Blog Archives
Having Faith
The Movie Chair follows an enchanted theater seat that loves providing for children however they need while they are in the theater. What was the inspiration for your story?
As a child, my mother took my brother, myself, and neighborhood kids to the movies a lot as our form of cinema therapy. My mother had also written a few unpublished children’s stories for her grandchildren. I wanted to get back into my creative spirit again since I was a semi-retired art therapist.
My creative background consists of: painting, writing, creating a series of children’s meditation CDs, and producing youtube educational art and cooking videos. After my mother passed, I found a story she tried to write, incorporating a loving movie chair, but it was very politically incorrect. LOL. I decided to reconstruct it by combining it with my guided imagery meditation stories that I wrote for children. This is how “The Story Room”, “The Movie Chair,” and its sequel, “The Magic Movie Chair Adventures,” were created. In this book, The Movie Chair flies out the window with the children and their pet bird, “Sneaky Tweets.” to experience amazing new adventures.
What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your character of the chair?
I feel that the story is based on Karma, that what you put out comes back to you eventually. And It’s a story about having Faith, everything works itself out, and miracles happen.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Encouraging young children to explore their creativity and use their imaginations instead of playing video games. In some ways, just bringing back simple family values.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
The Magic Movie Chair Adventures
Once I find an established publisher, I’ll move forward with publishing the book. I am also looking into an animation series too.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
When all seems well, adversity strikes when the movie theater is remodeled, and the chair finds herself learning a new lesson on a different adventure than she ever expected. But things have a way of working themselves out by having faith. I know that The Movie Chair will reach children and touch many hearts.
I Want To Inspire Kids
Ranbir follows a 7-year-old boy who takes a challenge to fold the state of Nebraska 50 times and winds up on an adventure learning higher mathematics. What was the inspiration for the original and fascinating idea at the center of the book?
It all goes back to my fascination with the scale on a slide rule. I’d never been taught how to use one — how is it possible to make such complicated calculations just by sliding two sticks together? When Buck imagines the state of Nebraska as one huge sheet of 20# copy paper, the principle of doubling what was doubled before begins to take shape in his mind. The slide rule follows the same idea, except each doubling gets squished into the same space as the previous one.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
That kids can be introduced to mathematical concepts well above their grade level using very simple imagery. And keep it outrageously funny to make it easier to remember.
This book is really intended not for kids, but for adult teachers and educators who can interactively communicate these ideas to their students.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
I wanted to maintain the exuberance and innocence of a seven-year-old as he navigates a world of ideas, catch-phrases, expectations, and challenges. From “I can’t do this, this is way beyond me” (I’m just a little kid!) to “Huh! I just learned something. I just did something!”
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I do not have another book in mind at this time. However, Atmosphere Press is helping me set up a website, ranbirsliderule.com. I hope this might serve as a base to inspire fresh ideas for introducing math — perhaps other STEM subjects as well — to young kids (and curious adults) on a count-on-your-fingers level.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
My name is Buck O’Doul. I’m only seven years old. I decided to take up this challenge and fold the state
of Nebraska 50 times and see what I came up with.
Little did I know what I was getting into — I was being sucked into the world of higher mathematics, squares and square roots, hooky things, squishy scales and logarithms, and all pretty much just by counting on my fingers!
Opened
Upon first glance, Emma Harper may seem to be an ordinary high school sophomore navigating the mundane complexities of her everyday life. However, her world dramatically shifts when she experiences sudden blindness, instigating a fearful anticipation that her life may have irrevocably changed. When her sight returns, Emma’s perception is altered, and she finds herself unsure of the new reality her vision presents. This ignites an intriguing question – what new challenges will Emma have to confront daily?
In Opened, S.T. Sanchez crafts an extraordinary narrative that bridges the gap between our human realm and the ethereal Fey world. The author exhibits a unique character-building talent, sculpting personalities from both universes with such veracity that they spring to life in the reader’s imagination. The vivid, multifaceted portrayal of these characters and the worlds they inhabit is nothing short of magical. The Fey world, in particular, was so authentically depicted that I found myself thoroughly immersed, experiencing its mystical allure firsthand. It was as though this world transcended fiction and gained an existence of its own.
The dynamic between Emma and Dante, our protagonists, was captivating. Despite the chasm of difference that separates their respective worlds, there was an underlying hope that their paths would converge in a meaningful way. Their journey, filled with unexpected twists and high-stakes crises, had me engrossed, my heart pounding in sync with the escalating tension in the plot. Throughout the narrative, I found myself rooting for Emma and Dante, hoping they could navigate their conflicts and potentially realize the profound bond developing between them.
From its compelling world-building to its intricate characters and engaging plot, Opened secured my interest from the outset and kept me hooked until the very last page. While it is perfectly suited for preteen and teenage readers, it also extends an invitation to adult readers. As an adult reviewer, I can attest to the novel’s broad appeal and thoroughly enjoyed this standalone story from S.T. Sanchez.
Pages: 285 | ASIN : B0C3FVD944
Naomi Nash: The Mystery of the Ball Python
In the captivating children’s book Naomi Nash: The Mystery of the Ball Python by Jessica Lee Anderson, our nearly nine-year-old protagonist, Naomi, together with her brother Nolan and her friends Taylor and Emma, unexpectedly become the caretakers of a snake discovered at a construction site. Naomi, a snake aficionado, yearns to have a pet of her own. In the serpentine Fin, she sees a potential companion, but she must first ensure the snake’s needs are adequately met and that he does not already belong to someone else.
Naomi Nash: The Mystery of the Ball Python is an exceptional addition to children’s literature. Crafted with a keen understanding of a child’s perspective, it emanates vibrancy and curiosity. This text is characterized by concise chapters interspersed with dynamic illustrations. Illustrator Alejandra Barajas delivers masterful visuals, including details like the shadow cast by a puppy gate riddled with tiny holes.
The narrative is an enthralling blend of fun and educational content. Readers are treated to a wealth of information on snakes, supplemented by a comprehensive glossary, practical snake safety tips, and thought-provoking discussion questions, such as, “What are some instances where events don’t transpire as Naomi anticipated?” Naomi, aware of the diverse opinions on snakes, respectfully shares her fascination with others.
This engaging book boasts amiable characters and a wealth of knowledge about snakes. It serves as an excellent resource for any child wishing to overcome their fear of snakes or other animals. The book elegantly underscores the idea that while snakes may differ from conventional pets like dogs or cats, they nonetheless hold the potential to be beloved companions.
Pages: 113 | ASIN : B0BBYV3ZP7
Gremlin Night
In the bustling sphere of children’s literature comes a remarkable tale – Gremlin Night by Mark Dantzler. It unfolds the joyful yet complex lives of a young boy, the second smallest of five siblings, residing in a modest house brimming with love. Their seemingly everyday world takes a magical turn with the arrival of an intriguing new friend, a Gremlin. This leads to a series of fantastical escapades spearheaded by the boy and his father, proving that even in tight confines, the imagination knows no bounds.
In a whimsical fashion, Gremlin Night elegantly melds poignant storytelling with elements of fantasy. Maja Veselinovic’s intricate and heartwarming illustrations serve as a visual compass, guiding readers into this enchanted realm where each page overflows with joyous nostalgia, subtly shadowed by the grim realities of social inequity.
The tale’s climax unravels the truths not just about the Gremlin but also about the family’s situation – a stark representation of tireless parents striving to provide a joyful life for their children in the face of hardships. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the will to create beauty even amidst adversities.
Beyond its delightful narrative, Gremlin Night serves as a call to the hero within us. It underscores the societal blight of poverty that often languishes in the shadows, unheeded. As someone who has grappled with poverty, I found the tale to be a sweet yet stinging reminder of the juxtaposition of happiness and harsh realities. It sparks a renewed commitment to community-building and fostering hope for a brighter future. It affirms that even the smallest gestures of kindness can create ripples of change, perhaps even saving a life.
As a commentary on a contemporary issue wrapped in a delightful tale of magic and adventure, I award Gremlin Night a hearty recommendation. It’s an impactful yet gentle message of awareness that dares to pierce the veil of social complacency.
Recommended for ages 8 and up, this book is an ideal choice for group readings or events, fostering a deeper understanding of modern poverty. A stirring narrative that strikes a chord in the reader’s heart, Gremlin Night gracefully intertwines hope and darkness, making it a true tour de force in the realm of children’s literature.
Pages: 38 | ISBN : 1645385515
The Value of Giving
“The Wonderful Once: A Christmas Story” is a heartwarming Santa Claus origin story that follows young orphan Lucas, who, after a selfless act of kindness, is taken on a magical journey to the North Pole. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My father was a great storyteller. When I was a boy, he entertained me and my friends by reciting poems and spinning yarns. I am sure that I inherited the ability to write songs and tell stories from him.
The inspiration for The Wonderful Once: A Christmas Story came from a childhood event that taught me the value of sharing.
I applied the lesson that I learned from that event and expanded it to form the basis of the story. I placed the characters in situations that would exhibit the value of giving away something that one holds dear, in an entertaining way for children.
Since Christmastime is a time of giving, it seemed like the perfect setting for the story. The trappings of the holiday and the general spirit of the season allowed for the plot to be conveyed through some traditional experiences and a twist in the plot that added a new wrinkle to a well-established tale.
The illustrations by Erin O’Leary Brown play a significant role in bringing your story to life. Can you share more about the collaboration process between you two?
When I first approached Erin with the project, she was busy working on other tasks and was unable to get involved with the story. Happily, after a few weeks, her schedule loosened up and we were able to exchange ideas about the book. After I sent her the manuscript, she thought that we had a good match of skills and could effectively bring the book to life. From the outset, she and I agreed on ninety-nine percent of everything we thought about the manner in which the story should be illustrated. Her initial list of illustrations matched mine to a tee. Her sketches were spot on and really captured the magic and beauty of the story. We shared an identical vision of how the book should look. Working with her was a joy.
What do you hope young readers take away from Lucas’ journey and transformation in The Wonderful Once: A Christmas Story?
The most important takeaway from the story is the value of giving and how it can be transformative in one’s life.
It’s always better to be kind to others. Kindness is the most powerful magic known and will always reward the bestower as much, if not more, than the recipient.
Lucas learns these lessons from an unselfish act that he performs to make another person happy.
The initial joy of his good deed is far surpassed by the magical journey that leads him to his destiny.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
At the moment, I am working on two books.
One is a story about elves and the other is a novelty book about Grandfathers.
I would expect that one or both books will be available in 2024.
I am also working on the background music for the audiobook that will be released after the initial launch.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Facebook JR Buchta | Website
It’s an all-around feel-good story with a surprise ending and a powerful message.
Brought to life by beautiful illustrations, this enchanting tale captures the spirit of Christmas and the magic of a single good deed that changed the world forever. It has all the makings of an annual read for families at Christmastime and a fresh look at some age-old traditions that will surely pique the interest of readers.
Mangrove Sands The Enchanted Seaworld The Epic Journey
L.J. Nilsson’s captivating children’s narrative, The Enchanted Sea World: The Epic Journey, takes us on a journey filled with wonder, magic, and transformative life lessons. The story centers around six children, each grappling with a challenging past, whose lives take an extraordinary turn when they are whisked away from their gloomy existence by Parlow the Pelican and spirited to an enchanted sea world.
Their induction into this fantastical realm comes in the form of a mystical seaweed necklace inscribed with a golden ingot and a code of silence. This talisman becomes their key to unlocking the marvels of an underwater kingdom where they are free to explore and interact with an array of sea creatures and birds.
In this aquatic haven, the children embark on adventures and are taught valuable life lessons by their mentors. Nilsson skillfully infuses the narrative with a remarkable sense of whimsy and imagination that forms the backbone of this delightful book. The relationships between the children, depicted in numerous heartwarming vignettes, serve as the story’s emotional core. Scenes like Jake’s concern for Saige when she first arrives at his school, or Jake’s friendly races with Wanjee are strikingly poignant and give a refreshing authenticity to the narrative.
The enchantment of The Enchanted Sea World: The Epic Journey is further elevated by the author’s inclusion of Swedish words, thoughtfully translated into English for the readers. This element adds a unique cultural dimension to the narrative. Each character stands out with its unique personality, contributing to the narrative’s vibrancy and appeal.
Despite some pacing issues, with the story occasionally seeming to leap between scenarios without extensive elaboration, the narrative retains a certain charm. One could argue that the brisk pace aligns well with a child’s perspective, who might appreciate the excitement without demanding elaborate detail. This subtle pacing strategy ensures that the narrative remains magical and adventurous without being overwhelming. This approach makes The Enchanted Sea World: The Epic Journey a stimulating read for children, creating just the right amount of thrill.
The Enchanted Sea World: The Epic Journey by L. J. Nilsson is a mesmerizing children’s book, brimming with fantasy, exploration, and character-driven narratives. This magical journey through an undersea kingdom offers young readers an enchanting escape while subtly imparting life lessons, making it a tranquil and rewarding reading experience.
Page 173 | ASIN : B0CC613WMM
Queen Molly and Her Friends
Our pets rule our homes–let’s face it. Author Gary John and illustrator Samantha Deir know this well. They know it so well, in fact, that they have created a main character who is the queen of her home and well aware that she is in charge of her humans’ every move. Molly’s thoughts are communicated to young readers from the time she is a very young puppy leaving her home to late adulthood after living a full life of running the household. Molly’s antics keep both her owners and young readers on their toes as they follow her from one setting to the next.
Queen Molly and Her Friends, written by Gary John and illustrated by Samantha Deir, is a children’s picture book written from the perspective of a young German Shepherd who is learning, growing, and adjusting to life in a new home. What makes John’s book so special is its focus on Molly’s thoughts. Our typical reactions to our pets’ misbehavior are interpreted in a humorous way by the main character. Young readers will enjoy going along with Molly and her friend Lilly as they grow together. Deir’s illustrations are simple, colorful, and draw readers directly into the storyline.
As a pet owner myself, I appreciated the progression from puppy to adult portrayed in Molly’s story. While Molly’s story is sweet and strikes a chord with children who own pets, I feel that it lacks dialogue and is a bit heavy on narrative for young readers. The author has done an amazing job of showing young readers how a dog grows from an overactive puppy to an adult who is protective of her family and loyal to the very end.
Children and adults alike will enjoy John’s story and Deir’s sweet illustrations. The children’s book Queen Molly and Her Friends is an excellent resource for parents who are considering bringing a pet into the family.
Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0C63YD9B6
LITERARY TITAN 