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We Can Achieve Remarkable Feats
The Girl and Her Noble Steed follows a young orphan with a talent for animal riding who sets out to save her orphanage by winning a challenging race. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I wanted to create The Girl and Her Noble Steed to give young readers an exciting adventure in a quirky world. I’ve always loved underdog stories, and I wanted to tell one that entertains while teaching kids important values. This story reminds us that, with God by our side, we can overcome any challenge. No matter where we come from or what talents we have, God sees us and answers our prayers in ways we might not expect.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
The concept of family, defined not by blood but by love and the unwavering support they offer one another, was another essential element. I aimed to convey to children that the bonds we form with those who care about us are incredibly valuable, and together, we can achieve remarkable feats.
My love for animals played a significant role in shaping the narrative. Through this story, I wanted to inspire children to be compassionate towards animals, highlighting that while animals may not comprehend our words, they do feel our emotions. This lesson in empathy and kindness towards all living creatures is an important one.
Ultimately, The Girl and Her Noble Steed is a tale of triumph against all odds. I wanted both children and adults to recognize that they do not have to face their battles alone. The story underscores the comforting belief that God is always with us and that help will come when it is needed most. It is my hope that this story will resonate with readers, offering them inspiration, faith, and a reminder of the enduring power of love and unity.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The story revolves around the themes of perseverance, unwavering faith, and the constant presence of God’s guidance. It aims to show young readers the strength found in hard work and determination, emphasizing that they can conquer even the most formidable obstacles.
Throughout the narrative, faith and trust in God play a central role, with characters relying on divine guidance when confronted with challenges. The protagonist’s journey exemplifies courage and perseverance, while the bonds of friendship and loyalty shine brightly among the characters. The recurring motif of divine guidance underscores God’s active involvement in the story.
Adventure abounds within the tale, encouraging young readers to embark on their own journeys of exploration and discovery. Important moral lessons promote kindness and compassion, foster a belief in the possibility of miracles, and highlight the boundless power of God.
When will book 2 be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
My Kickstarter campaign is set to go live on the 5th, and I have exciting plans. With the support of backers, I aim to create and print the second book while also securing the first print run for Book 1. I’m hopeful that people will rally behind this project, helping bring Book 2 to life and enabling it to reach readers worldwide.
Here’s the link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/kirthanajfanning/the-girl-and-her-noble-steed
If all goes well, Book 2 will be ready for release in May 2024.
For those who have read Book 1, you know how it ends. Book 2 picks up from there and promises an exhilarating journey. Within its pages, you can expect a thrilling voyage from one land to another, mysterious quests, detective work, moments of heartbreak, the introduction of new friends, and the unveiling of names and character arcs for some of Ofe’s companions. This sequel is bound to keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning pages to uncover what happens next.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | BookBub | Amazon
Together, they defy the odds, showcasing the strength of faith, courage, and friendship.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you inspired and wanting more in…
The Girl and Her Noble Steed, the first book in this series.
A tale of resilience, hope, triumph, and answered prayers.
“Clean Your Dog’s Poop!”
Maya and Waggers: I Have to Scoop What? follows a young girl who rescues a new puppy and leans all that is involved with pet ownership. What was the inspiration for your story?
I knew I wanted to write a humorous series for middle grade readers (ages 8-12) that was (an age appropriate) spinoff of the young adult story of Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools, using Blaze’s little sister Maya as the protagonist. I wanted to weave in themes of dog care and responsibility while continuing the absurdity of the Puddin’ Heads vs. the Sweeties because the us vs. them polarization and thinking in the U.S. and beyond has become so ridiculous that even six-year-olds can see it. Because Maya’s best friend is a Sweetie visiting Puddin’ Head Island, the themes of friendship and courage are taken to new levels. I thought it would be interesting if the series revolved around an entire nation (Island Nation) suddenly having dogs for the first time. And Maya would be in the middle of learning how to take care of a rescue puppy, Waggers. My family’s lab mix, which has a ridiculous wagging tail, inspired the creation of Waggers. The character Boofie was inspired by pillow fights with my niece (boof!). Community complaints on social media about “clean your dog’s poop!” inspired book #1.
What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your characters?
The values of responsibility, friendship, community, critical thinking, and inclusion rise to the top. As one reader said to me, “In a funny way, this story teaches kids to think critically.” That made my day.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Find the courage to face fears and question ludicrous ideas. See the joy, wonder, and beauty alongside the mundane. Stand up for what’s right, even when it’s hard. Find the unity in diversity.
What will the next book in that series be about and when will it be published?
It will be an even wilder story involving a stolen pooper scooper and a firestorm of upset neighbors. Spring 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website
“I Have to Scoop What?” follows Maya and her best friend Lily’s hilarious efforts to take care of a new rescue puppy, Waggers, at Uncle Puddin’ Head’s home. But Maya refuses to scoop poop, her uncle really, really cares about his perfect lawn, and the odd neighbors aren’t exactly fans of Maya’s creative solutions in their yards.
A humorous tale of friendship, responsibility, and courage within one of the strangest neighborhoods you will ever see, hear, or smell.
A chapter book for ages 8 and up. I Have to Scoop What? is the book series launch of Maya and Waggers!
Children’s Fiction / Dogs / Humor / Adventure
Themes: dogs, animals, pet care and responsibility, humor, courage, friendship, community and inclusion, growing up.
Maya and Waggers: I Have to Scoop What?
Maya and Waggers: I Have to Scoop What? offers readers a charming and insightful glimpse into the life of Maya, a young girl who embarks on the adventure of pet ownership with the arrival of her new puppy, Waggers. As her first encounter with a dog, Maya’s excitement is palpable, but she quickly learns that owning a pet comes with its own set of challenges, notably the less glamorous aspect of scooping poop. This narrative, crafted with a blend of humor and realism, explores the responsibilities and joys of pet ownership through Maya’s eyes.
Author W.T. Kosmos skillfully captures the essence of childhood curiosity and responsibility. Maya’s character is portrayed authentically, mirroring the behavior and mindset of a child her age. Her reactions and solutions to the challenges of pet care, alongside her friend Lily, are both inventive and relatable. Kosmos’s portrayal of a young girl navigating the ups and downs of pet ownership is a refreshing take in a genre often dominated by male protagonists and their canine companions. The book’s humor is subtle yet effective, keeping readers engaged and chuckling from start to finish. The character dynamics and the portrayal of Maya’s neighborhood hint at the potential for future stories in this setting. The illustrations, though limited in number, enrich the narrative with their delightful visual charm, leaving readers eager for more.
Maya and Waggers: I Have to Scoop What? is a light-hearted and enjoyable read that offers a nuanced perspective on young pet ownership, balancing the responsibilities with the intrinsic joy pets bring into our lives. Kosmos’s ability to channel a child’s viewpoint makes this book a delightful addition to children’s literature.
Pages: 91 | ASIN : B0CLL1KNLS
Oliver the Oyster and the Lost Lab
Understanding friendship is a crucial lesson for children as it aids in the development of their social skills. An exemplary illustration of this concept can be found in Oliver the Oyster and the Lost Lab, by Jared Auchter. The story opens with Oliver’s playful escapades on the seashore, where he encounters Mac, a Labrador retriever who has lost his way. Mac strayed from home earlier in the day while pursuing a rabbit and found himself disoriented. The story unfolds with Oliver and his companions deciding to assist Mac in locating his family by searching various locations in town. This endeavor leads them on an engaging and enlightening journey.
J.B. Auchter’s narrative masterfully blends entertainment with meaningful lessons for young readers. One particularly appealing aspect of the story is the diverse cast of characters. Oliver’s friends include Cathy the Crab, Miriah the Mermaid, and Clara the Clam. Their ingenuity in covertly exploring the town adds a little bit of intrigue to this children’s narrative. The scenarios they encounter are lighthearted, and their ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances with humor will appeal to young readers.
The story also delves into the lives of Mac’s owners and the townspeople, contributing depth to the storyline. Auchter expertly captures the essence of the settings and characters’ emotions through vivid descriptions. The interactions between Oliver and his friends exemplify values like unity and collaboration, serving as positive examples for young readers. Persistence in the pursuit of goals is a central theme, reinforced by the characters’ unwavering determination. The inclusion of colorful illustrations and actual photos of Wellfleet is a welcome addition, providing an alternative perspective to the narrative.
Oliver the Oyster and the Lost Lab stands as an ideal reading choice for children seeking both an enjoyable story and an exploration of the significance of friendship. J.B. Auchter’s narrative craftsmanship and the valuable life lessons embedded within the tale make it a worthwhile addition to any young reader’s collection.
Pages: 155 | ASIN : B0CG7PTSG9
LITERARY TITAN 