giving.
Pages: 48 | ASIN : B0FYC4VQF5
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Posted in Book Reviews, Five Stars
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, Children's book, Children's Christmas books, ebook, goodreads, Heidi Brooks, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, Merry Christmas Missy Moo, nook, novel, picture book, read, reader, reading, story, writer, writing
Obesseus Feasts Of Legends (The Slam-Fu Edition 1)
Posted by Literary Titan

I just finished Obesseus Feast of Legends, and what a wild ride. This book tells the story of Obesseus. He is a hero. His belly is big. His heart is bigger. He just wants to eat dumplings. A former friend, Monica Mango, starts a war. She leads the “Juice Regime.” She hates solid food. Obesseus must fight. He learns a power called Slam-Fu. The book follows his journey. He defends the world of Buffetland. It is a huge, sprawling, absolutely massive food fight.
The writing is a total trip. Sentences are short. Sometimes just one word. Then a long, rambling thought. Things are yelled in capital letters. It felt less like reading a novel and more like reading a script. A script for the most frantic cartoon ever. The sheer number of ideas is surprising. The author just throws everything at the wall. And honestly? I loved watching it stick. It was a blast.
I really connected with the ideas here. The book is not just about food puns. It’s about big feelings. Obesseus himself is pure joy. He represents indulgence. He fights against control. The villains are great. They are juice-cleanse tyrants and asparagus-god dictators. I felt a lot for the side characters. Conflicted Tomato was my favorite. He just wants to know where he belongs. What a mood. I will say the plot gets messy. Part 1 was simple. Part 3 was just bananas. New characters kept appearing. Muffin Ninjas. Sinister Shrimp. A gaslighting grapefruit named Grant. It was a lot.
I am genuinely happy I read this. It is a messy, chaotic, and wonderful book. Do not read this if you want a quiet, serious story. This is not that. This book is loud. This book is strange. This book is wacky. I would recommend this to anyone with a wild imagination. It’s for people who grew up on hyperactive cartoons. It’s for anyone who just wants to see a hero win. A hero who wins with a full belly and a good burp.
Pages: 262 | ASIN : B0FZD69XD4
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Posted in Book Reviews, Four Stars
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, Children's book, Children's Fiction, childrens books, D.T. Tucker, ebook, fiction, goodreads, humorous, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, middle grade, nook, novel, Obesseus Feasts Of Legends, read, reader, reading, story, The Slam-Fu Edition 1, writer, writing
The Hundred Lives of Ashfern the Fox
Posted by Literary Titan

Ashfern the Fox enters an enchanted forest at the moment of his birth, and the world seems to pause as if recognizing a destined soul. Marked by innate wisdom, he stands apart, star-crossed, luminous, and aware in ways few creatures ever are. His life unfurls in a series of vivid adventures; he witnesses wonder, confronts danger, and moves through the forest with a spirit both curious and resolute. Death comes, yet never fully claims him. Ashfern returns, life after life, carrying faint impressions of what came before, memories that hover like the remnants of powerful dreams. Through these echoes, he senses the great wheel turning and understands a truth at the core of existence: life does not vanish; it transforms.
The Hundred Lives of Ashfern the Fox, by MC Lorbiecke, pairs sumptuous illustration with lyrical storytelling. Children will be enchanted, yet any adult with a playful or reflective heart will find just as much joy. The book nods toward Aesop’s moral fables and channels the mythic tone of authors such as C.S. Lewis, Neil Gaiman, and Tolkien.
Quite simply, it is a breathtaking work. The imagery astonishes, inviting long moments of quiet admiration, while the prose rises to meet that artistry with equal grace. Ashfern transcends the role of a woodland creature; he becomes an archetype, bold, enduring, shaped by countless journeys. His cycle of death and return underscores the book’s central meditation: that endings are never final, only shifts in energy and form.
Lessons ripple throughout the narrative. Reverence for nature. Respect for every living being. An embrace of impermanence as a profound and generous gift. It’s rare for a book to rise so fully above the boundaries of its genre, yet this one does so with ease. Experiencing it feels both privileged and deeply pleasurable, a story to savor, revisit, and carry forward.
Pages: 130 | ASIN : B0FTRS13ZT
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Posted in Book Reviews, Five Stars
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, Children's book, children's classics, children's short stories, collection, ebook, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, MC Lorbiecke, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, story, The Hundred Lives of Ashfern the Fox, writer, writing








