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Conquering a Challenge

Heidi Brooks Author Interview

Noodles Noodles Everywhere follows a spirited child who embarks on a whimsical adventure to conquer the challenges of dinnertime, one noodle at a time. What was the inspiration for your story?

My two-year-old granddaughter had just finished lunch and walked into the room, completely covered in noodles. I looked at her and exclaimed, “Noodles, noodles everywhere!” And that’s when the inspiration hit!

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

I’m a big fan of rhymes and stories where the child takes center stage as the hero. I wanted to create a story that shows a child conquering a challenge, all while blending humor with a fun, rhythmic rhyme.

The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Mark Nino Balita?

I shared my manuscript with Mark and asked him to design a character. I was thrilled with what he created. His artwork was incredible in my last book, and I had full confidence in his talent and illustrations.

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 book isn’t part of a series, but I do have another one being released this month. It’s the first in a series about an adorable, dancing cow named Missy Moo and her barnyard friends.

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A noodle-tastrophe is on the loose—can one clever kid save dinner time?

It starts with a plate of noodles—but before long, noodles are everywhere! From the floor to the door, the walls to the ceiling, this noodle disaster is quickly spiraling out of control. What began as a simple dinner has turned into a wild, wiggly mess as noodles take over every corner of the house.

As chaos erupts, someone must step up to stop the noodle madness before it’s too late. With the family scrambling to contain the disaster, it’s up to one clever little girl to find a solution. But where will all the noodles go when the madness finally slows down?

Packed with giggles, messes, and plenty of imagination, Noodles, Noodles Everywhere! is a deliciously fun story of a dinner gone wildly wrong—and how one child saves the day. Perfect for young readers who love big laughs, crazy adventures, and—of course—oodles of noodles!

Are you ready for a side-splitting, noodle-twisting adventure? Get your copy of Noodles, Noodles Everywhere! and find out how one clever kid saves the day—before the house is buried in spaghetti!

I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng

S.P. Somtow’s I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng celebrates the limitless imagination of childhood with charm and originality. The story follows a suburban boy who stumbles upon Moo Deng, a newborn pygmy hippo, while browsing online. Instantly captivated, he becomes so enthralled that his mother plans a trip to Thailand to visit the zoo where Moo Deng resides. They stay with his Uncle Somtow, who helps coordinate the visit. When they finally arrive at the zoo, a long line threatens their plans. Uncle Somtow considers giving up, but the boy’s determination keeps them in place. While they wait, his imagination takes flight, spinning magical adventures where he and Moo Deng share whimsical moments together.

The book’s theme is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity. The protagonist’s fascination with Moo Deng becomes a driving force, teaching children the value of pursuing their passions wholeheartedly. His family’s unwavering support creates a nurturing environment that further underscores the importance of encouragement. Somtow skillfully illustrates how creativity not only fuels joy but also builds resilience. Faced with frustration during the long wait, the boy channels his emotions into vivid daydreams, transforming a tiresome experience into a fantastical journey. Meanwhile, Uncle Somtow enriches the moment by sharing intriguing facts, turning the wait into an opportunity for discovery.

Visually, the book dazzles with its illustrations. They burst with fantasy elements and intricate details, enhanced by striking light and shadow effects. Somtow’s writing, on the other hand, is precise and engaging, seamlessly weaving together real-world events and the protagonist’s imagined escapades. Each scene flows effortlessly into the next, delivering a narrative brimming with wonder and excitement.

At its heart, I’m Dreaming of Moo Deng inspires children to chase even the wildest dreams. It’s a joyful reminder that imagination, perseverance, and the support of loved ones can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. S.P. Somtow’s tale brims with warmth and creativity, making it an enchanting read for young dreamers and the families who encourage them to reach for the stars.

Pages: 67 | ISBN : 978-1940999388

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