Blog Archives
Make Readers Laugh
Nate’s Noisy Nose follows the hilarious and heartwarming journey of a boy whose musical nose disrupts his life until he discovers the power of embracing his unique melody. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I honestly don’t know where this idea came from! It just popped into my head and away it went! I liked the idea of having a noisy book where kids join in to repeat the sound words and I had great fun thinking up the words to accompany the character’s noisy nose.
I like to write stories that are fun. There are so many books out there that want to teach a moral lesson or highlight a particular theme – and although my story does have an underlying message, it’s not the main idea of the book. The main idea is to make readers laugh.
How did you develop the character of Gabby the Geek, and what was her role in shaping the story’s resolution?
My illustrator and I dreamed up Gabby. We wanted a mad-looking techy person who could invent a machine to help Nate. I liked the idea of kids being inspired by Gabby and designing their own machines. Initially, the machine Gabby invented was going to solve Nate’s problem by having a dial on it so he could turn the volume up and down, thereby being noisy when necessary but quiet in school and around town. But we thought it would be much funnier if the machine caused Nate’s nose to ‘explode’ and spew out the instruments! Do I give a spoiler alert here and say what happened next – perhaps not!
The illustrations are incredibly vibrant. Did you work closely with the illustrator, and how did you bring Nate’s world to life visually?
Dotti Colvin is an extremely talented illustrator. She illustrated one of my other picture books, Baby Worries, and I just knew she would be perfect for this story. We had great fun inventing each character and Dotti is an expert at adding hilarious detail to every scene. Her illustrations brought the story to life in a way that many other illustrators could not achieve. Nothing is left to chance with her illustrations – they are expertly planned and beautifully finished.
Can we expect more adventures featuring Nate, Rascal, or Gabby in the future?
I already have plans for future tales involving Nate and Rascal – after all, Rascal does become world famous! I am thinking of creating a chapter book series as a spin-off. There’s so much that these characters could get up to. Will have to wait and see what happens.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Join Nate as he navigates the challenges of a nose that’s a bit too special. With every tuneful toot, he finds himself in a new misadventure, whether it’s at home, at school, or out and about, making him the centre of attention wherever he goes – but not always in a good way!
Amid the chaos, Nate’s longing for peace grows stronger. If only he could find silence and slip under the radar like a regular kid.
But fear not! Nate isn’t alone on his quest. His loyal furry friend, Rascal, is by his side, ready to help him snuffle out solutions. Will Rascal’s devotion be the key to Nate’s noisy problem, or will a team of brilliant doctors and scientists come to the rescue?
This laugh-out-loud gem is perfect for families who love to giggle together. As Nate’s story unfolds, readers are reminded that even the quirkiest traits can lead to the most unexpected outcomes.
This noisy, interactive book is more than just a funny tale of a musical nose; it’s a celebration of friendship, loyalty, creativity, and finding solutions when life gets a little too loud.
A Purpose for Patches
A Purpose for Patches, by Gail L. Oxford, is a charming and educational children’s book that follows the journey of Patches, a guide dog in training. The story is heartwarming and informative as it illustrates the process of Patches learning important survival signals to help his future owner, Sam, who is blind. Throughout the book, readers are introduced to various street signs and their meanings, providing a delightful way for children to learn about everyday signs and symbols in a city environment. The story captures the adventures of Patches and emphasizes the significance of guide dogs and their role in helping visually impaired individuals navigate the world safely.
One of the book’s most delightful aspects is how it combines storytelling with educational elements. The author does an excellent job of making the learning process engaging. For instance, when Patches and his classmates learn about the stop sign and traffic lights, it’s not just about the signs themselves but about the importance of these signals in ensuring safety. The illustrations by Melissa Fox complement the text beautifully, making the signs and signals clear and memorable for young readers. This combination of narrative and visuals helps children grasp the concepts taught.
The character of Patches is endearing, and his dedication to becoming a reliable guide dog is portrayed with warmth and sincerity. The scenes where Patches interacts with his teacher, Mrs. Gruff, and his fellow trainees are filled with moments of humor and learning. For example, when Patches recognizes the stop sign and barks excitedly, it’s a simple yet powerful way to show his progress and eagerness to fulfill his role.
The book subtly instills values of compassion and responsibility. Patches’ journey is not just about learning signs but also about understanding his purpose in helping Sam. The story highlights the importance of empathy and the role of service animals in the lives of those who need them.
A Purpose for Patches is a delightful and informative picture book for young children. It skillfully blends education with an engaging story, making learning about street signs and safety signals fun and memorable. The book would be especially beneficial for early elementary school students or any child curious about guide dogs and their training. It’s also a great resource for parents and teachers looking to introduce concepts of safety and empathy in an enjoyable way.
Pages: 48 | ASIN : B0CR9XV2M3
“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.
Heaven is the Ultimate Reality
Puppy Love: A Waggity Tale follows a young dog who joins a family with an older dog and his experiences bonding and growing older with his new big brother. What was the inspiration for your story?
Sadly, the truth of the matter is that we’d had 5 pets die within a few years. The oldest being Momma, my Eurasian Ring-neck Dove. Her life expectancy had been 5-7 years of age but she reached a whopping 25 years old. Have you ever lost a friend of 25 years?
In less than 2 years, we’d lost 3 dogs, 2 birds and a close family friend. The most heartbreaking void, and the worst of these was a puppy named Xander Puppy. He was a rescue, but we had no idea how sick he was. I had so much pain that it didn’t fit in my soul. The only relief I got was creating the illustrations of the dogs being happy and in Heaven. It wasn’t even something I could properly talk about before that.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Firstly, don’t simply exclude someone. If you do that, you could be missing out on a life-long friend.
I don’t know that it might be considered as educational, but the big lesson here is that Heaven is the ultimate reality. That is why I painted the skies, while the rest of the illustrations are cut paper.
To anyone who’s mourning, let me say, I know the pain is soul-smashing now, but you will see them again.
It’s funny, I suppose that I think of death much differently. I rarely say, “Died.” I normally say, “They graduated.” I don’t know if that’s a theology or a defense mechanism, but it works wonders for me.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The scenes without words, where there are only pictures to tell the story. If that’s what you happen to be going for, those scenes have to be exact. Ergo, they take a while. Since I’m quite fussy with my work, those were the most satisfying.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m working on a comedy series for tweens and up. I’ve nearly finished the second book in the series. However, these are still in edits, so there is no way to release a publication date. The first in the series is titled, “The Knight, The Pig-wizard And The Dragon.” If you like clean comedy, look for it in 2024.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
Beautiful cut paper illustrations grace award-wining artist and poet, Angel Dunworth’s, book, Puppy Love: A Waggity Tale. Will every dog truly have its day? Find out in this contemporary classic that not only tickles the funny-bone, but also touches the heart. —
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
Puppy Love: A Waggity Tale
Puppy Love: A Waggity Tale, by Angel Dunworth, is a heartwarming and profound journey seen through the eyes of Puppers, the dog. This enchanting tale narrates the life of Puppers and his cherished bond with his fur-brother, Bowser. The story begins with Puppers, a curious young pup, experiencing the complexities of forming a new relationship with Bowser. What unfolds is a beautifully evolving friendship that captures the essence of companionship and love.
The narrative, told from Puppers’ perspective, masterfully intertwines the blissful innocence of youth with the inevitable challenges and changes life brings. This book explores the full spectrum of emotions, from the heights of joy to the depths of sorrow, teaching valuable lessons about life’s temporariness. The first-person storytelling is compelling and resonant, making every emotion palpable and drawing the reader into the world of this adorable pet.
The artistry of the book deserves special mention. The detailed cut-paper art on each page adds a unique dimension to the story, enhancing its emotional depth and personal touch. While the absence of faces on the human characters in the artwork might be a surprise, it shifts the focus back to the canine protagonists, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in their world.
This book is more than just a pet tale; it’s a profound exploration of grief and change. It’s true that the title and cover might suggest a lighter, more carefree story, but what lies within is a rich, complex narrative that delves deep into understanding and coping with loss. This story is ideally suited for readers aged 7 and up, offering a sensitive and insightful perspective on the nuances of grief and the beauty of life.
Puppy Love: A Waggity Tale is an exquisite blend of simple storytelling and profound emotional depth. It’s a poignant, memorable journey that leaves a lasting impact, making it an excellent choice for young readers ready to explore the intricate emotions of life and loss.
Pages: 44 | ASIN : B0C51TYVK6
Wild Thing and The Bagel
Who really adopts who when a family brings home a new dog? According to the author, Erin L. Neal, it is, in fact, the dog that adopts the family. In the nonfiction children’s book Wild Thing and The Bagel, Erin shares her family’s story about adopting two amazing dogs.
Wild Thing is an energetic chocolate lab that instantly falls in love with his family, especially Brady. They were best friends and loved playing together. However, one day it was time for Brady to go off to school. Wild Thing tried to keep busy protecting Dad while he worked, but he was lonely. So Mom and Dad brought home a new dog that had rescued them. This sweet dog was named The Bagel because she was a basset hound and beagle mix. It took a while, but soon both dogs adjusted to having the other around and learned to play together. They learned to share the family they both love and became best friends.
Wild Thing and The Bagel is a wonderful picture book highlighting some crucial situations families face when adopting an animal. From the seemingly never-ending energy, training them to be good citizens, and dealing with separation anxiety, many things must be considered. Adding a new animal to the family can cause jealousy, and there will be a period of adjustment. This book teaches children about these phases and explains how it is normal. This is a great children’s book to read to kids when families want to get a new pet to help the whole family know what to expect.
Pages: 41 | ASIN : B0BP514VVK
The ‘Tail’ of a Trio
Three dogs have had a very different life up until this point. One dog, Addie, has a loving home with an owner she adores. She became her human’s assistant and works in their therapy practice with her. Addie is a therapy dog. Next is Rue. Rue had a loving home to start, but then one day, her humans disappeared, leaving her behind. She was rescued and brought to a new home, but she was always worried about being replaced and left again. The third dog, Bee, grew up in the pound; she never knew love, only stress and anxiety, and loud noises scared her. This well-written children’s book tells the story of how the three meet and become friends.
The ‘Tail’ of a Trio is written by Katherine Scott, a licensed therapist. She uses the dogs in this story to explain how therapy dogs help people and some situations in that they can be of service. Told from the dogs’ perspective, this heartwarming book can help children suffering from anxiety to see their feelings are normal and valid. I love that Scott explains different therapy terms and practices in the story. This is a friendly and gentle way to introduce the concept to children, especially kids who are unsure about therapy or feel something is wrong with them attending therapy.
The story is conversational and moves comfortably, giving readers time to talk about concepts and situations. I feel this book would help children that have anxiety understand that they are not alone and it is ok. In addition, the three dogs make the story approachable and less scary than if it were humans doing the same thing.
The ‘Tail’ of a Trio is an extraordinary tale of friendship, compassion, and understanding. Children will learn much from this short story and enjoy its artwork. Each dog has their own unique personality, and children will be able to find one to identify with. This is a beautiful book for therapists to have and recommend to help normalize therapy.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0B8334M45
LITERARY TITAN 