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We Are Not Promised Tomorrow
The Long, Lazy Summer follows a young boy who spends one last summer with his terminally ill mother, which deepens into lessons about love, loss, and the beauty of small moments. What made you write a story about this topic? Anything pulled from your life experiences?
Most of the children books I write are fiction fantasy with a lot of humor. The last few years, I’ve watched the Newbery Awards, and the books that won usually have a more serious tone to them. That really is the main reason I tackled this subject matter. I’ve had friends and family who have died of cancer, so that’s mainly why I focused on this area.
Surprisingly, real life ended up imitating art. My illustrator ended up finding out she had cancer when I was ready to start this book. She’s fine now, but this book almost didn’t happen. Then I faced my own mortality as well when I had heart problems this year. The ending of the book reflects the kind of thoughts running through my head at that time period.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The main ideas that were important to me were:
- Honesty of emotion. How would any adult feel going through that – facing their mortality and how do you explain that to a child?
- Love – what do we leave our loved ones after we are gone?
- Legacy – if you have a limited time left, what would be important to still do before you go? What do you want to be remembered for?
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from your story?
None of us are promised tomorrow. Look around you – are you living the life you truly wish to live? What do you think your loved ones will remember as being the most important part of your life?
I hope the Wonders of Childhood & Beyond series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
This series is intended to be unusual and perhaps unexpected. If the reader can learn to look at the world in a way different than they have before, then I will have done my job well as a writer.
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For some of us, the greatest love and memories that we will hold in our hearts our whole lives through are the ones we experience and share with our parents.
They are part of our earliest memories and shape the lives we learn to live. They are our whole world, and when they leave us – when they pass over to the other side where pain and death can no longer touch us, we are left with an emptiness we can never again fill. To lose a parent is like losing a limb – you remember it being an essential part of your life even though it is no longer there. In many ways, you can still feel their spirits nearby, but they have moved beyond this realm where our five senses reign supreme and register into other senses of extraordinary perception we never knew we had.
For Raymond, it’s simple. He spends a beautifully long, lazy summer with his mother that he will never forget. His last one with her.
Nobody is promised forever. Any of us could leave this world at any moment. That being the case, what kind of memories would you leave your loved ones if you had a choice?
Building Language Skills With Adventure
Addison’s Delaware Discovery follows a ten-year-old girl on a family trip who meets a young girl with Juvenile Disc Disorder and helps her connect with other kids in her town with the help of a local legend, the Delaware Swamp Monster. What was the inspiration for your story?
During my research, I came across the fascinating story of a swamp monster in Delaware, a legend that originated in 1964. A newspaper man who was eager to increase his sales created the hoax, and along with a local resident staged Bigfoot-like sightings in the Great Cypress Swamp. Despite the story being a fabrication, the tale grew, with creature sightings reported for years afterward.
Inspired by this quirky piece of folklore, I imagined the children in my story discovering an old newspaper article about the monster, which eventually leads them to create a mythical creature of their own.
Gaining experience as a volunteer working with an organization that supports adults with disabilities, I was motivated to highlight a disability that starts with the letter “d” for this volume of the Addison series. Daisy’s character emerged after researching various disabilities. Not only did I want her story to be informative, but also to encourage greater acceptance of those who may be perceived as different.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
A core feature of every Addison book is the introduction of new vocabulary, which helps to expand children’s vocabulary in an engaging way. Each volume focuses on one specific letter of the alphabet, in this case the letter “d.” As children read at different levels, Addison books offer additional support by providing brief definitions at the bottom of each page. This approach ensures that young readers can better understand unfamiliar words without interrupting the flow of the story.
In addition to building language skills, every Addison book features a captivating adventure, with meaningful life lessons that young readers discover along the way.
I loved how the artwork brought the story to life. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Mariya Stoyanova?
She is a talented and wonderful artist.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Addison and the direction of the next book?
The next adventure in the Addison series follows Addison and her family as they embark on an expedition to Egypt, motivated to assist their mother’s friend during an emergency. Their journey begins with a flight to Cairo, but after they land, they must still hop on a train and board a boat before finally arriving at Elephantine Island.
Addison and her family set out to help in their mother’s friend’s eatery. Their inexperience causes both errors and embarrassment as they attempt to prepare the food. With extreme determination, their efforts eventually pay off, as they succeed in creating edible Egyptian dishes. During their visit, Addison and her family explore markets and exquisite temples, but soon find themselves caught up in exhilarating escapades while discovering the wonders of Egypt.
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Their visit takes a dramatic turn when they uncover a clue that leads to the discovery of the legendary beast called the Delaware Swamp Monster! Eager to solve the mystery, these daring detectives dive into the creature’s forgotten history. As Daisy’s birthday approaches, they plan a party theme using the legend to draw local children together. When the swamp monster makes an unexpected appearance, the celebration turns into Delaware’s most unforgettable event.
Addison’s Delaware Discovery whisks young readers on a daring adventure, where each page introduces dynamic ‘d’ words with easy-to-understand definitions. By blending bold storytelling with effortless vocabulary growth, this charming tale empowers children to read with confidence, no interruptions, just discovery.
The Backyard Detectives: Operation Family Mystery
When I first opened The Backyard Detectives, I thought I was stepping into a lighthearted story about kids solving a simple puzzle. Instead, I found myself pulled into Rose and Jacob’s tender, brave attempt to piece together the truth about their family. It starts with whispers in the night, a word spoken that shakes their world, and from there the children form their detective agency to uncover what their parents won’t say out loud. The story follows them as they gather clues, scribble notes, and stumble into painful truths about divorce, betrayal, and the shaky ground of family change. Beneath it all, it’s about love, resilience, and the way siblings can hold each other up when the world feels like it’s falling apart.
Reading this book stirred a lot in me. I was moved by how raw and honest the writing felt, especially when seen through the eyes of kids who don’t have the words yet for heartbreak but feel it anyway. The mystery framework was clever, but what really struck me was how the author captured the silence that children notice, the small details that adults think slip by but never do. I felt protective of Rose and Jacob, and at times, I caught myself clenching my jaw at the father’s actions. The scenes in the attic, with the hidden box of photos, hit me hard. I could almost feel the air leave the room. The emotions were messy, which made them real.
At the same time, I admired how much heart there was in the writing. Even with the storm of lies and loss, the book never gave up on hope. Rose and Jacob’s loyalty to each other carried everything. I loved how they shifted from being detectives chasing secrets to being, in their own words, the “Heart Team” who protected their mom and each other. That small twist made me tear up. It reminded me of how children often shoulder more than they should, yet they still find a way to turn pain into strength. The dialogue felt authentic, and the pacing kept me hooked. There were moments of laughter too, light scenes tucked into the heaviness, and they mattered just as much as the heartbreak.
The story doesn’t pretend that everything will be okay right away, and I appreciated that. It honors the confusion and grief while still pointing toward healing. I’d recommend this book to parents who want to help their kids navigate big changes, to kids who need to feel seen when their family is breaking apart, and to anyone who has lived through divorce and wants to see that story told with care. It’s not just a children’s book. It’s a reminder that even in brokenness, love can still hold.
Pages: 86 | ASIN : B0FDVKSRRH
How To Celebrate Your Fandom
How to Celebrate Your Fandom is both a guidebook and a love letter to the communities that form around shared passions. It is structured around 52 activities designed to help fans of any age dive deeper into their chosen interests. From writing an elevator speech about your fandom, to hosting watch parties, making crafts, or even creating charity projects, the book celebrates creativity, connection, and joy. The later sections include interviews with fans of all ages and backgrounds, showing just how wide and welcoming fandom culture can be. The tone is encouraging, lighthearted, and inclusive, with constant reminders that there is no “wrong” way to be a fan.
I loved the spirit of this book. It feels like a big hug from the fandom world, the kind of thing that makes you smile while reading. The writing is simple, but it’s clear that the authors want everyone to feel included and safe. I especially liked the emphasis on kindness and respect, because fandoms can sometimes get messy. The little tasks are fun and surprisingly practical. Even something as small as decorating a bag with fan art or sending someone a compliment reminded me of why I fell in love with my own fandoms in the first place. It’s not just about stuff. It’s about joy, and that comes across on every page. The charming sketch artwork scattered through the book gives it a playful, handmade feel that makes the whole thing warmer and more inviting.
Some of the activities, like “put a photo of your fandom on your phone wallpaper,” made me smile because I already do that without thinking twice. But then I realized that’s part of its charm. The book isn’t about reinventing fandom, it’s about celebrating even the small things. It’s almost childlike in tone, but there’s a sincerity here that cuts through cynicism, and in a world that’s often harsh, that kind of sincerity is refreshing.
I think this book would be a wonderful fit for younger fans just starting out, or for families who want to share fandom activities together. It’s also a sweet pick for anyone feeling jaded and looking for a reminder of why being a fan matters. If you’ve ever cheered too loudly at a game, cried at a show finale, or stayed up way too late talking about your favorite character, you’ll find something here that sparks a smile. It’s not heavy reading, but it is heartwarming, and sometimes that’s exactly what we need.
Pages: 135 | ASIN : B0DGN4VSLK
The Long, Lazy Summer (Wonders of Childhood & Beyond)
The Long, Lazy Summer is a tender and heart-tugging children’s book told through the eyes of a young boy named Ray, who spends one last summer with his terminally ill mother. What begins as a string of playful, simple days filled with scavenger hunts, zoo games, gardening, and homemade forts slowly deepens into lessons about love, loss, and the beauty of small moments. The narrative captures both the joy of being loved and the ache of knowing that time is running out. The season ends with the mother’s passing, but Ray carries her words, memories, and love into adulthood, forever changed by that golden stretch of days.
The writing is warm and straightforward, but the emotions beneath it are rich and deep. I could feel the sunshine in the happy scenes and the heaviness in the quiet ones. What I loved most was how the story balanced light and shadow. It never wallowed in sadness, but it didn’t shy away from it either. The metaphors, like sunflowers and butterflies, weren’t just pretty images; they stuck with me. And there’s something about the way Sayre writes dialogue between mother and son that’s simple, but the love comes through so strongly.
This is not a picture book you can read with dry eyes. The pacing lingers in places, and at first I thought it might be too gentle for my taste, but that rhythm fits the story’s heart. This isn’t about rushing to a twist or a big finale. It’s about letting each moment breathe, like the last summer evening before school starts again. The ideas like living fully, making memories, carrying love beyond loss aren’t new, but the way they’re told here feels fresh because they come through a child’s eyes. That innocence turns the whole thing into a bittersweet reminder of how fragile and beautiful life is.
I’d recommend The Long, Lazy Summer to parents, grandparents, teachers, and anyone who believes in the power of stories to start conversations about love and loss. It’s especially good for families looking to help children process grief in a gentle way. It’s also for grown-ups who need a reminder that even in goodbye, there’s a kind of forever.
Pages: 113 | ASIN : B0FG23Y128
Bella Brown Visits a Bee Farm
In Bella Brown Visits a Bee Farm, author J.W. Zarek introduces young readers to a lively tale filled with charm, discovery, and gentle lessons. The story begins with Grandma Yetta tending her garden, inviting her granddaughter Bella to join her. Bella emerges with arms full of tools, only to encounter a buzzing bee. Convinced she’s being chased, Bella flees in panic and begs her grandmother for protection. Patient and wise, Grandma Yetta explains that bees don’t pursue people out of malice; they defend themselves and their young when they feel threatened. Respect, she reminds Bella, is the key to harmony. To bring this lesson to life, Grandma arranges a trip to a nearby bee farm where Bella can see for herself the remarkable world of bees. Will this adventure transform her fear into fascination?
Zarek’s storytelling once again shines. Choosing to educate children about bees, creatures so vital to our ecosystem, feels both timely and delightful. The narrative is simple enough for young readers to grasp, yet it conveys essential knowledge: bees pollinate plants, produce honey, and maintain balance in nature. Presented in such an approachable and entertaining way, the message resonates. Children walk away not only entertained but empowered to treat bees with respect and curiosity rather than fear.
One of the highlights of the book is the thoughtful tip sheet at the end. Zarek includes practical insights: which flowers bees adore, why bug spray should be avoided, and how children can share what they’ve learned with others. This addition transforms the story from a charming read into an educational tool parents and teachers will appreciate.
The visual storytelling is equally captivating. Every page is brought to life by Anastasia, whose full-page illustrations are bold, colorful, and enchanting. The images don’t just accompany the text; they elevate it, pulling young readers deeper into Bella’s adventure and making the experience immersive.
Bella Brown Visits a Bee Farm is more than a story; it’s an invitation to wonder. Children will delight in the adventure, parents will value the lessons, and readers of all ages will leave with a new appreciation for one of nature’s smallest but most essential creatures.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0FF9C3MXF
Ben T. Finnigan’s Awesome ADHD Superpowers
Benjamin Finnigan is in trouble again, this time for bouncing wildly on the family couch, in Ben T. Finnigan’s Awesome ADHD Superpowers by May Morrissey. Ben has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a condition that sends his thoughts racing and fills him with boundless energy. Sitting still feels impossible, and distractions come easily. At school, his teacher, Mrs. Turner, works tirelessly to keep him calm and on task, but success doesn’t always come easily. When Ben loses focus, the classroom feels the impact. He darts around, skips ahead in line, and frustrates his classmates. At home, his parents experiment with strategies to help him thrive and keep his routines steady. The question remains: can these approaches truly help Ben harness his energy?
This story is more than an engaging children’s tale; it’s an insightful window into the world of a child with ADHD. Morrissey presents not only how Ben’s actions affect those around him, but also what life looks and feels like through Ben’s own eyes. Readers are invited into an experience they might never otherwise encounter, building empathy and understanding for children navigating similar challenges.
The characters feel real, with quirks and flaws that mirror the dynamics of an authentic classroom. Through Ben’s interactions with his family and school community, children and parents alike can better grasp how acceptance and patience make a difference. The book’s strength lies in its dual perspective: it shows the challenges, yet it also celebrates the resilience of children living with ADHD.
Morrissey’s personal connection to the story deepens its authenticity. Inspired by her youngest son, who has ADHD, she hopes this will be the first in a series shedding light on the everyday triumphs and struggles families face. The book even includes practical resources for parents and educators, extending its value beyond the story itself.
Equally memorable are the illustrations by Jo Litchfield. Each vibrant, full-page image bursts with detail and complements the text beautifully. Morrissey offers not only encouragement but also representation for children with ADHD and their families.
In the end, Ben T. Finnigan’s Awesome ADHD Superpowers succeeds as both entertainment and education. With lively characters, heartfelt lessons, and captivating illustrations, it’s a book that sparks empathy, invites conversation, and helps readers of all ages understand the superpowers and struggles of ADHD.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0F147HJ4H
Freckles
Freckles is the sweet and heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship between a young girl named Mave and a duck decoy named Freckles. From the moment Freckles leaves behind his past as a hunting tool, his new life becomes a colorful journey of spreading joy, comfort, and kindness to everyone he meets. Mave brings him along everywhere, from school to the grocery store, and it quickly becomes clear that Freckles is no ordinary duck. He’s different in the best way, and he shows the world that different can be good. The story’s message is loud and clear: being unique is something to be proud of.
What I loved most about this book was how simple it was, yet how much it made me feel. The writing doesn’t try too hard. It doesn’t need to. It has a quiet rhythm to it, like a bedtime song whispered after a long day. The rhyming lines are playful without being sing-songy, and they carry a certain warmth. It felt personal, like the author was letting us peek into a real bond. That authenticity shines through. The fact that Freckles is a literal duck decoy, not a magical creature or a talking animal, makes the whole thing oddly touching. There’s a kind of grounded magic in that.
And the ideas behind it? They’re gentle but strong. The way the book handles being different. how it flips that word into something empowering, really stuck with me. Kids don’t always get to hear that message in a way that feels natural. But here, it works. Freckles helps people, not by doing big things, but by just being there. That message of everyday kindness, of quiet impact, was something I enjoyed. The illustrations add to that, too, bright and friendly and full of little touches that make each page worth a second look. The watercolor artwork is bursting with life and detail and will easily capture a child’s attention.
I’d say Freckles is a lovely read for kids ages 3 to 8, or anyone who needs a reminder that being different isn’t just okay, it’s something to be celebrated. It’s perfect for bedtime reading or classroom discussions about kindness and empathy. If you’re looking for a book that’s simple, sincere, and full of heart, this little duck might just be your next favorite friend.
Pages: 22 | ASIN : B0F8YQXP1K
LITERARY TITAN 