Blog Archives
Yetis Don’t Wear Bow Ties
In Yetis Don’t Wear Bow Ties, Janice Hostetter introduces readers to an endearing protagonist who initially rejects the idea of trying something new. When Yeti is offered a bow tie, his response is an immediate and firm “no.” Yet, after a moment of consideration, curiosity takes over. He decides to give it a try and to his surprise, he absolutely loves it! Soon, Yeti wants a bow tie in every color and even considers sharing them with his friends. Maybe, just maybe, stepping outside his comfort zone isn’t so bad after all.
This delightful children’s story is packed with humor from the very first page. Yeti’s exaggerated expressions and playful reactions make him an instantly lovable character, one that will entertain readers of all ages. His initial reluctance mirrors the hesitation many children feel when faced with new experiences, making his journey both relatable and inspiring. If Yeti can take a leap and try something different, perhaps young readers will feel encouraged to do the same. Through Yeti’s lighthearted adventure, Hostetter effortlessly delivers a meaningful lesson that new experiences can be exciting rather than intimidating.
Complementing the engaging storyline, Pixy Petal’s vibrant illustrations bring Yeti’s world to life. Nearly every page bursts with color, drawing young readers in and enhancing the whimsical tone of the book. The full-page artwork ensures that each moment is visually captivating, adding depth and charm to the narrative.
Yetis Don’t Wear Bow Ties is a charming, laughter-filled read that will resonate with children and adults alike. Beyond its playful premise, it gently encourages readers to embrace new experiences with an open mind. Packed with humor, heart, and dazzling illustrations, this book is a must-read for families looking to share a story that entertains and uplifts.
Pages: 52 | ASIN : B0DRDRJP2K
Put The Phone Down, Mary Lou
Put the Phone Down, Mary Lou by Bonnie Kostan is a charming children’s book that tells the story of Mary Lou, a young girl who spends her days glued to her phone, and Jake, her persistent friend who tries to coax her into exploring the world beyond the screen. The book is impactful, using vibrant illustrations and straightforward language to deliver a message about the importance of real-world experiences, imagination, and the joy of reading. Throughout the story, Jake encourages Mary Lou to put down her phone, but she remains stubbornly attached to it until a magical moment helps her reconnect with the wonders of life around her.
I loved how the story’s main message was gently unfolded. It was clear from the start when Jake tells Mary Lou, “Put the phone down, there are better things to do,” that this book is about getting kids (and maybe even adults) to look up and see the world. The way Mary Lou’s behavior escalated, dark circles and pale skin, felt exaggerated, but it worked. It made the problem obvious to young readers who might not notice subtle changes in themselves when they’re on their screens for too long. The repeated phrase, “Put the phone down, Mary Lou,” echoes like a gentle reminder, and for kids, repetition can really help drive a message home.
The illustrations by Adeline Thompson deserve a special shoutout. They complement the story perfectly, with Jake’s expressions ranging from hopeful to concerned, and Mary Lou’s transformation from zombie-like to joyful was just heartwarming. One of my favorite parts was when Jake decides to stop nagging Mary Lou and just starts reading his island adventure book out loud. It’s almost like a ‘lead by example’ moment, and seeing Mary Lou’s slow but sure change was satisfying. Plus, the images Jake conjures while reading the island book to himself are vibrant and inviting and shows how powerful and exciting imagination can be.
The picture book Put the Phone Down, Mary Lou is an excellent pick for parents who want to encourage their kids to balance screen time with more active and imaginative play. It’s a short and sweet read with a clear message about the joys of looking up from the screen and finding beauty, fun, and connection in the real world.
Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0CZBFMFC8
Elsie’s Adventures to Brainy Cove
Elsie’s Adventures to Brainy Cove by Whitnee Coy is a delightful and educational story that provides children with valuable tools for understanding and managing their emotions in a fun, engaging way. Elsie, with her big heart and radiant smile, enjoys playing with friends, reading, and exploring. However, like many children, she sometimes struggles with anger when things don’t go her way. She describes her emotions as a balloon growing inside her, threatening to burst. Fortunately, her grandmother recognizes her distress and takes her on a magical journey inside her mind to teach her about emotions and how to stay calm.
One of the standout aspects of the story is its clever use of allegory, particularly the metaphor of a house with different rooms to explain how the brain functions. This approach simplifies complex concepts, such as the role of the amygdala and the brain’s limbic system, making them easily understandable for young readers. As Elsie learns how her brain responds to emotions, she gains practical strategies to calm herself, and children reading along can adopt these same techniques. The charm of the story is matched by its stunning illustrations, which create magical, comforting visuals that beautifully enhance the narrative. The pacing of the story is excellent, with a variety of situations and settings that keep young readers engaged throughout. The tips provided at the end of the book are a thoughtful addition, offering further guidance for emotional growth.
Elsie’s Adventures to Brainy Cove is a wonderful blend of imagination, education, and creativity. It sparks curiosity while promoting a positive mindset, making it an ideal tool for parents and educators alike. Whether for sparking conversation about emotions or simply enjoying a magical adventure, this book is a must-read for young minds.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0D92XFW72
Inspired by a Stuffed Animal
Zeke Comes Out of His Shell follows a young hermit crab living in Southern California who is swept away from home during a storm and must find his way home. What was the inspiration for your story?
Zeke Comes Out of His Shell came to me as a surprise. I am not a children’s author by any means—and I am still learning the ins and outs of writing a book for a younger audience—but writing a children’s book has always been something I’ve wanted to do. This story in particular was inspired by a stuffed animal that I’ve had in my room—a hermit crab! The story’s setting was greatly inspired by San Diego and Southern California in general, as that is where I live.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Particularly with children’s stories, I’ve always enjoyed writing the first page. To me, that’s the most important part of the story—at least for drawing in young readers. The same goes for this book as well. Writing the descriptions of the tide pools and the ocean waves, and introducing the characters, was the best part.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
To me, I felt that keeping the book as factual as possible was very important. I included details such as how hermit crabs find and replace their shells, as well as little references as to what they eat and how they live. Other than that, as the book is for a younger audience, I allowed my imagination to take forth!
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?
For now, I don’t have definite plans to write another book in this series—with that being said, continuing the journeys of Zeke and his friends is something I would like to do in the future.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Website | Amazon
Are you ready to explore the ocean? Join Zeke, a young hermit crab from the sunny coast of Southern California, on his quest to return home after being swept away during a storm. Along the way, he will meet new friends and discover a bravery inside himself that he never knew was there—and maybe you will too.
Zeke Comes Out of His Shell is the perfect adventure for budding readers, lovers of the ocean and the creatures that inhabit it, and those still trying to come out of their shells.
Curiosity and Wonder
With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams centers on a mom reassuring her daughter that she will always be there for her in life and perhaps even in dreams. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for With Love, From Mom: The Journey of Dreams comes from my own experiences as a mother to my daughter, Audrey. Since she was little, we’ve bonded over bedtime stories, and I wanted to write a story that celebrates the bond between a mother and her child. I aimed to capture the warmth and comfort of knowing that a parent’s love is constant and unwavering, both in waking moments and in dreams. It’s a love letter to my daughter and children everywhere, reminding them that they are always cherished and supported.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Gail Rae Javier?
I feel incredibly fortunate to have collaborated with Gail Rae Javier. As a new author, working with her has been wonderful. She brought her own artistic vision to my words, creating whimsical, dream-like illustrations that resonate with both children and parents. Gail’s talent for capturing gentle, heartfelt, and dreamy themes was exactly what I envisioned for the book. I appreciated her artistic point of view, and each illustration beautifully complemented the narrative, conveying the emotions and adventures of the mom and daughter. Her ability to translate my words into vivid, enchanting visuals brought the story to life beyond my expectations.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
There were several key ideas I wanted to convey. First and foremost, the theme of unconditional love and the strong bond between a mother and her child. I also wanted to emphasize the power of dreams and imagination, encouraging children to believe in themselves and explore the world with curiosity and wonder. Additionally, the story supports social and emotional learning (SEL), highlighting themes of love, self-worth, and emotional bonding. It’s important for me that children feel secure in their parents’ love and grow up confident in their individuality.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently working on a new book that continues the adventures of the girl and her bunny from With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams. This time, they travel around the world, learning about different cultures, respecting customs, and immersing themselves in local traditions. It combines education with whimsy, aiming to broaden young readers’ horizons and foster a love and appreciation for the world around us. I’m excited to share that it will be available next year, and I can’t wait for readers to embark on this new journey with us.
I will also be releasing two more books this year in a series called Blossomvale. Curly’s Giving Heart follows Curly the Caterpillar as he learns the importance of balance and self-care while helping his friends. Feather’s Healing Song is a touching story about dealing with loss and finding joy again. Both books explore universal themes of friendship, self-discovery, and resilience, designed to entertain and impart valuable life lessons to young readers. I’m excited to share these heartwarming tales with children and families everywhere.
AuthorLinks: GoodReads | Instagram | Website
Experience the Magic:
“A nurturing sendoff into a dreamworld of playful wonderment.” – Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review, Get It Award)
“Each page feels like a mother’s hug, filled with love and care.” – Readers’ Favorite 5-Star Review
“A whimsical journey of fancy and love in the land of dreams.” – Reedsy 4-Star Review
A Poetic Journey:
Told with lyrical rhymes and vivid imagery, this book invites young readers to dream big and feel deeply loved. It’s perfect for sparking curiosity, fostering a sense of security, and creating cherished bedtime memories.
Award-Winning Author:
Winner of the Golden Book Prize 2024, this beautifully illustrated book is a testament to Gel See’s captivating storytelling and Gail Rae Javier’s stunning illustrations.
Ideal for children of all ages, from newborns to young readers, this book is a wonderful gift for baby showers, birthdays, and special moments.
Join this heartfelt journey of dreams, where a mother’s love lights the way to wonder and self-discovery!
With Love, From Mom: The Journey of Dreams
With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams by Gel See is a heartwarming tale that beautifully captures the bond between a mother and her daughter. The narrative centers on the mother reassuring her daughter that she will always be there for her, both in life and perhaps even in dreams. Together, they embark on various adventures, whether in the real world or the realm of dreams, exploring and sticking together no matter what.
The illustrations perfectly complement the story, showcasing the joyful moments they share, which adds a beautiful visual dimension to their journey. Mother and daughter are vividly depicted, highlighting the mother’s profound love and the daughter’s happiness. The tone of the story is gentle and loving, creating a soothing reading experience. The beautifully illustrated settings enhance the narrative, adding depth and warmth. The pacing is perfect, ensuring that there are no dull moments throughout the story. The story is wholesome and sweet, making it an excellent read for mothers and daughters to enjoy together. The rhyming adds a delightful dynamic, which children will love, reinforcing the story’s clear message: a daughter should always know her mother will be there for her. The illustrations are simply gorgeous—otherworldly and vividly colored, they suit the story perfectly and deserve special credit to the illustrator. The visual appeal adds an extra layer of charm to the already captivating tale.
With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams by Gel See is a beautifully crafted story that encapsulates the unconditional love and bond between a mother and her daughter. Its gentle tone, engaging rhymes, and stunning illustrations make it a delightful read for both children and parents. This heartwarming tale not only entertains but also reassures young readers of their parents’ unwavering support and love. Perfect for bedtime reading or any bonding moment, this book is a must-have for families who cherish heartfelt stories.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0D79KFSMJ
Mr. Flip Flap’s Flip Flop Frenzy
Outdoor activities offer children both joy and enrichment, a theme Shani T. Night masterfully captures in Mr. Flip Flap’s Flip Flop Frenzy. Set against the backdrop of a vibrant beach on a sunny day, the story follows the effervescent Mr. Flip Flap. His exuberant dance and infectious energy draw local children into a rhythmic celebration by the sea. Together, they revel in the radiant sky and sparkling water, creating unforgettable memories and underscoring the timeless pleasure of summer fun with friends.
The narrative brims with energy and positivity, engaging young readers with its dynamic spirit. Night’s language is both simple and rich, balancing short sentences with a robust vocabulary that is ideal for early readers. The rhythmic flow of the plot is a highlight, maintaining a lively pace that captivates and entertains. The playful rhymes stand out, not only fostering a love for reading but also enhancing listening skills and auditory comprehension in young children. The book’s illustrations are equally delightful, using a warm color palette to evoke the essence of a sunny day. The brightness of the characters and the thoughtfully crafted settings perfectly complement the cheerful narrative.
Mr. Flip Flap’s Flip Flop Frenzy, written by Shani T. Night, enchants with its charm and vibrancy. It’s an excellent choice for encouraging a love of nature and outdoor play, sparking young imaginations through its vivid depiction of a joyful beach adventure.
Pages: 31 | ASIN : B0CF2S2VP6
#GrowYourCircle
In Professor Stork’s #GrowYourCircle, readers are introduced to Mila, a young girl navigating the challenges of inclusivity and friendship in her classroom. When a new student from Jamaica arrives, Mila experiences the common hesitancy of reaching out, exacerbated by her forgetting the new girl’s name. This children’s graphic novel skillfully explores the theme of opening oneself up to new experiences and the richness it brings to life.
Mila, following her mother’s advice to “grow your circle,” finds the courage to approach the new girl, Lettie, leading to a blossoming friendship. This narrative serves as a charming introduction to the benefits of embracing cultural diversity and forming connections with people from different backgrounds. The inclusion of a character from another country adds a valuable dimension to the story, showcasing the exciting possibilities of intercultural friendships.
Professor Stork employs an enriching vocabulary throughout the novel, with a helpful glossary included for younger readers. The book also features interactive elements such as coloring pages, activities to encourage readers to expand their social circles, a mini-research project about Mila’s real-life heroes, and a recipe for Jamaican coco bread, making it an engaging read. The artwork has a unique style that stands apart from conventional graphic novel aesthetics, offering readers a refreshing and engaging visual experience and inviting them to explore and connect more intimately with the story’s visual narrative.
#GrowYourCircle is more than just a story about making a new friend; it’s a journey toward understanding the value of inclusivity and the joy of discovering new cultures and perspectives. The novel is a commendable effort to educate young readers about the importance of being open and friendly, highlighting that the rewards of such an approach are indeed profound.
Pages: 87 | ASIN : B09ZJ4DC3G
LITERARY TITAN 