Blog Archives
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
Acceptance and Diversity
This children’s book feels like a modern-day telling of Aesop’s Fables dealing with contemporary issues and lessons. What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write Welcome to the Zoo?
I started writing as a way to heal from PTSD due to my career as a registered nurse in the ICU.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I think the themes of acceptance and diversity. In my writings I try very hard to be inclusive and supportive of all types of situations that kids experience when growing up. Like racism or the need to come out of the closet for examples.
What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?
I would say my nursing career. Writing is a great escape from my PTSD.
Will this collection be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
This collection is the start of “the zoo” series of short story collections written by myself. You never know what you will find at the zoo.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
Spooky Oooky Dance Party
Spooky Ooky Dance Party by Lisa Jacovsky is a fun, Halloween-themed book for kids. It’s a beautifully illustrated story about a cat named Moon, who enjoys secret adventures with other animal friends. Moon explains how humans don’t know everything about their pets, and sometimes, they have powers or magical abilities that allow them to explore and enjoy things that are very different from their regular lives. The book focuses specifically on Halloween and how this celebration brings together Moon and friends for an extraordinary experience.
I found the book ideal for school-aged kids and enjoyed reading it to them and their friends. It’s engaging and imaginative by encouraging kids to create interesting stories about their own pets and the unusual but fun journeys they might embark on if they, too, had access to special places and powers. The tale is narrated, in part, from Moon’s perspective, and how easy it is to sneak outside the world of humans and into a different place with magic and new possibilities. During Halloween, these adventures become more special, along with seasonal costumes, decor, and themes.
I found the lively nature of the story and illustrations to be spectacular. The author does a great job of building excitement for the reader in anticipation of what’s next. The animal characters provide a fantastic tale that’s unique in that it shows how they celebrate Halloween in a different yet similar way to humans.
Spooky Ooky Dance Party by Lisa Jacovsky is a whimsical, creative story that’s ideal during Halloween or whenever it’s a good time to inspire young kids. The story features likable characters with colorful adventures and a positive theme throughout. I found the illustrations appealing and the book easy for kids to read and understand. I highly recommend this story to grade school teachers, parents, and daycare staff.
Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0CD861FKD
Inspire Curiosity
Snoodles in Space follows a group of extraterrestrial visitors to Earth who are in dire need of help to save their leader and their ship. What was the inspiration for your story?
I was reading a news story about how we are producing less scientists, and I had the thought about a planet that had no scientists left because everyone was discouraged to become one. So, I wanted to write a story about discouragement but also put a light on the effect of encouragement as well.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I wanted to inspire curiosity, and taking on complex problems and having fun at the same time. Every Snoodles book also has to have a museum built. This book has a museum on space exploration. The last book had an art museum. There will be an aquarium in the next book. Kids should be excited about going to a museum, even more so these days.
The art in this book is fantastic, giving the story a comic-book quality. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Andy Case?
It was amazing and the most fun. I did the story blocks describing what I have in my head and Andy always amplified everything in his drawings. After he did the book, I flew to England just to visit Andy in Nottingham. I plan a second trip in January. I can’t thank him enough. We talk on Zoom and I have to hold back breaking down to cry because he has moved me so much!
Do you have more stories planned about the Snoodles? If so, what can your fans expect in the next story and when will it be available?
Yes! Snoodles in Space, Episode 2: The Zoodles Strike Back! I introduce Grumpy Grimy Groodleman, and the Groodle powered by stinky Grool! I do a revision of sorts on the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Story. I make the kids who didn’t do too well and probably were shamed because of the negative publicity, and turn them into the heroes in the book.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
In this follow-up book, when the Zoodle Kidoodles from the planet Zoodle abduct Norman Noodle and Sally Stroodle, the Zoodle Kidoodles threaten to take all of Earth’s noodles— unless they perform the necessary brain operation on their grand leader, Cloodle the Grand Roodle, and fix their spaceship’s failing engines.
The one problem? Norman Noodle and Sally Stroodle are simple bakers. Sour Croodleman’s Prickly Peppered Purple Propulsion Powered Pickle invention is their only hope, but will he unite with Herbie Snoodleman to save the planet?
The answer is here, in this Wackadoodle Tale from Outer Space!
Snoodles in Space: A Snoodle, the Zoodle Kidoodles, and One Happy Schmoodle
Dive into an entertaining cosmic escapade with Snoodles in Space by Steven Joseph. This captivating tale catapults us into a futuristic realm where brilliant inventors shine, introducing us to characters like Herbie Snoodleman, the mastermind behind the noodle-fueled Snoodlemobile, and Sour Croodleman, the imaginative force behind the zany Prickly Peppered Purple Propulsion Powered Pickle.
But even amidst the astonishing technological marvels, a hiccup arises in the form of the Zoodle Kidoodles, extraterrestrial visitors with an unusual request. Their leader, the illustrious Cloodle the Grand Roodle, requires a critical brain operation, and their spaceship’s engines are in dire need of repair. A humorous twist of fate lands a pair of bakers in their clutches, setting the stage for a quirky adventure.
What truly captivated me about Snoodles in Space are the clever wordplay elements that infuse the story. Not only do they provide an entertaining puzzle for young readers, but they also foster smoother reading skills. Steven Joseph’s narrative is brimming with wit, underscored by a wildly inventive storyline where the rules of a noodle-powered world bring about delightful surprises at every turn.
The journey commences on Earth, a vivid backdrop that sets an exuberant tone and establishes the characters in a playful palette of colors. This vibrant start seamlessly transitions into an interstellar odyssey, where the fantastical flourishes and takes on new dimensions. The book’s visual allure is heightened by its vibrant illustrations, bringing to life the technological wonders and the story’s unique charm.
With its comic-style format, Snoodles in Space is tailor-made for fledgling readers taking their first steps into the world of literature. However, the abundance of character and invention names might pose a challenge for some young minds. I recommend this gem to elementary school children who have embarked on their reading journey and gained some familiarity with it.
Snoodles in Space strikes a beautiful balance, making it an ideal tool to kindle a passion for reading. Its approachable text length offers comfort to young readers while the ongoing wordplay sustains their curiosity. This narrative adventure is enthralling and promises an enjoyable reading experience that young minds will treasure.
Pages: 59 | ASIN : B0BV5S8HL5
Flexibility, Service, and Gratitude.
Ready… Set… Frog! follows a helpful young frog who wants to train for the big obstacle course race but keeps getting sidetracked helping his friends. What was the inspiration for your story?
In addition to my role at Set Sail Press, I also run my family’s small woodworking business, CycleFrog Products, which specializes in creating accessories for Peloton bikes. While brainstorming new products to add to our collection, we considered rebranding the business name. Ready Set Frog was one of the ideas that emerged, and it sparked my imagination. I immediately thought of a story about a young frog who faces constant interruptions while trying to accomplish something.
From that initial idea, the book Ready… Set… Frog! took shape. I dove into writing and crafting the story, enlisting the editing expertise of Brooke Vitale. And now, here we are! I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to share this story with children and families everywhere.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Laura Watson?
Collaborating with Laura Watson was a true highlight of bringing Ready… Set… Frog! to life. After completing the manuscript, I brought my art notes to Laura, and we worked closely together to develop character concepts, color palettes, and scene layouts. We were able to bounce ideas off one another, and through our collaboration, we created a book that we’re both incredibly proud of. The positive reception from readers has been especially rewarding, and we’re both grateful for the opportunity to work together on this project.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Ready… Set… Frog! is a story with three core themes: flexibility, service, and gratitude.
Flexibility — Frog is repeatedly interrupted when he’s trying to practice. He learns how to be patient and adapt to a changing situation rather than getting stuck in frustration.
Service — Frog needs to choose between helping his friends and completing his own tasks. Frog learns that he feels good inside when he lends a hand to someone in need—and that sometimes things work out on their own.
Gratitude — When it’s time for Frog’s big race, he tries his best and earns second place. Instead of feeling disappointed, Frog is proud of himself and excited to try again next year.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m currently in the early stages of drafting ideas for my next picture book about Frog and his friends. I’m excited to share more details with you in the coming months, so stay tuned! Thank you for your ongoing support and encouragement!
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Frog needs to practice if he wants to win the town obstacle race. But every time he tries, he gets interrupted!
Frog can’t help his friends and still make time to practice… or can he?
Join Frog as he navigates the balancing act of making time for yourself when others need your attention. With the support of Frog’s family and friends, he works through three tricky situations and learns that sometimes, through helping others, you end up helping yourself.
Ready… Set… Frog!
Frogathan Spots, or just Frog, lives on Harmony Lane. He is sitting at dinner one night, and his mom tells him that their neighborhood is going to host an obstacle course. Now Frog is beyond excited about this; he loves any and all challenges. He sets off to start training right away because he wants to win the race. Unfortunately, just as he is about to begin practicing his high jump, his neighbor Mole desperately needs his help! Frog being the good friend that he is, agrees to help. This situation continues to happen each time Frog gets ready to practice; someone always ends up needing his help. Will Frog ever get to practice for the big obstacle course race?
Ready… Set… Frog! written by Katharine Mitropoulos and illustrated by Laura Watson, is a fun-filled children’s book about a loveable frog and his struggles between being a good friend and taking time for himself. Frog has a wonderful attitude and shows his genuine desire to help those around him, but he also realizes that in doing so, he is always putting himself last and preventing himself from doing the things he wants to do. This picture book shares the message that it is ok to sometimes say no, or not right now. Teaching children, it is ok to set up boundaries with friends is essential. Their goals and dreams are just as important as helping others and desire to take priority at times.
Teachers and families will have much to talk about after reading the children’s story, Ready… Set… Frog! The important messages of self-care and a positive attitude will help children grow and learn how to manage their own feelings when things get stressful. This book will make a valuable addition to a home or classroom library.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0BXNP55NK
Christmas Switcheroo
Christmas is a fun and exciting time of the year, filled with great food, fun crafts, and making memories with family. Sometimes though, this time of year gets stressful, and things don’t always go as planned. In this heartwarming story, one family does their best to make the holidays magical, but somehow things go astray. After carefully picking out gifts for four difficult-to-shop for family members, the package shipping labels get mixed up, and the gifts go to the wrong homes! So now the question is, will this ruin Christmas, or will it be a joyful surprise?
Christmas Switcheroo by children’s author Tuula Pere and illustrated by Outi Rautkallio is a heartwarming story that children and adults will be able to relate to. Adults often try to make the holidays perfect for their children, from crafts to cookies, to outside decorations. Then there is the process of picking out the perfect gift for everyone. Tuula has captured the feelings of an overwhelmed mom with accuracy. The children in the story are able to pick up on the emotions and offer to help out, showing compassion and kindness. While things do not go as planned, everyone is more than happy with the results, and a lesson is learned that just because things don’t go as planned doesn’t mean it is ruined.
Christmas Switcheroo is a beautifully written children’s book that will entertain readers, young and old, with the mishaps that this family finds themself in the middle of. Children will learn about empathy and helping out, while adults will find relatable situations and, perhaps, be reminded that there is joy even when things do not go as planned. This is a wonderful book to read during the holiday season to remind families of what is really important about the season.
Pages: 54 | ISBN : 9523573284
LITERARY TITAN 