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The Ballerina
In The Ballerina, Catherine Follestad gracefully choreographs a tale of perseverance, passion, and the transformative power of dreams. Alina, our protagonist, is a blossoming ballerina whose love for the dance form propels her to commit herself wholly to the art. However, when she encounters disheartening outcomes during her practice sessions, self-doubt creeps in, making her question her own abilities.
Intriguingly, it is during these moments of uncertainty that Alina discovers an inspiring connection with the legendary Anna Pavlova. Through a series of surreal dreams, Pavlova visits Alina, imparting her wisdom and guidance to the young dancer. Meanwhile, the discovery of a stunning, feathered vintage ballet costume—a lucky charm in Alina’s view—adds an additional layer of enchantment to the narrative. To further bolster Alina’s journey, a mysterious benefactor leaves her gifts, while a charming young boy provides uplifting encouragement. With this overwhelming support, surely Alina’s ballet performance is destined to soar!
The beauty of the narrative lies in Alina’s metamorphosis into a confident, self-assured dancer, a transformation that mirrors Anna Pavlova’s own journey. Follestad masterfully illustrates how Alina’s relatable circumstances and tenacity parallel Pavlova’s life. As readers, we are reminded of the immense determination and willpower often required to hone exceptional talent from an early age and that such remarkable achievements are indeed attainable with creativity and persistence.
Incorporating a historical figure like Anna Pavlova into the narrative is a genius stroke by Follestad. The manner in which Pavlova is integrated into the storyline allows her to serve as a source of inspiration not only for Alina but also for the readers themselves.
The Ballerina is a captivating and unique exploration of ballet. It serves as an ideal introduction to the art form for young readers while simultaneously providing a beacon of inspiration for any aspiring dancer grappling with self-doubt. With its engaging storyline and relatable characters, this book dances its way into the hearts of its readers, leaving an indelible impression.
Pages: 82 | ASIN : B0BT6H98DK
A Monster Hunt Story
Jabberwocky: Scary Stories For Kids takes the classic poem by Lewis Carroll and illustrates it in a way that new readers will be drawn into the adventure the young boy goes on. What led you to retell this classic for children?
I have always very much enjoyed this poem. The fact that it contains so many nonsense words inspired me to create a retelling of it that attempts to make sense of each of these made up words to add to the base story. I thought a monster hunt story was perfect for my Scary Stories for Kids series of books. This is the second book in the series. The first book in this series is called Alien Farm, a wordless story about an alien invasion that happens one night on a farm.
Both books use a limited color approach, in this case a black and white book with blue-green accents and for Alien Farm also a black and white book with yellow accents.
I loved the idea of taking this 19th century poem and updating it for kids today.
What was your process for illustrating this poem to give it a scary feeling but not too scary so it still appeals to younger children?
My art has always appealed to kids. Most of my illustration work has been in the children’s market (kids magazines, websites, text books, and other products). I was worried about this story because the main character parades back with the head of the Jabberwocky, which is pretty dark. However it’s all so unreal and it’s certainly less violent than children are seeing in their video games every day.
What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing and illustrating?
Having my own kids has definitely impacted my writing and illustrating. Once I had a baby I read children’s books 5 or 6 times a day every day-sometimes more. Since I had three daughters that meant a decade of reading children’s books aloud all the time. It becomes a study of the genre whether you intended to or not. I was already interested in children’s books and studied children’s book illustration for years at The School of Visual Arts in New York City, so having kids narrowed my focus and made children’s books a central part of what I was doing with my art.
In 2001 my first children’s book was published from Pentland Press and I haven’t really slowed down since. I’ve written and illustrated 17 books and had my art and writing published in Highlights for Children Magazine and Hopscotch magazine and for years did a matching game feature in Whimsy Magazine. I’ve also illustrated numerous books with other authors and have created four comic book series for children.
Do you plan to write similar books using other poetry from Lewis Carroll?
I had a great time creating this book, but not as great a time publishing it. Amazon and other online bookstores have numerous restrictions in place that make listing a book with public domain content more difficult. I doubt I will want to go through the process of creating a book based on Lewis Carroll’s work again only to have a limited reach once it’s published. However, it was fun to do and I don’t regret it.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Winner of the 2023 Gold Literary Titan Book Award!!
Tales From Brook Meadow – The Tale of the Summer Fair
Set in the enchanting Brook Meadow, home to a menagerie of captivating creatures, Tales from Brook Meadow: The Tale of the Summer Fair by Kevin Richardson invites readers on a fascinating journey. In this serene sanctuary, delightful characters like Sammy the Snake, Victor the Fox, and the adventurous field mouse twins, Vincent and Jeremy, live under the watchful care of their protector, Keeper Kiera, and her loyal canine companion, Charlie.
The narrative centers around Vincent and Jeremy, two audacious mice with a penchant for exploration. Their lives take an intriguing turn when they encounter newcomers to their tranquil haven. The prospect of change incites anxiety in the mice, threatening the tranquility of Brook Meadow. However, through the warm bonds of friendship, understanding, and a sprinkling of wisdom from their fellow inhabitants, the mice are led to an insightful discovery during the bustling summer fair.
This story, a delightful mix of whimsy and wisdom, offers a peek into the charm of a nature preserve nestled in the United Kingdom. Richardson’s engaging storytelling has the power to enthrall the reader, while Caroline Hazell’s mesmerizing watercolor illustrations lend an additional layer of allure. Through Vincent and Jeremy’s adventures, the reader is introduced to an understated moral lesson that is elegantly woven into the narrative without being didactic.
As an avid fan of animal stories, I found this delightful tale enticing, conjuring a longing to immerse myself further in the tranquility of Brook Meadow. The story begins with Charlie the Dog and then transitions to focus on the exploits of Vincent and Jeremy. The story is heartwarming and depicts a moment of camaraderie and joy.
Tales from Brook Meadow: The Tale of the Summer Fair is a gorgeously illustrated children’s adventure story that will captivate audiences across all age groups. Whether it’s bedtime storytelling, group readings, or independent exploration, this charming installment in the Brook Meadow series will enchant readers and stimulate their imaginations.
Pages: 35 | ISBN : 1922358304
I’m Just Dying to Be Queen Bee
I’m Just Dying to Be Queen Bee is an enchanting and uplifting literary work that captivates readers with its charm and inspiration. The narrative introduces us to Nastassia, a diligent worker bee who sets her sights on achieving the esteemed position of queen bee. With unwavering dedication, she formulates a meticulous plan and tenaciously pursues her goal, undeterred by the obstacles that come her way.
Author Joanne Telcide-Bryant skillfully weaves a tale that challenges the established social hierarchy within the bee hive, offering readers an encouraging story that instills confidence and advocates for following one’s convictions. The accompanying illustrations are both delightful and captivating, effortlessly transporting readers into the fascinating world of bees. To enhance the reading experience, the author has thoughtfully included a glossary and intriguing bee-related facts at the beginning of the book. This valuable addition not only aids young readers in understanding certain vocabulary but also imparts knowledge about these remarkable creatures. Furthermore, at the conclusion of the narrative, the inclusion of thought-provoking questions prompts readers to reflect upon the story’s themes, fostering engaging discussions with young readers. I’m Just Dying to Be Queen Bee proves to be an ideal literary choice for young ones in the midst of their personal development and self-discovery. Joanne Telcide-Bryant’s encouraging and motivational words will undoubtedly inspire readers to persevere in the face of life’s challenges. Nastassia’s remarkable journey serves as a testament to the profound impact that hard work and determination can yield.
For parents seeking valuable reading material for their little ones, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. The poignant narrative and uplifting message make it a delightful choice for shared reading sessions, nurturing important life lessons along the way.
Pages: 44 | ASIN : B0C3X86HTG
I Am Going to BIG School
I Am Going to BIG School presents itself as an invaluable resource for young readers, skillfully addressing the challenges associated with the transition from preschool to kindergarten. In this captivating tale, author Joanne Telcide-Bryant takes us on a journey alongside Joshua, who eagerly anticipates the adventures and discoveries that await him in elementary school. From forging connections with newfound, larger-than-life friends to relishing in BIG lunches and traversing the sprawling corridors, Joshua’s enthusiasm for this significant milestone is palpable.
Telcide-Bryant demonstrates her remarkable ability to weave an encouraging narrative that not only captivates young readers but also instills in them a sense of excitement about embarking on their own elementary school journey. Recognizing that this transition can be daunting for some children, the author expertly infuses the story with positivity and levity, emphasizing the boundless potential for joy and personal growth that elementary school offers. Particularly commendable is the author’s consideration of the distinct ways in which elementary school differs from preschool, such as encountering more complex vocabulary, interacting with older peers, and even venturing on the iconic big yellow school bus. This is an ideal read to equip young readers with the necessary tools to embrace this transformative step in their lives. The book’s illustrations, characterized by their simplicity and amiable nature, foster a warm and inviting atmosphere, further enhancing the immersive reading experience. Telcide-Bryant thoughtfully supplements the story with a comprehensive glossary of words, enabling young readers to deepen their understanding of the text. This addition serves as a testament to the author’s commitment to nurturing the intellectual growth of her audience. A notable feature in the story is the inclusion of thought-provoking comprehension questions at the conclusion of the story. These prompts invite engaging discussions, allowing parents and children to reflect upon the tale they have just experienced together, further fostering a strong parent-child bond.
I Am Going to BIG School exudes encouragement and charm, masterfully striking a balance between engaging storytelling and valuable guidance for young readers. Telcide-Bryant’s remarkable talent shines through as she imparts a sense of anticipation and optimism, assuring children that their entry into elementary school can indeed be a profoundly positive experience.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0C3Y1Q9P1
Chandler The Handler…
Chandler the Handler by Kem Frasier is a poignant tale that encapsulates the universal struggle of an elementary student, Chandler, who finds himself a target of incessant bullying, even to the point of losing his beloved bicycle. Caught between fear and vulnerability, Chandler is initially hesitant to disclose these incidents to his mother, showcasing the emotional turmoil faced by victims of bullying. However, as the plot unravels, Chandler discovers the power of open communication, learning that it’s acceptable, even vital, to seek assistance in confronting his adversaries.
The brilliance of Chandler the Handler lies within its unique approach to a pervasive issue: bullying. It is an issue often fraught with complications and challenging to manage directly. This captivating narrative fosters a space where seeking help is encouraged, offering potential solutions to bullying in everyday life. It underscores the significance of timely discussions about one’s problems, immediate action, and resorting to authority figures when necessary as potential strategies against bullying. The book’s heart is its emphasis on tolerance, friendship, and the potency of reason as a means of curbing school violence and fostering a sense of community.
I was particularly moved by the central message conveyed by the author, with the narrative filled with a wide array of solutions communicated via an absorbing storytelling medium. Readers are drawn into Chandler’s journey, provoking introspection and facilitating an intimate connection with the character’s experiences that feel genuinely relatable.
Chandler the Handler shines a spotlight on the powerful themes of using reason and friendship to counter bullying, fostering understanding and tolerance. Catering to readers aged 10 and above, this story offers an engaging, amiable journey through the realm of problem-solving and unity. The narrative champions a proactive approach in favor of mere reaction, presenting an authentic exploration of finding solutions to issues that can appear overwhelming.
Pages: 104 | ASIN : B0BGHLD1M4
Secrets of the Wild
Imagine plunging into a world filled with playful critters and their captivating escapades. The Secrets of the Wild is your magic portal to such a universe. This wonderfully whimsical children’s book unveils the hush-hush happenings of the forest fauna in the most entertaining manner. Prepare for a rip-roaring revelation!
From dazzling dances inside the beaver’s dam to roguish romps within a bear’s den, to the raucous ruckus at the Weasel Rodeo, you are set for a riotous roller-coaster ride! This precious picture book surely ignites a spark in the eyes of the young, and the young-at-heart, as their imaginations journey into the wild.
And oh, the Weasel Rodeo? I found myself beaming from ear to ear as I dived into the action, a testament to the captivating charm this kiddie tale possesses.
Each page is a colorful canvas brimming with adorable details, thanks to the creative prowess of illustrator Srimalie Bassani. A visual treat, each scene brings the enchanting forest to life with a parade of delightful woodland beings. Young minds will be enticed to explore each nook and cranny of these fascinating pages.
Unquestionably a joyride for all ages, The Secrets of the Wild is a vibrant explosion of creativity that youngsters will be enthralled to revisit time and time again. So, are you ready to unravel the untold tales of the wild?
Pages: 38 | ISBN : 164543110X
A Story About Love And Acceptance
The Adventures of the Soul Sistas: or How the Sisters Changed the World, follows the lives of two people who want to have a family and end up adopting two baby girls of different races.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Monique Ra Brent?
It was an amazing collaboration in terms of her vision was exactly mine – a story about love and acceptance in a world that judges. We went through the process picture by picture to get the right “soul” of the book. She had painted a picture of my wife 7 years ago – thus began the discussion of working on the book
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
For me…this is more than promoting a book. It is a movement of acceptance. I see young and old people relating to this book – I have heard people say “I see myself in this book.” I had done research before the book – for it to be sensitive to the adoption community.
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?
It is my first book – I am currently completing the second book – for end of year/new year (a comic look-superhero book)
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | TikTok
But living in a rural town, not everyone saw the true beauty of the Spirit family. Polite but distant, the town was wary of a Black family with two diverse daughters—one Black and one white. Charm and Dawn, though, knew that this was really a superpower, and they created their own world to show others how great it is to be part of the soul sista’s dynamics.
The Adventures of the Soul Sistas celebrates diversity and the true meaning of family through the eyes of two wonderful superheroes.
LITERARY TITAN 