Blog Archives
Kindness And Caring For Others
Turquoise Tail is the story of a young coyote born with a unique tail that makes her the target of ridicule and bullying from the other desert animals. Why was this an important book for you to share with young readers?
As a retired Special and Regular Ed. Teacher of 37 years, I have dealt with the issue of bullying in many facets both inside and outside of the educational environment. Many children, as well as adults, experience bullying, especially individuals with special needs, who long to feel included by society. I have always felt an extreme responsibility to teach the “Golden Rule” and model it for all students to practice…treat others as you would like to be treated. By instilling this philosophy at a very young age, how wonderful the world would be, if kindness and caring for others was spontaneous, without any thought, lasting through a life span.
Is there anything from your own life you put into the characters in little Cielo’s tale?
Cielo, a Spanish word that means “sky” or ‘heaven”, inspired me as the name for my main character in Turquoise Tail. Cielo is a little girl coyote, who is born looking and feeling very different, based on what other critters see. I have worked with children who feel so isolated and hurt based on how they are treated by others. Teaching students to see how much they have to offer; their uniqueness and hidden talents are true gifts from heaven. Bliss, the spiritual white coyote, enters Cielo’s life to reassure her that her beauty inside and outside shall not go unnoticed. He inspires her to realize that with her unique turquoise tail that others make fun of is really a blessing from heaven. She paints the sky turquoise blue with her beautiful tail based on the spiritual guidance from Bliss, for the enchanting New Mexico balloon Festival!
The illustrations in your book are fantastic. Can you tell us a little about your collaboration with Rebecca Jacob?
My older sister, Rebecca Jacob, has numerous stellar qualities as an artist, sister, and friend. She frequently visits New Mexico in the summer where we share many outdoor adventures, collaborate on critters, scenes, settings, etc. for our next story. I create the story first and then share it with Rebecca. I asked what she thought about doing a children’s book together with her as the illustrator with our first book, Desert Bliss, and she excitedly exclaimed, “Sure!” Since our first book, it has been a very spiritual and transformational journey with each new book that we create as a team. Overall, I feel very fortunate to have such a wonderful relationship with my sister Rebecca Jacob.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have just finished my fifth Children’s Book, Hatch Chile Willie, which will be available for preorder purchase in March 2024, and released in June 2024. I am very thrilled with the characters in Hatch Chile Willie. Hatch Chile Willie is a silly magical chili pepper, and Farmer Pablo, is a very lonely farmer. The setting takes place in the beautiful town of Hatch, a unique small town located in southern New Mexico. The book also includes a Spanish/English Glossary with given vocabulary words used throughout the text, celebrating the Spanish culture and influence in NM history with the celebrated Hatch Chile and Hatch Chile Festival every Labor Day weekend in Hatch, NM.
Author Links: Instagram | Facebook | Amazon Author Page
Learning Can Be Fun
Squirrels in Antarctica takes young readers on a whimsical journey where creatures and insects find themselves in delightfully improbable scenarios far from their natural realms. What was the inspiration for your story?
Squirrels in Antarctica was inspired by a word game my young son came up with at the family dinner table. We would go around and everyone would think of the silliest or most unexpected animal/location combo they could imagine. It was perfect for all ages and so much fun! But the true win for me as a mom, was that it was engaging the two younger kids to stay in their seats and eat dinner – something the littles normally struggled to do. About a year later, I was on a long drive on my own, and all of a sudden, a bunch of these new funny combinations kept coming to me. I was so busy cracking up, I had to pull over and jot some of them down. Before long, with so many fun ideas, I wondered, “Could this be a book?!” And the answer eventually became a resounding “Yes!”
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
While Squirrels in Antarctica is certainly intended to entertain and inspire creativity, I wanted it to have an educational aspect that aims to expand the reader’s knowledge of animals and geographical locations. The book introduces a vast cast of animals – many of whom may be brand-new to young children. While they may know what a squirrel or a hippo looks like, this might be the first time they see a blobfish, a meerkat, or zooplankton. Geographically, the book does something similar. Many of the pages give the reader a peek into exotic locations around the world like Peru, Paris, Tibet, New York, Hollywood, and beyond! For kids to be able to explore our expansive world in this way while having fun, is an incredibly valuable learning tool.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process with illustrator Todd Wilkerson like?
Working with Todd has been phenomenal! He is so naturally talented and funny that he really elevates the humor with his work. Like with the “sloth who runs a marathon but isn’t ever done,” I gave him an example of how we could have the sloth making his way to mile one. But it was all Todd’s idea to have the seasons pass and the sloth age, making the concept even more wonderfully comical. Todd fully understood what I was going for, and when I would say things like, “Can you draw a giraffe with a bowtie?” He’d respond, “That is my specialty.” And not to be outdown, that giraffe got the red carpet treatment with a tuxedo, a top hot, and a monocle! Todd’s work and work ethic are awesome. With our busy lives, it took us nearly a year from start to finish to lock in all of the illustrations, but it was totally worth it. The art in this book goes above and beyond to bring the words to life, in the most charming and hilarious fashion.
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 in talks about if this could be a series. Stay tuned!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
This fantastical book of animals in unusual places will tickle your brain, leading readers of all ages imagining their own silly combos.
You’ll see a skiing seal in Switzerland, a pufferfish piloting an airplane, a sloth who runs a marathon (but isn’t ever done), and so much more!
With fun illustrations and an educational twist, this book encourages readers to embrace their limitless imagination, explore the world, and experience animals big and small in their not-so-natural habitats.
Perfect for bedtime reading or as a classroom favorite, Squirrels in Antarctica sparks boundless imagination. So, come along on this epic journey and “Let your thoughts fly limitless like snails on shooting stars.”
Is it a book? Is it a word game? Can it be both?!
Guinea Pig Power
Guinea Pig Power by Ben St. James offers a delightful twist in children’s literature, featuring Rex and Fuzwald, two charming guinea pigs with a remarkable secret. They’re adorable pets by day, but as night falls, they transform into vigilant heroes, safeguarding the city from various threats. This book invites young readers on a spirited journey alongside these furry protagonists.
The book’s visual style is akin to popular children’s animations, echoing the vibrant energy of shows like “Kid vs. Kat” and “Invader Zim.” Its narrative, with a flavor of “Om Nom Adventures” and “The Wonder Pets,” is presented through rhythmic storytelling, blending action and humor. Rex and Fuzwald, as costumed heroes, embark on rhyming escapades that are both exciting and entertaining, demonstrating resilience in the face of challenges. Guinea Pig Power skillfully caters to a young audience with its straightforward approach, making the superhero theme accessible and enjoyable. The story, focusing on delightful antics like kitten rescues and crime-fighting adventures, is ideal for introducing younger readers to the concept of heroism. The narrative, while simple, effectively highlights values like bravery and teamwork. The book’s light-hearted elements, such as the playful bathroom humor and creative rhymes, add to its charm and humor, making it a delightful read for its intended audience. These features enrich the book’s overall appeal, ensuring a fun and engaging experience for young readers and families alike.
Guinea Pig Power is a light-hearted, adventurous read, ideal for a broad audience. While it may not deeply explore the complexities of superhero lore, its vibrant portrayal of friendship and teamwork, encapsulated in the adventures of two heroic guinea pigs, is both engaging and uplifting. This book is an excellent choice for a cheerful reading session, whether it’s a bedtime story or a daytime activity, bringing smiles and laughter to its readers.
Pages: 22 | ISBN: 978-1304829580
The Christmas Kittens
Julia Metzler’s The Christmas Kittens is a captivating photo book that effectively embodies the joy and warmth of the holiday season. The book skillfully uses photography to showcase kittens in a series of playful and affectionate scenarios, bringing to life the coziness and companionship that pets offer. Accompanying these delightful images are rhymes that highlight traditional Christmas elements, like decorated trees, gingerbread cookies, and festive lights. The kittens, with their fluffy charm, are shown reveling in these seasonal delights, adding a layer of whimsy and enjoyment.
Metzler’s narrative is simple yet engaging, making it accessible for young readers. The rhymes are uplifting and concise, perfect for children beginning to read. Moreover, the book’s vibrant and festive imagery is likely to hold the attention of its young audience, providing not only a pleasant reading experience but also fostering a sense of positivity. The portrayal of kittens in this book not only reinforces holiday traditions but also subtly educates about pet companionship, reflecting Metzler’s deep affection for animals and her ability to convey this sentiment to her readers.
The Christmas Kittens is a charming and heartwarming book, ideal for parents and children to enjoy together. It not only celebrates the festive season but also subtly educates young minds about the joy and responsibility of caring for pets. Metzler’s passion for animals shines through, making this book a delightful addition to any family’s holiday reading list.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 978-1778137389
My Most Cherished Memories
The Christmas Lesson: Unwrapping Love and Family follows a young boy searching for his holiday gifts who is discovered by his grandmother and learns the true meaning of the holiday from her. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My grandmother, Granny held a special place in my heart. She wasn’t just a grandmother; she was my best friend. Our shared love for Christmas created some of my most cherished memories. The essence of Christmas, to me, was always about spending quality time with her, whether it was decorating the house or simply having conversations about life in general.
I felt a deep desire to honor our bond, but finding the right way proved challenging over the years. It wasn’t until I noticed the increased commercialization of Christmas, with stores jumping into the festive spirit as early as October, that inspiration struck. Witnessing this trend, which seemed to overshadow Thanksgiving and dilute the true spirit of Christmas, motivated me to do my part in taking action. That’s when I decided to channel my feelings into writing a book, The Christmas Lesson: Unwrapping Love and Family. Through it, I aim to pay tribute to Granny and, more importantly, remind readers of the meaning of Christmas.
When you think about the holidays, what is your favorite childhood memory that always brings a smile to your face?
The Tanglewood Festival of Lights holds a reputation as one of the premier holiday light shows in North Carolina. Granny and I had always planned to attend, but her fear of riding on the highway, given its 45-minute distance from our home, kept us from making the trip. Instead, we created our own tradition, exploring various parts of the city and delighting in the local Christmas light displays. Those moments, filled with oohs and ahhs, forged a deep connection between us.
Despite numerous invitations from friends to visit Tanglewood over the years, I consistently declined or came up with an excuse, holding out for the day I could share it with Granny. Sadly, that day never came as she passed away on November 4, 2010. It wasn’t until December 2016, when my daughter Haelee was nine, that I finally experienced Tanglewood for the first time. The beauty of the lights left both of us utterly amazed. Keyshia Cole’s song “Sent From Heaven” began to play on the radio just as we pulled up. Tears welled up in my eyes as I felt Granny’s presence with us as Haelee stared out the window in amazement. It became clear to me that my first visit to Tanglewood wasn’t meant to be with Granny and I, it was meant to be a shared experience with Granny, Haelee, and myself.
What message do you hope children and families take away from your story?
The underlying message is that the true gift of the season lies in moments shared with family while honoring Gods sacrifices in Christian households like mine. A similar sentiment holds true for non-Christian households, in that The Christmas Lesson emphasizes that the most valuable gifts life offers are the love that exudes from family and friends.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
The title is still in the works but Lamar will return in an upcoming book that focuses on mental health in children. The release date and title are uncertain because my current focus is on supporting Haelee. We’re collaborating on her debut poetry book. My goal in that sense is to ensure that her poetry book takes center stage as we enter 2024, particularly since it marks our first attempt at such a project.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The Power of Prayer
In Jesus, Take the Wheel, young readers follow a woman who experiences multiple challenges as she travels, and they learn important lessons in faith and the power of prayer. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I’m a mom to a four-year-old and a two-year-old. We go to the library once a week and always check out a big pile of books. We also own a massive amount of books at home. And yet, throughout my constant exposure to the kid-lit world, I’ve never read a book quite like Jesus, Take the Wheel. I wanted to read a story to my children about the power of prayer and how faith strengthens us when life brings challenges. I couldn’t find one, so I wrote it.
It was important for me to write a story that could positively impact both children and adults in different ways. Those are my favorite kind of books.
I wanted children to understand the basic concept of prayer and that Jesus supports them. Plus, kids love to read about vehicles.
For adults, it’s more layered. I hope it makes them pause, reflect, and trust in God’s plan. Often, it’s only through hindsight that we gain clarity about our struggles. When a problem appears, we usually need to learn a life lesson, or there’s an unexpected blessing. We can’t know where life will lead us when we are knee-deep in a problem. But God does. I thought it could be a beautiful moment for an adult to remember this perspective when reading to a child.
My ultimate hope is that Jesus, Take the Wheel brings comfort to anyone who reads it.
Is there anything from your own life included in Jesus, Take the Wheel?
Oh yes. It’s very loosely autobiographical. I met my husband on New Year’s Eve. The night had gone awry, and I was walking around in the most cynical mood. Then I turned a literal corner, and he was right in front of me. In one moment, I believed everything had gone wrong, and in the next, I met my soul mate.
We also experienced years of infertility. If you read the book, you’ll understand the nod to that. However, I wrote it in a way where it could also apply to adoption.
I look at my two incredible children and understand that God sent them to me at the perfect time in my life. I wanted to have kids much earlier, but God’s plan was so much better than my own.
I thought the illustrations in your book were wonderful. Can you share a little bit about your collaboration with Marissa Napolitano?
Marissa Napolitano is an incredible talent! She’s so gifted. I worked with her on my last book, Christmas Begins With Christ, so we’d already established a good working relationship.
Before we began the project, we discussed my vision for the book in-depth on the phone. I made a storyboard with illustration ideas for each page that would complement the text. I shared that storyboard with her, and she contributed her ideas. I let her run with it if I didn’t have a specific plan for a spread. She always delivered stunning work.
I really wanted to represent Jesus with light, and she nailed that. I was so blessed to have her illustrate the book.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have two more ideas for children’s books but haven’t written them yet. My next one will most likely be about Easter.
I’m also plotting an adult fantasy trilogy. I’ve started outlining the first book chapter by chapter, and it’s been such a joy to do!
I stay busy between being a nurse and a mom. Once my kids go to bed, I find pockets of time to write. My pace is slower because I wear many hats, but it’s been a beautiful adventure. I’m incredibly grateful to be doing what I love.
Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Will you take the wheel?
It’s not going my way,
And this isn’t ideal.
“I don’t understand,
But I know you have plans.
So I put all my fears,
Into your loving hands.”
Follow the POP of a car’s tire, the ROAR of a plane’s takeoff, and the HONK of a train trip gone wrong. When a woman’s travels don’t go as planned, she prays to Jesus. He answers by showing her how His divine plan is so much better than her own.
Both children and adults will delight in this rhyming tale about the power of prayer, faith, and God’s love. Beautifully illustrated with vibrant vehicles and touching moments, Jesus, Take the Wheel is the perfect gift for holidays, baby showers, adoptions, baptisms, and birthdays. Targeted for children ages 3-9.
Ignite Curiosity
Momma Llama’s ABC Book of Latin America immerses young readers in the culture of Central and South America one letter of the alphabet at a time. Why was this an important book for you to write?
We looked at other ABC books and realized we had a job to do because there wasn’t one quite like this yet.
This is such a unique setup for a children’s book that teaches cultural aspects. What made you decide to use this particular format?
Some of the topics featured in the book span multiple countries and regions. We wanted to provide extra context and make the book interesting and enriching for parents and teachers who use it. We’ve had a few grown-ups comment that they learned new things from our ABC book.
What is one thing you hope young readers and their families will take away from your book?
Whether our images make children want to draw their own or the animals and places ignite curiosity in biology or geography, Momma Llama and Friends hope to inspire children!
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
Two books are in development; one is for active readers and the other deals with fear and anxiety. Production begins this summer. If readers want more Momma Llama, we have other offerings like Momma Llama’s Enchiladas, Momma Llama’s Road Trip Activity Book, and coloring and workbook versions of our ABC book. All of which can be accessed through www.mommallamaworld.com.
We also have some freebies, like coloring pages, to share.
Author Links: GoodReads | TikTok | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Kiddable Award Winner for “Best ABC Book” 2023 & Literary Titan Gold Winner 2024
Momma Llama’s ABC Book of Latin America is both fun and educational. This multicultural adventure includes people, places, and things from Central and South America – from Mexico to Argentina. The charming illustrations will make you and your child smile. Additionally, each page names the country or region of the subject; parents might learn something too.
Content
The alphabet A to Z
Learn about new words, animals, places, foods, and customs
Colorful images will help children retain more multicultural knowledge
Introducing Readers to Environmental Justice
Future Hack follows Lexa, whose prank propels her into Thistleton Academy for Highly Creatives, where she strives to unravel the school’s mysteries and prevent an impending extinction event. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I set out to introduce readers to environmental justice issues and to explore climate change and their feelings about it—so sending Lexa off to a green school gone rogue created an opportunity to explore these themes. The story’s opening prank quickly establishes the long term friendship between Lexa and Jack and sets the stage for the appearance of Norbu, a time-traveler from the future. Norbu has come to recruit Lexa to help him prevent an impending extinction event. Setting the extinction event in Norbu’s timeline enabled me to introduce the urgency of the climate crisis while giving agency to the young activists to change the future. Thistleton’s takeover by a nefarious corporation enabled me to tell a complete story while leaving the corporate villain intact for future books in the series.
How did you approach integrating themes of nature and environmental stewardship into the narrative of Future Hack?
I approached this from several angles. Lexa’s parents work in the field of environmental protection and reminisce about their education at Thistleton Academy (back when it was the bastion of green education). Due to their backgrounds, they naturally encourage their daughter’s activism around environmental and social issues. The theme of environmental stewardship is also introduced through its absence. For example, Norbu travels from the future to seek help due to an impending extinction event. One of the school’s teachers, Mr. Mathis struggles emotionally with the loss of the green curriculum at Thistleton. In addition, the kids uncover evidence that Thistleton is engaging in environmentally damaging activities. Toward the end of the story, the team creates an edtech portal “Mission: G.A.I.A.” to recruit team members to help them accomplish the critical missions that are essential to protecting the future. On the last page of the book, readers discover a QR code that takes them to the Mission: G.A.I.A. website. The site is designed to support ecoliteracy and activism and extends the educational potential of the book.
Can you share insights into your process for creating the Thistleton Academy and its role in the story?
Thistleton Academy served a number of purposes. As a literary device, it brought the team together quickly and removed the kids from their parents’ guardianship—granting them a certain amount of autonomy and adding an element of danger. As an institution, Thistleton plays a large role in the story because it introduces the importance of creativity and the “green school” as a preferred approach to education, albeit an approach that has been lost due to a corporate takeover. Thistleton introduces readers to the negative impacts corporate takeovers can have on people and the environment. Escaping and exposing Thistleton is a worthy first advesary for the team. It serves to introduce Chronnite Ltd. as the corporate villain which the team will encounter more directly in future books. Finally, Thistleton Academy is a commentary on public education which is failing to nurture relationships between students and the natural world and failing to teach environmental stewardship.
What can readers expect in the next book in the Chronicles of G.A.I.A. series?
In the next book, the team sets out to investigate the disappearance of the jaguars and discovers Chronnite is engaged in poaching and habitat destruction. Young Indigenous activists play a central role in the story and their sacred technology of shamanism is important to the story’s outcome. Readers will learn more about Norbu and his future which makes the second book a bit darker. However, readers will learn more about anticipatory thinking and techniques to combat eco-anxiety.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
Lexa Andromeda is just a normal twelve-year-old girl, until the day her dog dies.
She’s at a loss—until she discovers pranking. It’s fun, it’s easy, and it gives her something to do while she mourns. But when one prank goes too far, Lexa finds herself sent to Thistleton Academy—a prestigious boarding school for “Highly Creatives” like her.
And that’s when things start getting weird. Lexa soon discovers a sinister plot that could lead to a mass extinction event. Join Lexa, her friends, and a mysterious time traveler as they navigate the dangerous halls of Thistleton and work to reveal the truth and save the world before it’s too late.
LITERARY TITAN 