Blog Archives
Peaches and Jake Celebrate Christmas
Peaches and Jake Celebrate Christmas is a sweet little story about two rescue pups waking up on Christmas morning to discover the surprises Santa left them under the tree. They each get giant bones and then two toys, a moose for Jake and a fox for Peaches, and the rest of the day unfolds with the dogs learning what to do with their gifts. Jake destroys his moose with pure joy, Peaches figures out that Foxie makes a perfect nap buddy, and their mom watches over the whole thing with so much love. It feels like flipping through a family photo album where every picture tells its own tiny story.
There is a softness to the writing that feels like someone talking to me from their couch with their dogs at their feet. The real photos of Peaches and Jake add charm because they are so expressive. I kept giggling at Peaches trying to figure out Foxie. And the whole saga of Moosie slowly losing limbs and stuffing had me cracking up. There is something sweet about how Jake loves that toy even when it becomes a little fabric scrap. It says a lot about how dogs attach meaning to things and how we do the same sometimes without even realizing it.
I also liked how the book shows the two dogs having such different personalities. Jake barrels into Christmas like it is the best day of the year. Peaches moves carefully and watches everyone else first. It reminded me of how different pets can be, even when they grow up in the same home. The photos on almost every page make it easy to stay engaged. Honestly, it felt a little like being invited into the author’s living room to watch a memory replay itself.
I think this picture book is perfect for young kids who like animals and for grown-ups who just want something soft and happy to read. It is especially lovely for dog lovers or anyone who enjoys holiday stories that feel real and cozy. If you want a children’s book that brings a smile without trying too hard, this one is a great choice. It is playful, sweet, and full of genuine affection, and that makes it a wonderful holiday read for families.
Pages: 48 | ASIN : B0DFDWN1SN
Peaches and the 19 Cobras
Peaches and the 19 Cobras tells the story of Peaches and Jake, two sweet rescue dogs who misunderstand COVID-19 as “19 cobras” and spend the pandemic doing everything they can to protect their mom. The book moves through their daily adventures from quarantine in Florida to summers in Maine. There are masks and costumes, funny misunderstandings, shiny Christmas trees, and a whole lot of love. The dogs tell the story in their own voices, so the whole thing feels warm and comforting.
As I read it, I kept catching myself smiling. The writing feels like someone chatting with me in their kitchen. It’s simple in a good way and full of genuine emotion. The idea of hearing the pandemic through the ears of two confused and devoted dogs was surprisingly emotional. It reminded me of how strange that time was and how pets kind of carried so many of us through it. Some moments even made my eyes sting a little because the mix of humor and fear from that year still sits in my chest. Seeing the dogs try to make sense of everything made the whole memory softer for me.
I also loved how the book leans into joy. There are photos everywhere, and they’re adorable. The stories jump from masks that never stay on to gigantic Christmas trees to lobster dinners in Maine. It felt chaotic in a charming way. Like watching someone you love tell a story while getting distracted every few sentences. I honestly laughed out loud when the dogs kept ditching their masks or when Peaches tried to look fierce with her tiny warrior stance. The whole thing just felt honest. Not polished in a stiff way. More like real life with all the messiness and sweetness mixed together.
Peaches and the 19 Cobras is great for kids who want a gentle way to understand a heavy moment in history and for adults who want a soft, funny reminder of how we made it through. Anyone who loves animals or who leaned on a pet during the pandemic will feel this one. It’s light and goofy and unexpectedly touching. I’d happily pass it along to families, teachers, grandparents, and anyone who just needs a picture book that feels kind.
Pages: 88 | ASIN : B0DDW3GM88
Litter Lady Leads: in a Litter-Filled Land
Litter Lady Leads, written by Martha Goldner, is a sweet and simple story about an older woman who cannot stop tidying the world around her. Page after page, she strolls through beaches, parks, trains, ballparks, grocery stores, even windstorms, always scooping up trash with her pointy-tipped cane. Kids adore her. She feeds them cookies, picks up after everyone, donates useful things to people in need, and somehow keeps going even when she is tired. By the end, the kids learn to help her clean, and the whole picture book wraps up with a cheerful idea that we can all make the world a brighter place.
I found the whole book very charming. The writing is short and punchy, which fits a children’s book, but it still gave me little bursts of feeling. I kept smiling because Litter Lady is drawn with this stern face that kind of hides how soft-hearted she is. The pictures on the pages add a funny mood, too. They are colorful, a bit messy, and that rough style works because the story is about mess itself. It made me feel like the book was hand-colored with real love.
I also caught myself thinking about the book’s message more than I expected. It is simple. It is repetitive. Yet it got to me because I know people like her–people who clean up without asking for thanks and who make small corners of the world better just because they care. When the kids finally asked if they could help, I felt a tiny lump in my throat. Her not having cookies for them at the bus stop made me worry about her as if she were my own neighbor. This book surprised me with how much heart it carries in so few words.
I would recommend Litter Lady Leads in a Litter-filled Land to young kids, early readers, teachers, and anyone who wants a gentle story about kindness and caring for your community. It is simple in the best way. It is warm and sweet and gives a little nudge to be helpful. If you like picture books that mix humor with a feel-good lesson, this one will certainly make you smile.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0CZ6SRBTZ
Empowering Family Members
Tiger and My Eye Patch follows a young girl bullied for wearing an eye patch to correct her vision whose courage becomes evident when she sets out to save her canine companion. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve noticed many elementary school students are reluctant to wear their glasses and eye patches because they’re worried about being ridiculed by peers. I was diagnosed with amblyopia or lazy eye as a child and experienced similar angst, prompting me to write Tiger and My Eye Patch. As I began outlining the story, I considered opening with a scene of two boys taunting the main character and pointing at her glasses and eye patch as she enters the classroom. Instead, the story begins with the main character smiling as she prepares to spend the summer with her grandparents and their Great Dane Tiger in Johnson City. This setup or opening scene places the focus on empowering family members rather than unkind classmates. I think this positive emphasis is more helpful to young readers.
Is there anything that you now wish you had included in Colleen’s story?
After Tiger and My Patch was released, I reflected on two things that could have been included in the book. I think a section with tips for parents and teachers to motivate children to wear their glasses and eye patches would be helpful. Also, a list of nonprofit organizations that give unwanted Great Danes a second chance could raise awareness about these volunteer initiatives. If an updated version of my book is released, I’ll add these resources.
Do you have a favorite moment in the book? One that was especially enjoyable to write?
The entire story rekindles fond memories of spending school vacations with my grandparents and their gentle giant. One of my favorite scenes is the pivotal moment the little girl in the story realizes she can rescue Tiger when he’s stuck in the middle of a busy street. I think this scene shows children that their unique traits can help others and solve problems. I particularly enjoyed writing this part of the story because throughout my childhood my late grandmother liked retelling the story of how I assisted local police officers coax Tiger back to safety whenever he got loose during my summer visits. “When you called him with your little voice, he’d come,” she said. “Tiger listened only to you.”
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently working on rewriting two children’s stories featuring Baxter the Beagle that I originally wrote to read to my elementary students. In Baxter’s DelightfullyDifferent Book Club, Baxter discovers the rewards of accepting differences and bypassing stereotypes. In The Super Beagle of Kindness, Baxter uncovers the power of treating others with compassion and empathy. Both fiction narratives provide young readers with life lessons in a lighthearted and entertaining way. The stories are scheduled for release in 2026.
Author Links: Website | Amazon
Fang, Bang and the Midnight Mouse: The Christmas Call
The Christmas Call, the latest installment in J-J Murray’s Fang, Bang, and the Midnight Mouse series, is tailor-made for cozy holiday read-alouds shared with family. Illustrated by Katie Tayler, the story opens on a snug Christmas Eve with the Jollie family, where cat detectives Fang and Bang are reveling in their favorite season. The warmth doesn’t last long. Trouble strikes at the Hill Inn when a prized wheel of Stilton cheese disappears without a trace. Summoned to investigate, the two feline sleuths follow a tantalising trail of crumbs far from home, all the way to Cambridge, where they come face to face with Midnight Mouse and her mischievous crew. What follows is a brisk, festive mystery packed with sharp twists, seasonal mayhem, and more than a few cat-astrophes.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is how naturally it weaves together humor, intrigue, and genuine warmth. The pace is swift and confident, keeping young readers absorbed as Fang and Bang pursue clues through snowy streets, bustling museums, and even a Christmas carol service. The language remains light and approachable, sprinkled generously with cat puns that will prompt giggles from children and knowing smiles from adults. At times, the narrator speaks directly to the reader, posing questions and inviting them to think alongside the detectives, which adds a playful, interactive dimension to the story.
Katie Tayler’s illustrations brim with energy and charm. Every page feels alive with movement and warmth, allowing Fang and Bang’s distinct personalities to shine. The festive settings are richly imagined, and the artwork supports the text beautifully, guiding young readers through the action while deepening the cozy Christmas atmosphere.
Beneath the mystery lies a thoughtful message about generosity and empathy, particularly fitting for the holiday season. Midnight Mouse is not portrayed as a simple villain. Her motivations are handled with surprising tenderness, offering children a nuanced understanding that mistakes do not define a character’s worth. A brief section at the end exploring the history of Stilton cheese adds an unexpected educational touch, enhancing the story without interrupting its momentum.
Overall, this is a delightful choice for families seeking a festive tale that balances entertainment with heart. The Christmas Call is witty, inventive, and warmly inclusive, an excellent pick for young readers who enjoy mysteries, animal heroes, and Christmas adventures wrapped in charm.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0FXNP9YC4
True Meaning of Home
Have a Good Trip, Lucky! follows a sweet little dog from Conakry, Guinea, who gets adopted by a U.S. diplomat and then has to travel across the world when his owner gets transferred to Washington, DC. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The Dog Diplomat Adventure series is actually inspired by my real-life rescue dog, Lucky! This book, Have a Good Trip, Lucky! – is the second book in the series.
Lucky found me when I was posted to the U.S. Embassy in Conakry, Guinea, in West Africa. After becoming part of both my family and the U.S. Embassy community family, Lucky was surrounded by love and friendship. However, as those in the foreign service and military service know, new assignments often lead to new destinations. Lucky’s Diplomat Mom receives new work orders, and she is being transferred back to a job in the United States. Lucky is about to embark on his overseas move or trip!
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
There are three themes in the book that I hope children and families take away after reading it.
INNER COURAGE – Lucky must find his inner courage in order to embark on his first overseas move and trip. Life inevitably presents challenges, and both children and adults need to summon their inner strength when confronted with difficulties.
LOVE – This story depicts a temporary separation between Lucky and his Mom. She arranges for Lucky to stay with her sister’s family until they can be reunited. This mirrors real-life situations where parents might leave their children for school, camp, or other commitments. Lucky learns that even in her absence, his Mom continues to care for him through trusted family members and friends.
TRUE MEANING OF HOME – Lucky discovers that HOME is not a building or place but is comprised of family and friends. And as long as you have your loved ones with you, you are at HOME, no matter where in the world you may land.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Actually, the ending of the book was the most enjoyable to write. When Lucky arrives in New York and meets my sisters and their families! I had the opportunity to honor my family in this story. Without their love and support, I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish my job.
This book is a tribute to all family members who stand by their loved ones serving in the foreign service and military.
Will this book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
Yes – this book is the second installment in the Dog Diplomat Adventure series!
The first book – Lucky Puppy Finds Two Families – narrates Lucky’s journey from being a homeless puppy on the streets of West Africa to finding not just one, but two loving families. Inspired by my real-life rescue dog Lucky, this series chronicles his adventures.
In Have a Good Trip, Lucky! – the second book, I share how Lucky became an integral part of both my family and the U.S. Embassy community, surrounded by love and friendship. However, as is common in foreign and military service, new orders often lead to new destinations. Lucky’s Diplomat Mom receives orders to transfer back to the United States, leading to Lucky’s exciting overseas adventure!
Have a Good Trip, Lucky! – follows Lucky’s first big trip and explores courage, change, and the comfort of finding the true meaning of “home.”
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram | Amazon
Lucky is a Dog Diplomat with a nose for excitement and a big heart! His life in West Africa is full of sunshine and friends-but everything changes when his Diplomat Mom moves across the world. Now, Lucky has to take a huge trip all by himself, from West Africa all the way to the United States! Facing travel surprises, delays in Paris, and wondering who will be waiting on the other side, is Lucky brave enough to conquer these challenges?
Join Lucky as he discovers his inner courage and the true meaning of home! Perfect for any child who’s ever moved, missed someone far away, or simply loves dogs and adventures. This fun-filled journey proves that a brave heart can find fun, friendship, and a place to call home-no matter where in the world your paws may land!
Fun and Realistic Education
Dali & Banksy’s Brave Bite Adventure follows two young explorers on a cozy, confidence-boosting quest that turns tasting new foods into an upbeat, family-filled adventure. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The Inspiration for the story was that I was teaching nutrition in the Flint Public Schools, and I was not happy with the book I had to read so I wanted one that was fun, realistic, and encouraged children to try new fruits and veggies.
Gram and Pepere add such comforting energy. Were they based on people from your own life?
Gram and Pepere are myself and my husband (Pepere is French Canadian). This is what Dali and Banksy call us.
The illustrations feel soft and welcoming. What guidance did you give the illustrator to achieve that mood?
The illustrations were perfect! Banksy knew who everyone was, and the illustrator was given pictures, and I just shared my vision for the book, most importantly, I wanted it to be kid-friendly and grab the attention of children and parents.
Do you imagine more Brave Bites Quests or other adventures for Dali and Banksy in future books?
Yes, the second book is currently in illustration, and it is about medically compromised children and helping them be brave.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Dali and Banksy’s Brave Bite Adventure is a heartwarming, fun-filled story about two curious siblings who discover that trying something new isn’t so scary after all!
When Dali and Banksy are invited to try a new food, they aren’t too sure. What if it tastes weird? What if they don’t like it? With a little courage, a lot of imagination, and the support of each other, they take a brave bite, and learn that stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to tasty surprises and big life lessons.
Inspired by real-life siblings, this playful picture book encourages kids to be open-minded, adventurous, and kind. It’s perfect for children ages 3–8 and families who love stories about growing together, one small step (or bite!) at a time.
Great for: Picky eaters, new experiences, sibling bonding, courage-building, and shared family reading.
Tooth-builders Came to Life
Twinkling Wings and Toothy Things follows a tooth-builder from the Tooth Fairy Realm who, while on a mission, experiences some mishaps leading to a late-night adventure filled with valuable lessons. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration was my daughter, Sadie. During family dinner, when my little girl got frustrated because she didn’t have teeth to chew, the idea of the tooth-builders came to life!
I found Nutter Nate to be an entertaining and likeable character. What was your inspiration for this character?
In real life, my brother and I own and operate a building company so naturally there would need to be a leader in the tooth building realm and I’m a little nutty, so Nutter Nate rhymed and it made goofy sense for the young audience to think that might be funny!
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Teamwork is definitely one of the main takeaways along with in life there will always be challenges to overcome whether it is on a job site or in an office building or at home.
What story are you currently in the middle of writing?
I left the ending open for more adventures for the characters. Maybe a book about lost teeth that are thrown in trash cans or swallowed (don’t want kids to be devastated thinking the tooth fairy won’t have their lost tooth). I’m always listening for book ideas that are not out there.
Author Links: Amazon | Facebook
Before a tooth fairy gets their wings, they work day and night as tooth-builders. Equipped with pearly paste, calcium soil, and bristly brushes, tooth-builders help build and install children’s shiny new adult teeth so that kids can smile with pride. Join Nutter Nate’s team of talented tooth-builders as they leave the Tooth Fairy Realm to install Sam and Sadie’s new teeth. But watch out for adults and animals—a pup’s bark could ruin Sam and Sadie’s bites!
LITERARY TITAN 