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The Extraordinary Life of Elliott Duck
In The Extraordinary Life of Elliott Duck, Mark Dantzler introduces readers to a delightfully unconventional character. Unlike his fellow Indian Runner ducks, who spend their days sprinting from place to place, Elliott prefers a slower pace. While others zigzag frenetically around the farm, Elliott watches, wonders, and walks. His refusal to conform makes him stand out, but rather than follow the crowd, he chooses to embrace his differences.
One balmy summer evening, deep in thought and solitude, Elliott stumbles, quite literally, upon a curious object hidden in the reeds. Parting the tall grass, he uncovers an unexpected treasure: a bicycle, abandoned and waiting. What follows is a burst of inspiration. Elliott hatches a plan, bold and imaginative, centered around this two-wheeled wonder. But will it work? And more importantly, how will the other ducks respond?
I thoroughly enjoyed this charming tale by Dantzler. It’s rare to find a picture book protagonist so determined to follow a vision that fate quite literally drops at his feet. The concept feels fresh, clever, and genuinely endearing. Both children and adults will find themselves swept up in Elliott’s world, cheering him on as he dares to dream differently.
Elliott’s character arc is thoughtfully crafted. Young readers, in particular, will see themselves in a duck who doesn’t quite fit in, and learn that standing out isn’t something to hide. On the contrary, Dantzler celebrates individuality, showing that being different is not only acceptable but something to take pride in.
The setting is just as engaging as its protagonist. Dantzler’s decision to make Indian Runner ducks sprint, eschewing waddling and flight entirely, adds a touch of whimsy that’s both funny and memorable. The mental image alone is delightful, but paired with Leighton Noyes’ vibrant illustrations, the humor truly comes to life.
Noyes’ artwork bursts off the page with energy and charm. Every illustration, regardless of size, captures vivid expressions, playful movement, and delightful detail. The scenes are dynamic, engaging, and perfectly aligned with the narrative’s tone.
The Extraordinary Life of Elliott Duck is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book that celebrates the power of individuality. With its heartwarming message, engaging characters, and laugh-out-loud moments, it’s a story that both children and adults will enjoy and remember. A triumph in both storytelling and illustration.
Pages: 44 | ISBN : 1645385760
Malooca and The Look of Love
Malooca and the Look of Love is a charming, rhyming storybook about a misfit girl growing up in a small town where she doesn’t quite belong. Malooca, teased for her clothes, hair, and food, struggles with loneliness and rejection until a surprise art contest brings out her creativity and helps her find confidence and acceptance. Through a mix-up at the award ceremony and a touching finale at the school dance, the story unfolds into a tale about self-worth, friendship, and unexpected kindness.
Reading this book was like watching a slow bloom. At first, I wasn’t sure where it was going. But the rhythm settled in, and soon I found myself completely rooting for Malooca. The writing is simple and heartfelt, almost like a poem a grandparent would write for their grandchild, which, fittingly, it is. What struck me most was the warmth that came through in the small details. Malooca’s mismatched clothes, her family’s weird sausage, her grandma’s handmade dress. It all painted a picture of someone who was loved, even if the world didn’t see it yet.
Sometimes the rhymes felt sweet and old-fashioned, like a sing-along from another era. The message was clear and meaningful. I really enjoyed the emotions it stirred. The artwork feels like it was lifted straight from a child’s imagination. Each sketch has a playful, hand-drawn style. The drawings aren’t overly polished, and that’s part of their charm. They look like a creative doodle in the margins of a notebook.
This book would be great for older kids, especially the ones who don’t always feel like they fit in. It’s also a sweet read for parents or grandparents to share with kids who are figuring out who they are. It has lessons about kindness, family, and resilience without being preachy. I think a lot of adults could use a refresher from Malooca Blutz.
Pages: 28 | ISBN : 1958943037
What’s Wrong With Tom: A Veterinary Tale of Courage and Compassion
What’s Wrong With Tom: A Veterinary Tale of Courage and Compassion is a charming and educational story that’s perfectly tailored for young readers. At its heart is Thomas, a cheerful, free-spirited cat who loves to roam and explore his world. One morning, however, his playful routine is interrupted by a mysterious pain. Confused and uncomfortable, Thomas relies on his caring parents and the devoted Critter Care Crew to uncover the problem: he’s having trouble urinating.
Thanks to a minor surgery, plenty of support, and an extra dose of affection, Thomas recovers smoothly and is soon back to his old, adventurous self. His journey offers young readers a gentle, reassuring introduction to the idea of veterinary care and the healing power of compassion.
Dr. Gal Chivvis delivers a captivating narrative that balances entertainment with education. The language is accessible, the pacing is thoughtful, and the storyline keeps readers engaged without overwhelming them. One particularly delightful element is the inclusion of a machine that translates animal speech into words, an inventive touch that sparks imagination and adds a layer of whimsy.
The illustrations are vibrant and expressive, bringing Thomas’s world to life with warmth and humor. Each page invites young readers to pause, observe, and enjoy the visual storytelling, which complements the text beautifully. Thomas’s playful personality shines through, especially in scenes that depict his curiosity and love for exploration.
Chivvis masterfully conveys an important message: while medical procedures may seem frightening, they are often necessary and manageable with the right support. Through Thomas’s experience, children learn that recovery can be quick and that bravery comes in many forms.
The addition of a glossary at the end is especially thoughtful. It serves as a springboard for conversation between adults and children, clarifying medical terms in a way that is easy to grasp. This not only reinforces comprehension but encourages dialogue about health, care, and empathy.
What’s Wrong With Tom is both a delightful story and a valuable teaching tool. Whether read at home or shared in a classroom, it offers young readers comfort, knowledge, and inspiration. I look forward to more works from Dr. Chivvis, and her unique blend of heart and insight is a gift to children’s literature.
Pages: 35 | ASIN: B0FLZSL47R
Valentino’s Adventure in Puerto Rico
Valentino’s Adventure in Puerto Rico is a delightful tale that captures the heart and imagination of young readers. At its center is Valentino, an adventurous service dog who journeys to the vibrant island of Puerto Rico with his owner, Wanda. The story bursts with life as Valentino explores colorful streets, samples rich local cuisine, and immerses himself in the lively rhythm of the island.
From savoring traditional dishes to learning how to dance, Valentino throws himself into every experience with wide-eyed curiosity. Along the way, he meets new friends, Maelo and Tito, who guide him through Puerto Rico’s culture and history. Through their adventures, Valentino also discovers the importance of caring for the environment and, above all, the unifying power of friendship across cultures and backgrounds.
Author Wanda Reyes crafts a heartwarming, energetic story that’s both educational and entertaining. Young readers will be charmed by Valentino’s enthusiastic spirit; he’s not just a character, he’s a role model for open-minded exploration. I especially loved his willingness to embrace new experiences, from food to dancing, all while learning something meaningful about Puerto Rican heritage.
One of the most memorable moments comes when Valentino bonds with his new companions, a touching reminder of how connection transcends differences. The illustrations are vibrant and engaging, sparking opportunities for parents and children to discuss the story and its themes together. Valentino’s sneakers are an absolute highlight, adding just the right touch of whimsy and personality.
A bonus feature awaits at the end: a “Meet the Author” section that reveals the real-life inspiration behind the story. Knowing that Valentino and Wanda truly exist adds an extra layer of warmth and authenticity.
Valentino’s Adventure in Puerto Rico is a joy. I adored every page and can’t wait to follow Valentino on his next adventure.
Pages: 55 | ASIN : B0DYJGVZLR
A Magical Journey to Save Christmas
In A Magical Journey to Save Christmas, author C.D. McKaig delivers a delightfully original tale that blends familiar holiday charm with an unexpected twist. The story opens with Santa abruptly awakened from a nap. Christmas preparations are behind schedule, and the elves need reinforcements. An elder elf proposes seeking help from Ireland’s leprechauns, who, like elves, are small in stature but rich in craft.
Across the sea, however, the leprechauns face their own crisis. A new rainbow-making machine has disrupted their gold production, leaving them out of work and searching for purpose. As the two magical communities unite, what follows is a heartwarming collaboration. Together, they harness their unique talents to manufacture toys and rescue Christmas from the brink of disaster.
What sets this story apart is its fresh narrative. While countless holiday tales spotlight elves saving the season, McKaig turns the spotlight toward the leprechauns, an inspired and welcome twist. The cooperation between the two groups not only saves Christmas but also finds a clever solution to the leprechauns’ gold dilemma.
The visual storytelling enhances the experience tenfold. Vivid, cartoon-like illustrations leap from the page, immersing readers in a world brimming with color, character, and holiday wonder. One particularly imaginative moment sees reindeer transporting a rainbow back to the North Pole, a magical detail that captures the story’s inventive spirit.
A Magical Journey to Save Christmas sends young readers a meaningful message: teamwork, adaptability, and the power of combining strengths. The ending suggests this new partnership between elves and leprechauns may become a cherished Christmas tradition, one that young readers will be eager to revisit year after year.
Pages: 32 | ISBN : 978-1-998753-43-7
Potato Man, The Living Potato Superhero – Part I
Porkshire is no stranger to chaos, but citizens can rest a little easier; salvation now comes in the starchy form of a fearless hero. Enter Potato Man: a valiant, golden-hearted tuber with a knack for witty one-liners and the uncanny ability to launch sizzling French fries from his fingertips. Equal parts hilarious and heroic, he’s a champion of justice who never misses a chance to teach a life lesson or two. This is no ordinary spud. This is a deep-fried defender with a moral compass and a taste for adventure.
Potato Man, The Living Potato Superhero – Part I by Arya Arun is an eccentric, full-color graphic novel that caters primarily to younger readers but doesn’t forget the grown-ups tagging along for the ride. Vibrant illustrations depict the titular hero in a variety of ridiculous, high-stakes scenarios, often reminiscent of the zany energy seen in popular titles like Dog Man. Yet, Potato Man carves out a niche all his own, both absurd and oddly inspiring.
While the story is clearly aimed at children, there’s a wink-and-nod quality throughout that will keep parents entertained. Tongue-in-cheek references and subtle jokes add a layer of grown-up humor, but the heart of the book beats with unfiltered, childlike enthusiasm. The villains are bizarre but never menacing, and the sense of peril never overshadows the fun.
Beneath the slapstick and surrealism lies a sincere message: positivity wins, kindness matters, and joy is often found in the strangest of places. Potato Man doesn’t fight with fists; he fights with words, outwitting his foes through clever dialogue and moral clarity. It’s a refreshing alternative to the usual violence that plagues even kid-friendly superhero tales. One might even wish more adults followed his lead.
Despite Porkshire’s madness, and it has plenty, the city offers the perfect backdrop for this outlandish saga. The artwork is both whimsical and slightly unnerving, adding to the book’s offbeat charm. Together, story and illustration create a gleeful chaos that somehow works. This oddball journey through deep-fried justice may very well cement itself as a cult classic in the world of children’s literature.
Pages: 69 | ASIN : B0F3V2318C
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A Message From a Butterfly
Marty and the Dragon follows a little butterfly out enjoying a sunny day at the park, who ends up meeting a lonely dragon and teaching him about friendship and kindness. What was the inspiration for your story?
My inspiration was unique, in that one of my favorite songs talks about a crow chasing a butterfly. This made me think of the high contrast between the two entities. Since I am in SW Florida, I thought about “a hurricane and a butterfly”, but how would I give life to a hurricane. So, I then thought of a dragon. And seeing as how I am a huge advocate of anti-bullying, I thought that a children’s book using these two characters would be a nice contrast. This lead me to also write the other 6 stories, all giving easy teachable life lessons.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I wanted to help teach simple life lessons for young children. Sometimes, a message from a butterfly will make an impact better than that of elders.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The playground scene with the arrival of Drako, was alot of fun, even though at first it could be scary.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
There are 8 books in total, that have all been launched at the same time- 7 stories and 1 free coloring book. All of the stories are different and fun adventures with a fun life lesson. All of these stories will be available on Martysfantasticadventures.com, around July 15.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
What would you do if a giant dragon landed in your favorite park? Marty the butterfly loves adventures, making new friends, and having fun at the park. But one day, just as Marty enjoys the swings and slides, a dark shadow covers the sky. With a loud thud and a roar, a huge dragon named Drako appears, scaring all the animals! Drako isn’t like other dragons—he’s big, loud, and… lonely. He thinks being a bully is the only way to get noticed. But Marty isn’t scared. He’s brave enough to fly up to Drako and discover the reason behind the dragon’s roars. Can Marty help Drako find friends and show him that kindness is the greatest strength of all? Join Marty on this heartwarming adventure filled with bravery, friendship, and a little dragon-sized fun! Perfect for kids who love exciting stories with an important lesson about kindness and understanding.
Will Marty’s courage turn the dragon’s roar into a smile? Open the book to find out!
Ella Minnow P.
Ella Minnow P. is a sweet and clever picture book that follows a bright little girl named Ella on her first day of school. Excited to learn and meet new friends, Ella introduces herself during a name game, only to be met with giggles because her name sounds suspiciously like the trickiest part of the alphabet song. As the class struggles to recite the letters past “K,” Ella draws strength from her name and confidently sings the entire song, earning cheers from her classmates and ultimately helping them remember the tough part. More importantly, she shows kindness and empathy to those who once laughed at her, turning a moment of teasing into a lesson in courage and friendship.
I loved how this picture book turned a simple pun, “Ella Minnow P.,” into something that felt meaningful and empowering. It’s lighthearted and fun, but also carries real heart. The writing is bouncy and rhyming, and the story moves along at a perfect pace for young readers. The way Ella turns a moment of embarrassment into triumph felt really satisfying, and I appreciated that the message wasn’t heavy-handed. It felt like a genuine moment any kid could go through, and the solution came from confidence and kindness instead of an adult swooping in to fix it.
What I really liked was Ella’s response to the teasing. She doesn’t just bask in her success; she makes a point to reach out to the classmate who laughed at her. That felt powerful. It would’ve been easy to let the story end with her being the hero, but instead it went further to show what empathy looks like. The idea that even young kids can choose to be kind, especially after being hurt, makes this more than just a fun classroom tale.
I’d recommend Ella Minnow P. to parents, teachers, or anyone helping a child start school or navigate new social situations. It’s especially great for kids who feel nervous about fitting in or getting laughed at, because Ella shows them that being yourself is actually your superpower. It’s joyful, warm, and wise.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0F42YJXSR
LITERARY TITAN 