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I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng
S.P. Somtow’s I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng celebrates the limitless imagination of childhood with charm and originality. The story follows a suburban boy who stumbles upon Moo Deng, a newborn pygmy hippo, while browsing online. Instantly captivated, he becomes so enthralled that his mother plans a trip to Thailand to visit the zoo where Moo Deng resides. They stay with his Uncle Somtow, who helps coordinate the visit. When they finally arrive at the zoo, a long line threatens their plans. Uncle Somtow considers giving up, but the boy’s determination keeps them in place. While they wait, his imagination takes flight, spinning magical adventures where he and Moo Deng share whimsical moments together.
The book’s theme is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity. The protagonist’s fascination with Moo Deng becomes a driving force, teaching children the value of pursuing their passions wholeheartedly. His family’s unwavering support creates a nurturing environment that further underscores the importance of encouragement. Somtow skillfully illustrates how creativity not only fuels joy but also builds resilience. Faced with frustration during the long wait, the boy channels his emotions into vivid daydreams, transforming a tiresome experience into a fantastical journey. Meanwhile, Uncle Somtow enriches the moment by sharing intriguing facts, turning the wait into an opportunity for discovery.
Visually, the book dazzles with its illustrations. They burst with fantasy elements and intricate details, enhanced by striking light and shadow effects. Somtow’s writing, on the other hand, is precise and engaging, seamlessly weaving together real-world events and the protagonist’s imagined escapades. Each scene flows effortlessly into the next, delivering a narrative brimming with wonder and excitement.
At its heart, I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng inspires children to chase even the wildest dreams. It’s a joyful reminder that imagination, perseverance, and the support of loved ones can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. S.P. Somtow’s tale brims with warmth and creativity, making it an enchanting read for young dreamers and the families who encourage them to reach for the stars.
Pages: 67 | ISBN : 978-1940999388
Kindness and Empathy
The What-If Kid follows a young boy whose wild imagination often spirals into anxiety and worry who is getting ready for his first day of school. What was the inspiration for your story?
My inspiration for this story was and still is our son Kale. His own worries and anxiety were very apparent on his first day of school, and I knew I just had to write this book. Other parents working through the same struggles with their own kids can absolutely relate to Kale and all the emotions brought about on his first day of school.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to share our son’s story about anxiety and how real it can be and feel especially to little ones when a change comes about in their lives. I really wanted to emphasize that kindness and empathy do still exist in this world and how even the smallest gesture can produce the biggest reward.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The scene I had the most fun writing was the school bus scene. I’m pretty sure that Kale did express his worry about the bus falling apart, which made it all the more real. First bus rides can be worrisome and I was hoping to also lighten the mood of the book in this scene.
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?
This is the first book in this series. I also have a second book out called Bedtime Worries- The What-If Kid. Just continuing on with all of Kale’s big feelings at bedtime. I am currently working on my third book in this series. It should be out on shelves by early next year called Carnival Chaos- The What-If Kid. I think that with that title you can just imagine all of the “What-ifs” that come into play throughout the pages of that book.
Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | Website | Instagram | Amazon
Real Magic
Ice Cap follows an unusual snowman with a cell phone and electric guitar who helps entertain kids and unite communities in the winter. What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I have been in awe of technology advancement in my lifetime. As a teacher and parent, I have noticed how adults and now children are often glued to their phones and tablets, missing out on the adventure we call life! Real magic happens when parents, teachers, and caregivers make real-life connections with children through play, music, and by showing kindness. There is no substitute for spending quality time with each other. Ice Cap has a phone and he’s from THIS century but he hasn’t forgotten the intrinsic value of friendship, whether it is with his forest friends or the children he meets. I wanted to incorporate the ideas of manners, of including parents in the fun, and of giving gifts of the heart, drawn from the magic of our natural world.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Claire Sedovic?
Claire is a wonderful artist and our collaboration was quite seamless. I immediately chose her from my publisher’s repertoire. Although the comic strip and AI illustration styles are popular now, I wanted the story to seem modern with the underlying charm of a timeless tradition. I sent her a lot of background setting material and ideas for characters (objects, animals, multicultural children, objects, my sketch of Ice Cap, etc.) and she stayed true to my vision for the book. She did some research of her own, I could tell right away when she captured my corn husk dolls that adorn the tree. (A craft taught to my mom by a First Nations neighbour 80 years ago!) Claire was open to make changes or additions and her own interpretations of each scene really brought the story to life. Thanks, Claire!!!
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?
This is the first book! I’m quite busy sharing my story with schools, libraries, and my community. I have already written a companion story with a similar female character but I am going to wait a while before starting the process again. Time will tell!!! I actually have so many stories written, all drawn from my experiences, from my community, and from the flora and fauna of our beautiful world. For now readers, parents, and teachers can connect with me or read my blog on my website joanepp.com. I look forward to reading the stories that children send me at justjoanandkids@gmail.com because after all reading inspires writing!
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Instagram | Website | Amazon
Whether he’s snowboarding down hills, playing games with kids, or sharing frosty treats, Ice Cap makes winter the most magical time of the year. When the children text him with a “please,” he’s there in a flash, ready to join in the fun!
But Ice Cap’s adventures aren’t just about games. He’s got a special gift for spreading kindness and making memories. From building ice castles to creating a beautiful pine tree in the center of town, he’s always thinking of ways to make his friends smile.
From debut author, Joan Epp, this rhyming picture book is perfect for kids who love snowmen, the holidays, and winter fun. With lyrical text and whimsical illustrations, “Ice Cap” is a delightful read that will warm hearts, even on the frostiest days. Ideal for children ages 3-7, this story is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home.
Join Ice Cap on his snowy adventures, and discover the magic of winter through the eyes of a modern-day snowman who’s as cool as he is kind!
Alternative Realities
The Esperanza: Book Two of the Terracolina Trilogy, follows a twelve-year-old boy who struggles with his parents’ expectations and is sent to math camp. There, he makes new friends who he wants to enlist to help save Terrocolina. What were some themes that you felt were important to highlight in this story?
The themes from book one continue in this book two: Loss of youth, introversion, love of nature, the pull of escaping into a fantasy world, exploration, and found family—with the addition of real friendships (a different kind of found family than his magical friends). In addition, the protagonist must face deeper challenges created by the need to belong. Finally, I wanted to introduce the idea that our imaginations and alternative realities can be one and the same.
In many contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in this story?
Very much so! I loved to escape to my own private and magical world as a child, was a tree climber, a nature lover, and an introvert. Our family also made maple syrup and the big maple I climbed in as a child was the model for the one in the story. The earlier years of my adulthood ripped me rather abruptly from the safety of childhood. Thomas’s loss of his Grandpa represents that loss of youth, wonder, and safety I experienced as a young adult.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from and how did it change as you were writing?
I am an avid gardener and find it easy to imagine personalities for each of my plants. I have revived my vivid childhood imagination and am having a blast building the magical world of Terracolina.
What will the next book in that series be about, and when will it be published?
The final book of the Trilogy will bring Thomas “back to earth” and reconnect him with his real-world friends. He will find a better balance between living in his real world and an imaginary one, and he and his home world friends will find real-world solutions to the environmental issues that surround them.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
His return home gives him a chance to save the hemlock forest he and Grandpa used to frequent and he’s finally making some friends in his real world. But he still misses his Terracolina buddies and finds a way to visit them. What he discovers is shocking. Not only have the Olgrots attacked again, but an aggressive vine is strangling the garden.
He realizes this time he alone can’t stop the tragedy unfolding in Terracolina. His real world friends have just the right skills to help out. He wants to connect his two worlds, but can they coexist?
Literary Titan Gold Book Award: Fiction
The Literary Titan Book Award honors books that exhibit exceptional storytelling and creativity. This award celebrates novelists who craft compelling narratives, create memorable characters, and weave stories that captivate readers. The recipients are writers who excel in their ability to blend imagination with literary skill, creating worlds that enchant and narratives that linger long after the final page is turned.
Award Recipients
Sweet Sorrow- Book 3 in The Jungle War series by Kregg P.J. Jorgenson
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
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 December 2024
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.
A Christmas to Remember
T S James delivers a touching and enchanting tale in his latest book, A Christmas to Remember. This heartwarming story captures the essence of the holiday season through the adventures of two young girls, Lily and Sophie, in the days leading up to Christmas. Lily, a steadfast believer in magic and Santa Claus, finds her faith tested by Sophie, whose doubts stem from the cynicism of her mother. In a beautiful act of selflessness, Lily wishes for Sophie to rediscover her belief in magic, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey. On December 23rd, the girls receive an extraordinary invitation to the North Pole to meet Santa himself. Before their meeting, they encounter Jingles, a lively elf who assigns them a series of tasks to inspire the residents of Santclausby and reignite the true spirit of Christmas. Through these adventures, Lily and Sophie learn timeless lessons about friendship, selflessness, and the joy of believing.
While this book is written for children, it holds immense appeal for adults as well. The story invites readers to reflect on the magic of the season and the importance of preserving the wonder and innocence of childhood. Anthony James masterfully captures the emotions of his young protagonists, weaving their simple yet profound perspectives with themes of gratitude, connection, and belief. Lily and Sophie’s deep appreciation for their friendship and those around them is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, leaving readers with a renewed sense of gratitude for the people in their own lives. The book also thoughtfully addresses many of the curious questions children often have about Santa Claus, such as how gifts are made and delivered in a single night. These delightful explanations add a layer of realism to the magical narrative, making it both entertaining and educational for young readers. For adults, it serves as a poignant reminder to nurture a child’s sense of wonder and to find magic in everyday moments.
Perfect for the holiday season, A Christmas to Remember is a captivating story for the whole family. Its themes of belief, appreciation, and the enduring magic of Christmas make it an ideal read for creating cherished memories together.
Pages: 190 | ASIN : B0DKZSBPJ8
LITERARY TITAN 