Blog Archives
Instigating a Sense of Adventure
Hedgehog’s Winter follows a hedgehog full of energy and curiosity who isn’t quite ready to hibernate, so he bundles up in his warmest winter clothes and ventures outside, eager to embrace the snow-filled world around him. What was the inspiration for your story?
For a child, exploring and experiencing the magical world of winter is wonderous! I wrote Hedgehog’s Winter to capture the enchanting spirit of the season, and instigate a child’s curiosity and sense of adventure.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The storyline was originally written in a lyrical format, as a lullaby or whimsical ode to winter and nature. At the same time, incorporating various animals and concepts about hibernation, the book was written as an organic educational tool, as well.
When I visit classrooms, I spark conversations with young students about wintertime – what happens? How does the natural world around us change? Why don’t you see a snake during Christmastime? Where do chipmunks go when the season is snowy? It’s a wonderful way to engage their inquisitive minds. I offer students the opportunity to grow more appreciative and aware of what the season offers us.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Jeanne Ee Wei Yen?
My wonderful editor had everything to do with acquiring the illustrator. The watercolor media Jeanne used exemplify the mood and conjured a winter wonderland.
What next book are you working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m excited about my upcoming book, Grandma Yogini, a fun story to introduce children to yoga and meditation. Grandma is not your typical, run-of-the-mill Granny. She’s spunky and happily greets the team of neighborhood kids to show them a few fun yoga moves. The kids decide: best grandma visit ever!
Author Links: GoodReads | BlueSky | Facebook | Website
But his friends, Bear, Raccoon, and Chipmunk, don’t want to play. They are ready to hibernate in their warm dens.
So, Hedgehog puts on his hat, his coat, and his mittens and tries to find someone to have a winter adventure with him. As he skates on the frozen pond, he wonders what a falling snowflake tastes like. Then, Deer arrives and helps him build a snowman and find a piece of bark for a sled.
After sledding, Hedgehog and Deer share some leftover berries. But Hedgehog’s eyes are growing sleepy. He still doesn’t know what a falling snowflake tastes like as he walks toward his warm burrow. Only then, at the last minute, a little bit of magic happens.
Hedgehog’s Winter
As autumn fades into winter, Hedgehog savors one last playful moment with his friends in Hedgehog’s Winter, a charming tale by Raven Howell. Raccoon, Chipmunk, Snake, and Bear are all preparing for hibernation, ready to settle into a season of slumber. But Hedgehog, full of energy and curiosity, isn’t quite ready to rest. With no companions left to play with, he bundles up in his warmest winter clothes and ventures outside, eager to embrace the snow-filled world around him.
As he frolics through the winter landscape, one question lingers in his mind—what does a snowflake taste like when it lands on the tongue? His solo adventure takes an uplifting turn when his friend, Deer, appears. Together, they revel in the season’s magic, building a snowman and enjoying the crisp, snowy air. Eventually, even Hedgehog begins to tire, realizing that perhaps, after all his fun, a long winter’s nap sounds rather inviting. But just as he makes his way home to his cozy burrow, something special happens—something that makes his journey even more memorable.
This delightful children’s story radiates warmth and charm. One of its most endearing qualities is Hedgehog’s ability to find joy in solitude. Despite his friends being unavailable, he remains cheerful, confident, and eager to explore. Howell beautifully conveys a meaningful message: while playing with friends is wonderful, there’s also value in learning to enjoy one’s own company. Young readers will find comfort in Hedgehog’s self-assurance, discovering that moments of solitude can be just as fulfilling as time spent with others.
Jeanne Ee Wei Yen’s illustrations complement the story with breathtaking beauty. Nearly every page showcases her soft, detailed artwork, rendered in muted tones that perfectly capture the tranquility of a winter’s day. The imagery enhances the narrative, bringing Hedgehog’s adventure to life in a way that feels both whimsical and serene.
In sum, Hedgehog’s Winter is an enchanting read that will resonate with audiences of all ages. The story is heartwarming, the characters are irresistible, and the illustrations add an extra layer of charm. This book is a must-have for any child’s collection—kudos to Ms. Howell for crafting such a delightful wintertime tale!
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DRWF6NS8
Meaningful Family Time
Coco’s Fourth of July at the Zoo follows a curious little girl whose questions about animals lead her family to enjoy a holiday visit to the zoo. Where did the idea for this story come from?
This book is from my Coco’s Life Adventure Series. The first title, Coco’s Courage Meeting the Dentist. Coco’s Fourth of July at the Zoo is a continuation of my Coco book series.
Is there anything from your own life in the characters and events in Coco’s tale?
I enjoyed family time at the zoo in my childhood and adult years. So, I shared some of my memories as a child at the zoo, through my lovable character, Coco.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
For children’s enjoyment and learning. Also, for parents spending meaningful family time with their children while teaching them about different animals, appreciating them, and to appreciate the celebration of Independence Day for America’s freedom for humanity to pursue life, happiness, and liberty respecting all of humanity.
What is next for Coco and her family? Can readers look forward to a new installment in your series soon?
Coco has more than 5 books as a series:
(Coco’s Life Adventures), available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble stores and where books are sold. Some of her popular titles are Coco’s Courage Meeting the Dentist, Coco Braves the Dark, and Coco Finds Her Pup Chico.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
time with her parents and her
dad’s mom, Grandma Sarah. Coco
will see many animals she has never
seen before on this fun holiday.
Coco’s Fourth of July at the Zoo
Family moments have the power to create enduring memories for children, a theme beautifully explored in Dr. Shon Shree Lewis’s delightful book, Coco’s Fourth of July at the Zoo. The story begins with Coco, an inquisitive young girl, watching TV with her faithful dog, Chico. Captivated by a cartoon featuring tigers, Coco’s curiosity is piqued, prompting her to ask her mother about these magnificent creatures. Her mother explains that tigers live in various places, including the zoo, which sparks the idea for a family outing. With a visit to Grandma Sarah already in the plans, Coco’s dad agrees to a family trip to the zoo on the Fourth of July, setting the stage for a day filled with fun, learning, and celebration.
Dr. Shon Shree Lewis’s narrative shines through her use of concise sentences and clear concepts, making her storytelling accessible and engaging for young readers. She effectively weaves in themes of courtesy, good manners, and proper behavior, presenting her characters as excellent role models. The story depicts a family working together harmoniously to create a memorable day, a portrayal that reinforces positive family dynamics. The adventure at the zoo is both educational and enjoyable, as Coco learns fascinating facts about animals such as tigers, lions, and giraffes. The vibrant illustrations complement the narrative, capturing the joy and wonder of the zoo visit. The family’s Fourth of July celebration culminates in a splendid display of fireworks, adding a festive touch to their special day.
Coco’s Fourth of July at the Zoo is a charming read that fosters a love for learning and family bonds. Dr. Shon Shree Lewis crafts an engaging tale that celebrates children’s curiosity and the joy of discovering new things. This book is a delightful way to spend time with children, inspiring them to ask questions and embrace the excitement of new adventures.
Pages: 39 | ASIN : B0C4T66BVD
LITERARY TITAN 