Blog Archives
Pancakes Are For People!
Pancakes Are for People, by Sara Brown, is a charming and cheerful farm story that will draw young readers in from the very first page. Lucy’s day begins early on Grandpa’s farm, where breakfast is not only for people. Before she can enjoy her favorite pancakes, there are horses, cows, pigs, and plenty of other hungry animals waiting to be fed. The busy morning creates a lively setting that feels familiar, playful, and full of movement.
As Lucy helps Grandpa with each chore, the story gently shows how caring for others can be fun, rewarding, and worth the wait. Each task adds to the excitement, especially as Lucy keeps thinking about the delicious breakfast still to come. Her repeated reminder, “Pancakes are for people!” brings humor, rhythm, and personality to the narrative. It also builds anticipation for the warm, well-earned meal waiting at the end.
I especially enjoyed the illustrations of the farm animals. They add life and energy to each scene, while also giving young readers a chance to learn what different animals eat. Another delightful detail is the farm cat, who appears throughout the book as he tags along with Lucy and her grandpa. Children will enjoy spotting him on each page.
Warm, engaging, and full of family tradition, this book celebrates helping hands, patience, and shared memories. The blueberry pancake recipe at the end is a wonderful bonus, giving parents a fun way to continue the story in the kitchen with their little ones after reading.
Pages: 31 | ASIN : B0DGXSW9M7
Where is Robbie?: That Grumpy Bumpy Rooster (Part 2)
Where Is Robbie? Part 2, by Lesa Melnyczuk, follows the mystery of Robbie, the grumpy, bumpy rooster who has disappeared after terrifying the younger chickens with his bullying. When he returns, he’s nearly unrecognizable: glittery, musical, and leading a rowdy rooster rock band called The Bubbie Rooster Rockers. The story reveals that Robbie was taken to a patient farmer who helped him redirect his anger into music, but it’s careful not to pretend that a costume change and a guitar can erase the hurt he caused. Lucy and Tekla are still afraid, and Robbie has to begin the slower work of earning trust back.
The book’s emotional center is surprisingly thoughtful. I appreciated that the book doesn’t flatten bullying into a neat “bad rooster becomes good rooster” lesson. Robbie changes, yes, but the book lets the frightened little ones keep their fear. That mattered to me. Children are often asked to forgive too quickly, especially in stories that want a tidy ending, and this one has a gentler, wiser instinct. It says change is possible, but safety still comes first. I liked that balance.
The writing is energetic and playful, which suits a story full of crowing, guitars, dancing chooks, and big feelings. Some of the language has a funny, breathless rhythm, and the repeated sounds give it a lively read-aloud quality. The artwork has the same bold personality. Veronica Rooke’s illustrations are bright, quirky, and full of motion, from the Ukrainian village setting to Robbie’s outrageous rock-star transformation. I especially enjoyed the contrast between the worried, watchful chickens and Robbie’s flamboyant return. The pages feel busy at times, but that busyness also mirrors the chaos of the story, so it mostly works in the book’s favor.
I thought Where Is Robbie? Part 2 was a warm, offbeat, and emotionally grounded picture book about anger, accountability, and the long road back after hurting others. It has humor and flash, but underneath the feathers and guitars, it’s really about learning self-control and respecting someone else’s need to feel safe. I’d recommend it for families and classrooms talking about bullying, forgiveness, fear, and second chances, especially with children who are ready for a story that admits trust takes time, hard work, and care.
Pages: 18 | ASIN : B0GHZM32BK
Sharing a Sense of Magic
Houdini Saves the Farm follows a magical dog who, after the farmer is injured and animals begin vanishing, sets out to find the cause. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for this story comes from our real dog, Houdini. My fiancé adopted him when he was just ten weeks old after seeing a video showcasing his engaging and playful nature. Since joining our family, Houdini has certainly lived up to his name. One moment, he’s right by your side, and the next, he seems to have vanished. We once bought him a lightweight pop-up dog house, but instead of using it to sleep, he would flip it over and roll through the house like a hamster in a wheel. Houdini also enjoys quietly watching the neighbors, other dogs, and people passing by, never barking or revealing his spot, simply observing the world around him. With his adorable looks and vibrant personality, Houdini truly feels magical to us. I wanted to share that sense of magic—the “larger than life” quality—with young readers in a colorful, educational, and entertaining way. Being from the Midwest, it felt natural to set the first story in the series on a farm.
Houdini’s early trait becomes key to solving the mystery. How important is it for you to show children how actions and abilities connect to outcomes?
By paying attention to the world around you, it’s possible to discover ways your own talents can help others. In Houdini’s case, he cleverly disguised himself by covering himself in mud and then shorn wool, allowing him to blend in with the sheep in anticipation of their abduction. Through this clever camouflage, he was able to locate the missing animals and escape to alert the farmer and rancher. His actions led directly to the safe return of the animals and the capture of the outlaws responsible for their disappearance.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The book explores several important themes, including the value of observation, the significance of using your unique strengths to help others, and the importance of resourcefulness and courage when facing challenges.
At its heart, the story is about a dog protecting his home. What message did you most want children to take away?
The message I hope children take away is that everyone has something special to offer, and by using your abilities thoughtfully and bravely, you can make a meaningful difference in the world around you.
Houdini Saves the Farm
Houdini Saves the Farm is a children’s picture book with a gentle farm setting, a playful mystery, and a clear heroic arc. It follows a pup named Houdini, adopted by a farmer because of his knack for disappearing into his surroundings, as he grows into the farm’s watchful little guardian. After the farmer is injured and the farm animals begin vanishing one by one, Houdini pieces together what is happening, tracks the theft, and helps bring everyone safely home. As a work of children’s picture book fiction, it blends animal adventure, light suspense, and a simple lesson about loyalty and courage.
What I liked most was how direct the writing is. It does not try too hard, and for this age range, that feels like the right call. The story moves with real purpose. Each page gives young readers one clear beat to hold onto, and that steady pattern of animals disappearing one after another builds suspense in a way that is easy to follow without becoming too intense. I also thought the author made a smart choice in giving Houdini a special trait early on, then paying it off later in the plot. His talent for hiding is not just cute; it’s also practical. It becomes part of the mystery and part of the solution, which makes the story feel more thoughtfully built than some picture books that simply move from scene to scene.
The illustrations on every page are wonderful. They are sharp, vivid, and full of color. They give the book its warmth and energy, making the farm feel lively and inviting while giving young readers plenty to look at and enjoy. The rural farm world feels warm and familiar, and the beautiful illustrations give the story a soft golden-hour feeling even when the plot turns tense. The missing animals, the nighttime theft, the injured farmer, all of that give the book a stronger dramatic spine than many very young picture books. It gives the story shape and makes Houdini feel genuinely brave, not just adorable. Still, what keeps it grounded is that the emotional center stays simple: a dog looking after his person, a farm thrown off balance, and a small act of loyalty growing into something big. That part landed for me.
I’d recommend Houdini Saves the Farm to families looking for a children’s picture book that offers more than sweetness alone. It would especially appeal to kids who love animals, farm settings, and mysteries with a clear payoff, as well as adults who want a read-aloud with enough story to keep things interesting. It’s earnest, easy to follow, and built around a hero young readers can root for right away. For children who enjoy brave-animal tales with a touch of suspense, this one should fit nicely.
Pages 33 | ASIN : B0GQBL7QMK
A Quest of Creativity
Dim the Moon is a dreamlike picture book in which moonlight awakens a rooster and the farm seeks slumber once more, reminding young readers that even the liveliest nights must come to rest. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My rooster, General, was a funny fellow. I would hear him crow and think… The moon must be too bright. Have you ever stood by the window and looked out at a full moon? If you have, then you know what I mean. But I also felt reassured. I knew when he crowed that all was well on “the farm.” Even if it was the middle of the night. Then he’d settle down again and have his second sleep. Something my children often did when they were very small.
How did you approach the balance between whimsy and the underlying message about the importance of rest?
I wanted the words to be simple, so the illustrations could have a chance to speak. Dim the Moon is just as fun to look at as it is to read. A second bedtime story, for when our eyes and minds are too tired to focus on anything overly complicated, but we still need a minute or two to settle.
The illustrations are fantastic. Did you collaborate with an artist, or are they your own work?
I took my strengths as a photographer and created the illustrations. Popcorn kernels as fireflies, pickles, and watermelon made frogs. It was a treasure hunt, a quest of creativity, to find the perfect landscape and item to make my detailed illustrations. I carried a white piece of paper with me to use as a background for random leaves or grasses I might come across. A puzzle of cut and paste, repeated for hours. You’ll find a tiny hidden self-portrait, a signature in the eyes of the owl.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Children’s Picture Books:
Theodore Won’t Float Summer 2025
Pumpkin Surprise Fall 2025
Magic Makers Winter 2025
Friendship Feathers TBD
Just Too Sweet (Type 1 Diabetes) TBD
Young Adult:
Hearts on Paper Summer 2025
New Releases:
Hurricane Stew
Dim The Moon
Preorder:
The Gobblers (Nov. 25 2025 Clavis Publishing)
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Author-illustrator E. G. Creel takes a playful and imaginative approach to her artwork, using photographs of objects found in her garden and pantry to bring the story to life. Pickles become frogs, corn kernels glow as fireflies, and an owl is cleverly crafted from a pinecone, a chicken feather, and an apple slice. The moon itself is a moonflower, softly blooming on the page. Look closely and you’ll spot the artist’s “secret signature” —a tiny self-portrait waving from the owl’s eyes.
Silly, Awkward Moments
Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap is a playful and heartfelt picture book about a dancing cow, an accidental toot, and the power of friendship and self-acceptance. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My granddaughter has a passion for dancing, and all of my books draw inspiration from the hilarious antics of my grandkids. I have nine grandsons who, like most boys their age, find fart jokes absolutely hilarious.
How did you balance humor and a meaningful message without one overpowering the other?
I’m not a fan of books that lecture—I think sometimes it’s perfectly fine just to have fun. Life’s full of silly, awkward moments, and I’ve had my fair share of embarrassing ones. In those times, I always hope I’m not the only one in the room who’s been through something similar.
What was your collaboration process like with illustrator Zeeshan Shahid?
He was incredibly open to bringing my vision to life when it came to the characters. I shared several reference photos of how I imagined the farm animals, each with their own unique personality. For example, Mr. Pig had to have his signature glasses and Missy Moo—I pictured her as delightfully feminine, always showing off her dance moves with pride and flair.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently working on Merry Christmas Missy Moo and it should be ready by August—just in time for the holiday season!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Missy Moo is the star of the farm, known for her epic dance moves and her unbeatable moonwalk! But one day, during her stroll through the barnyard, something unexpected happens, a loud and shocking fart escapes from Missy Moo and suddenly, all the animals are holding their noses and running for cover!
Embarrassed and upset, Missy Moo fears her friends will never see her the same way again. But when a wise old cat, a blushing owl, and a few other farmyard friends reveal their own embarrassing moments, Missy Moo learns an important lesson: friendship is about accepting each other, even when things get a little stinky!
Perfect for young readers who love to giggle and dance along!
Join Missy Moo and her friends as they find out how true friendship can survive even the most awkward of moments. Grab a copy of your dancing shoes and join the fun in this lighthearted and silly farmyard adventure!
Become Better Humans
Cows with Bangs: A Stylish Tale of Acceptance follows an artistic cow with a passion for hairstyling who is mocked by her peers, and eventually earns their respect when the famous Highland Queen comes to see her for a makeover. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for this story surfaced during a public event I attended at a local farm. This farm, Highland Hills Farm in Emmetsburg, Iowa, raises miniature Highland cows to sell as pets. I thought to myself, Oh look, cows with bangs. I knew, in that moment, I had to create a children’s book with that title. I rarely come up with a title first, but in this case, it was too cute not to. My next thoughts were bangs, hair, styles, and cosmetology. I filed the idea away for several months until I was ready to work on the story during Christmas break 2024.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
My stories contain a lesson or two to help young children become better humans. As a teacher, I am with children each day and observe their struggles. Kids are constantly learning how to master the skills they need to navigate life. In doing so, they frequently suffer from hurt feelings. Sometimes kids are misunderstood or mocked by their peers for just being themselves. This was the core situation I decided to present in the character of Claire.
Another concept I hope adults pick up on is how important it is to support kids. Taking the time and giving 100% of your attention, even if only for a minute or two, and speaking kind words can deeply affect a child. This concept was shown through the character of the queen.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I enjoyed the last scene when Claire becomes the herd’s cow-moo-tologist. That play on words always makes people laugh or smile.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently finishing up a chapter book for ages 8-12. That is Book Three in my series The Crustacean Chronicles. It completes the series, which follows Charlie’s Crabby Day and The Sand Sculpture Competition.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Amazon
Claire is an artist with a talent for styling hair, but her passions are not welcomed and her peers shun her. That is until the famous Highland Queen comes to her rescue.
The Queen praises Claire’s skills and requests a hair appointment, causing the others to reconsider their judgment and line up for their own fabulous makeovers.
This charming tale of embracing individuality and gaining acceptance will remind us of the value of being supportive and kind.
Cows With Bangs
Claire may be a cow, but her true passion lies in hairstyling, a dream that sets her apart in Cows with Bangs: A Stylish Tale of Acceptance by Joan Enockson. While her peers mock her unique interest, Claire presses on, masking her hurt behind a brave exterior. Their teasing stings, driving her to seek solace in private tears.
Everything changes when a glamorous, world-renowned Highland cow arrives in town. She’s not just any visitor; she’s a star of stage and screen. Ignoring the herd of autograph-seeking bulls, she insists on one thing first: getting her hair styled by Claire. And the transformation? Stunning. Suddenly, the same cows who once sneered are lining up, eager for Claire’s magic touch. From outcast to icon, Claire’s journey is both heartwarming and triumphant.
There’s so much to love about this delightful story. First and foremost, the rhythmic, rhyming text adds a musicality that makes reading aloud a joy. Children and adults alike will fall into an effortless cadence, amplifying the charm and liveliness of each page.
Beneath the whimsy lies a powerful message: being different is not a flaw; it’s a strength. Claire’s struggle will resonate deeply with young readers who may have felt out of place for embracing something they love. She does nothing to harm others yet becomes the target of ridicule, a scenario all too familiar. Her response is dignified, persistent, and graceful offering a meaningful lesson in resilience and self-worth.
Equally impressive are the illustrations, also created by Joan Enockson. Every page bursts with color and expression, visually enhancing the narrative with whimsical charm. The artwork not only complements the text, it brings it to life, inviting the reader to linger, explore, and connect with each scene.
Enockson weaves her background in education, music, and storytelling into a seamless tapestry that captivates children while offering thoughtful, age-appropriate themes. Her dedication to teaching shines through, as she subtly introduces ideas of friendship, problem-solving, and self-acceptance.
Cows with Bangs is more than just a stylish story, it’s a celebration of individuality, a tribute to kindness, and a joyful reminder that sometimes, standing out is the best thing you can do. With engaging characters, a vibrant plot, and radiant illustrations, this book is a must-have for every young reader’s shelf.
Pages: 28 | ISBN : 1958023531
