Blog Archives
Literary Titan Gold Book Award
The Literary Titan Book Award celebrates books with creative ideas and honors authors skilled in transforming words into exquisite prose. These remarkable books elevate the craft of storytelling. Here’s to the talented authors who’ve turned original concepts into wonderfully crafted books. Your extraordinary skill merits every ounce of this acknowledgment.
Award Recipients
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Literary Titan Gold Book Award Feb 2024
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 Awards February 2024
Celebrating the brilliance of outstanding authors who have captivated us with their masterful prose, engaging narratives, and compelling real and imagined characters. Explore a universe of boundless creativity, recognizing 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 writers 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
Late Bloomer, Late Bloomer, Late Bloomer by James Young
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Timmy the Martian
W.B. Thompson’s Timmy the Martian is a charming tale that invites young readers into the world of Timmy, a green Martian distinguishable by three moles on his face. Seeking companionship, Timmy embarks on an adventure to Earth, where he hopes to forge new friendships. However, his arrival on Earth doesn’t go as smoothly as anticipated, with his unique appearance initially causing fear among the children he encounters. This emotional journey takes a positive turn with the introduction of Henry, a boy whose three facial moles mirror Timmy’s, leading to an instant and meaningful connection despite their interplanetary differences.
Thompson skillfully weaves a narrative that addresses the theme of diversity and acceptance. The shared trait between Timmy and Henry serves as a clever device to explore and celebrate differences, imparting an important message about inclusivity to young readers. The story unfolds in a way that’s both engaging and empathetic, making it relatable for children who may feel different for various reasons. The book’s visual aspect is as impactful as its narrative. The illustrations in Timmy the Martian are noteworthy for their vibrancy and detail. Full-page spreads bring the story to life with vivid colors and imaginative depictions of both Earth and space. These illustrations are not just complementary to the story but are integral in drawing children into Timmy’s world, enhancing their reading experience.
W.B. Thompson’s Timmy the Martian is more than just a story; it’s a resource that can help children understand and embrace diversity. Its captivating illustrations and meaningful narrative make it a valuable addition to any young reader’s library. I find Timmy the Martian to be a delightful and educational read and one that I confidently recommend to both parents and teachers alike.
Pages: 31 | ASIN : B0CQQ1MW6L
A Deep Sense of Empathy
Eliza Jane Finds Her Hero follows a young girl struggling with Tourette syndrome who discovers the strength of kindness and self-confidence. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My granddaughter was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome when she was eight years old. At that time, her tics began interfering with school, both academically and socially. It was hard enough for her to read and focus with eye tics, but her peers became critical, too. They judged her as “different,” although that’s not the word some used to describe her. Naturally the bullying only made her tics worse. Everything got hard, and she stopped doing all the things she loved–except engaging in pretend play. She acted out her make-believe stories with me for hours! Stories that shined with heroines, magical powers, and exciting adventures. That’s when we had an idea. What if we wrote a children’s story together about one of her make-believe heroines? She could even be a girl with Tourette syndrome! We wanted to create a story that all kids could relate to. Our goal was to educate, entertain, and inspire. Two years later ELIZA JANE FINDS HER HERO was published.
Eliza struggles with Tourette syndrome, finding her self-confidence. What were the driving ideals behind the character’s development throughout the story?
Eliza Jane is accustomed to hiding her true self from others for fear of ridicule, shame, and embarrassment. She avoids being in the spotlight or around too many people and groups where her symptoms grow worse. She’s learned to “disappear” and hide from others. Eliza Jane simply finds it easier to be “invisible.” At least she has her companion dog and horse who understand her medical condition–they accept her symptoms and behaviors unconditionally. But when she is faced with a choice to help a friend, Eliza Jane is inspired by a deep sense of empathy and new awareness about what is right and wrong. She transforms into someone she only imagined she could be. Eliza Jane discovers her courage and risks everything for a new friend. She embraces the freedom and joy that can only come from being her true self.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Valuing all our differences is an important theme along with the idea that it is our unique abilities, not disabilities that make every person special. Kindness, acceptance, and understanding are all necessary in developing friendships. A sense of peace and joy in becoming our true selves is another theme that concludes our story.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
Another Eliza Jane story is in the brainstorming stages now! We had so many ideas and adventures for her that we hope to use those in future books. Stay tuned!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Instagram | Amazon
Belle and Chloe: Reflections in the Mirror
Belle and Chloe: Reflections in the Mirror, by Isabela Sardas, Ph.D., is a poignant and beautifully crafted children’s book that explores the deep bond between twin sisters, Belle and Chloe, as they navigate a world transformed by tragedy. The story adeptly balances the innocence of childhood with the complexities of coping with unforeseen challenges. Sardas’s narrative artfully depicts how Belle, grappling with trauma and pain, and Chloe, wrestling with loneliness and heartache, each experience their shared ordeal in profoundly personal ways. Their journey through these emotional landscapes is portrayed with sensitivity, making their struggles feel authentic and relatable.
The book’s illustrations are a notable complement to the narrative, adding a layer of charm and depth to the sisters’ story. Each page of artwork enriches the evolving tale, enhancing the emotional resonance of the twins’ experiences. The portrayal of Belle and Chloe’s individual reactions to their shared adversity is particularly impactful, vividly bringing to life their distinct paths toward healing and resilience. This story gently guides readers through themes of suffering, resilience, and the importance of support in overcoming life’s challenges. It subtly underscores the notion that while adversity can leave both visible and invisible scars, the journey toward healing is facilitated through mutual support and self-acceptance. The narrative serves as a mirror, reflecting not only the characters’ experiences but also encouraging readers to find pieces of their own stories within its pages. Although the book thoughtfully addresses delicate subjects such as hospitals and burns, its approach is inclusive and resonates with a wide range of readers, ensuring its relevance and accessibility.
Belle and Chloe: Reflections in the Mirror is more than just a children’s story; it is a narrative that offers insights on coping with adversity, making it a valuable read for those seeking understanding and solace in times of hardship. Its message of hope and restoration is conveyed with grace, making it a notable addition to the genre and a compelling read for anyone seeking inspiration in the face of life’s trials.
Pages: 58 | ISBN : 978-1665741545
Dogs: A Counting & Comparing Book
Dogs: A Counting and Comparing Book, by Frances Mackay, emerges as a delightful and educational experience for children, cleverly intertwining the joy of canine companions with fundamental counting skills. This book transcends the typical format of a counting book and engages young readers in more than just number recognition by bringing an array of dogs to life on each page. From Dachshunds to Pugs and Shar Peis to Terriers, young readers will find Mackay’s book a delight.
Mackay’s approach is far from a mundane enumeration. Instead, each page overflows with vibrant energy as a variety of dog breeds playfully guide children through numbers. The book’s structure, alternating between counting and comparing the different breeds, maintains reader engagement and adds an educational layer, encouraging observations about the dogs’ diverse characteristics. The art style in this book is both friendly and contemporary, resonating well with modern young readers. It successfully captures the essence of classic children’s literature, reminiscent of authors like P.D. Eastman, yet it stands out with its own unique flair. One particularly memorable moment is the depiction of an “extremely long dog” stretching across an entire page, showcasing the book’s creative and humorous side. The book is accessible and enjoyable for early readers and their families, fostering a fun environment for learning.
Dogs, A Counting & Comparing Book is an excellent choice for young readers who have a fondness for dogs and learning. It skillfully blends entertainment with education, making it a noteworthy addition to children’s literature in the genre of counting and comparison.
Pages: 34 | ISBN: 0646890042
Queen Molly and the Summer Palace
Queen Molly and the Summer Palace, by Gary John, is a charming narrative told through the eyes of a spirited German Shepherd named Queen Molly. Residing in her beloved Winter Palace in Florida, she is doted upon by her human companions, Gary and Megan. The story paints a vivid picture of her daily escapades – from engaging in conversations with neighborhood pets to her enthusiastic squirrel chases, and even taking Gary on walks, which adds a humorous twist to the pet-owner relationship.
As the setting shifts with an unexpected change in weather, Queen Molly embarks on a journey of discovery in a new environment. The story adeptly captures her adventures and new friendships, highlighting her adaptability and zest for life. The inclusion of a special frozen treat adds a delightful touch to her summer escapades. Told predominantly from Molly’s perspective, the book employs a playful tone, especially in how Molly perceives Gary as “her human,” humorously reversing the typical pet-owner dynamic. This perspective is not only engaging but also sparks several laugh-out-loud moments, contributing to the book’s overall charm. Samantha Deir’s illustrations complement the narrative beautifully, adding vibrancy and a sense of warmth that resonates with the story’s joyful essence. The conclusion of the story is satisfying, neatly wrapping up the current adventure while also hinting at future escapades. This leaves readers anticipating more delightful stories about Queen Molly.
Appropriate for a wide range of readers, this book stands out for its storytelling and humor. It is an excellent choice for shared reading experiences, particularly during storytime. Queen Molly and the Summer Palace is a captivating and heartwarming story that promises to be a hit with families and readers who appreciate a light-hearted, animal-centric narrative.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0CPMTMHHX
LITERARY TITAN 