Blog Archives
Zero Discrimination
Fairy Day Games follows a creative and imaginative child who goes on a whimsical adventure to the Fairy Day Games, meets fairies and discovers new friends. What was the inspiration for your story?
I was actually writing another fairy story at the time and one night my husband and I decided to watch an old movie. The movie was located in a very small, quaint town which was holding an old fashioned county fair.
My mind turned to fairies as it often does when I am writing and I wondered, what if the fairies had a fair? A whole day of fun and games organized by the fairy folk and their magical friends. What would that be like? After that, the rhymes just started coming to me.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
One thing that was important to me was that I wanted to have a lot of diversity in Fairy World. That was one of the things I remembered from the fairy stories of my childhood – everyone was a different creature but it didn’t matter. They all lived and worked together and were helpful and kind, no matter if you were a fairy, a mole or an imp. There was zero discrimination.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator David Gnass?
David Gnass, the very talented illustrator of Fairy Day Games, did the art for my first book A Fairy On My Sleeve, so I knew I wanted him again for Fairy Day Games. I gave him some broad guidelines and my vision for the book, then basically just gave him the reins.
He really did a beautiful job with the illustrations. One thing I wanted was a lot of detail in the pictures, so even younger children who didn’t read yet could look at the pictures for hours and see something new each time. He certainly did accomplish this.
As I had collaborated with him before, I wanted to see what he came up with on his own, character wise and I absolutely adore the characters he created.
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?
This is my second fairy book but it is not exactly a series, it is more of a theme. I have two more books ready for illustration – both with fairies – and two more works in progress, one being my first chapter book.
I am also working on a musical project, a wonderful album of songs for children. The first song is going to be filmed as a video this summer and hopefully will be released in the autumn. It is all very exciting!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter
Meeting Nanny Heather
Meeting Nanny Heather, by Marianne Selinger, deftly navigates the complex emotions of children facing significant changes in their daily routines. This children’s story artfully begins with Nicole and Nathan apprehensively anticipating their mother’s first day at a new job, marking their own first encounter with a nanny. Selinger captures the essence of this familial transition, portraying the siblings’ initial trepidation as they watch their mother leave and face an uncertain day ahead.
The narrative unfolds with Nanny Heather, whose thoughtful plans and engaging demeanor gradually transform the children’s initial dread into a memorable and enjoyable experience. Selinger’s narrative skillfully reflects the challenges and adjustments a family undergoes when adapting to a new work schedule, making the book particularly relatable for both children and their parents. The book’s illustrations enrich the storytelling, effectively conveying the range of emotions experienced by the characters. Selinger’s work not only empathizes with the anxiety young readers might feel but also provides valuable insights for parents. It opens avenues for discussing family dynamics and the impact of such transitions on children.
Meeting Nanny Heather emerges as an essential addition to family bookshelves, school libraries, and guidance resources. It’s a thoughtful exploration of adapting to change, capturing the resilience of children and the supportive role adults can play in easing their transition.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0BNLXX1RW
River
River, by Dr. Calvin James, skillfully intertwines themes of nature, family, sacrifice, and grief into a narrative that fully engages its young readers. The story revolves around Renly, a boy who embodies the essence of a stream. His unique lineage, with a mother depicted as a brook and a father who was a fleeting snowstorm, sets the stage for an imaginative exploration of the natural world. Renly’s upbringing in the forest, surrounded by a communicative and vibrant ecosystem, fuels his aspiration to become a river, symbolizing growth and transformation.
Dr. James’ writing style adeptly balances poetic flair with accessibility for children, effectively introducing literary techniques like repetition and personification. This dual approach captivates young minds and serves as an educational resource for introducing complex literary concepts. The book’s enchanting illustrations and vivid descriptions of the forest environment are instrumental in nurturing an appreciation for nature among its readers. A notable aspect of this book is its portrayal of Renly and his family as people of color, executed with realism and beauty. This representation enriches the narrative and contributes to the diversification of characters in children’s literature. Moreover, Renly’s journey through various emotional landscapes, including how he seeks and accepts assistance, provides valuable lessons in emotional intelligence and resilience.
River is an enriching read for children aged 8-12. It features an unconventional ending that, while it may be thought-provoking for some, also holds the potential to deeply resonate with young readers who have encountered similar experiences, offering them comfort and profound insights.
Dr. Calvin James’ River is a thoughtful addition to any collection, particularly for those navigating difficult life experiences or seeking to diversify their reading material with inclusive characters. Its unique storytelling and character development approach makes it a compelling read for a broad audience.
Pages: 27 | ASIN : B0CZQP7MCN
No Dog Food, Please!
Linda Costarella’s No Dog Food, Please! is a charming children’s novel that explores themes of adjustment, family dynamics, and the special bond between animals and humans. The story, seen through the eyes of Jack, a Labrador Retriever, transitions from city life to rural farm living, offering an engaging contrast for young readers.
The opening chapter, “I’ve Been Moved,” skillfully introduces readers to the family dynamics, highlighting the differing attitudes of the stern grandfather and the more understanding grandmother. As the story progresses, the focus shifts to Jack’s day-to-day farm experiences, presenting a thoughtful exploration of his adjustment process and the family’s life, including their market activities and the grandfather’s traditional views on animals. This portion of the book paints a vivid picture of Jack’s world, lending authenticity to the setting.
The narrative then moves to explore Jack’s interactions with the children, offering a delightful contrast to the grandfather’s views and underscoring the generational differences in perceiving pets. These episodes are particularly effective in showcasing the growing bond between Jack and the children, infusing the story with warmth. The novel revisits Jack’s past, giving readers a poignant glimpse into the events that led to his relocation. This backstory enriches the narrative by providing deeper insight into Jack’s character and emotions.
One thing I particularly enjoyed about this book is the depiction of a family birthday party, which serves as a pivotal moment in illustrating the family dynamics and the affectionate relationship between the children and Jack. This festive element adds wonderful depth to the narrative. The novel culminates in a storyline focused on Jack’s distaste for dog food and his connection with Ben, a child who sympathizes with him. This aspect not only adds a touch of relatability for young readers but also underscores themes of understanding and acceptance within the family amidst adult apprehensions.
No Dog Food, Please! is a delightful and heartwarming tale that expertly captures the nuances of change and the sense of belonging. Costarella’s storytelling has a particular resonance with children, reflecting their experiences of adapting to new environments. The book’s accessible narrative and relatable themes make it an appealing choice for young readers, especially those fond of animal stories.
Pages: 333 | ASIN: B0CJR3G4FM
Believe In Yourself
Hatch Chile Willie follows a chile farmer from New Mexico who discovers in his greenhouse a Hatch Chile who has come to life and plays a guitar. What was the inspiration for your story?
I was driving to Las Cruces for a book signing in southern New Mexico with my husband and our German Shepherd, Bliss. We were about thirty minutes away from our destination, when I looked out the window noticing a breathtaking green landscape next to the Rio Grande. I exclaimed to my husband, “Oh Guy, can we please stop here?!” It was a charming little town called Hatch, New Mexico, “The Chile Capital of the World”! After our enchanting road trip, I researched all about the tiny town of Hatch, NM, along with the world known distinct delicious Hatch Chile… my imagination prevailed, creating Hatch Chile Willie.
Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become a writer?
One author who truly inspired me on my journey as a writer was Shel Silverstein. His books are pure genius, engaging, thought provoking, and imaginative. I am always amazed at his wonderful talent of using words, poetry, illustrations, etc., to capture and engage the reader. I especially remember reading and rereading his wonderful children’s picture book, “The Giving Tree” as a child and later in life as a teacher.
What advice would you give to a new writer working on their first children’s book?
My advice to a new writer working on their first children’s book is to allow yourself a quiet time and space to gather and create your thoughts over time. For example, ideas and thoughts may come in the middle of the night, have a journal next to your bed to write down what comes to mind to reflect on later. Lastly, believe in yourself and your abilities as a writer…persevere in your dream of creating a masterpiece.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I always feel consummated and at peace after a book has been published. My next book is a lingering mystery within me, as I ponder upon sequels to books that I have written, or something totally unprecedented.
Author Links: Amazon | Facebook
Suddenly, he is startled by beautiful Spanish music and a reddish-green light! What will happen next?
Fairy Day Games
In Fairy Day Games by Mari Sherkin, readers are invited into an enchanting narrative where the author, portraying herself as a child, vividly imagines participating in the delightful activities of a fairy world. This book stands out with its unique perspective of a young Sherkin observing and longing to join the fairies in their joyful celebrations. The sense of wonder and yearning to dance, sing, and share sweet treats alongside the fairies permeates the story, highlighting the themes of love and friendship.
As a reader, I was immediately captivated by this approach. I felt as if I were beside the author, sharing in the awe of the fairy world’s charm. The use of a childlike viewpoint adds a refreshing element to the narrative, making the reader feel part of the magical Fairy Day Games. This engaging style evokes a sense of eagerness and joy in participating in the fairies’ festivities. One of the book’s notable aspects is its rhyming verse, a feature that enhances its appeal. The attention to detail in the rhyme is exceptional, making it a delightful read from the outset. The rhythmic quality of the text is likely to resonate with children, making it enjoyable both for being read to and for young readers vocalizing the story themselves. David Gnass’s illustrations complement the narrative beautifully, with full-page, vibrant imagery that brings the festive and magical scenes to life. These illustrations are a joy for both children and adults, perfectly capturing the essence of Sherkin’s fairy world and adding depth to the story.
Fairy Day Games is a charming book particularly suited for children aged 4-8. Its blend of imaginative storytelling, lyrical rhymes, and captivating illustrations make it an engaging read. This book is an enjoyable journey into a whimsical world, one that I highly recommend for its ability to transport readers into the heart of a day filled with fairy games.
Pages: 38 | ISBN : 1637555067
Helping to Heal Families
Friendly Foxes follows a family of foxes who are going through big changes in their family and dealing with big emotions. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for this story came from two sources during one VERY intense week of my life. The fox family was inspired by my dog of almost 13 years (who looked just like an arctic fox) who passed away the same week my divorce was finalized. I started to paint him, and the story just started to pour out of my soul. I couldn’t say this story was from my heart, because it was still broken. I spent several months painting and healing. Once I was complete, I felt whole again. I felt healed. The book healed me. I could have stopped there but I felt compelled to share this book to help heal families all over the world. I felt this book honored both my beloved dog and my process of a kind divorce. This book means the world to me. If I can help just one child or parent going through this process, then it’s all worth it to me to make this story public.
Divorce is a hard time for everyone involved. What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
There were several factors when creating this book that when I reflect on them, make perfect sense. I’m not sure if in the moment I was fully aware of them, to be honest:
- The characters are animals so any race or gender can hopefully see themselves in these characters.
- I tried to make the story a marriage/partnership to acknowledge some families are not married when they separate, and that’s okay. The intention is for everyone going through the process of separation or divorce to feel included.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The KEY messages I wanted to convey through this book was first to have a child feel understood and seen. To acknowledge that their feelings matter. Another message was that Divorce/Separation could be seen as a healthy choice for families and create the idea that friendship and grace can be a part of the process. Divorce doesn’t have to be a bad word; it can be kind.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’ve been asked to PLEASE make this into a series: Discuss the many topics/areas of divorce with kindness; what is nesting, or meeting new partners; etc. I am definitely exploring this. Most likely it will be birds as the main characters.
By encouraging their Cubs to acknowledge and honour their feelings, they can all look forward to an exciting new life chapter!
Written & Illustrated by: Jesse Bettio
About the Author & Illustrator:
Jesse Bettio is a Single Mom, living in the countryside of Ontario, Canada. She took inspiration from nature and created this book during her separation and finalization of divorce:
“This book came directly from my soul, I cannot say it was from my heart, because it was still broken. This book truly healed me. My intention by sharing this book is that it can heal the hearts of single parents and children all over the world.”
I hope this book brings comfort.
I hope this book encourages conversations,
And I especially hope this book brings excitement for a new life chapter!
Oatis and Muriel: A Grocery Story
In the enchanting children’s book Oatis and Muriel, author Daphne Herlihy takes young readers on a nocturnal adventure in a corner grocery store. Here, after the lights go out and the doors are locked, the story’s protagonists, a humble oat named Oatis and his cereal companion Muriel, lead a cast of lively grocery items on a night filled with friendship, music, and unexpected heroism.
Herlihy’s narrative is a delightful blend of whimsy and gentle life lessons. The author uses the setting of a grocery store to bring everyday items to life, creating a sense of wonder and excitement. The character development is particularly noteworthy; Oatis’s transformation from a simple oat to a charismatic leader is both charming and inspiring. Meanwhile, Muriel’s journey from a self-doubting cereal to a confident and brave character serves as a heartening example of overcoming insecurities. The story effectively communicates the importance of self-confidence and teamwork.
The illustration work by Carolyn Bull complements the story beautifully, turning the mundane into the magical. The whimsical depictions of food items, from dancing fruits to a string cheese quartet, add a layer of vibrancy to the story. One of the standout scenes is the dramatic moment when Oatis falls from the shelf, vividly illustrated to capture both the tension of the moment and the unity of the characters as they come together to save him. This captivating moment ties in seamlessly with the narrative’s emphasis on community support and friendship.
Oatis and Muriel is a sweet and imaginative picture book that resonates with a message of camaraderie and self-acceptance. It’s an uplifting read that encourages children to believe in themselves and the power of teamwork. The book is ideally suited for young readers aged 4-8, offering an engaging story and a gentle nudge toward understanding important social and emotional concepts. Parents and educators looking for a book that combines fun, fantasy, and meaningful messages will find Oatis and Muriel to be a delightful addition to their collection of kid’s books.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0CQB62FDZ
LITERARY TITAN 