Blog Archives
Chess Heart
Chess Heart by Victoria Winifred is a charming children’s story set in the small town of Madison, Tennessee, centering around a Valentine’s Day luncheon at Forest Elementary. The story unfolds as the third graders meet the mysterious “Chess Lady,” who is soon revealed to be Miss Kay, a former chess teacher with a past that slowly unfolds. She captivates the kids, especially Justin, as she tells a whimsical tale about chess and teaches them the game. The story is about more than chess though, it is about connection, second chances and finding things you thought were lost forever.
I have to admit, I got hooked from the start. The way the author introduces Miss Kay, this enigmatic figure, riding her bike into the gym, makes it feel like magic is about to happen. I mean, who doesn’t want to meet someone called “The Chess Lady,” who swoops in with her black and white attire like a human chessboard? It’s one of those stories that wraps you up in a cozy, small-town vibe but throws in a dash of mystery. The kids’ excitement, especially Justin’s nervousness, is so relatable. I think we have all had that moment where we are just dying to ask someone something and it feels like the most important thing in the world.
I loved how Winifred used chess as a metaphor throughout the book. When Miss Kay sets up the chess pieces while weaving a story about kingdoms and knights, it’s more than just a game, it’s life. You get the sense that Miss Kay isn’t just teaching the kids chess, she’s sharing pieces of wisdom wrapped in the guise of rooks and bishops. And can we talk about the moment Justin places a heart-shaped chocolate on the board as a stand-in for the missing queen? That just hit me right in the feels. It’s such a pure, sweet gesture, and you can tell it means so much to Miss Kay. Winifred really knows how to hit those emotional notes without being over the top.
That said, the book has a sense of mystery that keeps pulling you in. Miss Kay’s backstory is hinted at throughout, and you’re left wondering what’s happened in her life to make her so guarded. The scene where Miss Kay hesitates to teach the kids, looking at the clock, was so well done. It’s like she’s carrying this invisible weight, and it’s not until the end that you feel like she’s finally found a little peace. The whole idea of “finding the queen” goes beyond just chess, it’s like Miss Kay has found a piece of herself she thought she’d lost forever. The writing here feels personal, like you’re hearing this story from a close friend, which I loved.
The art in Chess Heart, illustrated by Barry Davian, adds a whimsical and nostalgic charm to the story. The illustrations are soft and warm, perfectly complementing the heartwarming tone of the narrative. Each scene feels like a gentle, hand-drawn invitation into the world of Forest Elementary, with expressions that bring the characters to life—especially Miss Kay, whose poised yet approachable demeanor shines through. Whether it’s the vivid Valentine decorations or the chess pieces Miss Kay brings out, every illustration feels thoughtfully crafted.
Chess Heart is more than just a cute story about chess. It’s a heartwarming tale about community, friendship, and finding your way back to something you love. If you are into stories that feel like a warm hug with a side of gentle life lessons then this book is for you. Kids will love the chess adventure, and adults will appreciate the deeper themes of second chances and the power of kindness.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0DJWHBQ4N
The Boy, a Dragon, and the Cave of Shadow
The Boy, a Dragon, and the Cave of Shadow by Christopher Guhl is a heartwarming fantasy that tells the story of a boy named Liam and his loyal companion, a dragon named Georgie. Together, they journey through a perilous cave, facing challenges and forming alliances with an array of intriguing characters as they battle the menacing force known as The Shadow. Throughout this quest, Liam discovers an incredible power within himself, yet each use of this strength comes at a steep personal cost. This poignant story is deeply inspired by Guhl’s own experience, drawing from his son’s battle with leukemia, making it as personal as it is powerful.
In many ways, the novel serves as a beautifully crafted metaphor for the struggles faced during illness. The dark, endless cave becomes a symbol for the overwhelming and often uncertain path that lies ahead when confronting such adversity. But, amid the darkness, Liam finds support in the form of unique beings, each offering guidance, hope, and strength for his dangerous journey. Guhl’s storytelling taps into universal emotions, making each fantastical encounter feel personal and relatable. The allegory of the story shines through, resonating with anyone who has faced hardship, particularly when illness is involved. The vivid descriptions of the cave heighten the sense of the daunting, almost impossible task that Liam faces. Yet, the tender moments of assistance and support from those around him give the narrative warmth and hope, illustrating that even in the darkest moments, we are not alone. While the brevity of the book makes it accessible to younger readers, it could also be seen as a drawback. The story’s characters, themes, and emotional depth feel deserving of more time and space to be fully explored. That said, the book’s sincerity and emotional resonance remain intact, delivering an impactful and moving tale even within its concise structure.
Perfect for middle-grade readers or anyone who appreciates stories of courage and resilience, The Boy, a Dragon, and the Cave of Shadow is a beautifully inspiring read. Guhl’s story is not only a testament to the power of perseverance but also a touching allegory of the struggles we face—and overcome—when life’s battles seem insurmountable. An uplifting read for children and adults alike, it’s a must-read for those who enjoy stories of hope and bravery in the face of adversity.
Pages: 64 | ASIN : B0D9SWFVZN
Dale Defeats the Dark
Dale Defeats the Dark is a heartwarming children’s book about a little deer named Dale who learns to conquer his fear of the dark. Set in a vibrant forest, the fable-like story unfolds as Dale, who is initially terrified of night’s shadows and noises, decides to face his fears. With a blanket of armor, a leaf helmet, a cute stuffy, and his trusty lantern, Dale transforms into a brave knight, ready to make the dark fun and manageable.
Author Blaina Tallent Best’s writing is sweet and simple, making this book accessible and engaging for young readers. What stood out to me the most was how Dale’s journey is filled with small, relatable victories. For instance, when Dale gives his favorite stuffed animal a squeeze to muster courage, it reminds me of my own childhood coping strategies. These small details add a layer of realism to Dale’s fantastical adventure, making it all the more touching.
The illustrations deserve a shoutout, too! They are as lively and colorful as the story and perfectly capture Dale’s emotions. The moment when Dale wakes up to a special treat is drawn so warmly that it almost makes you want to reach out and hug him. This harmony between illustrations and text enhances the storytelling, making the dark seem less daunting and more like a canvas for imagination.
What I particularly appreciate about this picture book is its message that fears can be transformed into fun, adventurous experiences. The strategies Dale uses to defeat the dark, like turning on a lantern or squeezing his stuffy, are practical and easy for kids to emulate. This empowers children and gives them the tools to deal with other fears they might face.
Dale Defeats the Dark is a delightful children’s book that tackles a common childhood fear in a nurturing way. I’d recommend it to any parent whose child might be struggling with fear of the dark or to anyone who enjoys a story of triumph and bravery.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0D7QPNWGV
Brunt and Eggbert
Brunt and Eggbert is a heartwarming children’s book that beautifully highlights the diversity of family structures and the power of love. Brunt, a gentle monster despite his fearsome appearance, is a character that readers will quickly grow fond of. Though he struggles with loneliness and longs for companionship, he finds solace in his hobbies—tending to his garden and keeping his cave in order. In contrast, Eggbert, a thoughtful and resourceful boy, has never had a family of his own. Raised by various people, he has learned valuable lessons from each, leaving a positive impact wherever he goes.
The story takes an emotional turn when Eggbert gets lost in the forest, only to encounter Brunt. Initially frightened, Eggbert soon discovers that Brunt means him no harm and, in fact, wants to help. Their shared isolation leads them to an unexpected friendship, blossoming into a father-son bond where they grow together, learning from each other and overcoming life’s obstacles.
Author Jeff Dorrill skillfully weaves together themes of empathy, acceptance, and the importance of not judging others by appearances. Brunt’s intimidating looks mask a kind and nurturing soul, teaching young readers a valuable lesson about looking beyond surface judgments. The evolving relationship between Brunt and Eggbert demonstrates that family is not just about biology but about love, care, and mutual support.
Their adventures, filled with challenges big and small, make the story engaging and dynamic. While the narrative is rich with positive messages, there are a few moments where the writing may feel a bit complex for younger readers due to some longer sentences. Nonetheless, the plot remains captivating, filled with action and growth. Both Brunt and Eggbert have distinct responsibilities and talents, and their evolving bond creates a sense of security and belonging in a world where they are otherwise alone. On top of all this the charming illustrations enhance the picture book and offer detailed and appealing visuals that complement the narrative’s warmth.
Brunt and Eggbert is a delightful read and is perfect for parents and children to share. It not only entertains but fosters emotional connections, making it an excellent choice for family reading time. Dorrill’s tale is a celebration of love in its many forms, wrapped in an adventurous, heartfelt package.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0DJ1X8MC3
The Gnomes of Fibberton
The Gnomes of Fibberton by Becky Bell is a quirky and imaginative tale about a hidden world beneath the surface of everyday life. In this underground realm, the grouchy Gnomes of Fibberton keep a watchful eye on the lies and fibs that children tell. Each child is given a secret number at birth, the number of lies they can tell before the gnomes come for them, dragging them down to Fibberton to live out their days as gnomes, doing endless chores and collecting fibs. The story combines humor and a slightly eerie undertone to deliver a cautionary message about honesty.
I found the writing style to be both charming and eerie in a way that reminded me of old fairy tales. Bell’s rhythmic, almost sing-song writing pulls you into Fibberton from the very first page. The descriptions of the gnome’s world are vivid, who wouldn’t shudder at a place where “the air smells like sweaty feet” and “there is never a comfortable seat to be found?” That sense of discomfort really hits home the moral of the story in a fun yet slightly unnerving way, which works well for a children’s book that’s meant to stick with you. The repeated phrases, like the gnomes’ off-tempo song, add a playful cadence that makes you feel like you’re hearing the story spoken aloud. What really stood out, though, was the creativity of the world-building. The idea that gnomes keep track of lies like little treasures and come for you when you reach your limit is wildly inventive. The small details, like gnomes hiding in smelly shoes or cookie jars, give the whole story a playful, mischievous tone that keeps it from feeling too dark. And, of course, the illustrations by Khan beautifully complement the writing. The depiction of Fibberton and its gloomy atmosphere adds a visual depth that enhances the creepiness and charm of the gnomes’ world.
The Gnomes of Fibberton is a fun and imaginative read that blends humor with a moral lesson. It’s perfect for kids who love a slightly spooky story with an edge, though it might be a bit intense for younger or more sensitive readers. I’d recommend it to parents looking for a creative way to talk about honesty, as well as to kids who enjoy quirky, offbeat stories with a dash of the bizarre.
Pages: 32 | ISBN : 1964498007
The Adventures of Captain Polo: Pole to Pole
In The Adventures of Captain Polo Book 4: Pole to Pole, by Alan J. Hesse, our beloved polar bear, Captain Polo, returns home to the Arctic, only to find the shrinking sea ice has made food scarce. Determined to satisfy his hunger, Polo embarks on a voyage in search of a meal. However, what begins as a simple quest soon spirals into a high-seas adventure full of dangerous currents, unexpected stowaways, and plenty of action. As Captain Polo, the brave and furry champion of climate change awareness, sets sail, he once again brings readers along on an educational journey packed with surprises.
This latest installment is another fantastic entry in a captivating graphic novel series designed for young readers. Having joined Polo’s adventures in the third book, I was eager to continue the journey and delighted to encounter the expressive Penguin from the first volume. While I missed the initial two books, the clear and concise recaps provided all the context I needed. New characters, new places, and constant excitement made this adventure thoroughly enjoyable.
What truly sets Captain Polo’s adventures apart is the way they blend fun and education. This graphic novel doesn’t just entertain with action-packed scenes; it also delivers key concepts about climate change in a manner that’s accessible and engaging for young readers. Through Captain Polo’s journey, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of what climate change really means and how it affects people and animals worldwide. Terms I had heard before but never fully understood are explained clearly, and the use of the graphic novel format makes complex topics easy to grasp.
One of the standout features of the series is how it offers practical, in-text solutions that readers can incorporate into their daily lives. Inspired by Captain Polo, I’ve started reusing paper wherever possible and am constantly on the lookout for ways to repurpose other resources. The overall message of climate responsibility resonated deeply and stuck with me long after I finished reading.
The Adventures of Captain Polo Book 4: Pole to Pole, by Alan J. Hesse, is a vibrant, educational, and action-packed graphic novel that balances adventure with a powerful message about climate change. Through Captain Polo’s thrilling journey, readers of all ages are not only entertained but also encouraged to think critically about environmental responsibility and how their actions can make a difference. With its engaging storytelling, relatable characters, and practical takeaways, this book is an excellent resource for young readers eager to learn more about our changing world while enjoying an exciting adventure. I highly recommend it and look forward to Captain Polo’s future exploits!
Pages: 57 | ASIN : B08NWC9QDR
Lost or an Adventure?
Coco Lost in Miami follows an adventurous fluffy little dog who gets lost in the city and makes a new friend with an energetic lady. What was the inspiration for your story?
Like all of our other dog books, Coco Lost in Miami was inspired by a true story. Our family dog, Nemo, disappeared one day during a family party, and Mr. Luna left the party to search for him. He was looking all over for the dog, but he was nowhere to be found. We all had a hard time sleeping that night thinking about his whereabouts, but thankfully, a nice lady found him and reached out to us the next day.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator TranDang?
It’s always a pleasure collaborating with TranDang. We love her art style and the way she brings our stories to life. We’ve worked together on a few other picture books from our catalog. She always seems to amaze us every time.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
It was important for us to share both sides of the situation in the book. We wanted to show the family desperately searching for their beloved Coco, and we also wanted to show Coco safe and sound traveling throughout the beautiful city of Miami with an exciting rescuer and companion. If you have ever lost a pet, you know exactly how stressful it can be. At that moment, all you can do is search relentlessly, hope for the best, and have faith that there will be a happy ending.
I find a problem in well-written stories in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned?
It’s quite possible. You just never know what big city Coco might get lost in next. Stay tuned.
Author Links: Website | Instagram | Book Review
Where’s Grandma?: A Child’s View on Loss, Grief & Bereavement
Where’s Grandma? is a heartfelt picture book that thoughtfully explores the experience of young Jordyn as she faces the difficult reality of losing her grandmother. Through her mother’s gentle guidance, Jordyn learns to navigate her grief by focusing on the joyful memories they shared like playing games or dancing and singing. These cherished moments offer her comfort, reminding her that her grandmother’s presence continues in her heart and memory.
The vibrant and meticulously crafted illustrations stand out and beautifully complement the emotional depth of the story. Jordyn’s emotions are vividly portrayed and bring her journey of loss and remembrance to life. Tackling the sensitive topic of loss can be challenging, particularly for young readers who often grapple with the concept of someone being there one day and gone the next. Author Tracey Smith addresses this challenge with compassion and skill, encouraging readers to embrace the memories of those they have lost and treasure the time spent with loved ones.
The language throughout is accessible and engaging, making it suitable for early readers whether they are reading independently or with a parent. The activities Jordyn enjoys with her grandmother are universally relatable, which will create an instant connection for readers. As a parent, I found these moments particularly resonant, having experienced many of the same activities with my own child. This story will undoubtedly strike a chord with young readers, offering them valuable insight into how they can process feelings of sadness and loss.
Where’s Grandma? is a tender and thoughtful children’s book that introduces young readers to an essential life skill of learning how to cope with grief and loss. I highly recommend this book to families who have recently experienced the loss of a loved one or to those seeking to open a meaningful dialogue with children about this important subject.
Pages: 28 | ASIN: B0CY8166M2
LITERARY TITAN 