Blog Archives
Frizzy Lizzy
Frizzy Lizzy, a charming children’s book by Liz Leonard, takes readers on an adventure with Lizzy as she navigates a weekend filled with biking, hiking, and unexpected turns. During a hike with her father and sisters in search of a hidden lake, the family finds themselves lost, and it’s Lizzy’s resourcefulness, with just a pocketbook and a snack, that becomes crucial to their adventure.
This book engagingly highlights the resilience and ingenuity of children. Its vibrant illustrations are a visual delight, offering young readers a feast for the eyes and complementing the narrative beautifully. Initially, one might assume the story centers on Lizzy’s frizzy hair, yet it unfolds into a deeper narrative about Lizzy adjusting to a weekend with her father, hinting at the complexities of a separated family. The portrayal of the stepmother character, depicted as somewhat irritable, opens a conversation about the diverse dynamics of blended families, an increasingly common reality in today’s society. The rhyming scheme of the book adds a light-hearted and enjoyable rhythm to the story, making it an accessible and enjoyable read for its young audience.
Frizzy Lizzy offers more than just an entertaining story; it subtly weaves in themes of family, adaptability, and the joy of outdoor adventures, making it a thoughtful addition to a child’s reading collection.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CGS18L2N
Monstrously Clever (Happy Tails)
Monstrously Clever, by Michele L. Sayre, part of the Happy Tails Series, presents an engaging narrative set in Monster Point, a unique town where humans and monsters coexist peacefully. This children’s book centers on Mori, a young witch, who, along with her diverse group of friends including Daffodil the Fairy and Joe the Human, orchestrates the Halloween festivities. The story cleverly explores themes of acceptance and friendship in a world where not everyone embraces the idea of humans and monsters mingling.
Sayre’s writing effectively portrays the interactions between the magical and human realms, offering a narrative that champions diversity and inclusivity. These memorable characters, crafted with charm, navigate challenges and demonstrate that differences are not just to be tolerated but celebrated as strengths. This message is subtly yet powerfully interwoven throughout the book, emphasizing that true friendship can transcend any obstacle.
The illustrations add depth and vibrancy to the narrative, with each page radiating life and emotion. The book also playfully nods to popular culture, as evidenced by a subtle reference to Stargate: SG-1, adding an additional layer of engagement for readers. The book culminates in a resonant message: individual choices and actions are pivotal in shaping a better world. Emphasizing the strength of friendship and the importance of embracing diversity, Monstrously Clever imparts a poignant and lasting impression.
Ideal for readers of all ages, this book is particularly well-suited for home reading or educational settings. It not only entertains but also imparts a meaningful lesson about the impact of tolerance and the beauty of diversity. Monstrously Clever invites readers to reflect on the significance of personal choice and the power of unity in creating a more accepting and inclusive world, possibly finding that the essence of Monster Point isn’t so far from our own reality.
Pages: 101 | ASIN : B0CN5BZ335
Monsters Have Feelings
Monsters Need Breaks Too! follows well-known monsters who, after a hard day of work, doing whatever it is monsters do, need some downtime to process their own feelings and just relax. What was the inspiration for your story?
After the Pandemic, it felt like the world just hit the ground running as everyone around me, myself included, was getting back into activities and making themselves busy again. I saw my kids struggle to get back into the routine of schedules and places to be. We were talking about how to create balance in our lives again after such an upheaval, and taking more frequent breaks was one of our ideas. I often use drawing as a way to take a break and reset. During one of my fun drawing breaks, I began drawing cute monsters and started with the Lochness monster. I thought it would be funny to imagine the Lochness monster taking a bath in a tub. Soon after I imagined the Kraken with an ice cream and drew him under the sea with sunken ships. I would post my images on Instagram with funny captions because they made me laugh, and I thought others would find it funny as well. This book started with a few funny illustrations, but as I looked at the images, I started to imagine the pictures as snapshots of the story. What had happened before this scene, and why would the Lochness monster be taking a bubble bath? Why would Kraken be eating an ice cream? Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by monsters, mythical creatures, and cryptids, and love to think about them being a lot like us. It was funny to imagine what kinds of things would be frustrating to monsters, and then my book grew from there.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted the idea that monsters were a lot like us to really come through in the story so that anyone could identify with the emotions in the book. I think using monsters gives the story a universal reach because there are no limitations on who could see themselves represented in the story. I liked the idea that monsters have feelings and that sometimes their feelings get hurt, or they get frustrated like we do. Secondly, I really wanted the readers to think about ways they can take breaks in their own lives when they get overwhelmed or are feeling uncomfortable emotions. I wanted to help the reader brainstorm in a humorous way, things they could do to reset.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
This is my first book, and some of my goals were simple at first; to simply accomplish the task of writing, illustrating, and publishing a book. Beyond that monumental goal I set for myself, I wanted the illustrations to tell most of the story, and I wanted my story to be clear and well-written. This was a huge learning experience for me. I’ve been illustrating for years and have written many stories in my life, but I’ve never shared them with the public until now. This was a major milestone for me as I’ve wanted to publish a children’s book since I was in college. It was one of those dreams in the back of my mind that would come and go. I took some courses during the pandemic and afterwards that introduced me to the tools needed to accomplish this goal, and I was finally able to bring it to life!
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?
I am currently working on another book in this series that is called (for now) Monster Problems from A-Z: Addiction to Zoning Out. We loved reading books to our children, and I really appreciated writers who wrote funny books that we could laugh with and also books that were geared toward the parents, too. Books that are fun for kids and parents to read together promote more interaction and conversation and is a BIG goal in writing the Monsters series.
Author Links: GoodReads | Reedsy | Facebook | Website | Amazon
As we journey through the pages of this book, we’ll meet a captivating array of monsters, each indulging in their preferred break time activities. The vibrant illustrations, lovingly crafted by the talented artist and author Stacie Green, bring these creatures to life in the most enchanting and adorable way imaginable. With a touch of humor and a sprinkle of fun, the artwork adds an extra layer of joy to the story, captivating young readers and igniting their imagination.
Monsters Need Breaks Too! is an invitation for children to embrace the importance of self-care and discover their own unique methods of finding joy and tranquility. Through the magical adventures of these marvelous monsters, children learn that moving their bodies, indulging in breaks, and expressing themselves through art are all essential ingredients for a happy and balanced life. We all experience moments of grouchiness and feeling down, but by practicing self-care and taking breaks to improve our moods, we can find our inner joy once again.
So, let us join these lovable monsters on their journey as they impart their wisdom and teach us valuable lessons about the power of self-care and finding happiness. Within these pages, we’ll discover that everyone, even monsters, needs a break now and then, and that taking care of ourselves is truly a magical endeavor.
Capable of Big Dreams
In T-Rex and Tuck Explore Outer Space, a young boy and his pet dinosaur teach readers about celestial bodies while embarking on an imaginary journey into outer space. What inspired you to write this children’s book?
The inspiration for the entire T-Rex and Tuck Explore series comes from my son, Tucker. He has always been fascinated with outer space and the moon. He received a telescope for his birthday last year which inspired this particular story.
Imagination is such an integral part of childhood. Are any of your own childhood imaginings part of T-Rex and Tuck’s story?
I remember having a love for outer space facts when I was a child. There was one book in particular that was a favorite of mine because of the sheer size of the book. It was approximately 20×16 and with the pictures of different types of galaxies and planets, I have always found it all awe-inspiring. I would use that book and pretend to teach my students (at the time that meant my baby dolls) about the universe. So, I guess with those childhood memories along with my son’s interest, this book was destined to exist.
What is one thing you would like young readers to take away from this book?
I hope this story inspires young readers to use their imagination. Pretend play is such an important part of childhood. I hope every reader takes away the belief in themselves at the end of the story as well. I end all of my books and my in-person readings with positive affirmations. “I am brave. I am strong. I am smart. I am kind.” I truly hope as my author journey continues that one of the biggest takeaways for all readers is a belief that they are capable of big dreams.
Can we expect to see more from T-Rex and Tuck soon? When will your next book be available?
I am very excited about the next T-Rex and Tuck book that will be available in time for the holidays. T-Rex and Tuck Explore the Kitchen is the title of book 3. T-Rex and Tuck bake a cake with Tuck’s mom. They not only make a delicious cake but quite a mess as well. This particular story will help young readers understand the importance of patience and how much fun baking can be especially when you do it with people you love.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | Website | Amazon
I Love Mysteries
Detective Natty and Doggy Dale Follow the Clues is a collection of engaging mysteries for children featuring Natty and her invisible friend Doggy Dale. What was the inspiration behind this children’s book?
My inspiration for writing this mystery book series was my love of mysteries. I have always loved reading mysteries from Nancy Drew to Agatha Christie and enjoyed reading mystery books with my kids. These books included Cam Jansen, Encyclopedia Brown, and The Baby-Sitters Club. Scooby-Doo has always been a favorite of mine and makes an appearance in one of the mini mystery books. As I worked through the various iterations of the book the idea of a ghost dog and how he helped Detective Natty’s famous great-grandparents solve mysteries.
What is your background and experience in writing, and how did it help you write Detective Natty and Doggy Dale Follow the Clues?
I have always loved reading and writing and have been writing for most of my life. Throughout the years I have taken many writing courses and belong to several writing groups to continue to develop my skills as a writer. I have published several award-winning children’s books in addition to four nursing books.
The art in this book really meshes well with the storyline and adds to each mystery. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator?
Ashleigh Heyns (illustrator) is a talented and creative illustrator. We collaborated on one of my picture books No Dinosaurs Allowed and she was a delight to work with. The illustration process for Detective Natty and Doggy Dale Follow the Clues was a collaborative effort between Ashleigh, Callie (Editor and Publisher from Clear Fork Press) and me. I shared my vision for the book and then Ashleigh did her magic and we all reviewed and agreed upon the illustrations. I am blessed to be a part of this “Dream Team” and look forward to creating the future books in this fun new mystery series.
Can you give readers a hint as to what Natty and Doggy Dale will be up to in book two of the series?
I am excited to share some hints about the next book in the series. Readers will also find some clues
about the next book at the back of the current book.
Book two takes place at the amusement park and will include the main characters and a cast of diverse supporting characters. Detective Natty and Doggy Dale will be on the case as they follow the clues to help their friends find their missing items.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Detective Natty and Doggy Dale Follow the Clues
Natty and her friend Doggy Dale are skilled detectives. The duo has been practicing solving mysteries for quite some time now, and they have a new case on their hands. Harry’s shoe has gone missing. If he doesn’t find it soon, his mom won’t allow him to go to football practice. Natty and Dale soon get to work, finding clues and taking notes. Natty is eager and Doggy Dale, who learned his detective skills from Natty’s great-grandparents, is right by her side. Will they be able to solve the case in time?
Detective Natty and Doggy Dale Follow the Clues, by Deborah Hunt, is an engaging children’s book featuring Natty and her invisible friend, Doggy Dale. Natty and Doggy Dale make a wonderful pair. Natty pays attention to details and takes her work seriously, while Doggy Dale is good at finding clues. The book is filled with exciting adventures, and each mystery is its own unique story. This easy-to-read book is ideal for younger readers. The illustrations throughout Natty and Doggy Dale’s story are expressive and detailed, drawing readers further into each mystery. I like that the author includes a summary following each mystery. This aspect of the book enhances comprehension for young readers.
Detective Natty and Doggy Dale Follow the Clues, by Deborah Hunt, is a fantastic gift for any child. Teachers in elementary grades will find Hunt’s book to be the perfect length for a fun read-aloud. I recommend it to all parents, guardians, and teachers who are looking for interesting children’s books to add to their libraries.
Pages: 60 | ASIN : B0CCR9V6T4
