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Subtle Life Lessons
Abby and Liam and the Bedtime Adventure follows a family getting ready for bed, who turns the mundane task into an exciting, fun-filled adventure. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for this story came from multiple sources. The first, from my own children. The second, from my brother.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Aaron R.?
Thank you! It was incredibly easy to collaborate with Aaron. I reached out to him and luckily the timing was right. He was efficient, engaging, and open to answering all of my questions about the process. I had a vision in my head and he truly brought it to life. Needless to say, he will be the Abby and Liam Series illustrator.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Great question! I wanted this book to have a strong focus on wholesome content. It was important to me that Abby and Liam specifically showcased a strong family bond with subtle life lessons and was a relatable story where kids could let their imaginations run free and creativity soar.
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 of a series! The second installment (title reveal coming soon) will be released sometime later this year or early next year. Abby and Liam fans can expect the same imaginative playfulness but with a new scenario and a new problem to solve. Stay tuned!
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In the first book of the series, Abby and Liam and the Bedtime Adventure, we meet Abby and Liam, a dynamic duo of siblings whose bond is as strong as their imaginations are wild. Their world is one where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, where a simple bedtime routine transforms into a journey of discovery and excitement.
Every night, as the moon rises and the stars twinkle, Abby and Liam embark on a new adventure. From the depths of the ocean to the heights of the mountains, from the heart of the jungle to the expanse of outer space, there’s no place they can’t explore. Their adventures are fueled by their curiosity and creativity, teaching young readers the power of imagination and the joy of exploration.
But as the night deepens, the question remains: Can Abby and Liam squeeze in one more adventure before it’s time to say goodnight? The anticipation of their next escapade keeps them, and the readers, on their toes. The thrill of the unknown, the joy of discovery, and the warmth of their sibling bond make every adventure a memorable one.
As they finally drift off to sleep, their hearts filled with memories of their escapades and their minds buzzing with anticipation for the adventures that tomorrow will bring, Abby and Liam demonstrate the endless possibilities that imagination and curiosity can unlock.
Abby and Liam and the Bedtime Adventure is more than just a story, it’s an invitation to young readers to unleash their creativity, to embrace their curiosity, and to discover the world around them through the power of imagination. It’s a celebration of the bond between siblings, the joy of adventure, and the magic of childhood. So, come along and join Abby and Liam on their bedtime adventure. Who knows where your imagination will take you?
Believe in the Impossible
Oh, No, Bunny – You’re Still Not Funny! follows non-identical twins who each wish for a different pet and are visited by their father’s imaginary bunny friend. What was the inspiration for your story?
When I first came up with the idea to do the Happy Tails series, I planned to have animals feature just as prominently as the humans did. Since everything is mainly featured around a holiday, well – bunnies came to mind. A good portion of the antics in the first bunny book were from real life experience. That story about the spaghetti – that was from an actual pet rabbit attacking my plate. Until then, I had no idea that bunnies could like spaghetti. Maybe it’s not good for them, but that rabbit wanted the pasta badly . . . and it makes a really good story!
What were some ideas that were important for you to personify in your characters?
A good portion of us have had imaginary friends or have used our imagination in play to entertain ourselves. I wanted this book to hold on to the precious land called “Childhood” where we can believe in the impossible and use our imaginations to enjoy the world around us. I wanted the twins to be like any other brother and sister – they annoy each other, but they are also capable of working together to achieve a common goal, which – in this case – was to contain Yakov the rabbit’s insane zest for life that could often go more wrong than right sometimes.
Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your characters’ lives?
Well, the bunny story. We had bunnies on the farm, but they were outside bunnies. The bunny spaghetti story actually came from an indoor pet bunny.
Because I lived on the farm when I was a child, our house was located too far from any of my school friends to visit, so I spent a lot of time by myself entertaining myself. How did I do that? Imagination. I made up my own stories in my mind, and I read lots of books.
Will there be a follow-up book on this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
It’s funny that you should ask me this question. I honestly thought after this book, that I couldn’t take it any further, but I was wrong. I have come up with a really great idea for the third installment that will keep all the current characters and add 2 new surprising ones. If you thought the first two books were insane, the third one gets even better.
I’m not sure what the front book cover will look like. I usually watch what illustrations Christina Cartwright, my illustrator, produces to see if I like any of them for the front cover, which, eventually I do. As for the back cover, I like ending it with everyone sitting under the old oak tree, like a family.
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Sascha’s twins – Sorcha and Dmitry – have heard tales of their father’s imaginary bunny friend (Yakov) for years, and all they did was laugh at the tales that their father shared with them. At least that’s all they believed it ever would be – just funny stories to entertain.
Imagine their surprise when they meet Yakov in person for themselves. There are not enough words in the English language to prepare anyone for meeting such a wildly crazy hare!
Before they have time to prepare, Yakov is racing out the front door of their home and is set loose upon the neighborhood. Can the two kids stop him from creating more havoc than any one person should ever be allowed?
Everyone thinks at some point in their life that they would like a pet, but absolutely no one is prepared for the unbelievable trouble into which a bunny like Yakov can get! Oh, bunny, here we go again!
How Do Children Play
The Adventures of Molly & Ollie: Golfing Around follows a young girl who has no one to play with, so she uses her imagination and toys to create a miniature golf course. What inspired you to write this story?
There is a small neighborhood park across the street from my home. It has a paved treeline oval path with a grassy field in the center. On any given non-school day, it is bustling with children playing. However, when walking the path during Covid lockdown, the park was eerily quiet. I knew the children were all home in their separate houses. So I wondered, how do children play when no one else is around? That was the inspiration for Golfing Around.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
When I wrote this story, I wanted a tale that could show kids that their imagination and creativity are magic and can turn any day into a very fun day. I also wanted to make the game inclusive, highlighting each animal’s strengths and ensuring everyone could join in.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I loved the scene of when Molly, Ollie, and the animals first met Lilly Frog, who liked playing LeapFrog. The imagery of Harry Hippo trying to leap made me laugh!
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am currently working on The Adventures of Molly & Ollie: Playing Ball, which will follow Molly’s efforts to join a football game. I’m working to have it ready next year.
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Don’t miss the first book in the Molly & Ollie series, Moving Day, where Molly and Ollie first meet and become fast friends. And be on the lookout for their next adventure in book three, coming soon!
I Am Talking About Love
Searching for Lucky #3002: A Ben and Blue Mystery follows a ten-year-old boy with a school project on family who tries to uncover the mystery of his father’s past. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My son’s best friend growing up was a bright, personable, articulate boy living with his single mom. He was aware of his story of origin but had never met the man involved with his conception. I was told that when he once gave a talk about his birth history, another child in the audience made a negative comment. He pivoted quickly, saying, “If this way of being born didn’t exist, I wouldn’t exist.” We were so proud of him!
Ben learns a valuable lesson in his search for information about his father, including the diversity of families and how they are all valuable. Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
Like Ben’s mom, I am a psychiatrist. During my career, I’ve worked with many people in all kinds of family and personal situations that have highlighted the concept of diversity. An important lesson is that not all aspects of diversity are obvious. Also, that it may take someone a long time to feel comfortable sharing their story. And if you find you are not clearly understanding the details, but they are willing to share, you need to find a gentle and respectful way to ask questions.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Families come in all shapes and sizes. Much less important than a family’s structure, is the feeling that runs through it. And by that feeling, I am talking about love. The love a child receives in their family of origin, their foster, or adoptive family, is essential to a healthy and happy life. From an early age, children should be guided to recognize that not all families are alike, recognizing this as a matter-of-fact aspect of diversity. And not least, children are entitled to know the story of their own birth history.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am deep in the revisions of a next adventure for Ben & Blue! Will keep you posted!
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Your Face Lights up the World
Your Face Lights Up the World is a delightful and heartwarming children’s book that is perfect for young readers. The story begins with siblings Harper and Hunter embarking on a fort-building adventure. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when Hunter discovers a unique, speckled stone that catches the sunlight beautifully. Harper’s initial jealousy shifts to determination as she seeks to find something even better. But the story takes a tender turn when Harper realizes her brother actually admires her freckles, likening them to a stunning constellation. This revelation is a charming and illuminating moment for both Harper and the readers.
Jodi Meltzer has crafted an engaging picture book that is rich with lessons about the beauty of being unique and embracing one’s features, like freckles. It’s a narrative that young readers, particularly siblings, will find relatable. The playful squabbles between Harper and Hunter add a realistic touch, making the characters and their experiences more approachable.
One of the standout aspects is the way the book addresses self-acceptance and emotional expression. The pivotal moment where Hunter shares his admiration for Harper’s freckles is not only touching but also highlights the impact of positive reinforcement and open emotional communication. It’s rare to find children’s books that delve into this theme so effectively.
The illustrations by Jody King Camarra are a visual feast, blending various artistic techniques, including digital art and real-world elements. The colorful and intricate images add layers of depth to the story and excellently portray the characters’ emotions. At the end of the book, there are interactive journal pages, providing an opportunity for kids to reflect and write about their own experiences, which adds a personal touch to the learning journey.
Your Face Lights Up the World is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to encourage self-esteem and understanding in young readers. It’s a valuable resource for teachers and parents aiming to address themes like sibling dynamics and self-acceptance in an engaging, thoughtful way.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0D6484DPC
Persistent Positivity
Penelope the Pesky Pelican follows a friendly pelican who sometimes does not have her cheerful disposition appreciated and needs encouragement from her best friend. What inspired your story?
It all started as a bit of an inside family joke about a Pelican statue we had at my late grandparents house on the coast. We named her Penelope and would always make up funny little stories and jokes about her. After years of erosion and rust, Penelope eventually succumbed to the elements, but my father wanted something to help her spirit live on in the family. One day he called me out of the blue to express his excitement about the short story he had written, starting off as just a casual way to pass the time and share with family. With my experience in both design and development and having previously worked with many publishers on their book promotions, I knew we had to bring this story to life.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Evelina Losich?
Collaborating with Evelina was fantastic. We knew exactly how we wanted the spreads laid out, and worked with her to develop the characters and styles, and provided direction on the layout to create what came to be a very vibrant experience our children love to just look at while being read to.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The core message of persistent positivity and the significant impact it can have in your life is a virtue my father has always instilled in us from a very young age. We wanted this book to really personify those values and provide a creative outlet for us to share them with the world.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
This book has really created a “domino effect” with my father and me on our journey into authoring the book, we don’t have anything concrete yet, but we have a number of other concepts in the works that we’re excited to share when the time comes!
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Through Webster’s Eyes
Webster the Beagle and His Adventures at the River follows an adventurous beagle who gets lost and finds his forever home as a therapy dog. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for this story came from the time that I spent with Webster at one of the places I love, the Rappahannock River, and the animals that live on it or in it. I thought it was important to tell their story through Webster’s eyes as he looked at them in wonder the first time he saw them – or maybe that was just surprise when the crab pinched him on the nose!
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Romney Vasquez?
Romney Vasquez is the best in the business and made the process very simple. He asked me what was being written on each page and what I wanted for artwork but we didn’t know each other and I had never written any kind of book before. Once he read thru a draft, he provided his own ideas and produced some sketch art to send me. When I saw the sketches for the first book, I couldn’t believe them because Romney had captured Webster’s essence so perfectly—especially the joy and smiles he brought to everyone. With this being our second book, we knew what worked, and I don’t remember making any changes because, to me, it’s the illustrations that make the books such a success.
When is the next book in the series coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
I’m not sure when or if there will be another book. I was inspired by Webster to write the first one and thought it was important to tell his story. The series allows me to make donations to various charities in his name so he will always be remembered. Although my wife and I did adopt a very mischievous beagle, Billy, who is an Envigo (4,000 beagles were rescued from unsafe conditions at a breeding facility in Virginia, the company, Envigo, behind it has agreed to pay a record $35 million in fines) rescue beagle and has already had quite a few adventures himself…
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False and Outworn Traditions
The Ravens of Castle Keep follows a young girl who after her mom’s car accident is sent to school in a real castle that holds many mysteries waiting to be discovered. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The pen and ink illustrations were originally an art study. I noticed that when ravens crane their necks, it looks as if there is a bone or tissue that other birds do not have. So as an artist (as most artists will) I began drawing the birds over and over to master them.
My mother told me to write a book about them. So I did. What an opportunity! I’d have the means to un-demonize these birds that are now proven to be the smartest birds on Earth!
Marcy and Ryan learn to trust one another and build a strong friendship in this story. What was your inspiration for the characters and their relationship?
I’m a “pantser,” a phrase coined by Stephen King. That means that I write off the top of my head. I first write the situation they must overcome. Next, I continue writing until my characters find a way out of that situation. (Though to be fair, I believe that none of us can do this by ourselves. Ergo, I make them compatible.)
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Most importantly, that animals are just that. They are not demonic, and neither do they understand the superstitions and personas that we assign them. A black cat has no idea why it’s not allowed outside on Halloween. Neither does a raven have any idea that people believe they walk the threshold between the living and the dead.
These are ridiculous, backward ideas. We rather disgrace ourselves when we distance ourselves from nature by following false and outworn traditions.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am working on a child’s picture book, The Pixie and The Elethunk. It is done in cut-paper illustrations and should be released soon. It is a lesson in gratitude.
I believe the next issues of Sonnet and the Dorthy L Sayers Literary Journal are due out this year. I have a few pieces in those. Pick them up!
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Award-winning writer, poet and artist, Angel Dunworth creates a fictional world, that teaches kids the truth about corvids. She seamlessly goes about the business of “un-demonizing” one of nature’s true miracles. Through her illustrations, factoids and fast-paced plot these birds are brought to life. The Ravens of Castle Keep, educates, entertains and enlightens. It’s a great addition to any bookshelf.
LITERARY TITAN 