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The Fox’s New Channel
The Fox’s New Channel, by Tuula Pere, captivates readers with a timely and engaging tale that brings real-world issues into a format young readers can grasp. The story follows Francis the Fox, who, burdened by bills and financial woes, hatches a clever business plan. Armed with electronic gadgets and communication gear, he creates a home studio with help from his ever-supportive mother. But Francis has a sharp tongue and an even sharper sense of humor. His commentary becomes merciless, disregarding people’s privacy and the repercussions of spreading gossip. Surprisingly, his project thrives, and he moves to the city to launch The Fox’s New Channel. Fame skyrockets, followers pour in, but his reckless spread of fake news spirals beyond his control, forcing Francis to face the real-world consequences of his actions.
Tuula Pere’s storytelling is wonderfully accessible, wrapping serious themes in a narrative children can easily follow. I admire how she uses Francis’ journey to shine a light on pressing societal issues, from the dangers of misinformation to the complexities of media influence. The book also explores the significance of family support and the wisdom of elders, illustrating how Francis’ disregard for good advice leads to chaos. The pacing keeps readers engaged; each chapter introduces new challenges and goals, driving the story forward with momentum and energy.
Andrea Alemanno’s illustrations enhance the reading experience. They’re bright and inviting, full of expressive and endearing characters brought to life with soft, warm colors. The artwork adds a visual charm that perfectly complements the narrative, making each page pop with personality. While the ending left me wanting a bit more closure, the overall story remained enjoyable, with humor skillfully interwoven throughout to keep things lighthearted and fun.
The Fox’s New Channel is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering children a playful yet meaningful lesson on integrity, media responsibility, and social dynamics. It’s a book that teaches while delighting, and one I’d wholeheartedly recommend for parents and educators seeking a story that sparks important conversations in a kid-friendly way.
Pages: 44 | ISBN : 978-9528200697
The Adventures of Zoli and Her Turbo-Charged Broom
The Adventures of Zoli and Her Turbo-Charged Broom, by Jane Clack, is a whimsical tale that follows a spirited witch named Zoli on her latest escapade. Zoli has eagerly awaited the arrival of her turbo-charged broom. When it finally lands on her doorstep, she is too excited to follow any instructions and takes off immediately. Her thrilling ride sends her soaring through space, navigating breathtaking sights like Saturn’s rings and shimmering shooting stars. However, when her broom breaks down on the moon, Zoli faces the consequences of her impulsiveness. It’s a story packed with humor, lively rhymes, and even some educational tidbits about space.
Right from the start, Zoli’s wild adventure hooked me. The writing’s playful tone mirrors the witch’s uncontainable excitement. The rhymes are catchy and fun, making the story flow quickly, like the broom’s thrilling flight. The narrative rockets from one vivid scene to another. But, honestly, what struck me most was how well Clack captured Zoli’s carefree, slightly reckless spirit. The imagery of her shooting past meteor showers with a cry of “WHOOOOP!” paints her as a character full of zest for life. The descriptions are vibrant and exciting. The mix of fantasy and education is clever.
I appreciated how Clack sneaks in fascinating facts about space in the “Did You Know?” section. The book not only entertains but leaves room for children to learn about our solar system. I can imagine curious young readers buzzing to find out more about planets or looking at the night sky differently. The humor, too, adds a delightful touch, like the astronaut-themed jokes at the end. They might make adults chuckle, and children will definitely giggle, though some puns might feel groan-worthy in the best way possible.
The Adventures of Zoli and Her Turbo-Charged Broom is an absolute joy. It’s perfect for young readers who love adventure with a touch of magic and humor, as well as those eager to learn fun facts about space. Jane Clack’s story is a wild ride, reminding us of the importance of patience without being preachy. It’s a book best read aloud, where rhymes can dance off the tongue and illustrations can captivate. For families looking for an engaging, educational, and giggle-worthy read, Zoli’s adventure is one I’d wholeheartedly recommend.
Pages: 52 | ISBN : 978-1739344313
Good Overcoming Evil
The Fastest Water Pistol in Splodge City follows a young boy visiting with his grandparents in the Arizona desert who winds up in an exciting Wild West showdown adventure. What was the inspiration for your story?
My grandson, Daniel remains the inspiration for my children’s books. During another difficult period of my life he came along just at the right time, and since his birth, he has been a constant inspiration to me. I firmly believe, that in everything we do in life, we need to be inspired – after all, life is not a rehearsal, and nothing is more important than family.
I am a big believer in fate, things happen for a reason, as has happened in my life. I started Biddick Hall Infants School in 1962; Daniel started the same school in 2022. He has called me Papa since he started to talk.
In addition to this, I wanted to write stories that would create escapism for children but at the same time add a dash of magic. I want children to understand that if they work hard, they can play hard too, and behind every marshmallow cloud, there is a dream – because dreams do come true.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Undoubtedly, good overcoming evil is the fundamental message in the book. The story also has a strong moral message, like ‘no one likes bullies.’
I also felt it was important to demonstrate that helping each other can have its rewards.
So, Daniel and his Papa along with the help of some colourful characters defeat the evil gun (water- pistol) slinger, Wild Will Hickory Dickory Jock.
I found Two Clouds to be an interesting character. What was your inspiration for that character and his role in the story?
Good questions, here is the short answer:
I am humbled to be one of the longest survivors of cancer in the UK at fifty years since diagnosis. I wrote my three-dimensional memoir, Me and My Shadow – memoirs of a cancer survivor, in the hope it would deliver hope and inspiration to anyone in society touched by cancer. I mentioned above about the importance of inspiration – my inspiration during the years of failed treatment was the Lakota Sioux Nation, after I read Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, by Dee Brown. In 2018, despite being in the UK, I contacted the tribal council of Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, in South Dakota, requesting a visit. Subsequently, I spent a week on the reservation with the indigenous people who, unknowingly supported me through my cancer journey – whilst there, I was made an honorary member of the tribal council.
In all of my books, there is a Native American. On this occasion, as the story is set in Arizona, then it had to be a Navajo.
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?
So this is the third book in a series of Daniel and Papa. The next release will be early 2025 and is title, Kingdom of Huckleberry Jam. On this adventure Daniel goes it alone and is tasked with saving the kingdom from an invasion of super powered ants, deriving there super power, and growing four- times larger from consuming huckleberry jam – hence their invasion.
Following this book, again likely for 2025, will be, Lunar Von Buella, the Mystical Mouse from Missoula. This is the story of a warlock from the underworld, determined to destroy the American dream with the help (against his will) of a field mouse called Lunar. During his vacation in Montana, and on a trip down the mighty Yellowstone River, Daniel is contacted once again by Two Clouds and tasked with stopping Zagan, the warlock.
Two further titles are complete but without a publication date: Admiral Percival Pigeonforge (the cave of eternal screams). Finally, Mind-Boggling Stories will be published at a future date.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Splodge City is being bullied by a band of evil gunslingers, determined to get their grubby hands on Papa’s book of magic.
Two Clouds, an Indian chief with more magic than there are stars in the sky, whispered an old Indian spell and the surrounding ground began to shake, revealing the entrance to Splodge City.
When the fighting started, the water was flying everywhere. In the corner sat a smelly stranger with bloodshot eyes, which hid a hundred and one evil secrets. Ringo Smarty Farty Pants was his name, and no good tricks were his game. When Spike ‘The Fool’ Gooseberry steals Papa’s black book, it seems that Daniel and his friends are beaten. However, Weston Wolf has other ideas.
Eventually, Daniel stood face to face with Sir Stumpy Slugworm from Spoonstone. Their hands twitched and they both went for their water pistols – SPLOOSH!
But who would be The Fastest Water Pistol in Splodge City?
See the World Through Words
Milo’s Magnificent Magnifying Glass follows a young boy with trouble reading small letters who visits an eye doctor and is given a magnifying glass. What was the inspiration for your story?
Children understanding how to see the world through words and not to feel ashamed about using glasses or a magnifying glass for their health and learning.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Learning words that sound the same with different meanings called homonyms, advances children’s reading and comprehension of language.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The scene of Milo giving his Mom a bag of sugar in humor.
What is the next story that you’re writing, and when will it be published?
I am still developing the next story.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Dog is Dog
Vincent A. Watson’s Dog is Dog is a charming poetic reflection on self-acceptance, framed through the eyes of a lovable, unapologetically authentic dog. The poem emphasizes how the dog never tries to be anything it’s not, such as a cat, a lion, or a bird. The author’s clear and simple language makes this work accessible to readers of all ages, but its deeper message about embracing who you are and not comparing yourself to others strikes a chord that resonates universally.
The writing is playful and rhythmic, which brings a lighthearted yet profound quality to the poem. I loved how Watson used humor and whimsy to convey his message. For instance, one of my favorite lines goes, “Dog is dog and never tries to be a cow / Dogs don’t go ‘moooooo’ they don’t know how.” The silliness of imagining a dog mooing makes the poem delightful for young readers while driving home the point that dogs—and people—shouldn’t pretend to be something they’re not. The simplicity of the language adds to the charm, making it easy to read aloud and fun to share.
One of the most striking aspects of the poem is its repetition, which reinforces the central idea: being true to yourself. Each stanza follows a similar structure, starting with “Dog is dog and never tries to be” and then humorously pointing out the absurdity of a dog attempting to act like another creature. This consistent pattern gives the poem a musical quality and makes the message memorable. I found it comforting, like a gentle reminder, especially for young readers who benefit from such repetition to fully grasp important lessons.
Watson’s heartfelt dedication to his children and “all the kids around the world” adds a layer of sincerity to the work. There’s an undeniable warmth to his words as if the author is directly speaking to children, encouraging them to embrace their individuality. The closing lines—“Dogs are happy being dogs, so be happy being yourself too!”—encapsulate the book’s theme beautifully. This message made me smile, and it reminded me of the universal struggle we all face to feel confident in our own skin, no matter our age.
Dog is Dog is a delightful and uplifting read that would be perfect for young children, teachers looking for engaging classroom material, or even adults who appreciate a gentle nudge toward self-acceptance. If you’re searching for a book that delivers an essential message wrapped in humor and joy, I’d highly recommend giving this one a read. Watson’s simple yet powerful words remind us all that there’s only one you—and that’s more than enough.
Pages: 28 : ASIN : B0C3G2GY5X
Flowers, Plants and Fascinating Facts / Maua, Mimea Na Ukweli Wa Kuvutia
Ever wondered about all the hidden wonders of plants and flowers? Well, Flowers, Plants and Fascinating Facts by Gloria D. Gonsalves will give you a crash course in nature’s best-kept secrets! This colorful children’s book is a perfect read for curious young minds. From the quirky African tulip tree, which is like a natural squirt gun for kids, to the mysterious corpse flower that smells bad, this book brims with fun facts about plants from all over the world, especially Africa. It’s bilingual too, presenting names and descriptions in English and Kiswahili.
The book is educational, and the writing is clear and simple, which is perfect for younger readers. And honestly, I learned something myself—did you know banana flowers can be eaten or used as medicine?
The facts shared throughout this picture book are enlightening, with a delightful mix of everyday plants we know (dandelions, daisies) and exotic ones we wish we could see up close, like the blue waterlily from East Africa that smells like fancy perfume. There’s also an eco-friendly angle to the book. The bamboo page gave a feel-good fact about how bamboo helps the environment by sucking up lots of carbon dioxide. Gonsalves doesn’t just present a list of plants, she sparks curiosity about their roles in ecosystems and cultures.
Visually, the bilingual layout is a fantastic touch. It not only celebrates cultural diversity but makes the picture book feel like an adventure through Tanzania’s stunning flora. The hand-drawn artwork that accompanies each plant is bursting with color and will surely capture young readers’ attention, drawing them deeper into each fascinating fact. You get the descriptions in both languages, English and Kiswahili, making it a multicultural experience.
I’d recommend Flowers, Plants and Fascinating Facts to young nature explorers, teachers looking to liven up botany lessons, or anyone who loves learning about our leafy friends in an engaging and playful way.
Pages: 169 | ASIN : B0DHZB27SW
Children Love Misha
Misha the Travelling Puppy ABC takes young readers on an adventure from Australia to Zimbabwe that sparks curiosity and fosters a love for learning. What was the inspiration for your story?
I am an avid traveler, and I recognize how important it is for young children to learn about the world. I have a series of children’s books called Misha the Travelling Puppy, and Misha has adventures in Australia, England, America, India, and beyond. I also have coloring books, t-shirts, and plush toys – the children love Misha!
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I know that ABC learning is so imperative, and why not mix it with learning about different countries as well. I like that this book mixes literacy with geography. The book is written in rhyme and it has the most iconic facts to teach young children about each country.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Svetlana Pikul?
Sveta is a great artist to work with. I would give her the description for each country, send some images for inspiration, and she would no doubt come up with something beautiful and original.
What is Misha and her friends’ next adventure, and when can readers expect their next story?
I have just published Misha the Travelling Puppy Italy! That is a culinary adventure learning about all types of famous Italian food. The Christmas title is also new; Misha is called to help Santa Claus. The next country Misha goes to will be France.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
“Misha the Travelling Puppy ABC” is an engaging and educational book for children that takes them on a journey around the world. Each letter of the alphabet is paired with a country including fun and interesting facts about the culture and tradition.
Misha and her puppy friends travel from Australia to Zimbabwe. This ABC book is a wonderful tool for parents and teachers to engage children’s curiosity and imagination while promoting global awareness and literacy skills.
With rhyming text by Natalia Hooker and charming illustrations by Svetlana Pikul, this book is the perfect way to introduce children to the countries of the world and the English alphabet. Don’t miss out on this delightful journey with Misha.
The Beauty in Being Special
Bones and Friends: The Case of the Missing Mice follows three cat brothers, all with different special needs, who must work together to find their missing mice toys. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration is from a few beautiful special needs fosters that I follow. When I adopted my boys I found a wonderful cat group on Facebook. From there, I saw posts from special needs fosters. I decided to follow their pages, and it was the best thing. These little ones are hilarious and act just like any other cat. Getting to see the work, heart, and soul the humans of the foster put in is so heartwarming. It really made me want to show the world the beauty in being special as a cat too.
All three cat brothers are unique with their own talents and special needs. What were some ideas that were important for you to personify in your characters?
I really wanted to ensure that all three came off cute and not funky-looking. When a cat has hydrocephalus they have big heads and smaller bodies, and sometimes their pupils are different. It was very important to me that the character came off the way I saw him, which was adorable. I think the illustrator captured my vision for all three cats and showed how adorable they can be on the outside too.
What was one scene in the novel that you felt captured the morals and message you were trying to deliver to readers?
I think that scene would be when they are all in the kitchen. In that scene, you see all three them of engaging in behaviors that are very typical of kittens. However, having a special need you may not expect them to be able to do. Like a blind cat being able to go to the top of a refrigerator or a cat with three legs jumping on a kitchen counter. The boys never let their specialness stop them. That was the theme of this book to showcase that. I think that scene is one of the best for showing that.
I find a problem in well-written stories, in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned?
Yes! Lol right now Brainstorm Productions is working on book 2, the case of the vanishing fish. That is my favorite in the series and should be out later this year. They are doing an incredible job and I am so excited for this next part to come out. It is from the point of view of Beau who is blind. We will see if the readers can figure out where their fish friends went to before the boys do =)
Author Links: GoodReads | Tiktok | Facebook | Instagram | Amazon
Despite being blind, our special needs cat, Beau, has an excellent sense of smell and hearing. When the mice dolls in his house mysteriously disappear, it’s up to our hero and his brothers, Bender, and Bones, to locate them by sniffing out their unique scent and listening to the subtle sounds they make.
LITERARY TITAN 