Blog Archives
The Kitten That Could Not Meow
In The Kitten Who Could Not Meow by Lolisa Marie Monroe, a litter of five kittens is born on a sunny May morning. Each kitten, varying in color and size, is distinct. As they grow and are ready for adoption, the litter quickly finds homes, except for one little orange kitten who cannot meow. Her mother fears that this unique trait might deter potential adopters. However, hope arises when a family expresses interest in meeting her to see if she would be a perfect companion for their daughter, Grace.
I found this children’s book to be a heartwarming example of the adage, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” The orange kitten’s inability to meow does not make her weak; instead, it highlights her unique charm. This story teaches children that being different is something to celebrate and appreciate. Embracing our uniqueness is what sets us apart and makes us special.
Monroe’s storytelling is captivating, particularly in her portrayal of the little orange kitten. Without revealing too much, the family that visits the kitten seems destined to be her perfect match. As I read, I felt a surge of anticipation, hoping they would love her as much as I did. I am confident that children will fall in love with the orange kitten just as easily. The illustrations by the Draw & Care Ukraine team are remarkably lifelike. The illustrations perfectly capture the essence of the kittens and add depth to the story.
The combination of Monroe’s engaging narrative and the Draw & Care Ukraine team’s stunning illustrations creates a picture book for any child to cherish. This is an endearing children’s book that shows a love for children and animals.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0D4GWQJGC
My Sister Grossy: The Case of The Mystery Smell
My Sister Grossy: The Case of the Mystery Smell dives into the chaotic and humorous world of young Jack and his exceptionally gross little sister, Isabel—whom he dubs “Grossy.” The story unfolds as Jack becomes a detective in his own home, determined to uncover the source of a mysterious and unbearable stink he believes is emanating from his sister. This light-hearted tale cleverly navigates the messiness of childhood through the eyes of a bewildered yet earnest older brother.
Author Tara Rowland’s writing is vibrant and captivating. She is particularly adept at capturing the voice and musings of a ten-year-old boy who is bewildered by his sister’s shenanigans. The narrative is brimming with lively descriptions that vividly depict the chaos that Grossy disrupts in Jack’s orderly world. While the storyline is undeniably entertaining, some readers might find the repeated emphasis on “grossness” a tad excessive. Nevertheless, Rowland’s knack for infusing humor into everyday situations highlights the book and ensures a fun-filled read.
Family dynamics, childhood, and the trials of growing up are all themes in the book that will resonate with anyone who has ever had to deal with a pesky sibling. The mystery element of the story adds an engaging layer to the narrative, encouraging young readers to think critically and follow the clues alongside Jack.
My Sister Grossy is a charming read that will captivate middle-grade readers who relish humorous tales with a hint of mystery. The book also serves as an excellent resource for parents to delve into topics of tolerance, empathy, and family dynamics with their children. Schools can incorporate it into their reading lists to foster discussions on sibling relationships and personal hygiene in a light and entertaining manner. Readers who appreciate a good chuckle at the idiosyncrasies of family life will find this book a delightful read.
Pages: 96 | ASIN : B0CW1GBB1J
Finding Messi: The Miracle Cat From Kyiv
Finding Messi: The Miracle Cat From Kyiv, by Trevor Ostfeld and Iryna Chernyak, is a touching and poignant tale that centers around the bond between an eleven-year-old girl, Iryna, and her cat, Messi, set against the backdrop of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. As Iryna and her mother are forced to flee their home in Kyiv, they face the heart-wrenching decision to leave Messi behind. The story unfolds with Iryna’s relentless efforts to reunite with her beloved pet, showcasing themes of resilience, hope, and the power of community in times of crisis.
The writing is straightforward yet evocative, capturing the emotional turmoil of displacement through a child’s perspective. The authors effectively convey Iryna’s fear, confusion, and determination, making it easy for readers to empathize with her journey. The narrative is interspersed with tender moments, such as Iryna hiding soccer balls for Messi to find while she’s away, which highlights the deep bond between the girl and her pet. This personal touch adds a layer of warmth and humanity to the story, making the impact of the war on families all the more tangible.
One of the standout aspects of the book is its ability to address complex and heavy topics like war and displacement in a manner that is accessible to young readers. The illustrations by Katherine Blackmore complement the text beautifully, providing visual context that enhances the storytelling. For example, the scenes depicting Messi’s adventures and the family’s journey are both heartwarming and heartbreaking, helping to bridge the gap between the narrative and the young audience’s understanding.
The book succeeds in educating readers about the realities of war without overwhelming them with its harshness. While the simplicity of the writing is a strength, I feel it also occasionally glosses over the more profound emotional and psychological impacts of the events. I believe the book could have delved deeper into the internal struggles of the characters, particularly Iryna, to provide a more rounded exploration of their experiences.
Finding Messi is a heartfelt and inspiring story that sheds light on the human side of geopolitical conflicts. It is particularly suitable for young readers, offering them a gentle introduction to the themes of war, family, and perseverance. The book would be an excellent read for children who enjoy stories about pets and adventures, as well as for those who might benefit from understanding the experiences of children in war-torn regions. It is a commendable addition to children’s literature by Ostfeld and Chernyak and stands as a vital and touching narrative that will resonate with readers of all ages.
Pages: 56 | ASIN : B0CVLYX164
A Confidence Soufflé
Bernard’s Lessons Sharing Feelings in a Classroom World follows an enthusiastic bee who is going to school for the first time and meeting his classmates.
In your story, Bernard’s classmates experience a wide range of emotions that most children can relate to. How did you approach writing about these big feelings in a way that would help and not intimate young readers?
We took a thoughtful and empathetic approach to Bernard’s story. Our eight-year-old nephew is a big inspiration for the character. Recognizing that children, like our nephew, are navigating a multitude of emotions as they grow and learn is crucial to the fabric of our society. By portraying Bernard’s classmates experiencing a range of feelings, from joy to sadness, we have created a relatable world for young readers. Through Bernard’s journey, children can begin to understand that it’s okay to have ups and downs and that each day is a part of their unique adventure. We focus on helping our nephew communicate his thoughts and feelings in complete sentences to aid in his emotional development. Our nephew appreciates seeing himself reflected in Bernard’s character.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Ah, the big ideas behind the book? We aimed for a mix of inspiration and liberation, like a recipe for confidence soufflé. Firstly, we wanted our nephew (and all readers) to feel like they could conquer Mount Everest in bunny slippers if they put their minds to it. Seeing his excitement over the author copy was our Jackpot moment!, and then there’s the cornerstone concept: it is absolutely cool beans to express yourself. Whether you’re painting with all the colors of the wind or belting out tunes like a rockstar shower singer, we are all celebrating those unique vibes. So, in a nutshell, if this book was a pizza, it would be topped with dreams and sprinkled with self-expression sparkles.
What is the next book in Bernard’s Lesson’s that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Yes, the million-dollar question! Well, let us spill the beans on Bernard’s next adventure. Currently, we are cooking up a storm in Bernard’s world. We have two tantalizing installments available for readers now: “Bernard’s Lesson: Participating in a Classroom World” and “Bernard’s Lesson: A First Field Trip”. So stay tuned because Bernard’s next escapades promise a journey of laughter and learning.
Author Website
“Benard’s Lessons” is a captivating tale that reminds both young and old alike of the power of empathy and friendship in navigating life’s ups and downs. Join Bernard and his friends as they discover that embracing their emotions is the key to a successful and fulfilling life.
Adventures with Granny
In Adventures with Granny: Butterflies and Bravery by H. R. Conklin, young readers are introduced to Hazel and her brother Finn, who revel in the warmth and wisdom of their Granny’s company. Over a summer stay, Hazel grapples with mixed feelings about embarking on adventures far from home, her excitement tinged with anxiety. Through Hazel’s eyes, Conklin masterfully explores the nuances of anxiety affecting daily activities, offering readers a nuanced portrayal of this common emotional experience.
Hazel’s journey is one of gradual discovery, learning to navigate her anxieties with Granny’s guidance. The narrative is skillfully woven with themes of environmental stewardship, portrayed through Granny’s harmonious relationship with nature, which enriches the story without becoming moralistic. Finn’s boundless enthusiasm adds a lively contrast, enhancing the dynamic between the characters. This book not only serves as a gentle introduction to recognizing and understanding anxiety but also emphasizes that experiencing anxiety is a normal part of life. For myself, the story resonated on a personal level, clarifying aspects of social anxiety through its thoughtful depiction of Hazel’s challenges and triumphs.
Adventures with Granny is an educational tool that fosters emotional intelligence through engaging storytelling. It is ideal for young readers aged 6 and up, providing a delightful read for both shared and independent reading sessions on a leisurely summer day. This charming adventure offers both warmth and wisdom, making it a valuable addition to any young reader’s library.
Pages: 148 | ASIN : B0CZJGZ2PD
Nuestra Hermosa Familia
Nuestra Hermosa Familia, by Miss Ayoku Joseph, is a bilingual picture book that deftly interweaves Spanish and English, presenting a valuable tool for young readers embarking on language acquisition. The book celebrates family ties through engaging storytelling and vivid illustrations. It distinguishes itself with an interactive method of introducing family member names in both languages, providing an enriching experience for young learners.
Readers meet Mary and her relatives, ranging from her brother to her grandparents, with names presented in both English and Spanish. This approach not only expands the vocabulary of young readers but also enhances their appreciation of diverse family dynamics. The artwork in Nuestra Hermosa Familia merits particular attention for its warmth and charm, capturing the essence of familial joy and intergenerational bonds. The combination of expressive illustrations and bilingual narrative makes this book an excellent selection for bedtime reading, educational activities in classrooms, and engaging family reading sessions. It also serves as an effective educational resource, fostering cognitive development within a multicultural framework.
For parents and educators looking to bolster a child’s linguistic abilities and expose them to cultural diversity, Nuestra Hermosa Familia offers a delightful and instructive addition to any young reader’s collection.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0CQGWXXNS
Celebrate Differences
Carmel Goes to School follows a golden doodle therapy dog who on a visit to a school helps children learn about kindness and uniqueness. What was the inspiration for your story?
In a nutshell, my experiences as a parent of a neurodivergent child and my novel concept of the therapy dog as the teacher assistant inspired me. When my daughter was younger, she used to be very eager to share her interests with her peers. However, her peers were not always interested in listening to too many details of those interests. This is a common behavior that many autistic children display. They do not realize that this excessive talk can impact their interactions. I always wondered about how we can help children who are neurodivergent and who simply cannot instantly stop their certain behaviors. As I innovate in the area of including therapy dogs in educational settings, I also noticed that my therapy dog becomes a teacher assistant. We explain what this concept means on my social media and in my book “Children and therapy dog teams: Innovative collaborations to make a difference for children,” written with an amazing teacher, Lucinda Ormiston. I decided to include my therapy dog as a book character who comes to school and interacts with children to teach them about the brilliance of children whose behavior might not be considered as a norm.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Halina Kiskis?
My sister illustrated the book. This is her first illustrated book. She is a fine arts artist who works with oils and other techniques. She graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in Krakow. Some time ago, she drew my dog for a post on instagram and I saw the amazing potential she has in drawing animals, not just people. When my book idea was born, I naturally thought of asking her to illustrate my book. I thought she would do an amazing job and that this opportunity could also help her in adding illustrating to her artistic experiences. She loved the idea and loved my story. The rest of the process was quite easy, actually. My sister created sketches for all illustrations and showed them to me for feedback. I liked all her ideas right away. She knew exactly how to illustrate every section of the text and I loved all her creative ideas. She was delighted to do it and put a lot of creative effort into it. I know it sounds almost impossible to have such a smooth process but that’s what exactly happened. She is an amazing illustrator. She just needed to start.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
There were two important aspects. First, I wanted to help all main-stream children gain some useful strategies that would allow them to see ways in which they can benefit from interacting with children who might appear different. Autistic children are often asked to stop certain behaviors, while the rest of the population is not taught strategies of how to handle neurodivergent minds in a way that can benefit everyone. It is not always possible for such a child to simply stop a behavior that is an integral part of this child’s personality and condition. While it is important to know that we need to celebrate differences, I think it is crucial to understand why it is important to celebrate them and know exactly how. I also wanted to showcase the power of including therapy animals in educational settings. As I volunteer as a therapy dog handler, I see that therapy animals have the potential to improve the classroom community. Therapy animals can teach children many social and emotional skills because children love to learn from therapy animals who come to visit them. Such learning is different than learning from teachers.
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, this is the first book in the series. I am not sure yet as far as when the next one will come out but potentially at the beginning of 2025.
Author Links: Website
A Fairy On My Sleeve
Mari Sherkin’s A Fairy on My Sleeve offers a delightful exploration of imagination and attentiveness, wrapped in a narrative that appeals to the child in all of us. The book centers on a young girl, inspired by her childhood readings about fairies and toadstools, who finds solace in her make-believe world of gentle creatures. As an adult, she grapples with the line between fantasy and reality when she encounters a fairy while reading under a tree. This encounter prompts a thoughtful reflection on belief and the magic of the ordinary.
Sherkin’s tale serves as a charming reminder that magic can be found in everyday life if only one takes the time to look closely. It encourages young readers—and perhaps adults too—to pause and observe the world with wonder, suggesting that even the most familiar environments, like a backyard or a local park, hold unseen treasures. The illustrations by David Gnass enrich this enchanting story, turning each page into a visual delight that pulls the reader deeper into the narrative. The depiction of the fairy is particularly striking, leaving readers to ponder whether those fleeting glimmers in the twilight could indeed be more than mere tricks of light.
A Fairy on My Sleeve is perfectly pitched for young readers while also offering a whimsical escape for adults. It encourages a slower, more observant approach to our fast-paced world and is a refreshing read for anyone open to finding a bit of magic in the mundane. This book is a delightful addition to any reader’s collection, promising to inspire a renewed appreciation for the power of imagination.
Pages: 38 | ISBN : 1645434354
LITERARY TITAN 