Blog Archives
Daniel Juventus and the Stonehenge-Gate of Magic
In Daniel Juventus and the Stonehenge – Gate of Magic, by J.A. Thinky, readers are drawn into a spellbinding tale that begins with the life of Daniel Juventus, a boy marked by his distinct quirks and a hand deformity, compounded by the loneliness of his parents’ absence and his grandfather’s care. Daniel’s life transforms when vivid dreams guide him to a powerful revelation: he is the Chosen One, destined to wield the Ankh and liberate EV, the King of the Kingdom of Light, from the dark forces of Dzărum. Guided by a mysterious woman to a parallel world, Daniel embarks on a perilous quest, testing his bravery and determination as he strives to protect the Ankh and save his loved ones from impending chaos.
This novel stands out for its rich world-building, bringing historical figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Isaac Newton, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart into its fantasy realm. J.A. Thinky’s bold inclusion of these iconic personalities adds layers of historical intrigue and humor, creating a narrative that is both educational and entertaining. The fusion of these legendary figures within a fictional setting offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment, captivating readers of all ages with a seamless blend of fantasy and real-world brilliance.
Central to the story is Daniel’s transformation from a bullied and insecure boy to a valiant hero. His journey of self-discovery and empowerment resonates deeply, as he not only masters magic but also uncovers his inner strength. This evolution mirrors a universal theme of personal growth, making Daniel’s experiences relatable to readers navigating their own paths of maturity and self-discovery. J.A. Thinky’s prowess as a storyteller is evident in the intricate weaving of a plausible magic system with scientific discovery. Characters like Professor Newton, who fantastically explains gravitational theories, and Professor Nobel, who delves into the chemistry of magical perfumes, enrich the narrative with educational insights. The suspense and intrigue of facing evil wizards and the enigmatic Rumpelstiltskin keep readers engrossed, eagerly following Daniel’s strategic battles against perilous challenges.
Daniel Juventus and the Stonehenge – Gate of Magic breathes new life into the realms of fantasy, science, and art, appealing to a broad spectrum of readers, from young adults to those seeking a well-crafted adventure. Fans of tween novels like Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series will find a similar blend of adventure, humor, and character growth, making this an irresistibly compelling read. Daniel Juventus emerges as a literary hero whose journey promises thrilling future installments, ensuring J.A. Thinky’s place as a distinguished voice in modern fantasy literature.
Pages: 276 | ISBN : 1804397334
Luka and Little Feather
Luka and Little Feather, written by Ashlee Alicea and illustrated by Nix Doxtater, is a charming children’s book that invites readers into the magical world of two First Nations siblings, Luka and Little Feather. Living on a reservation, they discover a “wishing stone” that takes them on an underwater adventure where they meet a talking whale, a turtle family, and a host of other sea creatures. This enchanting story blends the wonders of the ocean with the rich cultural heritage of Native American folklore, making it a delightful read for children and adults alike.
One of the standout features of this book is the seamless integration of cultural elements into a whimsical narrative. The story begins with Luka and Little Feather’s simple life on the reservation, introducing young readers to aspects of First Nations culture and language in an accessible way. The author’s ability to weave their heritage into the story, such as through the tale of Turtle Island, enriches the narrative and provides a meaningful context for their adventure. This cultural representation is not only educational but also fosters a sense of pride and identity for First Nations readers. The writing style of Ashlee Alicea is engaging and imaginative, perfectly suited for a young audience. The dialogue between Luka and Little Feather is natural and filled with a sense of wonder that is infectious. The author captures the sibling dynamic beautifully, showcasing their bond and shared curiosity. Additionally, the pacing of the story is well-balanced, with just the right amount of tension and excitement to keep readers captivated without overwhelming them. The illustrations by Nix Doxtater complement the story wonderfully. The vibrant, colorful depictions of underwater scenes and characters add depth to the narrative and help bring the magical world to life. Each page is a visual treat, and the attention to detail in the illustrations enhances the overall reading experience.
Luka and Little Feather is a delightful and enriching read that I would highly recommend. It is perfect for young readers who enjoy adventure and fantasy, and it also serves as a wonderful introduction to First Nations culture and folklore. This book is an excellent choice for parents and educators looking to diversify their children’s reading material with stories that celebrate cultural heritage and imagination.
Pages: 26 | ISBN : 1645385000
The Puzzle Piece
Andrea Mendoza-Vasconez’s The Puzzle Piece is a heartwarming and insightful children’s book that beautifully illustrates the idea of individuality and self-worth. Through engaging and vibrant illustrations by Rita Nilson, the book portrays the world as a gigantic puzzle where every individual, animal, and plant is a unique and essential piece. The narrative encourages children to embrace their uniqueness, trust their intuition, and find their special place in the world, emphasizing that everyone’s authentic self is crucial to completing the puzzle of life.
One of the standout elements of the book is its gentle yet powerful messaging. Mendoza-Vasconez adeptly addresses feelings of inadequacy and the pressure to conform that many children face. By framing these struggles within the context of fitting into a puzzle, she provides a relatable and comforting metaphor. I particularly appreciated the section where the book discusses how forcing oneself to fit into the wrong space can lead to discomfort and self-doubt. This is a critical lesson for children, teaching them that it’s okay to be different and that they don’t need to change themselves to fit in. The writing style is clear and accessible, perfectly suited for young readers while still engaging for adults. The repetition of affirmations about finding one’s unique space in the puzzle reinforces the book’s central theme effectively. Rita Nilson’s illustrations complement the text wonderfully, adding an extra layer of depth and charm to the story. The colorful, lively illustrations are not only engaging but also serve as a visual reinforcement of the book’s message about diversity and inclusion.
The Puzzle Piece by Andrea Mendoza-Vasconez is a delightful and meaningful read for children and adults alike. It’s a perfect tool for parents and educators to discuss topics of self-esteem, individuality, and the importance of embracing one’s true self. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a way to instill these values in young minds.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0D36LT6P6
The Good Kid Hero
Snoodles in Space, Episode 2: The Zoodles Strike Back follows two heroes who face off with a disgruntled inventor and set out to save the world’s water supply from being poisoned. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had just watched the Original Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and I noticed the media frenzy surrounding the visit to the factory. In the movie, Charlie as the good kid hero, and I started to think how the media covered the spoiled kids, even picturing how they would be portrayed on social media today. That was the spark, and I had the story to make these kids the heroes in the end.
Do you have a favorite scene in this novel? One that was especially fun to craft?
Well, I love my illustrator, Andy Case, and I love the job he did with Chunky Chocodoodle’s factory. I also love the wedding scene with Droodle the Poodle and Doo Doo Kidoodle.
The imagery in your book is phenomenal. What was the collaboration process like with illustrator Andy Case?
Andy is amazing. I do the story blocks and give him my vision of what I see on the pages. He just then ramps it up a bit. When he sends me the illustrations, it is like opening up presents by the Christmas tree!
Can fans look forward to another installment of the Snoodles in Space series? If so, where will it take your characters?
Yes. Andy is now working on Snoodles in Space: Escape from Zoodletraz. It is music-themed, inspired by Andy’s first album Leap of Faith. We have some fun new characters like Swift Swoodle and the DooWopadoodles, Flootle the Poodle, and the Trash Can Cats, and there are even more!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
In this third instalment of the Snoodles series, the Zoodles are determined to have revenge and with the help of a grimy millionaire whose fallen on hard times, they intend to poison the Earth’s water supply and turn everyone into Willy Nilly’s and Dilly Dally’s.
Can Briana and Ricky save the Earth again? Will the outcast kids on the other side of the track rise to the challenge and help save the world?
Light Fright
Light Fright is a whimsical journey into the nighttime world of Marley, a lovable little monster with a big imagination. As darkness falls, Marley’s mind is racing with fears. Unlike typical bedtime stories that calm children’s fears, this one flips the script by exploring the notion that even monsters can be afraid of children hiding in the shadows. Marley’s family tries everything to help him sleep, from magical nightlights to cozy blankets, but it’s Marley’s own bravery and a touch of humor that finally calm his fears.
I enjoyed this book so much! First off, the writing is absolutely charming. Judy De Young has a knack for blending light-hearted humor with gentle reassurance, making this book a delightful read for kids and adults. The way she depicts Marley’s fear of children hiding under the bed or in the closet flips the usual monster-under-the-bed trope on its head. Such a clever twist brings a fresh perspective to common bedtime anxieties.
What really stands out is the relationship between Marley and his family. The various attempts by Marley’s family to help him fall asleep are both fun and heartwarming. Plus, the amusing names of all the family members add a fun dynamic to the story, making it engaging from start to finish.
This picture book is filled with stunning illustrations by Nathalie Kranich. The vibrant and cute artwork captures the essence of Marley’s world perfectly. Each page is filled with intricate details that bring the monster family to life in a way that’s endearing rather than frightening. I especially loved the page where Marley is reminded that there is a child “staring straight into our picture book!” The illustrations do a fantastic job of balancing the eerie with the adorable, making it a visual treat.
Light Fright is a fantastic read for children who might be dealing with their own bedtime fears or even young readers who love a good monster tale with a twist. It’s perfect for bedtime reading with a comforting, funny message that even monsters have fears, but with a little courage and support, those fears can be overcome. If you’re looking for a children’s book that mixes humor, heart, and a dash of the spooky, Light Fright is definitely one to add to your bedtime story collection.
Pages: 64 | ASIN : B0CLSZ47T3
Igniting a Love for Languages
Nuestra Hermosa Familia follows two siblings who take readers on a bilingual adventure to meet their family and celebrate diversity. What was the inspiration for your story?
Several things that I’m passionate about inspired this story: my family, my love of the Spanish language and my love of reading, teaching and learning. I firmly believe that in today’s world, being multilingual is a big advantage if not a necessity and according to experts the best time to introduce a foreign language is when a child is between three and seven years old. Being trilingual has enriched my life; it has expanded the conversations I can have, the people I can interact with, the places I can navigate; it has allowed me to gain an understanding of other cultures in a way only understanding the language can. My hope with Nuestra Hermosa Familia (and others to come) is to ignite a love for languages, culture and learning in young people.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Medie Big?
The collaboration with Medie Big was an amazing experience. I start by creating a dummy book complete with character profiles, indicating who’s on which page, what they are saying and what the scenes look like in my head. From these Medie does their magic, they are genius at turning my stick people and mishmash ideas into something special. They begin with several initial sketches to ensure we’re on the same page, once we agree on a direction, all the sketches are created and approved before Medie does the colouring. The whole process is very collaborative, Medie is a very talented artist who is also great at receiving and acting on feedback and delivering for her clients, wait till you see what she’s done for my new book!
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
This book was written around one of the units in the English KS1 & 2 Spanish national curriculum – (for children aged 4+ to 7 years old). I learnt (and continue to learn) Spanish as an adult. Drawing from this experience and from my experience as a teacher, I didn’t want my readers to simply have a compilation of pictures and words; I wanted them to understand and be able to use these words in context. There’s a lot of subtle repetition, keywords are used in sentences and then highlighted within the sentences, the illustrations really help bring it all to life. I have also created a several resources, including a read along video, flashcards and worksheets to complement the book. These are all available for free on my website: www.missjoseph.com
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, Nuestra Hermosa Familia is the first of twenty planned books. My next book, Pelotas Deportivas, is all about sports and colours and it’s fab. Look out for it from July 2024. In this next book, you can expect more fun adventures with Juan and Maria as they explore the world of sports and learn about different colours in both English and Spanish. And of course beautiful illustrations from Medie!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Pinterest
‘Nuestra Hermosa Familia – Our Beautiful Family’ is a charming picture book that celebrates language diversity and the special bond of family.
This bilingual book features:
✓ Full sentences in context – not just a list of words,
✓ Engaging storytelling, and
✓ Lovely, vibrant pictures that capture the love and happiness of a family.
Open the door to a bilingual journey that fosters language proficiency and offers the priceless advantages of bilingualism such as cognitive growth, better academic performance, and Cultural awareness.
Buy ‘Nuestra Hermosa Familia – Our Beautiful Family’ today and give your child the gift of a brighter future!
Peter’s Trip to the Dentist
Peter’s Trip to the Dentist, by Latia Smith, is a delightful children’s book that cleverly captures the anticipation and curiosity of a young child’s visit to the dentist. The story begins with six-year-old Peter transforming into a superhero as he hurries downstairs, answering his mom’s call to get ready for his dentist appointment. Accompanied by his twin sisters, Henrietta and Flo, Peter embarks on a chilly adventure to the dental office, which turns out to be a fantastical space adorned with vibrant, zoo-like creatures in a safari-themed setting. Upon arrival, Peter meets Ms. Stacy, the friendly dental hygienist, who meticulously checks his teeth and takes x-rays, setting the stage for Dr. Shirley’s examination. The visit culminates in the joy of choosing a toy from the treasure box, a highlight for Peter and a lovely detail that resonates with young readers.
Smith’s storytelling excels in demystifying the dental visit experience. Through Peter’s journey, she gently educates children on the typical procedures of a dental check-up, alleviating fears by explaining each step in a non-threatening, engaging manner. This approach ensures that young readers can approach their own dentist appointments with a sense of fun and understanding rather than anxiety.
The narrative is brought to life by Sameer Kassar’s vibrant illustrations. Each page bursts with color and intricate details that draw readers into Peter’s imaginative world. The illustrations not only complement the story but also enhance the reader’s experience, making the book equally enjoyable for both children and adults.
Smith’s background as a dental hygienist, particularly in pediatric care, enriches the authenticity of the story. Her firsthand experience shines through, providing a comforting perspective that is both educational and reassuring for young readers. This debut novel successfully achieves its goal of making dental visits less intimidating for children, marking a promising start to Smith’s writing career.
Peter’s Trip to the Dentist is an essential addition to any child’s library, especially as a preparatory tool before a dentist visit. Its engaging story and captivating illustrations offer a perfect blend of education and entertainment, making it a highly recommended read for parents and children alike.
Pages: 50 | ASIN : B0BNKGP7YK
Equipping Children for Success
The Good Fortune follows a brother and sister visiting their Aunt, who teaches them a new game that takes them on new and exciting adventures. What was the inspiration for your story?
Like most children growing up, I loved going on adventures and enjoying new experiences that gave lasting memories and lessons that could be shared. Through literature, I am able to do so with children and adults alike.
What was your inspiration for the characters? Did they come from any of your memories as a child?
My inspiration for the characters comes from various inspirational people who were in my life while growing up, and were definitely apart of happy memories as a child.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
It was important for me to include educational aspects such as character-building and motivation. It’s so important to help children not only feel confident and emotionally cared for but also equip them with the tools to be successfully independent.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, our next book will be out in the spring. The fans can expect more exciting, unusual adventures and some new, fun-loving characters to add to our new series. Our upcoming projects also include animation and live performances based on the book.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
LITERARY TITAN 