Blog Archives
My Own Inner Child
What Bear Said centers around a wise bear and a curious young boy as they explore life lessons ranging from friendship to coping with grief. Where did the idea for this book come from?
I suppose I have been inspired and influenced by many children’s stories where a child and an animal are friends and have conversations that teach life lessons. Winnie the Pooh and Christopher Robin, for example. A recent book that definitely nudged me into beginning my book was Charlie Mackesy’s book, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse. I loved the simple art in that book and the ageless wisdom it conveys. I was also motivated to write because I am old now, and before it was too late, I wanted to distill the best and wisest lessons I had learned in my life and put them in a form that would be easily accessed by all ages, especially children. I also was inspired by actual bears who visited me at my home in Oregon. One adult black bear appearing on my roof one early morning got my full attention.
What is it that draws you to children’s literature?
Children’s literature appeals to me because of the blending of illustrations and writing. I love studying the art styles of the many wonderful illustrators. I also like entering into the world of children. When a book is well-written and shows true understanding of the child’s experience and view of the world, it gets me in touch with my own inner child and memories of my childhood. Truly good, classic children’s books often teach important lessons without being preachy or too academic. They are often fun and lighthearted…like a child.
The artwork in your book is fantastic. Can you give us some insight into your process?
I wanted to keep the illustrations simple enough to keep the focus on the relationship and emotional interaction between the boy and Bear. I wanted the setting and scenery to look like a real, wild woods. I wanted Bear and the other animal characters to look like real animals, not like cartoon characters. I wanted the boy to look like a real, human boy, but be simply drawn so readers could identify with him in some basic way. It was a bit tricky to make it all look real and yet not a specific location in a specific time and place. I wanted the overall look of the book to be mostly art that flowed and also let each illustration stand on its own.
What do you hope young readers and their families take away from What Bear Said?
I hope children who read my book, whether alone or reading with an adult, will feel it is really okay to ask any question they might have about tough things like death, prejudice, forgiveness, and so on. The boy asks questions that are real questions that I had as a child and still have as an older adult. I hope they get some help from Bear’s answers and will continue to explore the subjects of each chapter. I want each child to know they are not strange or weak if they have self-doubts, or have emotional ups and downs, or confusion about feelings and life in general. My vision is of parents or grandparents and children reading a chapter together and having an honest, meaningful conversation in response. I want any adult reading this book to be reminded of their childlikeness and of what is truly important to them…to be slowed down and calmed for a time long enough to remember why they are here and who they are.
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Shortlisted in the 2024 Little Peeps Awards for Early Readers and Children’s Books
The boy has a lot of questions—hard ones about love, honesty, grief and loss, prejudice, forgiveness, why we are here, and more.
Bear’s wise answers are always offered with compassion and enthusiasm. The friendship between these two is deep, tender, and sometimes fun. Bear’s clear, common-sense philosophy of life is a welcome contrast to the complex world our children face today.
On the beautifully illustrated pages, you will also meet Jay, Raccoon, Badger, Elder Moose, and others who add to the fun and adventure.
Walk with Boy and Bear for a while in the woods and see what you might learn about life, love and other stuff.
This uplifting book will surely become a treasured collection of simple wisdom, inspiring rich, meaningful conversations between adults and children alike.
Mia and the Win From Within
Mia and the Win from Within by Vanessa Zamarripa captures the excitement, challenges, and growth of a young gymnast on her journey to understanding the deeper meaning of success. Little Mia eagerly prepares for her gymnastics competition, her sights set on claiming all five awards. Her dreams of perfection shine brightly as she clears space on her trophy shelf. However, when the competition doesn’t unfold as planned, her disappointment is profound. In the face of this setback, Mia’s family steps in with unwavering support, helping her realize the importance of celebrating every moment and embracing growth—both as an athlete and as an individual.
This beautifully crafted children’s book delivers a heartfelt message about resilience, self-acceptance, and the invaluable lessons learned from life’s ups and downs. Vanessa Zamarripa’s story is paired with stunning illustrations by the immensely talented Wina Witaria. Having admired Witaria’s artwork before, I was delighted to see her vivid and expressive style breathe life into Mia’s story. The art complements the narrative seamlessly, striking an excellent balance that reminds readers it’s okay to be imperfect.
I really liked the portrayal of Mia’s family. Their encouragement in the aftermath of her competition is both touching and inspiring. The book’s core message—doing your best is always enough—resonated deeply with me. It’s presented with elegance and clarity. It reminds us that life’s journey is just as valuable as its outcomes, whether we succeed or stumble.
This is a timeless tale that speaks to readers of all ages. Its themes of perseverance and self-belief make it an invaluable resource for educators, parents, and anyone seeking a meaningful story with a powerful lesson. Mia and the Win from Within encourages readers to find their inner strength and celebrate their unique journey. Mia’s story will inspire you to discover the beauty and perfection that come from within.
Pages: 80 | ASIN : B0DL9Z8Q9R
Me and the Missouri Moon
One night, Scarlet and her father hit a cyclist while driving. Pleading for him to stop and help, Scarlet was met with cold refusal. Her father’s fear of jail, compounded by his troubled past, led him to threaten her into silence. Guilt consumed Scarlet, but her burden grew heavier when she befriended a new girl at school—the injured cyclist’s sister. Juggling guilt, complicated family dynamics, and her friends’ struggles, Scarlet feels utterly lost. In her darkest hours, Scarlet clings to her grandmother’s words about the Missouri moon: a magical force that grants wishes to those who believe deeply enough. The moon becomes Scarlet’s refuge, her silent confidant. Yet, deep inside, she knows that no wish can replace the strength she must summon within herself.
Me and the Missouri Moon, by Nancy Stewart, is a profoundly moving novel. Scarlet’s story is layered with hardship, responsibility, and hope. She faces a troubled father, a mother working tirelessly at two jobs, and the challenge of caring for her younger sister. Her life is anything but simple. Amid her struggles, Scarlet remains a pillar of support for her friend Henry, who deals with difficulties at home. By contrast, her best friend, Cricket, comes from a privileged, loving family. Scarlet doesn’t resent Cricket but wrestles with understanding the stark differences between their worlds. Stewart captures this complexity with masterful precision, painting Scarlet’s world in rich, realistic detail without ever overwhelming the reader.
Nancy Stewart’s novel delivers powerful lessons about friendship, loyalty, and resilience. Each character shines with individuality, their backstories thoughtfully crafted to add depth and authenticity. Moments of pain and guilt are palpable, while scenes of kindness and camaraderie resonate with warmth. Stewart’s writing style is straightforward, honest, and captivating—a perfect balance for tackling such weighty themes. The short chapters ensure the story flows smoothly and remains accessible.
Me and the Missouri Moon is a heartfelt and inspiring story that explores the complexity of life, family, and self-discovery. Through Scarlet’s journey, readers witness the true meaning of inner strength and the profound impact of love, forgiveness, and courage. This book will immerse you in a world of challenges and triumphs, leaving you deeply moved and reflective. Nancy Stewart’s novel is a triumph—an emotional, realistic tale that will linger long after the final page.
Pages: 220 | ASIN : B0D46HWBC5
The Gratitude Goggles
The Gratitude Goggles, by Andrea Mendoza and visually brought to life by Rita Nilson, is a children’s book that skillfully employs the concept of ‘gratitude goggles’ as a metaphorical tool to inspire positivity in young readers. Mendoza’s narrative cleverly introduces these goggles as a transformative element; when worn by the characters, they shift their view of the world to a more positive and appreciative perspective. This central metaphor is further enriched through an analogy that contrasts the ‘shiny gratitude goggles’ with ‘dull grey goggles,’ effectively illustrating the impact of negative emotions like envy and comparison.
Mendoza’s storytelling prowess is evident as she weaves this meaningful moral into an engaging narrative, making it accessible and relatable for a young audience. Her writing is characterized by simplicity and clarity, ensuring that even early readers can grasp the concepts presented. This approachable language, combined with the book’s brisk pace, renders it an ideal choice for a short bedtime story. Complementing Mendoza’s narrative are Rita Nilson’s captivating illustrations. Nilson’s artwork enriches the text and plays a crucial role in capturing the children’s attention. The vibrant and engaging illustrations serve as a visual anchor, enticing young readers to delve deeper into the story. While the book targets a younger audience, particularly those in the early stages of development, its universal message of positivity and gratitude is subtly imparted, making it a meaningful read. The inclusion of a thoughtful ‘note to parents’ at the end of the book adds an extra layer of engagement, offering guidance on how to extend the book’s themes into real-world conversations with children.
Overall, The Gratitude Goggles is an excellent book that parents and teachers should consider adding to their collection. It is a well-written, engaging, and educational book that is sure to leave a lasting impression on young readers.
Pages: 31 | ASIN : B0CNS52HQ8
Empathy, Kindness, and Acceptance
Wishes Are Free: Rose O’Reilly and Grandpa follows a ten-year-old girl whose best friend moves 2000 miles away, and she worries she will never have another friend like her. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for Wishes Are Free came through the back door. It began as short stories I wrote for fun and read to my neighbor who is developmentally disabled. She loved them and I thought, I might have something here. I strung those stories together and added more, and the result is Wishes Are Free.
I knew I wanted to write a story about friendship. Losing your lifelong best friend would set the quest for a new best friend in motion. I thought it would be cool for Rose to discover, on the way to finding a new best friend, that marginalized kids make excellent friends too.
Rose learns that there are different kinds of friends in each person’s life, grandparents, classmates, and even animals. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Empathy, Kindness, and Acceptance. Wishes Are Free is part biographical. As children often are, I was misunderstood at times, as Rose is when she wants to help a classmate who suffers abuse at home. I drew on those memories, those feelings of frustration when my motives were misunderstood.
I hope that young readers will recognize themselves in Rose’s acts of kindness, in her acceptance of kids who are different, and feel validated.
Rose is autonomous, too. Grandpa shares his wisdom but always leaves it up to her what to do with his advice. I want kids to identify with Rose’s struggles and present a model who seeks help but believes in herself, as well.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Rose’s friendship with Grandpa demonstrates how talking out your problems is a positive, results-oriented path to finding solutions. Asking for help is good practice for adulthood, and I hope readers will discover how you can grow close to family members when you ask for help. And encourage them to ask for help.
Wishes Are Free spotlights kindness without preaching. Rose’s big heart leads the way, and ultimately kindness pays off. Maybe not in the way you expected but it always pays off.
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?
The next book, Be Careful What You Wish, follows Rose into summer vacation and her quest for the third wish (a dog of her own), the only wish that didn’t come true in Wishes Are Free. It introduces Rose’s nemesis, Bea Buffett, the neighborhood fussbudget. The target date is Christmas 2024.
Author Links: Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website | Amazon
“Friends are everywhere if you have a big heart and know where to look.”
It’s 1959 in California, and ten-year-old Rose O’Reilly has sworn an oath to stay friends always with her best friend from birth. Then, boom, Linney moves 2,000 miles away.
She worries that she will never find another friend like Linney and turns to Grandpa, who just lost his wife and best friend, Mawnie. They hold weekly chat cafes in the kitchen, and Rose discovers your grandpa can be your friend. Or a boy with cerebral palsy, and a lost dog, or a classmate who comes to school with unexplained bruises. Still, there’s that achy hole in her heart Linney left behind.
She wishes on Venus, the Evening Star, for a new best friend to take Linney’s place, for Grandpa to come to live with them, and for a dog. She may as well wish for a dog, too. Wishes Are Free.
Wishes Are Free
Diana Mercedes Howell’s novel Wishes Are Free: Rose O’Reilly and Grandpa is a delightful blend of magical elements and realistic storytelling. Howell’s narrative style is engaging, painting a vivid picture where the fantastical becomes tangible. Her attention to detail brings characters to life, particularly in the portrayal of the relationship between Rose and her grandfather, which serves as the emotional core of the story.
The book’s narrative is fluid and connects well with readers, gracefully weaving through a series of whimsical events. Howell strikes a fine balance between sentimentality and humor, adding layers to the story that make it both relatable and captivating. This book exemplifies Howell’s adeptness in creating an enchanting story, leaving readers with a sense of anticipation for future works from this gifted author. Howell’s writing is straightforward yet rich, making the book accessible to a broad audience. The focus on the bond between a young girl and her grandfather is a refreshing element in contemporary fiction. This relationship is central to the narrative, guiding the plot through its various twists and keeping the reader engaged. The themes of friendship, love, and coming of age are woven throughout the story, making it particularly appealing to young readers.
Wishes Are Free: Rose O’Reilly and Grandpa is an excellent choice for parents looking for suitable reading material for children. The book’s structure, with its short chapters, is ideal for bedtime stories or as an engaging read for young independent readers. The optimistic tone, endearing characters, and light-hearted humor make it a great pick for family reading sessions. Furthermore, this heartwarming tale is an excellent choice for gifting, suitable for occasions like baby showers. It’s a wonderful read that is sure to bring joy and warmth to its readers.
Pages: 236 | ASIN : B0BFCCJH7H
A Heartwarming Message
In The Little Boy Who Craved Thanksgiving, Little Ricky’s wise and loving grandmother teaches him how to be truly grateful for his many blessings and to appreciate much more than just the delicious foods he relishes each year. What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write this story?
The initial inspiration, or spark, for writing this story emerged from my desire to capture the essence of the season and the profound emotions associated with family, home, and love. In search of this inspiration, I delved into the memories of my childhood, recalling a true story that has resonated with me throughout my life. This recollection became the driving force, the very spark that ignited the need to craft this narrative.
What was your approach to writing the interactions between Little Ricky and his grandmother?
My approach to writing the interactions between Little Ricky and his grandmother aimed to highlight the wisdom that can be gained from our elders. I also aimed to emphasize the importance of clear and meaningful communication. My inspiration stemmed from the interactions I’ve experienced with my family during holiday celebrations. In large gatherings, there is a constant buzz of activity, and there’s always someone around to lend a hand or share in the moments.
I find the process of writing children’s books fascinating. Can you tell us a little bit about your approach to imagining, drafting, and writing this book in particular?
I aimed to create a fall book that captured the warmth of home and the essence of both autumn and the holiday season. Maintaining a positive message in my books is of utmost importance to me, and I wanted to remain true to my writing style, which centers around recounting true stories that have deeply inspired me. The character Little Ricky draws inspiration from a real-life event from my childhood centered around Thanksgiving and the invaluable lessons my brother and I learned at an early age. My primary goal was to authentically capture not only the lessons I gained from that experience but also to convey the genuine spirit of the holiday season.
When it came to drafting my story, I began by identifying a central theme and engaging in brainstorming sessions to confirm that this was the story I genuinely wanted to convey. Then, I outlined all the elements I aimed to incorporate into the narrative. While crafting children’s books can present unique challenges, it’s also an enjoyable endeavor. It requires a steadfast commitment to stay true to the story’s core message and not let the constraints overshadow the creative process. I prefer to leave fine-tuning and parameter adjustments for the editing stage, allowing the initial creativity to flow freely during the drafting process.
What is the next book you are working on, and when can readers look for it on shelves?
I’m thrilled to announce my upcoming book, Mr. Nap A. Lot’s Merry Christmas Adventure. This book is crafted to enchant early readers with its delightful blend of simple riddles and a whimsical narrative, ensuring that the joy of reading continues to flourish. Beyond the whimsical storytelling, it carries a heartwarming message that leaves a lasting impact, reminding readers that Christmas is about more than just presents and decorations. It’s a time to cherish our loved ones, spread holiday cheer, and embrace the magic of giving back to others. Available early October.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The Little Boy Who Craved Thanksgiving Leftovers: And the Lessons He Learned
Little Ricky eagerly anticipates Thanksgiving, particularly the day following the feast when leftovers abound. However, as Thanksgiving day draws near, Little Ricky’s excitement is tempered by concerns about the availability of leftovers for the following day. Noticing his distress, his perceptive grandma takes him aside for a heartfelt conversation. She imparts a valuable lesson, emphasizing that Thanksgiving transcends mere food; it’s about the cherished company of family and friends coming together.
Author Shani T. Night has written a charming and deeply touching story that imparts a profound message to young readers: the importance of gratitude for life’s blessings. The author skillfully communicates that it’s okay to experience selfish thoughts but underscores the value of thinking of others and sharing. This book firmly reinforces the idea of treasuring special moments with loved ones, especially during the holiday season. Little Ricky’s grandma serves as a voice of reason, adding depth to the narrative, given the reverence children often hold for their grandparents. The book’s vibrant, eye-catching illustrations are so captivating that they may even trigger cravings for Thanksgiving leftovers. To further enhance its educational value, the story concludes with a comprehensive recap of the essential lessons, making it an ideal catalyst for parents to engage in meaningful discussions about the story’s themes with their young ones.
The Little Boy Who Craved Thanksgiving is a must-read for young audiences, imparting the importance of sharing and celebrating with friends and family. The beautiful illustrations are bound to evoke the holiday spirit, rendering this book an indispensable addition to any young reader’s collection.
Pages: 41 | ASIN : B0CDY1YR3J
LITERARY TITAN 