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A Magical World
Emily Swan and the Dream Pillow follows an eleven-year-old girl who is uprooted from her tech-filled suburban life and dropped into a quiet, unplugged farmhouse in rural Kansas. What was the inspiration for the story?
I have been concerned with children’s increased use of cell phone texting etc., and its negative effect on them. I wanted to write a story that focused on the importance of the imagination, how it can open up a magical world, and that a measure of silence is needed for us to listen to it.
In many contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in this story?
Yes. I am a believer in the importance of dreams and the imagination.
The writing in your story is very artful and creative. Was it a conscious effort to create a story in this fashion, or is this style of writing reflective of your writing style in general?
It is. I like to blend a measure of fantasy with reality and show how they are in truth present at all times.
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?
I would like it to be, but at the moment, I am focused on getting this one up and running.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Emily is miserable in their new home, plopped down in the middle of nothing but wheat fields, far away from her former city life and friends. There’s no internet and they don’t even have a television or a phone!
But one night Emily’s world changes when a star zooms out of the sky and into her room, appearing as a Star Lady. She tells Emily that even though she’s unhappy, a magical world lives inside her — she just doesn’t know how to find it. The Star Lady says she can help and gives Emily a Dream Pillow to use so they can stay in touch through dreams.
When Emily decides to take a chance and use the Dream Pillow, her world opens up. Magical characters appear and guide her on an adventure of self-discovery. After Emily discovers a Swan Feather pen, she’s transformed from Emily Webster, a normal girl, into Emily Swan, a super-hero of words.
Emily Swan and the Dream PIllow
Emily Swan and the Dream Pillow is a whimsical and heartfelt journey that follows eleven-year-old Emily as she’s uprooted from her tech-filled suburban life and dropped into a quiet, unplugged farmhouse in rural Kansas. What starts as a family’s quest for simplicity quickly unfolds into a magical exploration of dreams, self-discovery, and imagination. Emily, struggling with loneliness and loss of connection, receives an enchanted “Dream Pillow” from a cosmic being known as the Star Lady, launching her into a series of dream-fueled adventures that blur the lines between the waking world and the unseen mysteries of the soul.
I found myself genuinely touched by how Peers captures the inner life of a child grappling with change. The writing is gentle, sometimes whimsical, and peppered with charm, without ever feeling overly sweet. The way Emily’s discontent gradually gives way to wonder felt real. Her skepticism, frustration, and loneliness are treated with such honesty that I couldn’t help but root for her. The dream sequences are vivid and strange in the best way—like stepping into a lucid dream you didn’t know you needed. Some of the metaphors are beautifully subtle (a barn full of memories, a bird bearing secrets, a pillow woven from stars).
There were moments where descriptions or exposition went a little long, and the plot risked getting lost in its own stardust. Still, the emotional core is strong. I appreciated that the magic wasn’t flashy—it was internal, quiet, the kind of magic that speaks to kids (and adults) who lie awake at night wondering if they matter. The messages about screen time, listening to your spirit, and reconnecting with nature and imagination are powerful, though at times delivered a bit too directly.
Emily Swan and the Dream Pillow made me feel a kind of nostalgic hope. It reminded me of being a kid and wondering if the stars were looking back at me. This book would be perfect for middle-grade readers who love a touch of the surreal, dreamers who feel a little out of place, or anyone wanting to unplug and remember what it feels like to sit in silence and really listen.
Pages: 190 | ASIN : B0DTX956MX
Would It Be Weird?
Would It Be Weird? is a playful dive into a child’s wild imagination, where every dinnertime question is a ticket to an absurd and funny “what if” scenario. From piano-mouths to alien makeovers, the kid’s zany ideas keep the story moving with energy and charm. Mom’s patient but hilarious responses add to the comedy, making it a perfect blend of childlike wonder and parental realism.
What I loved most about this children’s book is how vividly it captures the endless curiosity of kids. The idea of dinosaurs taking kids to school and making them always on time (but ruining picture day) made me laugh. It’s these little touches that show author Edgar Garcia really gets how kids think. I also love how the book taps into universal childhood questions. Who hasn’t imagined fighting giant chicken pirates or being a dragon with a sweet tooth?
Mariano Epelbaum’s art truly shines in this picture book. It’s bright and lively and just an explosion of energy and detail that pulls you into every wild scenario. I loved how the emotions on everyone’s faces were so expressive and spot-on. What really stood out to me was how the illustrations perfectly captured what made each moment funny. It matches the whimsical and fun tone of the story perfectly. This attention to detail is what makes the book feel like a mini-adventure on every page. Epelbaum takes these absurd “what if” questions and brings them to life with so much humor and charm. It’s impossible not to get swept up in the silliness when the art makes the scenarios feel so vibrant.
The back-and-forth between the young girl and Mom is pure gold. Mom’s deadpan humor steals the show, especially when she calmly suggests finding a piano-fixing dentist or bringing a cat to scare mummies. The balance of her exasperation and indulgence in her child’s silliness is funny and heartwarming.
Would It Be Weird? is a perfect pick for kids with wild imaginations and parents who’ve heard it all. It’s funny, charming, and brilliantly illustrated. I’d recommend it for bedtime reading, classroom storytime, or any kid who loves to ask, “What if?” It’s a little weird, a lot wonderful, and is guaranteed to make you laugh.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0CX2YSDH9
Sally Mitts finds A Home
Sally Mitts Finds A Home: The Story of A Shy Shelter Kitten, by Shain Stodt, is a heartwarming and engaging children’s book that follows the adventure of a young kitten named Sally. When her family moves to a new house, Sally, scared by the noise and commotion, hides and is inadvertently left behind. When she finally emerges from her hiding place, she finds herself alone in an empty house. Hungry and frightened, Sally ventures outdoors in search of food, encountering a garden filled with butterflies, worms, and flowers. She is soon discovered by a kind couple, but her fear drives her to run away, leading her through unfamiliar streets and loud honking cars, further away from home and into a state of being lost. Sally, now far from her loving home, faces uncertainty about her future. What unfolds next is Sally’s journey at the shelter and her subsequent adoption by Fred Mitts.
The story, while beginning with a sad and anxious twist, evolves into a tale of hope and kindness. As a reader, I initially felt heartbroken that Sally’s family left her behind. However, the narrative took me through an emotional journey fraught with anticipation. The moment Sally met Fred Mitts, I shared her skepticism but was relieved and hopeful when Fred took the time to bond with her. His kindness and patience offered a comforting resolution to Sally’s ordeal. Children will undoubtedly be captivated by Sally’s adventure and will root for her to find a new, loving family.
The hand-drawn illustrations by the author add a charming and colorful dimension to the story, making each page visually engaging and enhancing the narrative. The illustrations create a soft and welcoming atmosphere that complements the storyline perfectly.
Sally Mitts Finds A Home: The Story of A Shy Shelter Kitten is an enchanting tale that children will love. The story teaches valuable lessons about kindness, resilience, and finding new beginnings. This book marks the start of what promises to be a delightful series of adventures for Sally and her readers.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0CVJYN6DC
Curiosity and Wonder
With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams centers on a mom reassuring her daughter that she will always be there for her in life and perhaps even in dreams. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for With Love, From Mom: The Journey of Dreams comes from my own experiences as a mother to my daughter, Audrey. Since she was little, we’ve bonded over bedtime stories, and I wanted to write a story that celebrates the bond between a mother and her child. I aimed to capture the warmth and comfort of knowing that a parent’s love is constant and unwavering, both in waking moments and in dreams. It’s a love letter to my daughter and children everywhere, reminding them that they are always cherished and supported.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Gail Rae Javier?
I feel incredibly fortunate to have collaborated with Gail Rae Javier. As a new author, working with her has been wonderful. She brought her own artistic vision to my words, creating whimsical, dream-like illustrations that resonate with both children and parents. Gail’s talent for capturing gentle, heartfelt, and dreamy themes was exactly what I envisioned for the book. I appreciated her artistic point of view, and each illustration beautifully complemented the narrative, conveying the emotions and adventures of the mom and daughter. Her ability to translate my words into vivid, enchanting visuals brought the story to life beyond my expectations.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
There were several key ideas I wanted to convey. First and foremost, the theme of unconditional love and the strong bond between a mother and her child. I also wanted to emphasize the power of dreams and imagination, encouraging children to believe in themselves and explore the world with curiosity and wonder. Additionally, the story supports social and emotional learning (SEL), highlighting themes of love, self-worth, and emotional bonding. It’s important for me that children feel secure in their parents’ love and grow up confident in their individuality.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently working on a new book that continues the adventures of the girl and her bunny from With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams. This time, they travel around the world, learning about different cultures, respecting customs, and immersing themselves in local traditions. It combines education with whimsy, aiming to broaden young readers’ horizons and foster a love and appreciation for the world around us. I’m excited to share that it will be available next year, and I can’t wait for readers to embark on this new journey with us.
I will also be releasing two more books this year in a series called Blossomvale. Curly’s Giving Heart follows Curly the Caterpillar as he learns the importance of balance and self-care while helping his friends. Feather’s Healing Song is a touching story about dealing with loss and finding joy again. Both books explore universal themes of friendship, self-discovery, and resilience, designed to entertain and impart valuable life lessons to young readers. I’m excited to share these heartwarming tales with children and families everywhere.
AuthorLinks: GoodReads | Instagram | Website
Experience the Magic:
“A nurturing sendoff into a dreamworld of playful wonderment.” – Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review, Get It Award)
“Each page feels like a mother’s hug, filled with love and care.” – Readers’ Favorite 5-Star Review
“A whimsical journey of fancy and love in the land of dreams.” – Reedsy 4-Star Review
A Poetic Journey:
Told with lyrical rhymes and vivid imagery, this book invites young readers to dream big and feel deeply loved. It’s perfect for sparking curiosity, fostering a sense of security, and creating cherished bedtime memories.
Award-Winning Author:
Winner of the Golden Book Prize 2024, this beautifully illustrated book is a testament to Gel See’s captivating storytelling and Gail Rae Javier’s stunning illustrations.
Ideal for children of all ages, from newborns to young readers, this book is a wonderful gift for baby showers, birthdays, and special moments.
Join this heartfelt journey of dreams, where a mother’s love lights the way to wonder and self-discovery!
With Love, From Mom: The Journey of Dreams
With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams by Gel See is a heartwarming tale that beautifully captures the bond between a mother and her daughter. The narrative centers on the mother reassuring her daughter that she will always be there for her, both in life and perhaps even in dreams. Together, they embark on various adventures, whether in the real world or the realm of dreams, exploring and sticking together no matter what.
The illustrations perfectly complement the story, showcasing the joyful moments they share, which adds a beautiful visual dimension to their journey. Mother and daughter are vividly depicted, highlighting the mother’s profound love and the daughter’s happiness. The tone of the story is gentle and loving, creating a soothing reading experience. The beautifully illustrated settings enhance the narrative, adding depth and warmth. The pacing is perfect, ensuring that there are no dull moments throughout the story. The story is wholesome and sweet, making it an excellent read for mothers and daughters to enjoy together. The rhyming adds a delightful dynamic, which children will love, reinforcing the story’s clear message: a daughter should always know her mother will be there for her. The illustrations are simply gorgeous—otherworldly and vividly colored, they suit the story perfectly and deserve special credit to the illustrator. The visual appeal adds an extra layer of charm to the already captivating tale.
With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams by Gel See is a beautifully crafted story that encapsulates the unconditional love and bond between a mother and her daughter. Its gentle tone, engaging rhymes, and stunning illustrations make it a delightful read for both children and parents. This heartwarming tale not only entertains but also reassures young readers of their parents’ unwavering support and love. Perfect for bedtime reading or any bonding moment, this book is a must-have for families who cherish heartfelt stories.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0D79KFSMJ
Abby and Liam and the Bedtime Adventure
Children, brimming with energy, often resist bedtime. However, if we can show them that bedtime can be as fun as reading a good book, their attitude may improve. Addressing this common issue, Kristen Puma presents Abby and Liam and the Bedtime Adventure. Abby and Liam are siblings and best friends who love to play and imagine all sorts of exciting scenarios. After a long day, their parents signal that it’s time for bed. The siblings, still full of energy, try to resist. That’s when their dad steps in, transforming the bedtime routine into an adventurous challenge that even includes a volcano. Their mom also joins the fun, taking on the role of a daring dragon.
The energy of the whole family is delightful. Many children’s books focus solely on the perspective of the kids, but this story feels special because both dad and mom are involved and part of the game. This promotes the idea of family unity and encourages children to communicate with their parents and be honest about their feelings. Kristen Puma’s use of short, melodic phrases makes the reading experience enjoyable and keeps the interest alive. Additionally, the illustrations are adorable and endearing, featuring soft and cheerful tones, beautifully designed. The story is dynamic from start to finish, as the siblings move from one imaginative challenge to another.
Abby and Liam and the Bedtime Adventure is perfect in every detail; it’s well-structured and presented. It’s designed to be enjoyed by both parents and children, with all characters actively participating. The main idea, although simple, is presented in a fun and enthusiastic way. It’s undoubtedly an excellent choice for parents to spend a beautiful moment with their children before bedtime and instill a love for reading.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0CYCNJLGQ
LITERARY TITAN 