Blog Archives
Magic and Miracles
Daniel Juventus and the Stonehenge – Gate of Magic follows a boy with a hand deformity who experiences vivid dreams revealing his destiny to free the King of the Kingdom of Light. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration was when reading about examples of people with extraordinary strength despite their flaws, I also wanted to write such a strong character.
Daniel struggles with bullying and not knowing anything about his parents when he discovers he has a powerful destiny. What was your inspiration for Daniel and how did you craft his outlook on life?
My inspiration was to find a world where Daniel could change and start a new life to free himself from his destiny. I want Daniel to become a brave person, his outlook on life is to absolutely not give up what he dreams and pursues.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The important themes I need to explore in the book will be the Amazing Science, magic and miracles, along with the mysteries of the world’s wonders, Friendship, love, and forgiveness.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
The story will lead readers through many worlds within magical worlds, places that readers have never known. I hope in the future it will be an endless source of inspiration to revive the era of fantasy literature again. If it could become a blockbuster film; that would be a wonderful thing.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When one night, a strange woman appears in his bedroom and guides him to a parallel world, Daniel thinks his mission to save both his parents and EV has finally begun. Little does he know, what lies beyond is a continuing stream of dark forces preventing him from fulfilling his mission. These forces are after the Ankh as it can unlock the gate to Hell. Daniel must do what he can to save those he holds dear and thwart all attempts of the minions of darkness to take over the goodness of the world.
Attitude is Everything
In The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac, young readers will explore farm life with two grandparents who lovingly tend their animals and demonstrate the importance of hard work. What inspired you to write this story?
The answer to that question is simple, my parents. The characters in the series The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac are based on my mom and dad and the values, integrity, and importance of a job well done that they instilled in me and my brother. Mr. Mac, my father, Mr. McClure, is a retired veteran with the nickname Mac. My mother’s name is Jean Kingsberry and my father refers to her as Granny Jay Kay. When I was younger and growing up in the country we always had a large garden, animals, and chores that needed tending to. Looking back there were times the chores seemed never-ending yet my parents in no way swayed from the responsibility and taught us to do the same. They demonstrated the satisfaction of what hard work can bring. This is something I’ve carried with me throughout my life and feel the need to share and pass along as well. Although the other stories in the series move away from the farm, taking them on a variety of adventures, you will find underlying lessons in all the books. This first story, however, pays tribute to the love and respect I have for my parents and the deep values they taught me growing up. My hope is others will journey through their adventures and be encouraged to find their path and sense of belonging.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One of the main ideas I want to capture in my books and in life is that attitude is everything. If we keep an open mind and a positive attitude, all is better. From completing a simple task to the most difficult, we can determine how we react, positive or negative. In life there will always be a “chore” needing to be completed and venturing in with a negative attitude just makes things that much more unbearable vs. completing something with a positive mindset, giving it your all, and then allowing yourself to feel a sense of accomplishment when it is achieved can and will be so much more rewarding. I also wanted to share the importance of slowing down, resting, and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us like standing on a porch watching fireflies with your mom.
The artwork in your book is wonderful. What was it like to collaborate with illustrator Jenna Jordan?
Jenna Jordan is a kind, beautiful soul. I so enjoyed how she took the words from my head and portrayed them on paper. With her simple but impactful illustration style, she completely brought the characters and stories to life. She is a pleasure to work with, goes above and beyond, and I will always be grateful to her for bringing Mr. Mac and Granny Jay Kay into reality!
Can we look forward to seeing more books from you soon? What are you currently working on?
As I shared, The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac is a series. As of now there are five adventures that either Mr. Mac, or Mr. Mac and Granny venture on. Each story stands on its own, yet also works together as they progress through the tales. For the most part everything is written and illustrated. Currently though, Jenna and I are fine tuning some of the illustrations for book two, The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac, The Magic Trap with The Poke-A-Dot Cap, and I hope to begin working with my publisher, Yorkshire Publishing, for its release soon. We are both excited and looking forward to seeing Mr. Mac and Granny continue their journey.
Author Links: Facebook | Instagram
First Nations Culture
Luka and Little Feather follows two First Nations siblings living on a reservation who discover a wishing stone that takes them on an underwater adventure. What was the inspiration for your story?
As an educator, I see the inequities in literature and I wanted to be the change. There are very few First Nations authors and very few stories that depict First Nations characters as the heroines of the story. I wanted to write a story that highlights First Nations culture while also providing a way for children to really “imagine and dream” of what it would be like to really find a wishing stone. Kids who live in survival mode need stories like this that enable them to look beyond the world as it is.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Language and culture are critical when it comes to understanding Native culture. Everything you see in the book has meaning. Their clothing, toys, posters on the walls, hair clips, etc… Every page also has a hidden message that highlights a Native cause… “We are still here,” “MMIW,” “honor the treaties” etc.. I want kids to see these hidden messages and ask… “what does that mean!?”
I am currently working on a supplemental First Nations curriculum based on the hidden messaging in the book. Teachers are starving for better and more culturally responsive ways to teach Indigenous studies, and this gives them a way that is current, fun, and less threatening.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Nix Doxtater
Nix is also Native and comes from the same tribe as myself. She understood how important it was to get the cultural aspects of the story right. She is a visionary and was able to capture my thoughts and ideas beautifully.
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?
We are hoping this story becomes a series. There are SO many places they could go! I am hopeful another Luka and Little Feather book can be published by 2026!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Amazon
While out exploring by the river, Luka finds something that will change their lives forever-a yotnʌyátku, or “magic stone.” Luka and Little Feather take it home, where they make their wish to see their beloved ocean. At first, this stone seems like just a plain old rock, but when they awake, they realize they have been transported to an underwater world of magic and amazement.
Together with their friend Whaliam, the girls explore the blue sea. The vibrant colors, new friends, food, and experiences are more than the girls could have ever asked for. However, Luka and Little Feather soon realize that even with their dream coming true, nothing is as extraordinary as the comforts of home.
Social/Emotional Values
Priscilla and Tux: Brothers are Caring is the story of a little conure who settles on a unique show-and-tell topic when she decides to share about her adopted penguin brother’s homeland. Where did the idea for this story come from?
Tuxedo Baby Book 1 had been in my thoughts for over 20 years. I had been to the aquarium in Monterey, CA. There we saw penguins and they of course were adorable. I had a conure parrot at home and although the two species were unlikely, I found parallels to their lives. As a parent and former teacher, family values were extremely important to me which are all components in my books. Then, came Book 2 and it was Tuxedo Baby and His Annoying Cousins. In that book, I found similar experiences that Tuxedo Baby went through just as my own kids had regarding family, making good choices, knowing the consequences, and getting along with others. In Book 3, Priscilla and Tux, Tux is older and he is so proud to be a big brother. Book 1, Book 2, and Book 3 developed out of my own experiences being a mom, teacher, and a member of our family.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
In Book 1, Tuxedo Baby, I added at the end Facts about the Magellanic Penguins, Oil Spills, and Cherry-Head Conures.
In each of my books, I provide on my website, curriculum guides for discussion, writing, activities, and coloring pages of the main characters. But the most important are the social/emotional values that my books are embedded with.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with Sergii Zavadskyi?
Sergii Zavadskyi has been excellent to work with. Mind you, he is surrounded by war in the Ukraine. He has been most attentive and when internet power was down, he always kept in communication with me as soon as possible. He has illustrated Books 2 and 3. Currently, he just finished my 4th book.
Can we look forward to more books featuring Priscilla and Tux? What are you currently working on?
For now, my latest book is called Swimmy, the Superhero: A Box Turtle’s Adventures at School. That book will be published in late August 2024, and in time to do school visits which is my goal for the 24-25 school year. I actually have a box turtle named Swimmy who retired with me when I retired in 2020. My classes year after year, always loved Swimmy. So, it was time for her to have her own book! As far as more Tuxedo Baby Books… perhaps in the future, maybe a holiday book?
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Twitter | Amazon
One-Of-A-Kind
In A Cat Named Puppy, a cat teased for his unusual name finds support from his brother and learns that his worth is not determined by others. Where did the idea for this story come from?
My real-life cat named Puppy was the inspiration. I wanted a dog but a friend of my brother’s cat just had a litter of kittens and she had to get rid of the kittens fast because her little girl was allergic to kitten hair so I took a cat instead of getting a dog. And I got my other cat Stitch about a year later.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Well, the real-life Puppy always had to deal with people commenting on his name and his weight he was a big boy. So I figured I could incorporate them into a story for children. And the idea is that although comments will be made in life as long as you realize you are special and one-of-a-kind. That should make you feel pretty good about yourself.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
When he chased the toy cars because he liked chasing hot wheel cars when he was younger. But all the scenes are special as Stitch passed away in July of 2023, and Puppy passed away in January 2024. It just makes the book more special to me.
What is next for Puppy? Do you have more books planned?
Well, I currently have a few like early reader first chapter book series they are A Cat Named Puppy Goes To School, A Cat Named Puppy Halloween Adventure, and A Cat Named Puppy And The Christmas Mystery. And I am currently working on another children’s book and it will be A Cat Named Puppy Learns About Colors.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
The Power of Words
Popina & Slumberina follows a young princess who is attached to her favorite blanket as she learns what it means to become more independent. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was inspired by life itself. When my daughter was born she received a blanket as a gift, and it was love at first sight. As soon as she touched it and smelled it, she calmed down. There was a real connection between my daughter and the blanket. It really made her feel better.
As my daughter grew up, she named her blanket Bibi and took it everywhere. When she started preschool, she brought Bibi along, keeping her close throughout the day. I remember the preschool teacher telling me that because of the blanket, my daughter wasn’t making new friends or participating in activities. As a parent, I wanted to help my daughter open up to the world, meet new friends, and feel secure even without relying on a comfort object.
Since I am a great believer in the power of words, I decided to write her a story that would illustrate the situation she is in and the great benefits that can be had in releasing the blanket and discovering the inner powers that exist in her.
Writing the story was not easy. Since I wanted the story to be written in rhymes, and convey the message in a fun, non-didactic way. To my great joy, I rose to the challenge. After my daughter had heard the story several times, she asked to leave Bibi in bed, and then I knew I had accomplished the task successfully.
Do you have a favorite scene in your story? One that was especially fun to write?
My favorite scene is the one when the guests arrive at the party and give Popina gifts, some of which are magical. I tried to think of gifts that would excite children and put a smile on their faces. I believe that all children would love to receive a rainbow in a cloud or candies in all flavors as a gift.
An amusing anecdote regarding the scene with the presents happened when I read to my daughter the part where Princess Popina receives a shell from the juggler Sanil that she could hide in very well. My daughter insisted that I bring her a shell exactly like the one in the book. I had to explain to her that such a shell doesn’t exist, which was an answer she did not like to receive.
The artwork in this book is wonderful. What was the art collaboration process like with Anat Davis?
Thank you, I’m so glad you liked the artwork in the story! It was wonderful to collaborate with Anat on the illustrations, not only because she is my sister and I love her, but also because I knew she understood the essence of the story (her eldest daughter also had a blankie) and had the talent and sense of humor that fit the story perfectly.
Our cooperation was seamless. When illustrating a story, the possibilities are unlimited, so we discussed the general style and came up with ideas for the illustrations together. Seeing the story come to life through my sister’s illustrations was a truly moving experience.
Can young readers look forward to more books from you soon? What are you currently working on?
In recent years, I have written several stories for children, each at different stages of development. I invest a lot of time and effort in my stories, carefully selecting editors and illustrators, so the publishing process can take some time. But yes, there is definitely something to look forward to.
In the near future, a book will be published featuring Cecilia, a mouse who goes to the dentist for the first time. This book aims to give children a positive perspective on dental treatments and will include tips from an expert in pediatric dentistry.
Another story I wrote is currently in the illustration stages. It explores the natural cycle of life, depicting the transformation from seed to tree and the perpetuation of this cycle.
Finally, another story I wrote, which is currently in the final stages of editing, follows a sprite named Dwight and his journey to fulfill his dream of winning the Sprite Champions Race.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
With humor and warmth, this rhyming picture book takes young readers on a journey of growth and self-discovery.
On Popina’s first day of preschool, she brings her beloved blanket along. But with Popina unwilling to let Slumberina go, how will she join in on all the fun games and activities? And how will she find new friends? Will Princess Popina be brave enough to go on her own?
Especially suitable for children with a transitional object, such as: blankie, teddy bear, or any other toy.
Recommended by psychologists and featuring a ‘Note to the Parents‘ by a psychologist and analytical psychotherapist.
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 Gold Book Award: Poetry
The Literary Titan Book Award recognizes poets who demonstrate exceptional artistry and proficiency and push the boundaries of language and expression. The recipients are poets who excel in their technical skills and evoke deep emotional responses, challenge thoughts, and illuminate new perspectives through their work. The award honors those who contribute to the literary landscape with their unique voices and powerful words.
Award Recipients
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
LITERARY TITAN 