Blog Archives
Mari-chan and Roboto Bunny
Mari-chan and Roboto Bunny by Jon Kaczka centers on Mari-chan, a fearless six-year-old whose life shifts dramatically after her adventurous father vanishes during a climb in Antarctica. Guided by her magical companion, Roboto Bunny, Mari-chan discovers a hidden passage inside her closet. It leads to a vibrant Underworld packed with playful obstacles and mysterious doors. Progress comes at a surprising cost. To move forward, Mari-chan must transform into a baby, reinforcing a powerful idea: bravery has nothing to do with size.
The story’s greatest strength lies in its boundless imagination. Every challenge feels intentional. Animal encounters bring warmth and humor. Whimsical trials unfold through clever riddles rather than danger. Kaczka layers the narrative with lighthearted song parodies and charming jokes, easing tension and maintaining a joyful tone. Even stressful moments feel safe. The scenes where constellations spring to life stand out most, adding a surreal, dreamlike quality that lingers.
Chapter-opening illustrations elevate the reading experience. Each image offers a visual pause, inviting readers further into the Underworld. These snapshots support the narrative without overwhelming it. Younger readers gain clarity. The world feels tangible, cozy, and inviting.
Mari-chan and Roboto Bunny deliver a warm, uplifting adventure rooted in perseverance and love. It blends fantasy with emotional sincerity. The message resonates without feeling heavy. This book comes highly recommended for families and young readers drawn to imaginative journeys, gentle humor, and stories that celebrate courage in even the smallest heroes.
Pages: 82 | ASIN : B0FWZ82XWF
Chika’s Mysterious Phone
Chika’s Mysterious Phone follows an eleven-year-old girl who receives a birthday phone from her grandmother in Japan and starts to wonder how voices and pictures travel through it. That simple question turns into a dreamlike journey inside the phone itself. Chika shrinks, meets living digits, an avatar version of herself, and faces digital dangers while trying to understand technology, imagination, and what feels real versus what feels imagined.
I found the writing playful, bold, and full of heart. The rhyme gives the story a steady beat that feels almost like a song read out loud. It felt like listening to a curious child who cannot stop thinking. I liked how the author talks directly to the reader. I smiled at the mix of wonder, humor, and gentle chaos.
The ideas in this book stuck with me more than I expected. I loved how it mixes technology with dreams and feelings. The phone is not just a gadget. It becomes a doorway into questions about the mind, the soul, and learning itself. I felt a little nostalgic while reading it. It reminded me of late-night thoughts as a kid, when big questions felt exciting rather than scary. Some explanations get heavy, yet the curiosity behind them feels honest and sweet.
I would recommend this book for curious kids who like thinking, asking questions, and imagining strange worlds. It also feels great for parents or teachers who enjoy reading aloud and talking about ideas afterward. This is not a fast bedtime book. It is better for children who like to stay in a story for a while rather than rush through it, and for adults who still like to wonder how things work and why we dream.
Pages: 76 | ISBN : 978-0645143041
Many Types of Families
Pesky Penguins follows two adopted sisters who get whisked away by a magical beam of light to all sorts of places after they wish for different things. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Becky and Sonya’s adventures were originally written as short-story drafts with the intention of making a picture book series about the girls. I decided against that model after publishing The Dee Lanson Series, which is for middle-grade readers. I love writing chapter books! So, I tossed around the idea of combining the adventures into the fantasy novel now known as Pesky Penguins and went with it!
What was your inspiration for their characters’ interactions and backstories?
At first, I imagined Becky and Sonya as friends and neighbors, but I felt the story would have greater depth if they were sisters. Being one of three sisters, I know how important and strong the bonds can be. Also, there are many types of families, so I wanted to show that adopted siblings can have a strong connection even if they come from different backgrounds.
Family, responsibility, and helping others are virtues that are highlighted throughout the story. Why are these important to telling the story?
Becky and Sonya are presented with a challenge when the baby penguin follows them home. They feel sad for Petey because he is separated from his family. The strong bonds within their own family fuel their desire to return Petey to his, even though they would love to have him for a pet. They assume the role of caregiver while they figure out what to do. It is a great learning experience for them and for the reader also.
Will this novel be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
I would love for The Adventures of Becky and Sonya to become a series, but at the moment it is a stand-alone book. The future of The Adventures of Becky and Sonya is yet to be decided!
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Two adopted sisters, Becky and Sonya, get a big surprise when a beam of light transports them to Antarctica! They are surrounded by penguins as their adventure begins! When a baby penguin follows them home, they see just how fun and wacky life can be. Their attempts to get him back to his penguin family don’t go as expected; they never know where the light beam will take them next. Join Becky and Sonya on their exciting, magical journey!
Pesky Penguins is a heartwarming story of the importance of family, developing responsibility, and helping others.
Janice Laakko is the award-winning author of “Gloppy”, the first book in “The Dee Lanson Series”
Reassurance and Belonging
The Backyard Detectives: Operation Family Mystery follows a brother and sister who overhear a secret phone call, and become detectives to uncover what divorce means while holding each other up as their world feels like it is falling apart. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
For this book, I drew deeply from my own childhood. While there are pieces I changed or left out, the heart of the story comes from my personal experiences growing up. I wanted to create the kind of book my younger self desperately needed, something that would have helped me feel seen and less alone.
Divorce can feel like the end of the world for a child, and in the moment, it truly does feel that way. But looking back, I can see that even though it was hard, things did work out, and in some cases, it was even the best thing that could have happened for the kids involved. I wanted to capture that balance of honesty and hope. The story includes not only what I went through but also the words and reassurance I wish someone had given me at the time. My hope is that kids reading it today will feel supported and maybe find a little bit of comfort in knowing they’ll be okay, too.
One thing that stands out in your children’s book is the relationship between siblings Rose and Jacob, not just with each other, but also with their mom and their desire to protect one another. What was your process in writing the characters’ interactions to develop the bond they have?
Even though I grew up as an only child, I knew I wanted this story to highlight the importance of leaning on someone when life feels overwhelming. For some kids, that’s a sibling; for others, it might be a best friend who feels just like family. Either way, having that bond can make a world of difference.
When writing Rose and Jacob, I imagined what my younger self would have needed to hear or say if I’d had a sibling by my side. That made their protectiveness and closeness come naturally in the story. Their bond doesn’t just help them through the divorce, it shapes who they’ll become, making them extra protective of their mom and strengthening their family unit in a new way. In the end, I wanted their relationship to show kids that it’s okay to rely on the people who love you, and that sometimes tough moments can create unbreakable connections.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Mental health has always been very important to me, and the older I get, the more I realize how early those struggles can begin. One of the most important lessons I wanted to weave into this book is the message that you are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with you.
So often, kids going through big changes like divorce feel isolated or even blame themselves. I wanted The Backyard Detectives to be a safe place where a child could see their own feelings reflected and know it’s okay to have those emotions. If even one child reads this book and finds comfort in knowing they aren’t the only one, then to me, this story has done its job. That sense of reassurance and belonging is the true educational takeaway I hope every reader carries with them.
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?
Yes, Operation Family Mystery is the very first book in The Backyard Detectives series. The second book will follow Rose and Jacob as they face another difficult chapter in life, learning about cancer and coping with grief when their grandfather becomes ill.
While it’s a heavier topic, the story is told with the same mix of heart, hope, and detective fun, giving kids tools to process big feelings while still feeling safe and supported. My goal is to help young readers see that even in sad or scary moments, there can be love, connection, and resilience. This next installment is set to release before the holidays this year, and I can’t wait to share it with families.
For the latest updates on release dates and new projects, you can always visit www.christalmajestic.com.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
In this heartfelt early chapter book for ages 7–10, siblings Rose and Jacob find themselves caught in a mystery they didn’t ask for—but can’t ignore.
After overhearing a late-night phone call, the pair stumbles into a web of hidden photos, whispered secrets, and quiet sadness. Armed with a notebook and their best detective skills, they launch a secret mission to uncover the truth behind the word that turned their world upside down.
Set in a cozy southern town, The Backyard Detectives: Operation Family Mystery is a gentle, emotionally rich story about family change, resilience, and the unshakable bond between siblings. Perfect for children’s bookshelves at home, in the classroom, or in counseling offices.
A comforting story for kids experiencing family change or divorce
Great for fans of sibling adventures, secret missions, and detective tales
Ideal for parents, educators, and therapists helping children process emotions
This realistic fiction chapter book is perfect for:
• Early readers transitioning from picture books
• Families looking for age-appropriate books about divorce
• Kids who love solving mysteries and uncovering clues
• Adults seeking tools to help children navigate big emotions and life transitions
Whether read independently or shared aloud, this moving story reminds young readers that even when families shift, love stays—and courage grows.
Teaching Environmental Stewardship
Adele and the Whispering Garden follows a young girl who moves to a new home where she is excited to discover all the magic and mysteries her new home holds. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
To be honest, I originally set out to write a completely different book. But this children’s story kept nudging its way to the forefront, refusing to be ignored. At first, I thought, Why not? Writing a children’s book might be an easier way to get my feet wet. But as I dove into the process, the story took on a life of its own, and I soon realized—this was the book that was meant to be written.
My inspiration comes from a mix of my gardening knowledge, my passion for growing food organically, and my deep concern for children today. I want to encourage them to step away from their screens, connect with nature, and learn how to grow their own food while caring for our planet. We need to do better for Mother Earth, and I hope this book plants a seed of change in young minds.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
One of the key educational aspects I wanted to include in Adele and the Whispering Garden was helping children understand where their food comes from and how it grows. In today’s world, many kids are disconnected from nature, and I wanted to spark their curiosity about gardening, plant life, and the environment in a fun and engaging way.
I also wanted to introduce organic gardening principles—teaching children that plants can be nurtured naturally without synthetic chemicals. Adele’s journey in the garden highlights important concepts like soil health, composting, and the role of beneficial insects in maintaining a thriving ecosystem.
Beyond gardening, the book explores themes of environmental stewardship, responsibility, and mindfulness. Adele learns that every living thing in the garden has a role to play, and by listening to nature, she can make a difference.
This book is just the beginning of Adele’s journey. Adele and the Whispering Garden is the first in a series that will expand on these themes, delving deeper into topics like pollination, biodiversity, and sustainable gardening. Future books will continue to blend magical storytelling with real-world lessons, encouraging children to step outside, connect with nature, and become caretakers of the Earth.
Is there anything about Adele that came from yourself or your life experiences?
Adele is very much inspired by my own experiences and love for gardening, but she’s also inspired by someone even closer to my heart—my daughter. Her name is Adele, and just like the character, she has a natural curiosity and a strong connection to the world around her.
Much of Adele’s journey in the book reflects my own childhood experiences—spending hours in my great aunt’s English-style garden in Chicago, helping my mother tend to her backyard garden, and discovering the wonder of growing food. Those moments shaped my love for the earth and my passion for organic gardening, and I wanted to pass that on—not just to my daughter, but to all children.
In many ways, this book is a love letter to Adele and to the lessons I hope every child can learn: that nature has so much to teach us, that we have a responsibility to care for the earth, and that magic can be found in the simplest moments—like planting a seed and watching it grow.
Will there be a follow-up novel for this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Yes! Adele and the Whispering Garden is just the beginning of Adele’s journey. I’m currently working on the next book in the series, Adele and the Whispering Garden: The Bee Brigade.
In this next installment, Adele notices that while her garden is full of blooming flowers, the vegetables aren’t producing fruit. Lulu, the ladybug, helps her realize that pollination has been a challenge due to a decline in bees. As Adele investigates, she discovers that her neighbors’ use of synthetic chemicals is discouraging pollinators from visiting their yards. Determined to help, she embarks on a mission to educate her community about organic gardening and create a space where bees can thrive.
This book will introduce new magical elements, including Katelyn, the Blossom Spirit, who helps Adele and her neighbors see the vital role pollinators play in our food system. Naming this character after my niece and goddaughter, Katelyn Kelly, is a special way to honor her memory. Readers will also meet some delightful bee characters—Brick, the hardworking mason bee with a tiny hard hat, Snip, the leafcutter bee with her seamstress-like precision, and Queenie, the regal honeybee.
The Adele and the Whispering Garden series blends storytelling with real-world lessons in environmental stewardship, gardening, and sustainability. Each book will explore a different challenge in nature, showing kids how they, too, can make a difference.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Book overviewA brand new home, a forgotten garden, and a mysterious gnome statue.
When Adele first heard her family were moving house, she instantly started dreaming of all the fun she could have, uncovering the magic and mysteries her new home could hold.
So, when they finally moved in, it came as no surprise that she spent almost all her time exploring the backyard.
Little did she know just how much magic was in store for her when she stumbled across the forgotten garden.
Suddenly, Adele is given the peculiar task of reviving the garden’s magic to where it once was.
Join Adele as she embarks on this journey of a lifetime, befriending quirky creatures along the way.
If you are searching for a fun, exciting, and engaging book that gets your children interested in exploring the outdoors, you don’t want to miss Adele and the Whispering Garden.
Adele and the Whispering Garden
Little Adele is brimming with excitement to explore her family’s new home, a whimsical cottage teeming with secrets. The house itself promises boundless adventures, but the true gem lies beyond it: an overgrown garden, alive with whispers of hidden magic. With the guidance of Albert, the enigmatic guardian of the garden, and a host of new companions, Adele embarks on an enchanting journey to restore the neglected sanctuary to its former splendor.
Polly Richards’ Adele and the Whispering Garden is a delightful introduction to the joys of gardening, effortlessly blending practical knowledge with a touch of fantasy. Adele’s unwavering determination to revive the garden, coupled with the charming camaraderie of her newfound friends, creates a captivating narrative. Though concise, the novella bursts with valuable gardening insights, making it both engaging and informative. Particularly noteworthy is the section on composting, which not only enriches the story but also provides readers with detailed, step-by-step instructions for building their own compost heap an excellent resource tucked neatly at the end.
The conclusion carries a bittersweet note, adding depth to the story. While the story offers a thorough overview of gardening, I feel it leaves certain topics—such as pollination, planting seasons, and environmental challenges—lightly touched upon. These omissions, however, pave the way for future installments, where these aspects could be explored in greater detail.
Richards’ engaging storytelling pairs beautifully with vibrant illustrations, creating a heartfelt tale that inspires readers of all ages. With its focus on environmental stewardship and the joys of nurturing the earth, this children’s chapter book is an invaluable resource for educators, parents, and children alike. Adele and the Whispering Garden is a story about reclaiming a magical garden and an invitation to protect and cherish our fragile planet. Readers will undoubtedly look forward to more adventures with Adele in this promising series.
Pages: 49 | ASIN : B0DPG7DPXZ
I Created the Books I Wanted to Read
The Guardians: Rise of the Phantom follows the guardians entrusted with protecting the realm of Felina, who must take action to protect it from a new dark enemy that has unleashed destruction and chaos on the peaceful world. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
As an avid reader, I began noticing how there weren’t any specific books available in the niche genre I wanted, so I created one. I first began writing this book when I was 12, and I didn’t fully know where to go with it. My mom and I have brainstormed for hours every day since then to create this entire world. So, I guess my mom was partly the inspiration, and the other inspiration was my own curiosity and excitement about the world my characters would live in.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
My inspiration actually came from another story, a novella that I had dictated to my mother when I was nine. That story had a setup where there were these cat people who needed to protect the world from ruthless dogs. Writing this book, I decided to take the its concept and evolve it to meet with my target audience.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Being 12, 13, and now 14, I truly didn’t care about themes. I wanted to write an exciting book people couldn’t put down. Over these few years, my mom and I talked about all the ways in which each character’s life could play out. Moral dilemmas, hard choices, and taking sadness in stride became common topics where we would explore characterization from a deep level. As I got to know my characters, since they kind of became their own being at one point, I could see they had things to learn and experience for themselves, and that is the origination of this book’s themes.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
The story in the next book introduces the much-anticipated Phantom and the Guardian Coralees, along with her underwater dwelling Mizus. Together with her help, Alada, Tierra, and Birch are able to gather new intel on the beast’s glitching abilities, and the Phantom’s lair. Meanwhile, the Phantom continues to prepare for the start of war. Readers will be transported to his lair and what comes of that is the unfurling of a history long forgotten.
There are six books in the series. One book will be published and released every December. More books may be added to the series.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Yet, the attack was only the beginning. As the smoke cleared, a chilling message appeared on a large boulder: You are now under the command of the Phantom. With this dark threat looming over the land, Alada and Tierra knew they had to protect Felina. Rallying their courage, Alada and Tierra prepared to warn the other villages… until Birch, a trophy-toting nobody with more enthusiasm than skill, insisted on tagging along. Fantastic. Because that’s exactly what they needed.
Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats
Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats, written by Jeffrey Hope, is an engaging tale of adventure and camaraderie, set in the picturesque town of Cricket Cove, Maine. The story centers on two brothers, Sam and John, who, inspired by their father’s new high-powered fishing boat, dream of becoming professional spies. Their journey, however, is far from smooth as they face challenges from the bully-minded Johnson brothers and grapple with their parents’ concerns for their safety.
Hope’s storytelling is rich and immersive, bringing the setting of Cricket Cove to life with vivid descriptions that transport the reader into the heart of the boys’ adventures. His writing style is both descriptive and visually stimulating, adding layers of intrigue to the plot. The author skillfully navigates the boys’ escapades, weaving in multiple twists and misadventures that keep the reader engaged from start to finish. The narrative begins with the brothers gaining access to their father’s boat, marking the start of their quest to become spies. Despite the various obstacles they encounter, including dealing with bullies and overcoming their parents’ worries, Sam and John remain undeterred. Their resilience and unwavering determination provide a valuable lesson for young readers, encouraging them to stay hopeful and persistent in the face of challenges.
The characters in Real Spies Don’t Use Rowboats are well-developed and likable, with each one possessing depth and background that adds richness to the story. The bond between Sam and John is particularly heartwarming, showcasing the strength of family ties and the importance of supporting one another. In addition to its captivating plot, the book imparts important life lessons, emphasizing themes of forgiveness, resilience, and positivity. It’s a story that not only entertains but also inspires, making it a great read for young audiences. Jeffrey Hope has crafted a memorable adventure that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next twist in Sam and John’s journey.
Pages: 214 | ASIN : B0D528KZK8
LITERARY TITAN 