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Bixby the Peacock on Maple Street
Bixby the Peacock on Maple Street bursts with color, curiosity, and charm, a lively children’s story that transforms a simple neighborhood mystery into an unforgettable adventure. Shani T. Night welcomes young readers into the vibrant world of Bixby, a confident, radiant peacock who saunters through suburbia with effortless flair and a personality as bold as his feathers.
Bixby’s arrival on Maple Street immediately sweeps readers into a lively blend of whimsy and discovery. The rhyming text creates a rhythmic, almost musical flow, ideal for read-aloud moments with children ages 4–8. Night’s spirited word choices and vivid scenes spark laughter and wide-eyed fascination as Bixby weaves through gardens, sidesteps household pets, crosses busy streets, and carries himself as if the entire neighborhood is his personal stage.
Beyond its cheerful storytelling, the book quietly delivers genuine peacock facts, offering an engaging dose of learning within the playful narrative. This smooth fusion of imagination and information nurtures a child’s natural curiosity about the world, presenting knowledge in a way that feels inviting, light, and wonderfully accessible.
As part of the Interesting Tales series, Night once again turns everyday surprises into moments of magic. Bixby’s escapade reminds readers, young and old, that extraordinary wonders often wait just beyond the front door.
Bright, witty, and beautifully composed, Bixby the Peacock on Maple Street is a heartwarming celebration of exploration, nature, and the delight of storytelling. It deserves a spot on bedtime bookshelves, classroom collections, and in the hands of any young reader drawn to animals or unexpected adventures.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0FNGVM32L
The Unearthing
The Unearthing follows the Krigga family as they leave their suburban life behind for an old Georgian house in the countryside. The story is told mostly through the eyes of Anna, the middle child, who resents the move and resists every change. Her brother Rupert and sister Clara add their own voices to the chaos of sibling rivalry, while their parents try to hold the family together. Soon, the house itself begins to reveal secrets. Hidden staircases, strange rooms, eerie discoveries, and a foreboding tower nearby push the children into a world of mystery and unease. What begins as a family drama slowly shifts into something more shadowed, blending everyday struggles with a creeping sense of the supernatural.
The writing swings from tender to dramatic, sometimes even over the top, but that’s part of its charm. I could feel Anna’s anger like a living thing, the way she stomped and sulked and held on to her grievances. At times, I wanted to shake her. At other times, I wanted to comfort her. Tapia captures that messy middle-child energy perfectly, and while it could be grating, it also felt real. The imagery is thick and vivid, and I loved how it painted the old house as if it were alive, breathing with history and menace.
There were moments when I laughed at the squabbles between the siblings, then felt uneasy when the story leaned into shadows and whispers. The pacing could be uneven, lingering on moods a bit too long before getting to the action. Yet, when the eerie attic scenes or the crumbling gargoyles came into play, I was hooked. The book feels like a blend of family diary and gothic adventure.
I’d recommend The Unearthing to readers who enjoy stories about families in transition, especially when everyday life collides with something darker. Young adult readers might see themselves in Anna’s moods, while older readers may smile knowingly at the chaos of siblings and the weight of growing up. If you like your mysteries tinged with domestic squabbles, eerie houses, and a touch of the uncanny, this children’s fiction novel will speak to you.
Pages: 399 | ASIN : B08NCB4XKX
Reassurance and Belonging
The Backyard Detectives: Operation Family Mystery follows a brother and sister who overhear a secret phone call, and become detectives to uncover what divorce means while holding each other up as their world feels like it is falling apart. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
For this book, I drew deeply from my own childhood. While there are pieces I changed or left out, the heart of the story comes from my personal experiences growing up. I wanted to create the kind of book my younger self desperately needed, something that would have helped me feel seen and less alone.
Divorce can feel like the end of the world for a child, and in the moment, it truly does feel that way. But looking back, I can see that even though it was hard, things did work out, and in some cases, it was even the best thing that could have happened for the kids involved. I wanted to capture that balance of honesty and hope. The story includes not only what I went through but also the words and reassurance I wish someone had given me at the time. My hope is that kids reading it today will feel supported and maybe find a little bit of comfort in knowing they’ll be okay, too.
One thing that stands out in your children’s book is the relationship between siblings Rose and Jacob, not just with each other, but also with their mom and their desire to protect one another. What was your process in writing the characters’ interactions to develop the bond they have?
Even though I grew up as an only child, I knew I wanted this story to highlight the importance of leaning on someone when life feels overwhelming. For some kids, that’s a sibling; for others, it might be a best friend who feels just like family. Either way, having that bond can make a world of difference.
When writing Rose and Jacob, I imagined what my younger self would have needed to hear or say if I’d had a sibling by my side. That made their protectiveness and closeness come naturally in the story. Their bond doesn’t just help them through the divorce, it shapes who they’ll become, making them extra protective of their mom and strengthening their family unit in a new way. In the end, I wanted their relationship to show kids that it’s okay to rely on the people who love you, and that sometimes tough moments can create unbreakable connections.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Mental health has always been very important to me, and the older I get, the more I realize how early those struggles can begin. One of the most important lessons I wanted to weave into this book is the message that you are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with you.
So often, kids going through big changes like divorce feel isolated or even blame themselves. I wanted The Backyard Detectives to be a safe place where a child could see their own feelings reflected and know it’s okay to have those emotions. If even one child reads this book and finds comfort in knowing they aren’t the only one, then to me, this story has done its job. That sense of reassurance and belonging is the true educational takeaway I hope every reader carries with them.
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, Operation Family Mystery is the very first book in The Backyard Detectives series. The second book will follow Rose and Jacob as they face another difficult chapter in life, learning about cancer and coping with grief when their grandfather becomes ill.
While it’s a heavier topic, the story is told with the same mix of heart, hope, and detective fun, giving kids tools to process big feelings while still feeling safe and supported. My goal is to help young readers see that even in sad or scary moments, there can be love, connection, and resilience. This next installment is set to release before the holidays this year, and I can’t wait to share it with families.
For the latest updates on release dates and new projects, you can always visit www.christalmajestic.com.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
In this heartfelt early chapter book for ages 7–10, siblings Rose and Jacob find themselves caught in a mystery they didn’t ask for—but can’t ignore.
After overhearing a late-night phone call, the pair stumbles into a web of hidden photos, whispered secrets, and quiet sadness. Armed with a notebook and their best detective skills, they launch a secret mission to uncover the truth behind the word that turned their world upside down.
Set in a cozy southern town, The Backyard Detectives: Operation Family Mystery is a gentle, emotionally rich story about family change, resilience, and the unshakable bond between siblings. Perfect for children’s bookshelves at home, in the classroom, or in counseling offices.
A comforting story for kids experiencing family change or divorce
Great for fans of sibling adventures, secret missions, and detective tales
Ideal for parents, educators, and therapists helping children process emotions
This realistic fiction chapter book is perfect for:
• Early readers transitioning from picture books
• Families looking for age-appropriate books about divorce
• Kids who love solving mysteries and uncovering clues
• Adults seeking tools to help children navigate big emotions and life transitions
Whether read independently or shared aloud, this moving story reminds young readers that even when families shift, love stays—and courage grows.
The Big Dream: Middle-Grade Fiction (The Crow’s Tales) Book 2
Victoria E. Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson’s The Big Dream is a lively, humor-filled adventure that captures the magic of summer, childhood friendships, and one boy’s determination to chase an unlikely dream. It follows Brandon Woodberry, a kid with an endless imagination, a mischievous pet crow named Ralph, and two best friends, Josh and Skip, as they set out to enter a remote-controlled car race. The problem? They need to raise nearly $2,000 to buy a car kit and customize it. Their summer becomes a whirlwind of hustling for cash, plotting pigeon-catching schemes, and dealing with school, family, and growing up. With its warm humor and engaging storytelling, the book is a delightful ode to youthful ambition.
Brandon’s voice is instantly engaging and full of personality and wit. His internal monologues, whether he’s trying to stay awake in English class or navigating a hilarious dinner-table debate about his summer plans, feel authentic and relatable. The humor is spot-on, and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. The authors do a fantastic job of making the characters feel like real kids, complete with wild ideas, exaggerated reactions, and a boundless sense of possibility.
One of the book’s strongest aspects is its pacing. There’s never a dull moment. Whether it’s the boys pulling off a chaotic car wash, burning cookies during a bake sale, or dealing with an infuriatingly smug rich guy who tosses them a measly nickel as a tip, each chapter propels the story forward. The setbacks the boys face feel real, but there’s a persistent optimism that makes you root for them. Ralph the crow is another highlight, and his antics, from stealing cookies to strategically “decorating” a rude customer’s car, add a layer of unexpected hilarity to the story. His presence gives the book a slight whimsy, making it even more charming.
Beyond the humor and adventure, The Big Dream has an underlying message about perseverance and teamwork. The boys don’t always see eye to eye, and at times, their plans seem completely doomed (especially when their money-making schemes fall short). However, their friendship carries them through, and their determination to see the project through despite all odds is inspiring. The moment when they finally start believing they can do it is when they shift from seeing obstacles to finding solutions, is genuinely uplifting. It’s a wonderful message for kids.
I’d recommend The Big Dream to middle-grade readers who love stories about friendship, big ideas, and crazy summer escapades. It’s funny, heartfelt, and full of that electrifying feeling of endless summer days where anything seems possible. Whether you’re here for the humor, the adventure, or the sheer joy of watching a group of kids take on a seemingly impossible dream, this book delivers.
Pages: 312 | ASIN : B0DRZ88WZ9
The Power to Forge On
The Missing Children of Blackwood follows a sharp, quirky, and self-assured girl who gets swept up in the town’s haunted and dark past and needs to solve the mystery of the missing children to save her parents. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My daughter was the inspiration for the setup of my story. She inspires everything I do. I’m a bit of a nervous dad, so if we are walking together in a grocery store or a restaurant or whatever, and I turn to grab something or look away for just a moment—and when I look back I don’t see her, even if it’s only a split-second, I panic. I mean, I really do. I swallow my throat into my stomach every time. She thinks it’s hilarious, but it scares the living shrimp out of me! I’m not a helicopter parent, (not fully) but I couldn’t imagine being separated from her for even a day, especially under circumstances like in my book where I have no control over it. Just the thought is scary. So, when writing the book, I tried to imagine what it might be like for her to feel the same way, and then tell it from her point of view. Obviously, there are some really terrible ways in which a parent and child could be separated in real life that may be more serious and less fun for a kid to read compared to something a bit far-fetched and fantastical, so I decided to go more supernaturally with it and keep it fun, for the most part. I wrote DaPhne to be brave and kept the focus of the story on her conquering whatever obstacles were thrown at her—be it the sadness of separating from her parents and eventually Sparrow, giant rocks of falling death landing razor close to her human body as she watched in her ghost form helpless to do anything about it, or the ground opening up like a monstrous mouth to swallow her whole. I wanted her to be strong and capable through it all and to keep moving forward, no matter what.
When creating DaPhne, did you have a plan for development and character traits, or did it grow organically as you were writing the story?
I never had a solid plan when writing this story. I started in the middle and worked backward. I knew, more or less, where I wanted to go with it, I just needed to find the right path. But I always had a clear vision of how I wanted to write DaPhne. I wrote her based 100% on the personality and style of my twelve-year-old daughter. I simply toned down the snark, and the sass (not kidding). One of the things I thoroughly enjoyed when writing the character, was feeling like a kid again, myself, and getting the stamp of approval from my wife and daughter about making sure not to sound too much like a “dude,” when writing the female characters. I got it wrong a few times, I’ll admit—even the editor called me out on it—but it all came together in the end and I’m pleased with how it turned out.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One of the most important themes for me, when writing this book, was perseverance. I never wanted DaPhne to give in, even when it seemed like all hope was lost. I wanted her to be a little fighter, just like my own DaPhne. I also wanted kids who read the book to feel like they can be little fighters—mighty, just like DaPhne —and that if they ever find themselves in a tough situation like DaPhne (whether it’s a ghost town possessed by a witch or something else), I want them to know they have the power to forge on and keep fighting, no matter what the odds are—because they do! We all do. Aside from that, I didn’t want the reader to become too settled. I took a few chapters in the beginning to plant the seed and get the story growing, but afterward, I wanted something happening (or about to happen) in each chapter. I have severe ADHD (three extra scoops of ADHD in a cone made of ADHD), and so does my daughter, so my main goal was to keep the suspense gripping as well as a fast-paced story told by a relatable character so as not to lose her attention. I figured if I could get her to read it, and she enjoyed it, I might have a chance with others her age. And of course, the humor. There needs to be humor in everything. The more humor the better. Thor 1 and 2 were good (anything with Chris Hemsworth is a winner), but Thor Ragnarok was GREAT : ) because it had more humor.
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 don’t think I have fans just yet, but I like the idea : )
As far as the book goes, it was actually written to be a stand-alone book. I personally like the cliffhanger ending, I always have. The editor is the one who introduced the idea of a series. If I do decide to make it into a series, I have a few ways in which direction I could take it. All I can say for now is that the trucker lady would definitely be returning as one of the main characters—transporting some precious museum cargo that is more than just cargo—along with DaPhne and her parents and a few new characters, (DaPhne’s friends) for a new adventure. But like the weather, that could all change.
Fun fact, that bit in the book with the gum actually happened … to me : (
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Bones and Friends: The Case Of The Missing Mice
Bones and Friends: The Case of the Missing Mice by Lisa Jacovsky is a heartwarming children’s mystery that delights readers with its adorable trio of cats. Beau, Bender, and Bones—each with their own special needs—set out to solve the mystery of their missing mouse toys. Together, they show that no challenge is too big when you have teamwork, resilience, and a bit of creativity on your side.
Beau, who was born without eyes, relies on his sharp senses of smell and hearing. Bender, despite having only three legs, is an exceptional climber. Tiny Bones, living with hydrocephalus, uses his small size to explore hard-to-reach places. Each cat brings something unique to the adventure, and watching them turn their differences into strengths is both inspiring and endearing. Their mission to find the missing toys is not only a fun mystery but also a touching reminder that everyone has something valuable to contribute. The illustrations add another layer of charm to the story. They are colorful and engaging, drawing readers into the whimsical world of these courageous felines. The conclusion of the tale leaves readers with a sense of satisfaction, yet eager to follow the trio on more adventures. One of the most touching aspects of Bones and Friends is how it showcases animals with special needs in the spotlight. The way the characters’ differences are celebrated and turned into strengths resonates deeply, especially for readers who may have or know animals with similar challenges. As someone with a pet chicken who has no feet but still gets around faster than I do, this story truly struck a chord.
Bones and Friends is an adorable and uplifting read that’s perfect for storytime with young children. It’s a great pick for any cat lover or for group readings, where its themes of friendship and teamwork will surely shine. Whether at bedtime or during a quiet afternoon, this heartwarming tale of three cat brothers working together is a purr-fect choice for readers of all ages.
Pages: 27 | ASIN : B0CYLVX53K
An Alien Took My Cheese
An Alien Took My Cheese hooks young readers right from the start. Owen wakes up one morning, only to discover his favorite snack has vanished without a trace. But who—or what—could be behind this? As the story moves forward, the possibility of an alien culprit comes into focus. With his loyal dog Clover by his side, Owen dives into a thrilling adventure, determined to solve the mystery of the missing cheese. What he finds along the way, though, is something he never expected.
Janice Hostetter spins a tale that sparks curiosity and lively discussion, especially during story time. Humor and suspense blend seamlessly, pulling readers in and holding their attention tight. The idea of an alien thief adds a fun and imaginative twist, keeping the story vibrant and fresh. Owen’s close bond with Clover brings warmth to the narrative, turning their quest into more than just a hunt for stolen cheese—it becomes a touching story of friendship. The interactive nature of the book shines through as Owen picks up clues around the house, inviting readers to join the detective work. Bright, engaging illustrations amplify the experience, urging young minds to dive deeper into the story and ask questions. The sensory details Hostetter weaves in—like the stench in the garage, the clatter of mysterious noises, and the eerie green slime—make the tale come alive. These vivid elements not only enhance the story but also offer a subtle educational layer, perfect for helping children explore their senses.
This story moves at a brisk pace, perfect for young readers who love a good mix of humor and adventure. The quick tempo keeps the energy high, ensuring kids remain captivated from start to finish. With its blend of comedy, heartwarming moments, and surprising twists, An Alien Took My Cheese stands out as a must-read for any child eager for a mystery full of delightful surprises.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0D7WZ4STT
The Stolen Heart of the Cape Cod Bay
The Stolen Heart of Cape Cod Bay by J.B. Auchter is a captivating mystery about the theft of a priceless item known as “the heart” during a festive celebration. The story primarily follows Jack, an investigator, and his family as they delve into the mystery, navigating a web of deception and hidden motives. Themes of mystery, trust, and betrayal are skillfully explored, creating a thrilling narrative that keeps readers engaged and intrigued.
This well-written novel adeptly balances suspense with humor and the dynamics of family bonds. The title itself is attention-grabbing, hinting at the story’s essence while maintaining an air of mystery. The book’s engaging start immediately hooks the reader with descriptive writing that captivates from the very beginning.
One of the story’s strengths is its alternating points of view from chapter to chapter, which keeps the narrative fresh and engaging. Starting the story with a journalist’s perspective, rather than diving directly into the plot, adds an intriguing layer that draws readers in. The pacing is well-managed, and the character development is fantastic, especially for a shorter novel, making it an exhilarating read.
At times, the dialogue adds a unique charm to the story, even if it slightly disrupts the narrative flow. The humor adds a light-hearted touch, and the inclusion of additional details and dialogues enriches the world-building. The book’s ending twist is well-executed, and the foreshadowing hints at the potential for a follow-up, which I think enhances the story’s appeal.
The Stolen Heart of Cape Cod Bay offers a compelling mystery with well-developed characters and a satisfying conclusion. It is a thoroughly enjoyable read that leaves readers eager for more.
Pages: 175 | ASIN : B0DBMY2TLK
LITERARY TITAN 