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Always Growing

Deanna Bussadori Author Interview

New Baby Surprise for Super Big Sister follows a little girl whose family is expecting a new baby, leaving her with some big emotions she is unsure of how to deal with until her big brother steps in and guides her through them. What was the inspiration for your story?

My kids have been my inspirations for the whole Super Big Brother series. My debut book, Super Big Brother: Finding Your Hero, was inspired by my two children. Their acts of kindness and the special growing milestones they shared became the foundation for my sibling series, weaving in themes of emotional growth, empathy, and support which inspired the third book, Super Big Brother: New Baby Surprise for Super Big Sister. I wanted to write stories that encourage children to be kind, help one another, and embrace the power of family bonds.

Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your character’s life?

Yes, I certainly do. As a parent, watching your child navigate the emotions of welcoming a new sibling into the family, it can be both beautiful and challenging. With an over six-year age gap between my children, I witnessed firsthand how the shift in attention can impact the firstborn—suddenly they’re no longer the sole focus and they are learning to share love and space. No matter if you’re the first child, second, third, or beyond, these feelings are deeply valid and worth acknowledging. This experience aligned perfectly with the heart of the Super Big Brother series, and the story of a new baby in the family felt like one that simply had to be told.

What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?

As the third book in the series, I saw this as an opportunity to challenge myself by building on the knowledge and experience I’ve gained so far. One of my main goals was to make this story longer and to explore a different style of illustration that better aligned with the theme. Growth and development are key to improving as a writer, and learning from past experiences was important to me in ensuring these new creative goals were successfully met.

What story are you currently in the middle of writing?

I have just finished writing the 11th book in the Super Big Brother series which now is going for final edits. This, however, will become my 5th book to be published as I love the topic and cannot wait to get it launched.

Author links: GoodReads Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Mommy is having another baby and Lulu the Little is not feeling happy. How can she cope with her feelings? Super Sam teaches Lulu the Little different ways a sister can show kindness, responsibility, empathy toward Baby’s needs, and how to be the best Super Big Sister and a hero in her new little sister’s eyes.

Embrace the Power of Family Bonds

Deanna Bussadori Author Interview

Super Big Brother – The Big Brave School Day follows a nervous little girl as she heads off on her first day of school, and her big brother is there every step of the way to help her feel brave. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

My debut book, Super Big Brother: Finding Your Hero, was inspired by my two children. Watching my son naturally step into the role of a mentor to his younger sister—who looked up to him as her hero—deepened my appreciation for their growing sibling bond. This connection inspired me to create stories that reflect the different stages of childhood and the unique relationship between siblings and this lead to the creation of Super Big Brother: The Big Brave School Day.

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

The acts of kindness and the special growing milestones the siblings shared became the foundation for my sibling series, weaving in themes of emotional growth, empathy, and support. These were the important messages and ideas I wanted to share. I aspire to write stories that encourage children to be kind, help one another, and embrace the power of family bonds.

What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?

The scene where Super Sam guides Little Lulu into school is the most special and heartfelt moment for me. It was inspired by a real photo I took of my daughter on her first day of school, with her big brother gently holding her hand and leading her through the school gates. That simple, loving gesture captured the strength of their sibling bond—a moment so touching, it simply had to become part of the story.

What will the next book in that series be about and when will it be published?

The next book in the series, Super Big Brother: New Baby Surprise for Super Big Sister, was published in November 2024. This ten-book series has two more exciting titles set to be released soon. Watch this space! 

Author links: GoodReads Twitter | Facebook | InstagramWebsite

The Big Brave School Day explores the feelings and challenges Lulu the Little experiences on her first day of school. The story is told primarily through the eyes of Lulu the Little who sees her big brother, Super Sam, as her hero. He makes sure that he is right by her side and using his Super Big Brother powers, Super Sam holds her hand, leads her to school, teaches her to be brave, and by the end shows Lulu the Little that SHE is the hero of the day. Super Sam is still the best big brother EVER!

Super Big Brother: New Baby Surprise for Super Big Sister

New Baby Surprise for Super Big Sister tells the story of Lulu the Little, who’s facing some big feelings about the even bigger change coming her way. A new baby in the family! She’s overwhelmed, unsure, even a little jealous. But her big brother Super Sam steps in, cape and all, to gently guide her through her emotions. He shows her how to be a “Super Big Sister,” helping her see that she can still be loved and be helpful, brave, and important in this brand new family setup.

As a mom of two this picture book hit close to home. When Lulu asks, “Will Mommy and Daddy forget about me?” Ugh. That line cracked my heart right open. It’s exactly the kind of fear kids don’t always say out loud but definitely feel. And I absolutely adored how Sam handled it. He didn’t dismiss her feelings, he leaned in. He gave her his cape and walked her through what being a big sibling really means.

The writing is catchy, with rhymes that are easy and fun to read aloud. And again, the illustrations are so colorful and inviting. My daughter loved spotting “Cuddles” the teddy bear hiding in every scene. Plus, the activity pages at the end are a great bonus. We sat down together afterward and named baby items and did the word search. It made the book feel like more than just a read. It was a whole little bonding moment.

I’d say this children’s book is a must if you’ve got a little one about to become a big sibling. Especially if they’re on the fence about the whole baby thing. It opens the door for honest chats and big hugs. It’s gentle, reassuring, and full of heart.

Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0DN1BTN79 | Blueberry Illustrations

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Super Big Brother: The Big Brave School Day

Super Big Brother – The Big Brave School Day follows Lulu the Little as she heads off for her very first day of school. Naturally, she’s nervous, but her big brother, Super Sam, is there every step of the way to help her feel brave. The story gently walks through her rollercoaster of emotions — from the shy walk to class, to belly rumbles before lunch, to playground mishaps — all the way to that touching moment at the end when she wonders if maybe she can lead the way next time. It’s got rhythm, rhymes, and a lot of heart.

As a mom who’s walked her own little one to class with a lump in her throat, this book hit me right in the feels. I loved how real Lulu’s worries felt — that line where her stomach growls and she starts to scowl? Been there. And I adored Super Sam. What a wonderful big brother! He’s not just her guide; he’s her safe place. The moment when he swoops in after she falls on the playground? My heart just melted. It’s such a relatable sibling dynamic, and I could see my own kids in these two. Plus, the writing is so accessible. No big fancy words. Just pure, playful rhymes that are fun to read out loud (and believe me, I read it three times in one night!).

And the illustration are so bright and cheerful. There’s this clever little scavenger hunt built, which kept my daughter totally engaged. She was flipping back through the pages looking for him before I even finished the story. That interactive element made the picture book feel like an experience. I also appreciated the subtle lessons layered in — about being kind, about listening, about building confidence through baby steps.

I’d say this children’s book is a win for any child getting ready for school — and for us moms who are trying not to cry behind our sunglasses at drop-off. It’s especially perfect if your child has a sibling because it celebrates that special bond in such a lovely, respectful way. But even if not, Lulu’s bravery stands all on its own.

Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CLRMGPRS | Blueberry Illustrations

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Hello, World!

Hello, World!: A Children’s Book Magical Travel Adventure for Kids Ages 4-8 is a delightful and enriching picture book series that invites young readers and their families on a captivating journey of discovery. Authored by Ekaterina Otiko, this series is a wonderful blend of entertainment, education, and inspiration, ideal for young children and their parents. At the heart of these stories are the titular characters Sophie and Stephie, who lead readers through a series of adventures across the globe. The narrative is not only entertaining but is also designed to spark imagination and creativity in young minds. Including a magical globe, a wise macaw, a playful turtle, and two loyal dogs adds a whimsical charm to the series, making it a hit among younger audiences.

A standout feature of the series is the stunning illustrations by José Gascón. The artwork is both beautiful and engaging, effectively bringing the adventures of Sophie and Stephie to life in a vibrant and visually appealing manner. The illustrations play a crucial role in the storytelling, making the book a reading adventure and a visual feast. Otiko introduces young readers to different cultures, geographical wonders, and global curiosities. The author creatively educates without overwhelming, making learning about the world an enjoyable and memorable experience. This aspect makes this book particularly valuable for parents seeking to combine reading time with educational content. The book is family-friendly, offering an opportunity for quality bonding time. Parents and children can explore the book together, making it a shared experience that is both enjoyable and beneficial for all.

Hello, World!: A Children’s Book Magical Travel Adventure for Kids Ages 4-8 by Ekaterina Otiko is more than just a picture book series; it’s a gateway to a world of adventure and learning. Its blend of imaginative storytelling, beautiful illustrations, and educational content makes it a must-have for families looking to embark on a journey of exploration and fun. This series is sure to create cherished memories and inspire a love for reading and learning in young children.

Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0CLKYZVXQ

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This Book is Dangerous!

This Book is Dangerous! by April Hilland offers an engaging and thought-provoking experience, especially for young readers. It cleverly presents the idea that books can be powerful tools for sparking curiosity and critical thinking. The narrative underscores the reality that, in some places, books are banned because they challenge established norms and prompt difficult questions.

Hilland’s writing is both entertaining and educational, striking a balance that captivates young minds. The book’s central theme encourages children to embrace reading, explore their surroundings, and feel empowered to ask questions and ponder various topics. This aspect of the book is particularly effective in fostering a love for reading and inquiry among its audience. The illustrations in the book are vibrant and play a significant role in drawing readers into the magical world of literature. These visuals complement the story’s message and enhance the reading experience. One of the most impactful aspects of This Book is Dangerous! is its ability to raise awareness about the unfortunate reality of book banning. It subtly educates readers about the existence of banned literature, presenting this in a manner that is appropriate and accessible for young readers.

Ultimately, Hilland’s book serves as an excellent resource for encouraging young readers to be open-minded and explore a diverse range of stories. Its ability to combine entertainment with an important message makes it a valuable addition to any young reader’s library.

Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0CJS28T8Y

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