Blog Archives
Empathy, Cooperation, and Problem-Solving
Huckleberry Academy: The School of Imagination, Volume I The Majestic Feather follows a shy young monkey with anxiety who has to attend a new and strange school. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
COVID was a terrible experience for us all, and it really affected my children when they had to attend school from home. After moving to a new city, my kids had to meet new friends and experience school in a whole different way. I saw the struggle that my kids went through, and I used that experience as my initial motivation to write the book.
What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
The main characters were derived from my childhood. I used to be an introvert like Bongo and afraid of everything. I was scared to experience new things and always tried to stay in my comfort zone. Mo is who I became when I grew into a man. Spontaneous, extroverted, and ready for the world. I wanted to put these two versions of myself together and create a bond between the two. The stories that I write are actual events that I went through as a kid.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes that I wanted to explore in this book were:
1. How to overcome fears and inner conflicts
2. I wanted to teach empathy, cooperation, and problem-solving skills to young readers
3. I also wanted to build children’s confidence in knowing they are not the only one who finds it difficult to make friends and through communication and cooperation they can be accepted as part of a group regardless of individual background or differences.
Where does the next book in the series take the characters? And when can readers expect the next volume?
The next book in the series will show how the main characters develop their friendship and explore new characters that were introduced in the first book. The next book will also explore the mysticism surrounding the school and the city of Huckleberry.
The next book can be expected around Fall 2023
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
The Movie Chair
A captivating movie theater experience hinges upon the perfect seating arrangement that caters to the enjoyment of every individual. What is it about a particular chair that leaves an indelible mark, etching memories in the minds of all who have had the pleasure of sitting upon it? Within the realm of a singular chair lies the potential for a multitude of adventures, fostering a lifetime of cherished moments.
In the enchanting narrative, The Movie Chair, by Shari Borkin, readers are introduced to a remarkable entity residing within the confines of a movie theater—a chair imbued with a profound sense of personification. This extraordinary chair assumes a guardian role, providing solace and reassurance to those fortunate enough to occupy its plush seat. With unwavering devotion, a vibrant red movie theater chair tends to the needs of children, shielding their innocent eyes and ears during moments of fright within the cinematic realm and embracing them tenderly when they feel vulnerable and alone. In essence, this chair becomes akin to a nurturing parent, safeguarding its young charges from any menacing visuals. Can you fathom the profound comfort one would experience with such a benevolent companion during their cinematic ventures? Nightmares would lose their grip as the chair dutifully ensures your well-being.
Of particular note is the poignant instance of a theater renovation, which evokes a palpable sense of melancholy as the transformation alters the very fabric of the familiar surroundings. As with many individuals, adapting to change proves challenging; however, the demands of running a business necessitate periodic upgrades and adjustments. The chair’s journey continues within the confines of a city dump, yet heartwarmingly, the children still derive joy from its presence. Despite the less-than-ideal location for youthful recreation, they find solace in making the most of their newfound circumstances. Perhaps the most delightful revelation lies in some children’s realization of the chair’s inherent value, considering taking it home. In reality, numerous individuals encounter remarkable furniture left for disposal, only to be eagerly embraced and incorporated into their homes. The whimsy and boundless spirit of children persists undeterred, transcending external circumstances. The ability to carry a soft spot for cherished memories into adulthood remains a source of perpetual joy.
The Movie Chair represents a captivating reading experience suitable for children and parents alike. Through vivid illustrations and a delightful storyline, the talented author Shari invites readers to embark on an enchanting journey. As the story reaches its conclusion, a heartwarming gesture of immense gratitude is bestowed upon the chair, enhancing its already resplendent appearance. This highly recommended book serves as a gentle reminder to appreciate even the most inconspicuous moments, for they possess the potential to hold immeasurable significance in our lives.
Pages: 48 | ASIN : B0BPJJ2L49
LOOK WITHIN 2: Environment is Key
Kim has big dreams. He envisions himself as an inventor of wonderful and amazing things. Raised in a remote village, Kim pays close attention to the conversations of the many elders who have played important roles in his life. When they begin to show concern for fuel sources, Kim knows he can help. He sets about the work of gathering everything he will need to set things straight for his village. His dreams of seeing the village thrive fuel his efforts, and he puts all his energy into inventing something that will make all the difference in their lives.
Look Within II: Environment is Key, by Miles McAlister, is the story of an especially ambitious young boy with dreams of not only becoming an inventor but helping his village overcome the struggles that threaten their way of life. Kim, the book’s main character, is different from the other young people his age. McAlister has created a shining example of a young person destined for great things. He is relatable in that he is thoughtful and wise, but he also struggles with wanting to interact with others his age and not really understanding how to make that happen.
The author has incorporated the perfect blend of fantasy and realistic fiction and handed young readers an inspiring tale of hope. Kim is a fantastic role model and possesses an innate curiosity that he allows himself to follow in order to better himself and the lives of those he loves. This is truly a remarkable addition to children’s fiction.
I highly recommend Look Within II: Environment is Key, by Miles McAlister to teachers who would like to introduce students to a more scientific way of thinking. I can see this book easily blending into a STEM curriculum in any elementary or early middle school classroom.
Pages: 76 | ASIN : B0C2S719MT
Susie & Johnny Grilled Cheese Take a Ride through A Rainforest
Susie and Johnny have just returned from one adventure and are already being pulled into their next. The two receive a clue that leads them to believe they will be venturing deep into the jungle. Susie and Johnny, members of the Toast and Soup families, are becoming pros at this adventuring business and are more than willing to head off on their next trip. Excited to see what is in store for them and what amazing stories they will bring back to their families, the two find themselves well on their way to the Amazon Rainforest. Adventure, here they come!
Susie and Johnny Grilled Cheese Take a Ride Through A Rainforest, by Erin Dullaghan Jones, follows two interesting and unique main characters as they educate readers on the Amazon Rainforest and the multitude of species that live there. As the two travel the land and meet animal after animal, they are treated to a long list of fascinating facts about the rich jungle life.
Jones’s book is an excellent one for educating students in science in lower elementary grades. Susie and Johnny will appeal to younger readers and help bring facts to life. There is a slight element of mystery to Jones’s writing as well. When Susie and Johnny are faced with their next adventure, the author encourages readers to predict what will come next for the two.
Susie and Johnny Grilled Cheese Take a Ride Through A Rainforest not only provides a journey through the Amazon but also a journey into the boundless realm of knowledge and imagination. It leaves us eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the thrilling exploits of Susie and Johnny.
Pages: 20 | ASIN : B0C28NG2JY
Colonial American History For Kids
The United States has a rich history with many aspects young learners begin absorbing from an early age. From the Declaration of Independence to the crack in the Liberty Bell, students are inundated with facts that explain our independence and how we arrived where we are today. For younger readers, the facts are filled with terms that are not always easy to read. Thanks to James Breznicky, we have a book that lays it all out for students in a format they will appreciate. Students in grades 2-5 will benefit from Breznicky’s breakdown of colonial history.
Colonial American History for Kids, by James Breznicky, is a summary of colonial history written especially for younger readers. With a wonderful mixture of illustrations, graphic sources, and photos of actual portraits, Breznicky’s book presents colonial history in a way young readers can understand. He uses rhyme to create a fantastic narrative that brings history to life. I teach elementary students, and any time rhyme is incorporated, there is a much greater chance that students will retain information. Breznicky has successfully tapped into this technique and created a great tool for teachers.
I have always found it more challenging to teach history to young students due to the vocabulary. Non-fiction books are typically more difficult to read, and Breznicky meets this obstacle head-on. He uses a nice mix of academic vocabulary, historical terms, and more commonly-used terms that students will recognize and understand. As a teacher, I appreciate this tactic very much.
Breznicky has managed to take colonial history to a new level for younger readers. Teachers and parents will find Breznicky’s approach to be both appealing and helpful in teaching students basic historical facts.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0B1CRDGMX
Huckleberry Academy, The School of Imagination Volume 1 The Majestic Feather
Bongo is heading out for his first day at a new school. For most students, this is a big deal, but for Bongo it’s incredibly challenging. You see, he is afraid of literally everything. There is no situation that doesn’t put poor Bongo into a state of pure panic. Heading in for his first day, Bongo meets super-confident and extroverted Mo. As Bongo and Mo begin their day, Bongo points out Maurice, a mouse from Bongo’s old school. He is quick to fill Mo in on the many shenanigans for which Maurice has been responsible. It looks like this new school has come with old problems for Bongo.
Huckleberry Academy: The School of Imagination, Volume I The Majestic Feather, by J.L. Willis, is a children’s chapter book featuring Bongo the monkey as the shy and anxiety-ridden main character. His fears are many and his day-to-day battle will resonate with many a young reader. As a teacher, I really like the build up to the first day of school, especially the first day in a new school. This is definitely something many children face, and having a book like Willis’s to quell fears is certainly an asset.
One of the most appealing aspects of Willis’s storyline is the fantasy surrounding the magic feather. Readers in grades 2-4 will immediately find themselves swept up into the adventure when that prankster Maurice steals the feather and chaos ensues. Seeing the class clown brought down a notch is another satisfying plot point for young readers.
It is always wonderful to be able to offer books to young readers high-interest books that teach valuable lessons. That is exactly what J.L. Willis is handing readers with Volume I of Huckleberry Academy. I highly recommend Willis’s work to anyone looking to provide a new and engaging series to elementary students.
Pages: 60 | ASIN : B0C5QSRPMW
A Story of Whoa
A Story of Whoa is a remarkable and inspiring children’s book that centers around the poignant relationship between a young boy named Whoa and his father. Whoa’s deep affection for his dad is juxtaposed with the turmoil of intense emotions stirred within him as they watch the nightly news together. Striving to comprehend the injustices and cruelties portrayed in the world, Whoa initiates a profound conversation with his father, igniting his unwavering determination to effect change. Motivated by this newfound resolve, Whoa embarks on a quest to learn karate, envisioning it as a means to combat injustice, tragedy, and cruelty. Accompanied by his father, they embark on a shared mission to make the world a better place. Ultimately, Whoa discovers that the true path to fighting these battles lies not in martial arts but in demonstrating love and kindness towards others.
Author Chris Corbett artfully addresses the challenges faced by children in today’s world, offering a compelling solution through meaningful father-son dialogues. The book fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects such as homelessness, poverty, and bullying, presenting a framework for parents to engage in discussions about these critical issues with their children. Corbett adeptly navigates complex themes, empowering young readers with a positive and constructive approach to overcoming adversity in the world. The author skillfully sidesteps any endorsement of revenge or vigilante-like behavior, ensuring that the story promotes empathy, understanding, and proactive problem-solving instead. This commendable, balanced approach helps young readers develop a sense of responsibility without instilling negative emotions.
In terms of its relevance to today’s society, A Story of Whoa triumphantly addresses the imperative for parents and children to engage in open conversations about real-world challenges. It underscores the significance of imparting essential life lessons such as empathy, persistence, and courage to the next generation while ensuring that these lessons are conveyed in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner.
Thought-provoking and heartening, A Story of Whoa resonates deeply with both children and parents alike. It serves as an invaluable tool for initiating conversations about the prevalent challenges and injustices within our society, providing a springboard for reflection and understanding. This picture book offers a remarkable opportunity to cultivate dialogue and foster growth, making it a must-read for families seeking to navigate the complexities of our world.
Pages: 40 | ASIN: B0C1VZB28H
Life Is Full Of Obstacles
I’m Just Dying to Be Queen Bee: A Story About Self-Determination follows a young worker bee determined to change the hierarchy and achieve her dreams. What was the inspiration for your story?
Life is full of obstacles. From a young age, we often feel the stress of competing for fulfilling things. Sometimes life teaches us that overcoming barriers to reach a goal takes hard work and self-determination. When does one realize when to apply the courage and hard work to go after something meaningful? Is it beneficial to create a plan to follow a roadmap to success? Nastassia, the worker bee, demonstrates that setting a plan and sticking to her mission does pay off. She realizes that believing in her abilities and self-determination will earn her the life she wants for herself. Her story will help you persevere to achieve your goals and create a life right for you.
Did you do a lot of research to maintain the accuracy of the subject?
I researched honeybee facts to ensure the quality of the story creation and to provide the contrast between bee facts and humorous fiction that unfolds in the story.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I create exciting stories with growth-mindset themes focusing on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) strategies. In my writing, I strive to help children develop positive SEL skills through cognitive development that will shape youngsters’ abilities to manage emotions and behaviors and set and achieve positive goals through her stories. Exposing children early on to vocabulary and literacy rules and building academic confidence and independence relating to shaping perspective and interpretation is vital. As a teacher who typically coaches young readers who struggle with literacy, exposing them to fun stories piques their interest. It provokes an intrinsic motivation that assists with making sense of words and word structuring. Additionally, children reading early in life can better form social-emotional skills through their imagination that develops as they read.
What is the next book you are working on, and when is that book due out?
I am working on a project on peer bullying and how the main character overcomes the naysayers. I plan to have this project completed by the end of this year.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Twitter | Website
All reading levels will enjoy this fun story, while confident readers will enjoy a pop of high-intensity vocabulary words targeting inferencing skills, comprehension maintenance, and awareness of text structure.
This story includes over 1800 literacy words, a prologue, a glossary, fun facts, and comprehension questions.
LITERARY TITAN 