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The Substi-Tooth
In The Substi-Tooth, by Kristin Manty, readers are whisked away on a sun-soaked beach adventure with young Austin and his mother. From the moment they arrive, Austin dives headfirst into the day, splashing through the waves, digging in the sand, and soaring his kite high into the sky. But there’s a tiny distraction he just can’t ignore: a wobbly tooth on the verge of falling out. With every activity, Austin can’t resist poking and wiggling it, determined to help it along.
Eventually, the tooth does come out, and Austin is thrilled. The Tooth Fairy is sure to visit him tonight! But his excitement quickly turns to panic when a large wave crashes over the sandcastle where he hid the tooth for safekeeping, sweeping it away in an instant. With the prized tooth gone, readers are left wondering, will Austin recover it in time? Can the magic of the Tooth Fairy still happen?
This charming story is a joy to read, offering fun and heartwarming moments that children of all ages will appreciate. The opening scenes of Austin and his mother heading to the beach capture the simple, meaningful joy of spending time with family. Through Austin’s excitement and playful energy, young readers are reminded of how special shared moments can be.
The narrative cleverly centers on the loose tooth, a small but relatable childhood milestone. As Austin clutches the tooth in triumph, there’s a real sense of anticipation, only for it to be dashed when the ocean intervenes. The wave’s sudden arrival adds just the right touch of suspense, pulling readers in as they anxiously turn the pages, hoping for a happy resolution.
Kaori Iha’s illustrations appear on every page, rendered in warm, earthy tones that perfectly match the story’s tone and setting. Each image feels thoughtfully placed and richly detailed, bringing Austin’s beach day to life.
The Substi-Tooth is a delightful picture book with endearing characters, an engaging plot, and expressive illustrations, making it a standout read. Whether at bedtime or in the classroom, it’s a story sure to entertain, spark imagination, and leave young readers smiling.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0F2GS7GPC
Everything Just Clicked
Ella Minnow P. follows a bright little girl on her first day of school who is teased because her name sounds like part of the alphabet song, and uses this to teach her classmates about kindness and empathy. What was the inspiration for your story?
My children inspired me to write this book. Three years ago, we were saying the ABCs one night in bed, and my oldest daughter kept saying what sounded like “Ella Minnow P.” at the LMNOP part, and then my kids would giggle. I immediately thought it sounded like a girl’s name. Everything just clicked, and I thought of the storyline. When I sat down to write the story, it only took a few hours. Then I had to get it all to rhyme.
As for the storyline and message of the book, again, my children inspired it. As a military spouse, I’ve guided our three children through five relocations and nine schools in nine years. Through this journey, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of kindness, courage, and inclusivity in children. Their love and acceptance as they learn and grow together are qualities I hope to inspire in other families. Like Ella, I’ve taught my kids that it takes both bravery and kindness to navigate any new chapter in life, especially the first day of school! These are lessons I share in my book to help others do the same.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I absolutely wanted the book to rhyme because I just feel like rhyming books hold kids’ attention and are cute. Your review said, “The writing is bouncy and rhyming, and the story moves along at a perfect pace for young readers.” And that is exactly what I was aiming for! While the message in this book is extremely important, I wanted this book to be one that children can learn to read from. That is why this book is recommended for ages 0 to 6 as a read-aloud, but also for 5 to 8-year-olds as an early reader. My kindergartener is actually learning to read with this book! The sentence structure is simple and rhythmic, making it fun to sound out the words. The text also highlights different, simple vocabulary words.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Emanuela Mannello?
Here is an article that was written in a local publication. Thus far, this is the first and only article that includes an interview with Emanuela. She was absolutely incredible to work with. I had been working with another illustrator, but I had to end that partnership because it was taking so long. It just wasn’t a good fit. I found Emanuela because she was the illustrator of the book Unicorn Wishes, which my children loved. I thought, “If my kids love the artwork in this book, why not just ask her to illustrate mine?” So I googled her and figured out how to get a hold of her, and the rest is history! She lives in Italy, and we did everything via email.
What story are you currently in the middle of writing?
We are in the middle of yet another military move, but I have ideas for more books involving Ella’s character, and the manuscripts are underway 🙂
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Instagram | Coronado Eagle | Coronado Times | Amazon
Perfect as a baby book, toddler book, or preschool book, Ella Minnow P. is a great read-aloud for storytime or bedtime. It’s also an ideal kindergarten book or first grade book, especially for children facing those first day jitters. This story encourages confidence, friendship, and the idea that learning can be fun when you stay true to yourself.
Written by Trisha Fleming and illustrated by Emanuela Mannello, this charming children’s book is filled with rhymes, giggles, and colorful scenes that bring Ella’s classroom to life. Whether you’re looking for first day jitters children’s books, kindness books, or one of the best kindergarten read about books, Ella Minnow P. belongs on your child’s bookshelf.
Recommended for ages 0 to 6 as a read-aloud and 5 to 8 as an early reader. Great for classrooms, libraries, and home collections, this juvenile fiction story will keep kids coming back to the alphabet again and again with confidence and a smile.
Take Me Back to Oklahoma
Cody Burke’s children’s book, Take Me Back to Oklahoma, is about a boy named Thomas who is completely over his home state. He’s itching to hit the road and see the “real” excitement out in the big cities, beaches, and mountains. Along the way, though, he realizes all these picture-perfect places come with their own set of problems—rude people, loud noises, sunburns, bear worries, and sand in awkward places. Eventually, he starts to miss the simple, comforting things about Oklahoma: the animals, the music, the wind, the people. By the end, he wants nothing more than to go back home to where his heart actually belongs.
I really liked how this children’s book flipped the script. At first, it’s all about how boring Oklahoma is, and I was kind of nodding along with the kid—like, yeah, I get it. But then, as he hits all these hyped-up destinations and slowly starts missing the quiet beauty of home, and it hit me right in the feels. The writing is simple but smart. It feels like it was written by someone who really gets kids and also remembers what it’s like to be one. There’s humor (that bit about Oklahoma history being just “blah blah blah” made me laugh), and there’s heart, too.
The illustrations by Camilla Crittenden are super charming. They are bold and colorful, but not overly polished. They’ve got that hand-drawn warmth that fits the tone of the story perfectly. But what really made this book stand out to me was how sneakily deep it is. It’s not just about a road trip. It’s about belonging, and how sometimes we need to step away to really appreciate what we’ve got. The way it ties up at the end, with the love for Oklahoma coming full circle, felt really genuine and sweet.
I’d totally recommend this book to kids who are 5 to 9 years old, especially if they’ve ever rolled their eyes at their hometown. It’s also great for parents who want to spark conversations about gratitude, home, and pride in where you’re from. Perfect for a bedtime read or even a classroom discussion. This one gave me the warm fuzzies.
Pages: 48 | ISBN : 1960810928
Flamin-Go BOB
Cheryl Spears Waugh delivers an inspiring tale that invites readers to celebrate individuality and embrace creativity. At the heart of the story is a flamingo named Flamin-Go BOB, a free-spirited character who proudly stands out from his flock. While his peers prefer calm conformity, Bob is full of energy and eager to live life differently. He struggles to fit into their routines, building a sandcastle instead of a traditional dome-shaped nest or gleefully doing somersaults in the rain while the others seek shelter from a storm. It’s only when Bob meets a kind veterinarian named Aleta that he discovers his unique path and realizes his true potential.
Bob’s charm lies in his unapologetic embrace of his quirks. Though his choices can be a bit reckless, his cheerfulness and authenticity shine through. He knows he’s different but doesn’t let that stop him from building connections. Cheryl Spears Waugh’s writing strikes a delightful balance. Its short and simple sentences make the story approachable for young readers, yet the playful details and humorous moments keep it engaging. The characters embody warmth and inclusivity, and the story emphasizes the importance of respecting differences. An added bonus is the educational section at the end, which shares fascinating flamingo facts.
The illustrations, while fitting the story, could have been enhanced with brighter, sharper backgrounds to better reflect Bob’s lively personality. At times, the darker tones feel slightly at odds with the vibrant energy of the narrative. However, this does little to detract from the book’s overall appeal. Children will find meaningful lessons woven throughout the story. Themes of kindness, teamwork, and empathy towards animals are presented naturally. Bob’s journey also shows that stepping outside one’s comfort zone can lead to personal growth. His time at the veterinary clinic not only helps him make new friends but also helps him uncover his purpose.
Flamin-Go BOB is a delightful story of self-discovery, individuality, and the joy of exploring new possibilities. It’s an engaging children’s book that inspires children to be true to themselves while embracing the adventures that come with trying something new.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0DN8X35R5
A New Normal
Soft Hugs for Mommy is a heartfelt exploration of living with fibromyalgia, wrapped in a narrative that combines raw vulnerability and an educational touch. This seems like a very personal story for you. How hard was it to put this story out in the world for people to read?
It is a story right from my own personal experience. I have desired for some time to share a story that would help others understand the plight of chronic pain. I have been blogging about fibromyalgia since 2015, so it wasn’t a real difficult write … other than writing it in a format for children’s understanding.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The major idea is that someone with fibromyalgia needs soft hugs. First, literal soft and gentle hugs because even a hug can be painful. Second, the hugs can come in other formats, such as kindnesses done for them.
I also wanted to suggest ways that a family can help their parent with chronic pain and how the whole family must accept a new normal because of the illness.
For the patients themselves, I wanted to suggest that gratitude is a good step toward dealing with your pain. And a big thing is you can still be a great parent even with your pain.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Melissa Pickens?
Well, let me say, first that I have absolutely no artistic talent. Melissa and I were already acquaintances through several avenues, including chronic illness. When I saw her handpainting work, I knew I must ask if she could illustrate the book.
It was a painstaking process because we both have our own pain issues. This caused a much longer process but well worth the wait. Melissa brought great ideas to the project, including the purple ribbon search. She even had suggestions on grammar and vocabulary!
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
I hope this book will be a tool to open communication between parent and child when chronic illness (of any kind) arrives in their home. My goal is that I can help them find a new normal as a family with a new understanding of the disease.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Instagram | Amazon
Soft Hugs for Mommy tells the story of a loving family as they navigate the challenges of Mommy’s chronic pain condition. Filled with tender moments and loving gestures, it seeks to encourage understanding and unconditional love. The family helps Mommy with her invisible illness by offering gentle hugs, thoughtful acts of kindness, and comforting words. A talented author who draws from her personal experience with fibromyalgia shares this sweet story. Another chronic illness warrior skillfully illustrates the story with hand-painted pictures. Together, author and illustrator capture the emotions and experiences of each character with warmth and tenderness.
Soft Hugs for Mommy continues with a “Let’s Talk” section to open the conversation between parent and child. These questions, created with a child psychologist, offer a space for children to express their feelings about Mommy’s illness. This book facilitates discussing other related conditions (such as Lyme Disease, ME, CFS, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, chronic migraine, chronic pain, and others).
Finally, the book offers a subscription through e-mail as she shares soft hugs and new resources for chronic illness every month.
Sydney’s Kidney Adventure
Sydney is a bright and optimistic young girl who lights up every room she enters. Yet, when she begins noticing her mother’s persistent fatigue and sadness, worry takes root in her heart. Determined to bring back her mom’s smile, Sydney tries everything to cheer her up. One evening, her father pulls her aside to share a difficult truth—her mom needs a kidney transplant. Later, under the night sky, Sydney makes a heartfelt wish upon a star for a donor to save her mother. What follows is the start of Sydney’s Kidney Adventure, a journey of hope, action, and self-discovery. With unwavering determination, Sydney takes matters into her own hands. Alongside her dad, she learns about organ donation, creates flyers, and spreads the word throughout her neighborhood, her school, and other community spots. Through each step, Sydney grows, facing challenges with resilience while learning invaluable lessons about life, love, and perseverance.
Risa Simon expertly crafts a story that is as uplifting as it is poignant. Her writing is accessible for children, skillfully balancing a serious topic with warmth and understanding. The illustrations are equally remarkable, exuding comfort and charm in every scene. Beyond the story, the book includes a wealth of resources for further learning and action, as well as a thoughtful coloring section. This addition reinforces the story’s central messages of embracing hope, exploring possibilities, and asking for help when needed, all distilled into powerful and child-friendly phrases.
The subject matter is inherently somber, and the pacing might feel deliberate for some young readers but the realism and emotional depth make it deeply impactful. Sydney’s journey is authentic, showcasing her courage as she explores alternatives, even bravely sharing her wish with her classmates. The narrative naturally introduces information about organ donation, weaving it seamlessly into Sydney’s mission to save her mom.
Sydney’s Kidney Adventure is a heartwarming tale of love, determination, and the extraordinary strength found in helping others. It inspires readers of all ages with its touching portrayal of hope and community, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page.
Pages: 75 | ASIN : B0D1STKRPJ
ADVENTURES AT LAKE OMIGOSH
Adventures at Lake Omigosh transports readers to Camp Horizon, a vibrant summer destination where children from all over come together to enjoy outdoor adventures and campfire tales. Among the most popular stories is the legend of the camp’s lake, said to be home to a mysterious creature resembling a giant turtle. According to local lore, when someone spots the creature, they shout, “Oh my gosh!”—giving the lake its unusual name. This summer, Felix and Harry are especially eager to experience the adventure firsthand. Undeterred by worsening weather, they take a boat out on the lake, but things quickly spiral out of control. Without life jackets and unsure of where to swim, they face a perilous situation until unexpected help arrives.
Scott Sollers’ writing is engaging and vivid and draws readers into the story with his evocative descriptions of the camp and its legendary lake. He expertly sets the tone, blending the excitement of summer camp with the mystery of the legend. The narrative quickly picks up pace after the scene is set, delivering a fast-paced adventure that keeps readers hooked without overwhelming them. The various camp activities are portrayed in a way that brings the experience to life, making the story both fun and relatable for young readers. At the same time, there are clear lessons woven into the story, such as emphasizing safety, teamwork, and the value of helping others.
The book’s illustrations further enhance the story, providing a striking contrast between the dark and mysterious settings of the lake legend and the cheerful and sunlit scenes of the children’s activities. These visuals add depth to the storytelling, making each moment feel more immersive and engaging.
While Felix and Harry are well-developed characters with distinct personalities, I think it would have been nice to see more reflection from them on the importance of responsibility and following camp rules. Nevertheless, their journey is both exciting and instructive, subtly imparting important messages about safety and teamwork.
Adventures at Lake Omigosh is an impressive children’s book that will inspire young readers to embrace nature and the spirit of adventure. With its lively plot, rich descriptions, and important lessons, this picture book encourages children to explore the outdoors, try new activities, and use their imaginations.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0D98MSMV1
Engaging Content
Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? follows a curious young boy and his parents who decide it is time to get a family pet. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for Curious Chris-Why No Flamingos? was our son Chris who was very curious. He used the word, “falingmo,” for the word flamingo, and I wanted to find a way to use it in a story. I incorporated the way we got our dog, Charlie, from our local pet shelter, and thus the story was born.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
As a former English teacher, I know how important it is to create engaging content, so young readers will want to read more. I want children to know that curiosity is encouraged, yet parents may need help sometimes. In addition, I want everyone to know that pet adoption is the best way for people to get a new pet. Finally, many times, children are not going to get their way, so I wanted to offer a story for young readers to see a child pivot when his/her dream isn’t available.
The collaboration with illustrator Sally Garland resulted in exceptional art in this book. How was the process managed, and what were some of the key factors that contributed to the successful outcome?
Sally Garland is an amazing illustrator, and she and I consulted prior to her illustrating my story. She wanted to create a scene where Chris dreamed of a perfect scenario of Chris and his falingmo which is how she created the swimming pool scene.
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?
As of right now, this is the only book and not a series, and I have not thought of a follow-up book as of right now. However, I will never say never.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
“Why is the sky blue? Why doesn’t the sun smoke if it’s so hot? Why can’t it rain cotton candy?”
His exhausted parents decide it’s time for a pet. For the first time, Chris has no questions to ask because he knows exactly the pet to choose. But when adoption day finally arrives, Chris needs to make a choice. Will he find his pet at the local animal shelter?
LITERARY TITAN 