Blog Archives
Happy Thoughts: Going to the Beach
This sweet little children’s book follows Emma, a young girl with autism, as she heads to the beach with her friends Harper and Jerry. The day is full of excitement, sandcastles, and learning moments. Emma communicates using special waterproof cards her mom made, and through her friends’ kindness and understanding, the story shows how love and patience make adventures fun and safe for everyone.
I really liked how real the story felt. It didn’t sugarcoat things but still stayed gentle and positive. The way Emma’s excitement sometimes turns into overwhelm was so true to life, and the way her friends helped her made me smile. The writing is simple, but it fits perfectly for kids. I felt a lot of warmth from it, like a big sunny hug.
What really stuck with me was the message about friendship. Harper and Jerry never judged Emma, and that’s such an important thing for kids to see. The story didn’t feel preachy, just kind. The vibrant, cartoon-style illustrations depict heartwarming scenes of diverse characters. The illustrations are colorful and happy, matching that summer beach vibe. The writing has this rhythm that makes it feel like a conversation with a child, curious, honest, and full of energy.
I’d definitely recommend Happy Thoughts Going to the Beach by Lisa Jacovsky for kids around preschool or early elementary age. It’s perfect for storytime, especially for families or classrooms that want to talk about autism and inclusion in a positive way. It’s the kind of picture book that teaches empathy without even trying too hard. A good one to curl up with before a trip to the beach or anytime you just need a smile.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0FHL3Q61L
Just Be You
In Just Be You, Valerie Whetstone introduces readers to Pixie, a young fairy whose life is turned upside down when her parents announce they’re leaving the comfort of Fairy Town for the unfamiliar world of Humanville. For Pixie, this news is more than unsettling; it’s earth-shattering. Fairy Town is where she belongs, where she’s free to be herself without fear of judgment. In Humanville, she must conceal her wings and blend in with human children, a task that proves far more complicated than she expects.
Once relocated, Pixie begins attending a new school, and the struggle to hide her true identity intensifies. Every attempt to mask her wings ends in disappointment. Despite her best efforts, nothing seems to work. But Pixie isn’t ready to give up; she tries one final solution. Will it succeed? Readers will find themselves eagerly turning the pages to discover whether Pixie’s bold move brings the acceptance she longs for or something even greater.
This charming tale is not only captivating but also imparts a resonant message. As Pixie wrestles with the pressure to conform, young readers are gently reminded of the power of authenticity. Her journey encourages children to embrace what makes them unique, reinforcing that trying to change who you are for others rarely brings true happiness. Instead, the story champions self-acceptance and honesty as the most empowering path.
The book’s back matter adds depth and interactivity that further enriches the reading experience. Whetstone includes a “Mirror Exercise” that encourages children to speak kind affirmations to themselves, an empowering activity that nurtures self-esteem. A whimsical recipe for Sprinkled Fairy Pancakes, introduced earlier in the story, adds a touch of fun and magic. Additionally, a Journal/Affirmations section invites young readers to reflect, draw, and express gratitude, promoting emotional awareness and self-love. Children can also create lists of “power words” to reinforce their inner strength.
The illustrations by Mel Schroeder are nothing short of enchanting. Every page bursts with warmth and color, pulling readers further into Pixie’s world. Schroeder’s talent shines through in each vibrant, full-page spread, harmonizing beautifully with the narrative.
Just Be You is a heartfelt and empowering picture book that encourages children to stand tall in their individuality. It’s an engaging, thoughtful read with endearing characters and stunning visuals, an excellent resource for parents and educators alike. A truly uplifting story with a timeless message.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0DNQHFTTG
Definitely: A Story of Empathy and Kindness
Definitely: A Story of Kindness and Empathy invites readers into a single, eventful day in the life of Matthew, a spirited, curious young boy heading off to school with excitement and grand plans, most of which revolve around his love for bears and time with friends. As the day progresses, Matthew finds himself navigating a series of small but significant mishaps, familiar hurdles for any child. He forgets his backpack, loses a crayon, knocks over a friend’s block tower. Yet, rather than becoming overwhelmed, he learns to manage these moments with the gentle support of his classmates.
Through these ordinary yet impactful situations, the story subtly introduces themes of empathy, perseverance, and collaboration. Each challenge Matthew encounters is met not with scolding or frustration, but with kindness, understanding, and teamwork. It’s a quiet, meaningful lesson in how children can show up for each other, even when the day doesn’t go as planned.
One particularly endearing moment comes early in the story, when Matthew proudly announces to his mom that he’ll be learning about bears at school. That small burst of excitement feels genuine and familiar, a snapshot of childhood curiosity that young readers will instantly recognize. Equally relatable are the scenes where things go awry; they’re not dramatized, just honest portrayals of how a child’s day can take sudden, unexpected turns.
What stood out to me most was how the author, Sara Brown, captures the emotional intelligence of children in such a natural, effortless way. The narrative never lectures. Instead, it shows kids solving problems together, forgiving one another, and staying kind. Even as Matthew forgets things or makes mistakes, his friends remain patient, offering solutions instead of criticism. It’s a refreshing and realistic portrayal of supportive peer relationships.
The illustrations add another layer of charm. Lively, warm, and full of subtle details from the scribbles on the chalkboard, the classroom wall art, even the expressive face of Matthew’s beloved teddy bear, each page offers visual delights that deepen the reading experience.
Parents and educators will appreciate the built-in opportunities for discussion. At the end of the book, a “Think About It” section encourages reflection through gentle questions tied to the story’s themes. It’s an excellent tool for guiding young readers through conversations about problem-solving, kindness, and emotional awareness. And, of course, the long-awaited bear facts Matthew learns bring a fun and informative close to his day, something he (and readers) can celebrate.
Definitely: A Story of Empathy and Kindness isn’t just a story about one boy’s school day. It’s about how children can rise to small challenges with resilience, how kindness becomes a steadying force, and how friendships help shape us. I highly recommend this book to parents, teachers, and anyone working with young children. Thoughtful without being heavy-handed, sweet without tipping into sentimentality, it’s a gem for storytime and beyond.
Pages: 31 | ASIN : B0F1YVF3W4
Always Growing
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
Embrace the Power of Family Bonds
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 | Instagram | Website
Become Better Humans
Cows with Bangs: A Stylish Tale of Acceptance follows an artistic cow with a passion for hairstyling who is mocked by her peers, and eventually earns their respect when the famous Highland Queen comes to see her for a makeover. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for this story surfaced during a public event I attended at a local farm. This farm, Highland Hills Farm in Emmetsburg, Iowa, raises miniature Highland cows to sell as pets. I thought to myself, Oh look, cows with bangs. I knew, in that moment, I had to create a children’s book with that title. I rarely come up with a title first, but in this case, it was too cute not to. My next thoughts were bangs, hair, styles, and cosmetology. I filed the idea away for several months until I was ready to work on the story during Christmas break 2024.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
My stories contain a lesson or two to help young children become better humans. As a teacher, I am with children each day and observe their struggles. Kids are constantly learning how to master the skills they need to navigate life. In doing so, they frequently suffer from hurt feelings. Sometimes kids are misunderstood or mocked by their peers for just being themselves. This was the core situation I decided to present in the character of Claire.
Another concept I hope adults pick up on is how important it is to support kids. Taking the time and giving 100% of your attention, even if only for a minute or two, and speaking kind words can deeply affect a child. This concept was shown through the character of the queen.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I enjoyed the last scene when Claire becomes the herd’s cow-moo-tologist. That play on words always makes people laugh or smile.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently finishing up a chapter book for ages 8-12. That is Book Three in my series The Crustacean Chronicles. It completes the series, which follows Charlie’s Crabby Day and The Sand Sculpture Competition.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Amazon
Claire is an artist with a talent for styling hair, but her passions are not welcomed and her peers shun her. That is until the famous Highland Queen comes to her rescue.
The Queen praises Claire’s skills and requests a hair appointment, causing the others to reconsider their judgment and line up for their own fabulous makeovers.
This charming tale of embracing individuality and gaining acceptance will remind us of the value of being supportive and kind.
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
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
LITERARY TITAN 