Blog Archives
Literary Titan Gold Book Award: Children’s Books
The Literary Titan Book Award recognizes children’s books that mesmerize audiences with incredible narratives, vibrant illustrations, charming characters, and fresh ideas. Offering well-earned accolades, we salute the imagination and exceptional skill of authors who create tales that spark curiosity and delight in young minds.
Award Recipients
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Literary Titan Silver Book Award
Celebrating the brilliance of outstanding authors who have captivated us with their skillful prose, engaging narratives, and compelling real and imagined characters. We recognize books that stand out for their innovative storytelling and insightful exploration of truth and fiction. Join us in honoring the dedication and skill of these remarkable authors as we celebrate the diverse and rich worlds they’ve brought to life, whether through the realm of imagination or the lens of reality.
Award Recipients
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Sydney, Bean and The Missing Gloves
Sydney, Bean, and the Missing Gloves is a charming and heartwarming children’s story that follows Sydney, a brave-hearted but anxious Labrador, and her new little sister Bean, a lively puppy with a big heart. The story kicks off with Sydney struggling with fear and self-doubt, especially when left alone during thunderstorms. When a pair of their mom’s cherished gloves go missing, suspicion falls on Sydney, reigniting her worries. But Bean leaps to her defense, and the two embark on a mystery-filled adventure that eventually brings them face-to-face with a mischievous cat, a junkyard rescue mission, and the realization that courage and love come in many forms.
I was hooked right away by Sydney’s inner voice. Her struggle with fear felt surprisingly real for a kids’ book. Janice E. Collins does a beautiful job of giving Sydney dimension—she’s not just the “brave dog” trope. She’s messy, nervous, and trying her best. I loved how her relationship with Bean started off prickly and uncertain but bloomed into something sweet and fiercely loyal. The story sneaks in a lot of heart: it’s about family, trust, and believing in yourself even when things get tough. I found myself laughing at Monty the cat’s antics and rooting hard for Bean as she wandered into danger. There’s a cozy energy in the way the story unfolds, but it also manages to squeeze in real suspense and adventure.
One of the standout elements for me was how this book avoids being preachy while still delivering strong lessons. Kids don’t get a moral hammered at them—they live it through Sydney and Bean. The pacing was sharp, and the dialogue cracked with personality. Every animal character had a distinct voice, from the slightly dramatic Sergeant Riley to the chatty baby bird. And the emotional beats hit just right. It’s rare for a book aimed at young readers to balance silliness with sincerity so well, but this one pulls it off.
The illustrations are magical. Each scene bursts with rich colors, expressive characters, and warm, detailed backdrops that feel like they’ve been lifted straight from a Disney movie. The illustrator, Artsoluki, brings the story to life with a cinematic flair.
Sydney, Bean, and the Missing Gloves is a total delight. I’d recommend it for any kids who love animals, mystery, and stories with a lot of heart. It’s also a great pick for read-aloud sessions—there’s just so much voice in every page. Parents will enjoy it too, especially if they’ve ever had a scared pup or a new sibling dynamic at home.
Pages: 34 | ASIN: B0DLLR5HZD
Yowie Dreaming: A Tale of Friendship and Adventure
Yowie Dreaming is a delightful and unexpected gem of a story set in rural Queensland, following the reluctant city-girl Paisley Parkinson as she’s uprooted from Brisbane and planted in Kilcoy, a place famous for its folklore, forests, and, most notably, its elusive Yowie. What starts as a tale of teen angst and culture shock slowly spirals into a warm-hearted, often hilarious, and surprisingly moving story about friendship, trust, community, and the mysteries of the natural world. Paisley’s discovery of a real, live Yowie, whom she and her ragtag crew name Mr. Yahoo, propels the story into mythic territory without losing its grounded, human core.
When I began reading the book, I anticipated light-hearted small-town quirks and perhaps a few humorous nods to Bigfoot folklore. However, Margaretta James delivers something far more layered. From the very first chapter, particularly in Paisley’s scathing reaction to the lackluster statue in Yowie Park. The narrative voice stood out as strikingly genuine. Paisley’s frustration, dry wit, and gradual emotional evolution as she grows more connected to the landscape, her unconventional family, and the enigmatic Mr. Yahoo are portrayed with remarkable nuance. Her perspective is compelling, intelligent, emotionally complex, and deeply relatable.
The writing is clear, cozy, and refreshingly no-nonsense. There’s a genuine rhythm to the dialogue, and nothing feels forced or overly stylized. The trio of Paisley, Mikah, and Nicco steals the show. Mikah’s chaotic, ADHD energy and Nicco’s calm, tech-assisted communication balance Paisley’s dry humor. Their friendship feels earned, not tacked on. A scene that stuck with me is when Mikah wraps Mr. Yahoo’s burnt paw in honey and bandages, just calmly doing what needs to be done. That moment of quiet kindness was more touching than any dramatic rescue scene I’ve read in a while.
The ideas in the book, especially around land, Dreamtime stories, and First Nations knowledge, are treated with deep respect but not in a preachy way. Aunty Pam is the heart of this. Her stories about the Jinibara people, the shared land with the Yowies (or joogabinna), and the need for balance really hit me. She says, “Even groups that don’t trust each other have to learn to live side by side.” That line lingered. The book isn’t just about discovering a creature. It’s about discovering connection, healing, and how stories, old and new, hold power.
By the end, I wasn’t just rooting for Mr. Yahoo to find his way home, I was rooting for Paisley, too. I wanted her to keep growing, keep questioning, and keep letting people in. The final chapters had me smiling and even when the kids were wading through literal Yowie poo and hiding a mythical beast from angry bogans. There’s whimsy here, but also heart and real stakes.
Yowie Dreaming is for anyone who ever felt like an outsider, who ever loved a mystery, or who just needs a reminder that even the wildest legends might be true. It’s perfect for middle graders, teens, and grown-ups who haven’t lost their sense of wonder.
Pages: 70 | ASIN : B0F5GW1XV3
Motivating and Empowering Kids
Jordyn’s A to Z Affirmation Book is a radiant and inspiring children’s book that transforms the alphabet into a journey of positivity and empowerment by introducing each letter with a meaningful affirmation to promote self-confidence, kindness, and inner strength. What was the inspiration for your story?
I wanted to have a book that motivated kids to dream big and to think big, my daughter suggested that I add an affirmation book to my series. She and I worked together on this project. I also added a new character to the series, Jordyn’s cousin named Jordan to this book. I wanted them to take turns motivating and empowering kids in their own way, and to let kids know there are no limits in what they can accomplish in their lives: whether it’s becoming a doctor, a professional athlete or running their own business one day. I wanted the story to build confidence, self-love, and resilience.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
First and foremost, this book encourages children to read and gives them the tools to know their self-worth. The book encourages kids to embrace their unique qualities, and to believe in themselves. All of my books encourage kids to read. That’s why I created my children’s book series to encourage children to read to have fun while doing so; while also empowering young minds to think big to dream big. The book is meant to be an educational tool for teachers, counselors, and parents to use daily to nurture a strong and positive mindset in their students and children. My inspiration was to inspire my young readers to dream and to keep dreaming, and for them to know that there are no limits in what they can achieve.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The letters V and W, where Jordyn and her cousin are a princess and a prince. I definitely wanted to include that in this book. Children need to know they are valuable and worthy, and they need to hear it or read it daily. Self-love and developing inner strength can go a long way in life, and this book does that with each letter of the alphabet. Every letter introduces a positive affirmation.
Where does the next book in the series take the characters?
I’m still trying to figure out what’s next, whether I want to add more characters or what the next journey will be in the series. I’m sure it will be a wonderful and exciting storyline for my readers to enjoy.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Jordyn’s A to Z Affirmation Book encourages kids to embrace their unique qualities, celebrate diversity, and to believe in their dreams. This book is designed to foster a growth mindset and emotional well-being for children, while learning the letters of the alphabet with a positive affirmation and can be used daily as a tool for parents, teachers, and caregivers to nurture a strong and positive foundation in young hearts and minds. This book is meant to inspire, empower and motivate all kids. The book also includes several coloring pages to keep kids engaged.
The Wandering Adventures at Hobart Mill
The Wandering Adventures at Hobart Mill is a charming and heartfelt tale that follows young Malachi Halladay as he is uprooted from New York and placed into the care of his eccentric and endlessly adventurous great-grandmother, Granny Annie, in the wilds of Tasmania. After the tragic loss of his parents, Malachi embarks on a journey of healing, discovery, and wonder. The narrative weaves his real-world grief with magical and mysterious elements, from a mischievous Tasmanian devil named Fern to a curious and long-forgotten estate called Hobart Mill. With a cast of quirky characters and an ever-growing sense of curiosity, Malachi’s story is part adventure, part emotional awakening.
What really stood out to me was the sincerity in Kinard’s writing. He doesn’t shy away from portraying the rawness of grief through Malachi’s eyes, but he balances it beautifully with warmth and humor. Granny Annie is a scene-stealer—skydiving, rock-climbing, storytelling—she’s a whirlwind of vitality and love. And then there’s Fern, a Tasmanian devil who becomes a literal and emotional companion to Malachi. Their bond feels real, honest, and surprisingly moving. The narrative’s pace is gentle but never dull, and Kinard’s prose, though simple, is surprisingly powerful in the way it captures feelings and places. The dialogue can sometimes be a little too polished for kids, but it never loses its heart.
The book leans into nostalgia and sentimentality. Some scenes play out with an almost movie-like sheen—idealized, even dreamlike. The secrets of Hobart Mill are tantalizing, but they’re teased more than they’re revealed. Still, that sense of wonder—of something just around the corner—is part of what makes the story so engaging. Kinard’s use of real-world geography mixed with fantasy elements gives the whole book an almost timeless feel, like a modern-day Narnia with a dash of Roald Dahl’s mischief.
All in all, I’d recommend this book to middle-grade readers and families looking for something cozy yet adventurous. It’s a gentle read that touches on deep themes without becoming heavy. Readers who’ve lost someone might find solace in Malachi’s journey, and kids who love exploration will adore the quirky mysteries that unfold.
Pages: 240 | ASIN: B0CWFMK31D
Imagination Took Over
The Attic Door follows a little boy in a new bedroom that has a strange door where strange and scary sounds come from who works up the courage to investigate what is behind the door. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for The Attic Door came from my experience in second grade when I lived in Chicago, Illinois. My family moved into a new house, and my sister, brother, and I each got to choose our own bedrooms. Unfortunately, I picked the one with a large door that led into the attic. At first, I didn’t think much of it, but that quickly changed once night fell—especially during Chicago’s windy winters. The attic door would rattle and shake, and I began having nightmares. Eventually, my younger brother and I switched rooms, since the attic didn’t bother him at all. But as fate would have it, his old room—now mine—had a window that opened onto the roof. Of course, my imagination took over once again. I had to endure the rooftop window for another year until we finally moved!
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I loved writing the story, and the completed illustrations made me love the picture book even more.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator David Barrow?
All communication went through the publisher. She shared the illustrations as David completed them, and I provided feedback. It was an easy process because David captured everything just as I had envisioned.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I submit directly to publishers and currently have three stories out on submission. No takers so far, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed!
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Scary noises are coming from the creepy attic door in Eduardo’s bedroom. His imagination goes wild!
When Eduardo (and his stuffed alligator) finally gather their courage to go investigate, is it a ghost? Or a monster? Or something unexpected?
Small Life Lessons
The Curious Quest of Little Luna follows a fox who stumbles upon a mysterious treasure map in the woods, sending her on a whimsical journey filled with excitement, challenges, and meaningful moments. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for Little Luna came from watching my own children explore with such curiosity and wonder. I wanted to create a story that encouraged that same spirit of adventure—one that blends imagination with small life lessons. Luna’s journey is not just about finding treasure, but about what she learns along the way.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
One of my goals was to subtly introduce problem-solving, emotional resilience, and the value of curiosity. Luna faces challenges that require her to think, adapt, and sometimes lean on the help of others. These moments offer gentle reminders to young readers that it’s okay to make mistakes, ask questions, or feel uncertain—as long as you keep moving forward.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Rather than one specific scene, what I enjoyed most was the process of introducing new characters as the story progressed. Each one added a unique energy and helped shape Luna’s journey in a meaningful way.
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 Curious Quest of Little Luna is a standalone story and not part of a planned series. Luna’s journey wraps up in this book.
Author Links: Goodreads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When Luna, a curious young fox, stumbles upon a mysterious treasure map, her quiet forest life transforms into the adventure of a lifetime. With bravery in her heart and a twinkle in her eye, she sets off to uncover the secrets of the map—but she won’t be journeying alone.
Joined by her wise owl friend Benny, the clever turtle Fin, and the fearless rabbit Tilly, Luna ventures through roaring rivers, tangled bramble paths, and the magical Starlight Glade. Together, they face challenges, solve mysteries, and discover that the greatest treasures aren’t glittering gold or sparkling gems—they’re the friendships, courage, and love found along the way.
What’s inside this heartwarming story?
A delightful tale of adventure, friendship, and bravery.
Stunning illustrations on every page that bring the magic of the forest to life.
Memorable characters who teach the power of kindness and teamwork.
Perfect for readers ages 5–10, families to enjoy together, or as a cherished bedtime story.
The Curious Quest of Little Luna is a timeless journey that inspires kids to embrace the magic of adventure and the beauty of connection. Whether read aloud or enjoyed independently, this book is destined to become a family favorite.
Discover the magic, wonder, and lessons that will stay with your little adventurer for a lifetime!
LITERARY TITAN 