Blog Archives
Creating My Vision
Ichi-ban Goes Hiking follows an adventurous pup and her mommy as they explore mountain trails, celebrating the joy of nature and discovery, and the unbreakable bond between a dog and her family. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Ichi-ban was my first dog (1996-2010) and we shared many adventures hiking together in Colorado. She continues to live in my heart and one morning in the winter of 2024, as I was sitting quietly after breakfast, she started speaking in my head. “Hi! My name is Ichi-ban! I know, it’s a funny name…” I grabbed a notebook and kept on writing and in less than thirty minutes I had the first draft of Ichi-ban Goes Hiking.
Within a few days, I found myself with the drafts for three books and it was just a matter creating my vision for them and then slowly bringing them to fruition. I feel like these books are the perfect coming together of my love of dogs, kids, nature, writing, and graphic design.
How do your own outdoor adventures influence the book’s storytelling?
Everything that I write about in the book actually happened, although sometimes simplified a bit to be suitable for a children’s book.
What message do you hope young readers take away from Ichi-ban’s journey?
The outdoors, and life, are a fun adventure. Sure, you might make some mistakes from time to time as you learn, but that’s okay and part of growing up. You can still go on to have more fun.
Do you have plans for more adventures featuring Ichi-ban in the future?
There are three books out now and, at the moment, Ichi-ban’s adventures feel complete.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
READERS’ FAVORITE 5-STAR SEAL RECIPIENT
Life lessons all wrapped up in a fun and furry package!
Join Ichi-ban as she shares about her adventures hiking in the Colorado Rocky Mountains while growing from a puppy into a big, strong hiking dog. Her name means “number one best” and she and her human mommy are each other’s number one best hiking buddies.
Kids will love Ichi-ban’s relatable and enthusiastic personality as they follow her adventures, learning life lessons and exploring the world along the way. At the end of the day, Ichi-ban gets a bath, eats dinner and curls up in her cozy bed ready for dreams, just like her reading companions.
Beautifully illustrated and told from Ichi-ban’s perspective, this story will engage animal and nature-loving children of all ages. And every adventure is inspired by actual events!
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The Adventures of Moly: The Time Traveling Dog: Visiting Teotihuacan
In The Adventures of Moly, The Time Traveling Dog: Visiting Teotihuacan by David Alyn Gordon, readers are introduced to Moly, a resilient Beagle Terrier who finds herself homeless and struggling to survive. Scavenging for scraps and drinking from lawn sprinklers, she roams the streets until a group of rescuers brings her to the Maricopa County Animal Care Shelter. It is here that she catches the attention of Director Ferrara and Technology Supervisor Chadwick, two employees of the Falcone Foundation, an undercover research facility hidden beneath Arizona State University. Their mission? To find the perfect canine candidate for a unique and highly classified program. Moly fits the bill. Ferrara takes her home, offering her the comfort and care she desperately needs, but Moly’s new life is far from ordinary.
Ferrara and Chadwick train Moly in not one but two extraordinary roles. By day, she becomes a therapy dog for children at the Renaissance Academy, where Ferrara works as a student counselor. However, her second role is even more astonishing; Moly is tasked with traveling through time to ancient Teotihuacan, now part of modern-day Mexico. Her objective: to document her encounters, capturing images and videos of the Aztec civilization. But as Moly embarks on this thrilling mission, questions arise. Can she navigate an unfamiliar world alone? Will she safely return to the present?
The concept of a time-traveling dog is undeniably unique, blending adventure with education. While I found the idea of Moly as a therapy dog heartwarming and well-suited for young readers, I was perplexed by the decision to send her unaccompanied on such a risky historical expedition. The logistics of her mission raised questions: Why would Ferrara and Chadwick entrust such a critical task to Moly rather than undertake it themselves? The uncertainty surrounding Moly’s well-being and the potential dangers of time travel left me with mixed emotions.
That said, Gordon masterfully incorporates historical elements into the narrative, making learning about the Aztec civilization an engaging experience for children. The storytelling is accessible, seamlessly weaving historical facts into Moly’s adventure without feeling like a lesson. Young readers will absorb knowledge effortlessly, drawn into the rich culture and daily life of Teotihuacan’s past inhabitants.
The vivid illustrations by Valeria Leonova, which appear on every page, add to the book’s charm. The colorful, dynamic artwork enhances the story, capturing the reader’s imagination while providing visual context to Moly’s journey. The illustrations perfectly complement Gordon’s storytelling, making the book even more immersive for young audiences.
David Alyn Gordon’s background as a social studies teacher, principal, and founder of the Grand Canyon College Preparatory Academy in Tempe, Arizona, is evident in his approach to blending entertainment with education. Through Moly’s adventures, children are introduced to historic landmarks and cultures in a way that feels organic and exciting.
The Adventures of Moly, The Time Traveling Dog: Visiting Teotihuacan is a creative and engaging read. It offers young audiences both an entertaining story and an insightful glimpse into history. With its vibrant illustrations and unique premise, this book will surely capture the hearts of children who love animals, adventure, and discovering the past.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DHV8HVXB
Based on True Events
Arfie’s Adventures follows an endearing little dog with a knack for escaping who winds up in all kinds of amusing predicaments. What was the inspiration for your story?
My dog Arfie was the inspiration behind the story. All of these escapades are based on true events.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Michael R. Voogd?
The “Art Ninja” was incredible to work with from start to finish. He captured Arfie’s expressions perfectly. I simply sent hiim real pictures of Arfie and he was able to apply it to the story.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Definitely the scene where Arfie chases the oppossum and gets stuck under the deck. The entire scenario came rushing back, it was not funny at the time of course (hence the 911 call lol) but now we can laugh.
I find a problem in well-written stories in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a second book planned?
Yes. In the works as we speak. Hopefully, by this year, it will be out 🙂
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon | Website
Book DescriptionMeet Arfie, the dog with a knack for adventure and a heart full of mischief. In “Arfie’s Adventures,” you’ll embark on a journey filled with true stories of Arfie’s escapades, from his daring escapes to his encounters with new friends and curious places. Each tale captures Arfie’s indomitable spirit and boundless joy, reminding us of the simple pleasures in life and the extraordinary bonds we share with our pets.
Perfect for animal lovers and anyone who enjoys a good laugh, this book is a tribute to the unbreakable spirit of a dog determined to explore the world on his own terms. Get ready to fall in love with Arfie and join him on his many unforgettable adventures.
Don’t miss out on Arfie’s adventures! Grab your copy today and let the fun begin!
Arfie’s Adventures
Arfie’s Adventures takes readers on a delightful journey with an endearing little dog named Arfie, whose knack for escaping lands him in all kinds of amusing predicaments. Whether he’s chasing small animals and getting stuck or slipping out the front gate and getting lost, Arfie’s escapades are as entertaining as they are heartwarming. Eventually, he discovers that while adventures can be thrilling, there’s truly no place like home.
Author Gina Rose Musachia delivers a wonderfully engaging picture book that’s sure to capture the hearts of young readers. Dog owners especially will find Arfie’s antics hilariously familiar, bringing plenty of chuckles with every turn of the page. The story resonates with anyone who’s ever had a furry friend eager to dart out the door at the first opportunity.
The vibrant illustrations by Michael R. Voogd perfectly complement the narrative. Arfie’s emotions are vividly brought to life, from his mischievous grin to his sad expressions. These visuals not only enhance the story but also help young readers connect with Arfie’s emotional journey, making it an excellent choice for storytime.
The book’s language is perfectly suited for children aged four to twelve, making it accessible yet engaging. My six-year-old daughter was captivated, repeatedly commenting on how adorable Arfie looked on every page.
Arfie’s Adventures is a charming and lighthearted children’s book, ideal for bedtime reading. Parents and teachers alike can use it to explore themes of cause and effect and the consequences of our actions. With its relatable story and vibrant illustrations, it’s a delightful addition to any child’s library.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0DJPNSYSF
Appreciate the Differences
Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends follows a dog in a new class who has trouble making new friends until he gets the following advice: name the difference, find the good, and move on with kindness. What was the inspiration for your story?
My kids are the inspiration for the story. There was one specific situation that was the catalyst for the book. My kids were at the playground and a curious friend repeatedly asked what was wrong with one of my kid’s eyes. It upset one of my other kids and also caused the curious friend to walk away. This all happened around the time we found out that my child with the beautiful, and maybe a little differently shaped eyes, has a syndrome. I knew we would be getting more questions. How could my husband and I teach our kids how to navigate differences in a way that is kind and inclusive, instead of isolating and divisive? I wrote the story as a way to process everything. A poignant playground situation led to reflecting on how we are all different in some way. We all feel different at times. The characters are based on my kids and situations we have worked through together. The three-step process has been helpful for our family, but there are many ways to handle differences. My hope for the book is that it will encourage conversation about differences in an open, positive, respectful, and inclusive way.
I loved the unique characters you have created in your book, especially Layla Squirrel. What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
Thank you! All of the characters are based on my dog and 4 children. Willard is based on my dog, a German shorthaired pointer, who is not named Willard, but I always thought he looked like one. The four friends that Willard meets on the trail are based off of my kids and situations we have navigated with them. Each character has personality traits and gifts that I see in my kids. For example, my oldest wears glasses, and when he was 4 years old, he recruited two of his friends to help him bury his glasses in the mulch on the school playground. It took two days to find them. He really did not want to wear glasses. One of his gifts that is so fantastic is that he is a magic maker. He enjoys elevating any situation to make it extra special. This became Tommy Tiger. The character that I found the toughest to write was Layla Squirrel. I knew I wanted to have her bring everyone together, but went back and forth over what all these animals could realistically eat together. Throughout the story are bits and pieces of my family with a story behind the story.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
My mission was to write a story that promotes kindness and embracing differences. Each friend that Willard DoGooder meets on the trail, teaches him how we can approach differences, learn from one another, and appreciate each other. The world feels more polarized these days, and I think it is important for my kids to know that if you don’t think the same, or look the same, or act the same, you can be friends. Also, sometimes you may not have a friendship, but you can still be kind and appreciate the differences. My hope is that reading the book together will encourage conversations about difference in an open, curious, positive and inclusive way.
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?
This is my first children’s book and I am excited to write more Willard DoGooder books! Currently, I am working on a story about affirmations for kids. After that, I have a few ideas for the next Willard DoGooder tale.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Willard DoGooder has trouble making friends in his new class. Things are just … different. One day, he spots a magical trail and sets out on an adventure where he meets new friends, learns how to think through differences, and celebrate others just as they are.
Each friend that Willard DoGooder meets on the trail teaches Willard exactly how we can approach differences, learn from one another, and appreciate each other’s gifts. Over the course of the book, Willard learns a three-step process for approaching differences in others: name the difference, find something good about it, and move on with kindness.
With characters based on the author’s children and the real-life issues they’ve learned how to work through together, Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends is a fantastic adventure grounded with a message that we can all use in our daily life. Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends is a beautifully illustrated story about how our differences aren’t that different when we love and accept one another just as we are. Parents and caregivers will appreciate the book’s straightforward and simple message that show kids exactly how to treat someone when they notice a difference between them, and start conversations about appreciating and encouraging each other.
Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends
Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friendship by Jen Kirkley is an exceptional children’s book that beautifully explores themes of acceptance and diversity. Willard DoGooder the Dog starts a new school year only to find himself without any of his friends in his class, making everything seem unfamiliar and challenging. Struggling to make new friends, Willard reflects on his teacher’s advice: name the difference, find the good, and move on with kindness. His journey leads him to a magical trail where he meets various animals, each distinct in their own way. Through his teacher’s wisdom, Willard learns to embrace these differences, making new friends and helping others accept themselves.
Each animal Willard encounters, from the nearsighted Tommy Tiger to the nut-allergic Layla Squirrel, stands out from their peers. By applying his teacher’s advice, Willard assists each animal in accepting their uniqueness, enriching his understanding of friendship in the process. The narrative is deeply empowering, illustrating how simple acts of kindness and acceptance can create meaningful connections. The illustrations by M. Brayer are enchanting and perfectly complement the story’s classic charm. They bring the characters to life, adding a visual delight that will captivate young readers. One minor issue is that three of the friends have names starting with the same letter, which could be slightly confusing for younger readers. However, the distinct personalities and characteristics of each animal make this a minor concern that does not detract from the overall experience. This story gently introduces readers to concepts of racial diversity and physical differences in a safe and meaningful way. Willard’s method of naming the difference, finding the good, and moving forward with kindness is a practical and powerful approach that readers of all ages can apply in their daily lives. This simple yet profound method showcases how we can all be agents of change, embracing kindness and diversity.
Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friendship is a delightful tale of friendship, kindness, and acceptance. Its strong message, engaging storytelling, and beautiful artwork make it an excellent choice for any reader who loves animals and stories about friendship. This book is a wonderful addition to any child’s library, offering valuable lessons in a heartwarming and enjoyable way.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0D88JZTBD
Instill Kindness and Compassion
Rufus Finds His Way Home follows a teacher at an international school in Thailand who discovers a family of dogs and takes care of them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setup of my story is inspired by my commitment to rescuing dogs and adopting street strays, as there are many dogs in need of a forever home. Rufus, an intelligent, loyal, sweet, and devoted dog despite his rough start, exemplifies this belief. As an elementary school teacher with over 20 years of experience, I aim to instill kindness and compassion in my students, values I believe are crucial in today’s world. The story, Rufus Finds His Way Home, is a fictionalized account based on Rufus’s real-life journey, which began in Rayong, Thailand, in 2013. I’ve tried to make my narrative showcase the power of love and the importance of giving all creatures a chance at a better life.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Ayan Mansoori?
The collaboration with illustrator Ayan Mansoori was a seamless and rewarding experience. Ayan, a talented artist based in India, was chosen for his unique style and portfolio, which perfectly captured the essence of what I envisioned for Rufus in illustrated form. We went through many, many revisions to get the illustrations just right, ensuring that every detail reflected the character’s spirit and the story’s tone. The final artwork exceeded my expectations, and I couldn’t be more delighted with the results. Ayan’s talent and dedication have been invaluable, and I’m thrilled to announce that he will continue as the illustrator for the next book in the series.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
In crafting this children’s book, it was crucial to incorporate educational aspects that emphasize spreading kindness and compassion, fundamental values I strive to instill in young readers. Beyond these core themes, another important aspect was to create a strong emotional connection with Rufus, allowing readers to experience the same affection and bond I felt when I first met him in 2013. By fostering empathy and understanding through Rufus’s journey, the story aims to teach children the importance of caring for others, both human and animal.
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, Rufus Finds His Way Home is the first book in a planned series exploring the many adventures of Rufus, our lovable rescue dog. I’m thrilled to announce that the second book, Rufus Finds His Calm, will be released on September 1, 2024. In this heartwarming sequel, Rufus faces new challenges as he moves to a new home. As he navigates the anxiety and fear that come with big changes, Rufus learns to find his calm with the love and support of his family. This story draws a parallel between Rufus’s experiences and the feelings children sometimes face, demonstrating that everyone can discover their inner peace with a little help. Perfect for young readers, Rufus’s journey is a tale of courage, friendship, and finding joy in new beginnings.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Then Mr. Parsons has an even worse surprise: Rufus goes missing. The worried teacher searches the entire school grounds…and even plunges into the pool! But to Mr. Parsons’ dismay, Rufus is nowhere to be found. Where will Mr. Parsons find his beloved dog? Will there be a happy ending for the puppy with the key to Mr. Parsons’ heart?
Rufus Finds His Way Home is a delightful book based on the author’s true-life story. Children will fall for this adorable little puppy, and they’ll be touched by the tale of a teacher’s devotion. Filled with beautiful illustrations, this heartfelt story encourages its audience to care for all creatures. Readers will also discover that, in this diverse world, everyone is deserving of love. A testament to the power of kindness, this memorable book contains an important lesson.
Rufus Finds His Way Home
Rufus Finds His Way Home is a touching and beautifully illustrated children’s book that captures the essence of kindness, devotion, and the universal need for love. Based on the author’s true-life story, the narrative unfolds at a bustling international school in Thailand, where the compassionate teacher Mr. Parsons discovers a family of lost dogs on the school grounds. Mr. Parsons, known for his big heart, decides to build a shelter for the dogs, demonstrating a profound act of kindness. As he cares for the animals, he forms a special bond with the frailest puppy, Rufus. This connection becomes so deep that Mr. Parsons often finds himself lost in thought about Rufus, even to the point of losing his house key. The story takes a dramatic turn when Rufus goes missing, plunging Mr. Parsons into a frantic search that leads him all over the school grounds, including a dive into the pool. Despite his best efforts, Rufus remains elusive, creating a suspenseful and emotional journey for Mr. Parsons.
What makes Rufus Finds His Way Home particularly captivating is its heartfelt message about the power of love and kindness. Through the characters’ experiences, young readers learn the importance of caring for all creatures and recognizing that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, deserves love. This story is not just about a lost puppy; it’s a testament to the bonds that can form between humans and animals and the impact of compassion. The illustrations are a significant highlight of the book, bringing the story to life with vivid and heartwarming imagery. They complement the narrative beautifully, making the emotions and experiences of Mr. Parsons and Rufus even more relatable and poignant.
Rufus Finds His Way Home is a delightful and memorable read for children. It delivers an important lesson in a way that is both engaging and accessible. The story of Mr. Parsons and Rufus is one that will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page, reminding them of the enduring power of kindness and love in our diverse world.
Pages: 49 | ASIN : B0D73XG63X
LITERARY TITAN 