Blog Archives
Tales From Brook Meadow – The Tale of the Winter Snow
This cozy little children’s book, The Tale of the Winter Snow, is set in the idyllic Brook Meadow and follows Victor the fox and his woodland friends as they experience the first snowfall of winter. What starts as a cheerful morning filled with snowballs and laughter turns into a tender tale of compassion when the animals find a lost and weary fox named Vixen and her two squirrel companions seeking shelter. The story gently weaves themes of friendship, environmental disruption, and the kindness of community, ending with the newcomers being welcomed into the meadow for good.
I really loved how gentle and kind-hearted this kids book was. It’s sincere and warm, like a hand-knit sweater. The writing is straightforward but carries a calm rhythm that suits a bedtime read. The characters are sweet, and Victor, as the steady, big-hearted fox, feels like the kind of friend everyone would want. The illustrations by Caroline Hazell bring a lovely softness to the tale, too, adding just the right touch of charm. I found myself smiling more than once, especially when the two mice popped up from the snow and greeted everyone.
But what hit me was Vixen’s emotional backstory. The quiet, creeping sadness of losing a home to machines and noise felt very real. It didn’t lecture, but it lingered. This isn’t just about cute animals in the snow; it’s also about displacement, loss, and rebuilding trust. I appreciated that the book didn’t shy away from those feelings. It trusted its young audience—and adult readers too—to sit with those emotions for a bit. That trust makes the story stronger. There’s a quiet bravery in how it handles tough topics with such a gentle hand.
Tales from Brook Meadow is the kind of picture book I wish I had on my childhood shelf. It’s ideal for kids who love animal stories, nature lovers who want a heartfelt read, or families looking to share something thoughtful together. Honestly, it’s just a lovely book—simple, kind, and filled with heart. If you want to feel like the world still has safe, magical places where strangers become friends, this little story is your ticket there.
Pages: 35 | ISBN : 1923306073
Dylan Dover: Orion’s Quest
Dylan Dover: Orion’s Quest is the second book in a fantastical middle-grade series that continues the story of Dylan, a twelve-year-old warlock who finds himself part of an ancient prophecy tied to the fate of an immortal realm. In this sequel, Dylan and his twin Remy, along with their friend Thea and newly found sibling Seth, try to uncover the mystery of their origins and the powerful forces seeking to control them. It’s a high-stakes magical adventure filled with secret societies, time rifts, magical creatures, and the looming threat of a vampire named Baltazar who’s bent on domination. The story blends the mundane human world with a richly imagined supernatural dimension, making for a fast-paced and emotionally engaging ride.
What I liked was the smooth way Lynne Howard mixes heart and suspense. The opening chapter had me hooked—Reus trembling in front of Baltazar, trapped in a cage, hopeless, and yet somehow clinging to the idea of redemption. It’s grim, but not overly dark. Howard knows her audience. Her writing walks that fine line between magical fantasy and grounded emotion.
Howard also shines in how she handles character dynamics. Dylan, Remy, Seth, and Thea each have distinct voices and believable relationships. One of my favorite parts was when the kids return to Dylan’s old neighborhood.
There’s a lot of dialogue unpacking backstory and prophecy details. It doesn’t drag exactly, but I found myself wanting more action or surprises in those parts. That said, the scene where the kids build an invisible cabin in the forest was very cool. Also, Dylan conjuring up a warm coat and diamond-studded boots for his cat was adorable and imaginative. I loved how the magic was practical, emotional, and at times, pretty funny too.
Dylan Dover: Orion’s Quest is a blast. It’s clever, warm, and packed with both heart and high fantasy. It’s perfect for middle-grade readers who love Percy Jackson, Harry Potter, or Keeper of the Lost Cities. I’d even recommend it to grown-up fantasy fans looking for something sweet, mysterious, and a little nostalgic. If you like magical prophecies, talking animals, and the power of found family, this one’s for you.
Pages: 336 | ISBN : 978-1916966673
Award-Winning Books
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA-East follows a friendly snake and his pals who set off together to tour famous landmarks along the eastern coast of the United States. What inspired you to write this children’s book?
Peter Cotton is a retired MUSC Professor living on Dewees Island in South Carolina, writing books for young children about Fred the snake and his friends. Peter grew up in England where the first tale was conceived long ago as a bedtime story for his then-young children about how (not) to cross the road.
When they had their kids, they asked what happened to “Fred-Fred?” (They called him that because he was temporarily divided in an accident). Peter teamed up with a special illustrator (Canadian Bonnie Lemaire) and published the first book When Fred the Snake Got Squished and Mended. Together they now have a series of nine popular award-winning books, having fun in rhyme with Jungle Jim, Perdy, and Jack and several animal friends. They go to school, welcome Jungle Jim, try camping, visit the beach, tour Charleston, and recently have been exploring the sights of the USA. Peter’s books have received numerous 5-star reviews (some mention comparisons with Hillaire Belloc, Roald Dahl, and Lewis Carroll) and 5 Mom’s Choice gold awards. Peter enjoys presenting Fred at schools and libraries.
When not busy with Fred’s adventures, Peter travels widely to lecture, to enjoy his family, and to play golf. He reflects on life, and on his career at www.petercottontales.com/blog, and in his published memoirs The Tunnel at the End of the Light.
Peter says that he was not named after a rabbit.
The artwork in your book is fantastic. What was the collaboration process like with illustrator Bonnie Lemaire?
Easy, she is terrific. Not only draws my ideas but enhances them
What draws you to write books for young readers?
I like writing, having almost a thousand medical papers and 10 textbooks, can’t stop once retired! Grandkids like them, especially Perdy and Jack who feature in the last few books
Can we look forward to seeing Book 8 in this series soon? Where will it take readers?
Books 8 and 9 are published covering USA Central and West See details at www.petercottontales.com/books.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | X (Twitter) | Instagram | Amazon
Hold on tight, and go along on their ride.
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA-East (Fred the Snake Series Book 7)
When Fred The Snake and Friends Explore USA East, book seven in the Fred and Snake series by Peter B. Cotton, takes young readers on a playful, rhyming adventure across some of the most famous cities and landmarks on the eastern side of the United States. Fred, the friendly snake, and his pals board a plane and set out on a whirlwind tour that includes Washington D.C., New York City, Niagara Falls, Chicago, New Orleans, Orlando, and more. Along the way, they marvel at skyscrapers, visit museums, try new foods, and even dream of space travel. The book blends geography, adventure, and humor, making learning about new places feel like an exciting game.
Right off the bat, the book’s rhyming style is fun and bouncy. It keeps the energy up, making it a great read-aloud story. Lines like “Past the Statue of Liberty, it welcomes all who come to visit” introduce history in a way that feels light and engaging. The rhythm gives the book a sing-song quality, though, at times, it leans a little too heavily on keeping the rhyme scheme intact rather than deepening the descriptions. While this makes it easy to follow, I sometimes wished for a bit more storytelling beyond the playful tour guide format.
The illustrations by Bonnie Lemaire are another highlight. They are bright, cheerful, and full of movement, capturing the joy of adventure. Whether it’s Jim flying low under the Charleston bridge or the gang looking up at the towering Freedom Tower in New York, the art makes each location feel alive. One of my favorite moments was the scene at Niagara Falls, where the characters admire the waterfall from a balloon—it’s whimsical and visually exciting. The colorful, cartoonish style fits the tone perfectly and will keep kids engaged.
One thing I really appreciated was the way the book slips in fun facts without making it feel like a textbook. When the story mentions the Freedom Tower’s height of 1,776 feet and why that number is important, it’s an important little history lesson wrapped in an adventure. Similarly, the quick stop at Kitty Hawk to acknowledge the Wright brothers adds a nod to aviation history.
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA-East is a great pick for young kids who love adventure and silly characters. It’s perfect for early readers, especially those who enjoy rhyming books with lively illustrations. Parents and teachers looking for a light introduction to U.S. geography will find it useful, though older kids might want something with a bit more detail. If you’ve got a little traveler at home or a child who loves Fred’s previous adventures, this book is a delightful journey worth taking.
Pages: 48 | ASIN : B09XVL9N5K
Warm Friendly Book
Harry the Hedgehog and the Fireworks follows a little hedgehog who realizes he has anxiety about the upcoming fireworks, and he seeks help from his friends to find a way to enjoy them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I wanted to write a warm friendly book, still wanting to inform of the danger of fireworks. I chose animals as the fear of fireworks is sometimes not realised.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I feel kindness, sharing, and caring should always be a natural human trait. I believe everything starts when we are young.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I really enjoy the sounds of words and describing in making them come alive. I really had fun with writing:
“Bright lights flashed and sparkled into the air with crazy loud sounds.”
“Whoosh! Whoosh! Wee! Wee! Whizz!” The feeling and atmosphere are so prevalent in these few words.”
“Another cartwheel thundered through the sky.”
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have two books on the way at the moment. A middle-grade book, The Unearthing. It is a historical Juvenile fiction book, involving three siblings travelling to discover and meet Prince George II. I have prepared and written another Harry the Hedgehog book. Harry the Hedgehog’s Helpful Harvest. This book, too, will be available soon too.
The historical juvenile fiction book, The Unearthing will out very soon and is published with Olympia Publishing.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Tom McGuire Books | Facebook | Instagram | Amazon
Harry and his friends gather to watch the fireworks show. But the noise and bright lights scare them.
Will they overcome their fear?
Find out in the fifth book in the Harry the Hedgehog series.
The Victorian Era: History for Kids Who Hate History Book 1
Angel Dunworth’s The Victorian Era: History for Kids Who Hate History is a lively and whimsical dive into the fascinating time of Queen Victoria’s reign, as told through the eyes of Punxy, a playful character with a magic guitar that whisks them back in time. The book is a blend of storytelling, history, and imaginative engagement aimed at young readers. It makes the past approachable by weaving historical facts with vibrant illustrations and a touch of humor.
One of the standout qualities of this book is how it distills complex historical ideas into digestible bits without ever feeling dry. The story of Alice explaining how Lewis Carroll invented Alice in Wonderland is both charming and informative. Carroll’s whimsical storytelling origins, as recounted on a boat ride for Alice Liddell, capture the spirit of creativity that defines this era. I found myself smiling at how cleverly Dunworth uses rhymes to make details stick. This technique makes learning feel like a game.
Another highlight is how the book juxtaposes modern life with Victorian innovations, helping kids connect with the past. Punxy’s excitement over seeing an old-fashioned phonograph and realizing it’s now combined into our smartphones is pure joy. The playful “dance of joy” Punxy shares adds a layer of fun and relatability to what might otherwise feel like a dull history lesson. The book also touches on cultural aspects, like poetry and literature, with anecdotes about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. This section shows how creativity in the Victorian era shaped modern storytelling.
The Victorian Era, by Angel Dunworth, is a delightful read that excels in making history fun for kids. Its mix of colorful illustrations, engaging dialogue, and clever rhymes makes it perfect for young readers who might typically shy away from traditional history books. I’d recommend it to children between ages 7 and 12, parents looking for interactive learning tools, or even teachers wanting to add a splash of fun to their curriculum. This book truly rocks and not just because of Punxy’s magic guitar!
Pages: 45 | ASIN : B0DK9PHSH5
The Adventures of Zoli and Her Turbo-Charged Broom
The Adventures of Zoli and Her Turbo-Charged Broom, by Jane Clack, is a whimsical tale that follows a spirited witch named Zoli on her latest escapade. Zoli has eagerly awaited the arrival of her turbo-charged broom. When it finally lands on her doorstep, she is too excited to follow any instructions and takes off immediately. Her thrilling ride sends her soaring through space, navigating breathtaking sights like Saturn’s rings and shimmering shooting stars. However, when her broom breaks down on the moon, Zoli faces the consequences of her impulsiveness. It’s a story packed with humor, lively rhymes, and even some educational tidbits about space.
Right from the start, Zoli’s wild adventure hooked me. The writing’s playful tone mirrors the witch’s uncontainable excitement. The rhymes are catchy and fun, making the story flow quickly, like the broom’s thrilling flight. The narrative rockets from one vivid scene to another. But, honestly, what struck me most was how well Clack captured Zoli’s carefree, slightly reckless spirit. The imagery of her shooting past meteor showers with a cry of “WHOOOOP!” paints her as a character full of zest for life. The descriptions are vibrant and exciting. The mix of fantasy and education is clever.
I appreciated how Clack sneaks in fascinating facts about space in the “Did You Know?” section. The book not only entertains but leaves room for children to learn about our solar system. I can imagine curious young readers buzzing to find out more about planets or looking at the night sky differently. The humor, too, adds a delightful touch, like the astronaut-themed jokes at the end. They might make adults chuckle, and children will definitely giggle, though some puns might feel groan-worthy in the best way possible.
The Adventures of Zoli and Her Turbo-Charged Broom is an absolute joy. It’s perfect for young readers who love adventure with a touch of magic and humor, as well as those eager to learn fun facts about space. Jane Clack’s story is a wild ride, reminding us of the importance of patience without being preachy. It’s a book best read aloud, where rhymes can dance off the tongue and illustrations can captivate. For families looking for an engaging, educational, and giggle-worthy read, Zoli’s adventure is one I’d wholeheartedly recommend.
Pages: 52 | ISBN : 978-1739344313
Good Overcoming Evil
The Fastest Water Pistol in Splodge City follows a young boy visiting with his grandparents in the Arizona desert who winds up in an exciting Wild West showdown adventure. What was the inspiration for your story?
My grandson, Daniel remains the inspiration for my children’s books. During another difficult period of my life he came along just at the right time, and since his birth, he has been a constant inspiration to me. I firmly believe, that in everything we do in life, we need to be inspired – after all, life is not a rehearsal, and nothing is more important than family.
I am a big believer in fate, things happen for a reason, as has happened in my life. I started Biddick Hall Infants School in 1962; Daniel started the same school in 2022. He has called me Papa since he started to talk.
In addition to this, I wanted to write stories that would create escapism for children but at the same time add a dash of magic. I want children to understand that if they work hard, they can play hard too, and behind every marshmallow cloud, there is a dream – because dreams do come true.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Undoubtedly, good overcoming evil is the fundamental message in the book. The story also has a strong moral message, like ‘no one likes bullies.’
I also felt it was important to demonstrate that helping each other can have its rewards.
So, Daniel and his Papa along with the help of some colourful characters defeat the evil gun (water- pistol) slinger, Wild Will Hickory Dickory Jock.
I found Two Clouds to be an interesting character. What was your inspiration for that character and his role in the story?
Good questions, here is the short answer:
I am humbled to be one of the longest survivors of cancer in the UK at fifty years since diagnosis. I wrote my three-dimensional memoir, Me and My Shadow – memoirs of a cancer survivor, in the hope it would deliver hope and inspiration to anyone in society touched by cancer. I mentioned above about the importance of inspiration – my inspiration during the years of failed treatment was the Lakota Sioux Nation, after I read Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, by Dee Brown. In 2018, despite being in the UK, I contacted the tribal council of Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, in South Dakota, requesting a visit. Subsequently, I spent a week on the reservation with the indigenous people who, unknowingly supported me through my cancer journey – whilst there, I was made an honorary member of the tribal council.
In all of my books, there is a Native American. On this occasion, as the story is set in Arizona, then it had to be a Navajo.
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?
So this is the third book in a series of Daniel and Papa. The next release will be early 2025 and is title, Kingdom of Huckleberry Jam. On this adventure Daniel goes it alone and is tasked with saving the kingdom from an invasion of super powered ants, deriving there super power, and growing four- times larger from consuming huckleberry jam – hence their invasion.
Following this book, again likely for 2025, will be, Lunar Von Buella, the Mystical Mouse from Missoula. This is the story of a warlock from the underworld, determined to destroy the American dream with the help (against his will) of a field mouse called Lunar. During his vacation in Montana, and on a trip down the mighty Yellowstone River, Daniel is contacted once again by Two Clouds and tasked with stopping Zagan, the warlock.
Two further titles are complete but without a publication date: Admiral Percival Pigeonforge (the cave of eternal screams). Finally, Mind-Boggling Stories will be published at a future date.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Splodge City is being bullied by a band of evil gunslingers, determined to get their grubby hands on Papa’s book of magic.
Two Clouds, an Indian chief with more magic than there are stars in the sky, whispered an old Indian spell and the surrounding ground began to shake, revealing the entrance to Splodge City.
When the fighting started, the water was flying everywhere. In the corner sat a smelly stranger with bloodshot eyes, which hid a hundred and one evil secrets. Ringo Smarty Farty Pants was his name, and no good tricks were his game. When Spike ‘The Fool’ Gooseberry steals Papa’s black book, it seems that Daniel and his friends are beaten. However, Weston Wolf has other ideas.
Eventually, Daniel stood face to face with Sir Stumpy Slugworm from Spoonstone. Their hands twitched and they both went for their water pistols – SPLOOSH!
But who would be The Fastest Water Pistol in Splodge City?
LITERARY TITAN 