Blog Archives
The Girl and Her Noble Steed
The Girl and Her Noble Steed by Kirthana Fanning is a delightful and imaginative story that centers on Ofe, a young orphan with a remarkable affinity for animal riding. Set on the island of Ginobe, the story unfolds as Ofe endeavors to utilize her unique skill to rescue her orphanage. The annual Gino Games, featuring a pivotal race, presents Ofe with an opportunity to win a prize that could secure the orphanage’s future. However, achieving this goal requires the unlikely assistance of a curmudgeonly old man, humorously dubbed “Sir Frowns-a-lot,” and his donkey, Zo.
Fanning’s storytelling is refreshingly original and imbued with a whimsical charm reminiscent of Roald Dahl’s work. The narrative is sprinkled with humor and warmth, engaging readers of all ages. The book’s illustrations, evocative of the early 2000s animated series “The Proud Family,” add a layer of visual appeal with their exaggerated, comedic style.
The writing style is a standout aspect of this book. Fanning employs language that resonates with younger audiences without sacrificing depth or humor. Ofe’s portrayal is particularly endearing and authentic; she is depicted with the innocence and humor characteristic of her age. For instance, in a light-hearted moment, Ofe checks her breath before embarking on a task, adding a touch of humor and depth to her character. Beyond the underdog theme, the story delves into themes of faith and reliance on higher powers. Ofe’s trust in God to aid her and the orphanage adds a meaningful dimension to the tale.
The Girl and Her Noble Steed is a skillfully crafted story that combines humor, imagination, and heartfelt moments. It’s a compelling read for a diverse audience, offering more than just entertainment but also a poignant message about faith and perseverance.
Pages: 100 | ASIN : B0CKS19H5T
Bobby and His Hobby
Bobby and His Hobby by Shlomo Goldman offers a thoughtful exploration of the consequences of teasing among young children, centered around the character Bobby, an elephant who uses unkind nicknames for his classmates. The story thoughtfully illustrates that Bobby’s behavior stems from his own insecurities, particularly his fear of the dark. This children’s book is particularly suited for young readers embarking on their school journey, as it navigates the complex themes of bullying and empathy in an accessible manner.
Goldman’s narrative is complemented by vibrant illustrations that effectively convey the emotions of each character, reminiscent of animated cartoons in their expressiveness. This visual storytelling enhances the book’s appeal, making it not just a reading experience but also a visual journey. A key strength of the book is its portrayal of the transformation of Bobby’s character. As he learns the impact of his actions and changes his behavior, the story unfolds to show the positive outcomes of friendship and understanding. The narrative thoughtfully depicts how Bobby’s peers respond with compassion to his situation, providing a valuable lesson in empathy and kindness.
Bobby and His Hobby is a meaningful addition to children’s literature, offering young readers insights into dealing with difficult behaviors and understanding the fears that often underlie them.
Pages: 20 | ASIN : B0CLDD2YRV
Heaven is the Ultimate Reality
Puppy Love: A Waggity Tale follows a young dog who joins a family with an older dog and his experiences bonding and growing older with his new big brother. What was the inspiration for your story?
Sadly, the truth of the matter is that we’d had 5 pets die within a few years. The oldest being Momma, my Eurasian Ring-neck Dove. Her life expectancy had been 5-7 years of age but she reached a whopping 25 years old. Have you ever lost a friend of 25 years?
In less than 2 years, we’d lost 3 dogs, 2 birds and a close family friend. The most heartbreaking void, and the worst of these was a puppy named Xander Puppy. He was a rescue, but we had no idea how sick he was. I had so much pain that it didn’t fit in my soul. The only relief I got was creating the illustrations of the dogs being happy and in Heaven. It wasn’t even something I could properly talk about before that.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Firstly, don’t simply exclude someone. If you do that, you could be missing out on a life-long friend.
I don’t know that it might be considered as educational, but the big lesson here is that Heaven is the ultimate reality. That is why I painted the skies, while the rest of the illustrations are cut paper.
To anyone who’s mourning, let me say, I know the pain is soul-smashing now, but you will see them again.
It’s funny, I suppose that I think of death much differently. I rarely say, “Died.” I normally say, “They graduated.” I don’t know if that’s a theology or a defense mechanism, but it works wonders for me.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The scenes without words, where there are only pictures to tell the story. If that’s what you happen to be going for, those scenes have to be exact. Ergo, they take a while. Since I’m quite fussy with my work, those were the most satisfying.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m working on a comedy series for tweens and up. I’ve nearly finished the second book in the series. However, these are still in edits, so there is no way to release a publication date. The first in the series is titled, “The Knight, The Pig-wizard And The Dragon.” If you like clean comedy, look for it in 2024.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
Beautiful cut paper illustrations grace award-wining artist and poet, Angel Dunworth’s, book, Puppy Love: A Waggity Tale. Will every dog truly have its day? Find out in this contemporary classic that not only tickles the funny-bone, but also touches the heart. —
The Secret Life of Bears
Are you ready to uncover a secret? Embark on an enchanting journey with a delightful little bear in The Secret Life of Bears by Joann Slead. This beautifully crafted book offers a unique, parabolic introduction to the Christian faith, engaging readers of all ages in a magical exploration.
Illustrated with the gentle and vivid artistry of Mohamed Daamouche, each page of this book is a visual and narrative delight. The story uses the metaphor of bears to subtly and effectively convey the paternal love of Jesus, presenting it in a manner that is both clever and comforting. This approach makes the book a standout, particularly in its ability to communicate complex themes in an accessible and engaging way.
The Secret Life of Bears serves as a luminous beacon in an age where the essence of Jesus’ message is often obscured or misunderstood. It gently guides the reader through the core tenets of the Christian faith, making them understandable and relatable. The allegory of the little bear and his father brings to life the message of acceptance and fatherly love at the heart of Christianity. This narrative simplicity, free from denominational complexities, makes the book a rare and invaluable resource for readers of all backgrounds. The book is not just a mere introduction to Christian themes; it is an invitation to a deeper understanding of cultural and historical contexts influenced by Christian teachings. From art and music to pivotal historical moments, the book offers insights into how Christian beliefs have shaped various aspects of society.
A testament to its excellence, The Secret Life of Bears leaves readers longing for more. Its vibrant illustrations, straightforward storytelling, and heartfelt message collectively earn it a well-deserved five out of five stars. Ideal for bedtime reading or educational storytime, this book is a perfect choice for those already within the faith or for newcomers seeking an approachable and meaningful introduction to the core messages of Christianity.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0BPXMKD2P
Maya and Waggers: I Have to Scoop What?
Maya and Waggers: I Have to Scoop What? offers readers a charming and insightful glimpse into the life of Maya, a young girl who embarks on the adventure of pet ownership with the arrival of her new puppy, Waggers. As her first encounter with a dog, Maya’s excitement is palpable, but she quickly learns that owning a pet comes with its own set of challenges, notably the less glamorous aspect of scooping poop. This narrative, crafted with a blend of humor and realism, explores the responsibilities and joys of pet ownership through Maya’s eyes.
Author W.T. Kosmos skillfully captures the essence of childhood curiosity and responsibility. Maya’s character is portrayed authentically, mirroring the behavior and mindset of a child her age. Her reactions and solutions to the challenges of pet care, alongside her friend Lily, are both inventive and relatable. Kosmos’s portrayal of a young girl navigating the ups and downs of pet ownership is a refreshing take in a genre often dominated by male protagonists and their canine companions. The book’s humor is subtle yet effective, keeping readers engaged and chuckling from start to finish. The character dynamics and the portrayal of Maya’s neighborhood hint at the potential for future stories in this setting. The illustrations, though limited in number, enrich the narrative with their delightful visual charm, leaving readers eager for more.
Maya and Waggers: I Have to Scoop What? is a light-hearted and enjoyable read that offers a nuanced perspective on young pet ownership, balancing the responsibilities with the intrinsic joy pets bring into our lives. Kosmos’s ability to channel a child’s viewpoint makes this book a delightful addition to children’s literature.
Pages: 91 | ASIN : B0CLL1KNLS
Good Boy Lukey & the Dream Crumbs
Good Boy Lukey & the Dream Crumbs is an enchanting tale written by Linda Beck that masterfully blends the magical with the comforting. In this heartwarming narrative, we are introduced to Lukey, a remarkable dog bestowed with extraordinary powers. Lukey’s unique ability to sprinkle dream crumbs over children’s eyes, ensuring they slumber peacefully with only the happiest of dreams–a delightful twist on the traditional Sandman lore.
Beck’s narrative style is eloquently simple, yet captivating, making it an ideal choice for early readers. The book’s illustrations are a joy to behold, depicting Lukey in a charming superhero cape – an element that will resonate with young readers, especially those who have pets. The imagery of Lukey, consistently portrayed with an expression of joy, adds an extra layer of warmth and relatability to the story. This story takes readers on a gentle journey into a world where kindness and protection reign supreme, led by Lukey’s endearing character. This makes it a splendid read for young audiences, particularly as a calming bedtime story. The book not only offers an engaging narrative but also inspires young minds to view their own pets in a new, heroic light.
I highly recommend Good Boy Lukey & the Dream Crumbs to young readers and their parents. It’s a beautifully crafted tale that turns bedtime reading into a magical experience, celebrating the special bond between children and their pets. This book is not just a story; it’s a nightly ritual that could make any pet feel like a superhero in the eyes of a child.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0CJH4CG8P
It is Important to be Humble
Tectonic Teff follows a strong young grain who thinks he can repair the entire village alone after an earthquake and learns that it is okay to ask others for help. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration is my mother who, as a single mother, worked extremely hard at raising me and at acclimating to a new country. It is with the help of the community around us that we will forever be grateful for. My mother was proactive and was very open to receiving guidance from others and she constantly gives back in return. Tectonic Teff doesn’t have the same personality as my mom though, he is quite different but transforms after a natural disaster forces him to learn big lessons!
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Mosh. Fajar Shobaru?
Mosh. Fajar Shobaru is a great artist. I have multiple artists for the books in my series Growing Pains of the Grains and they are all very talented. The collaboration process took a lot of time and many drafts since I am very particular about how I would like the illustrations to express the story and Mosh. Fajar Shobaru used his talent and abundant patience with me.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The biggest lesson in this book I believe is learning to be free from pride or arrogance and that it is important to be humble because we all need others at times no matter how strong we think we are alone.
What will the next book in that series be about, and when will it be published?
Tectonic Teff is the 7th book in my series Growing Pains of the Grains, and the next book is yet to be determined, but it’s exciting to think about it!
Author Website
Puppy Love: A Waggity Tale
Puppy Love: A Waggity Tale, by Angel Dunworth, is a heartwarming and profound journey seen through the eyes of Puppers, the dog. This enchanting tale narrates the life of Puppers and his cherished bond with his fur-brother, Bowser. The story begins with Puppers, a curious young pup, experiencing the complexities of forming a new relationship with Bowser. What unfolds is a beautifully evolving friendship that captures the essence of companionship and love.
The narrative, told from Puppers’ perspective, masterfully intertwines the blissful innocence of youth with the inevitable challenges and changes life brings. This book explores the full spectrum of emotions, from the heights of joy to the depths of sorrow, teaching valuable lessons about life’s temporariness. The first-person storytelling is compelling and resonant, making every emotion palpable and drawing the reader into the world of this adorable pet.
The artistry of the book deserves special mention. The detailed cut-paper art on each page adds a unique dimension to the story, enhancing its emotional depth and personal touch. While the absence of faces on the human characters in the artwork might be a surprise, it shifts the focus back to the canine protagonists, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in their world.
This book is more than just a pet tale; it’s a profound exploration of grief and change. It’s true that the title and cover might suggest a lighter, more carefree story, but what lies within is a rich, complex narrative that delves deep into understanding and coping with loss. This story is ideally suited for readers aged 7 and up, offering a sensitive and insightful perspective on the nuances of grief and the beauty of life.
Puppy Love: A Waggity Tale is an exquisite blend of simple storytelling and profound emotional depth. It’s a poignant, memorable journey that leaves a lasting impact, making it an excellent choice for young readers ready to explore the intricate emotions of life and loss.
Pages: 44 | ASIN : B0C51TYVK6
LITERARY TITAN 