Blog Archives
Maddy & Apollo’s Magical Garden Adventures
Maddy is a spirited young girl with strong feelings, and not the warm and fuzzy kind, about fruits and vegetables. She’d prefer a world without them altogether. But with her loyal dog, Apollo, by her side, she’s about to discover just how essential these colorful bites can be. In a whimsical twist, Maddy stumbles upon a magical garden powered entirely by the very foods she despises. To unlock its wonders, though, she must be brave enough to taste them. If she wants the extraordinary abilities the garden promises, she’ll need to step outside her comfort zone and maybe even admit that fruits and veggies aren’t so bad after all.
Maddy and Apollo’s Magical Garden Adventures, written by Ali Josselet, is a charming illustrated children’s book aimed at preschoolers through early tweens. In the tradition of timeless classics like the Berenstain Bears, Josselet delivers a tale with a gentle moral wrapped in a vivid, engaging narrative.
Many children wrestle with picky eating, but Maddy takes it a step further, launching a full-on rebellion against two major food groups. Her disdain is intense, and Josselet uses this strong aversion to build a clever metaphor: magical powers as a stand-in for the benefits of proper nutrition. Instead of preaching, the story invites readers into a world where curiosity, imagination, and a little culinary bravery are rewarded.
Rather than relying on logic or lectures, which rarely work on young kids, the book draws them in with mystery, fun, and a touch of magic. The inclusion of Apollo, a sweet and supportive canine companion, adds emotional depth and approachability. The illustrations are lively and bold, enhancing the story’s playful tone and making the lesson all the more memorable.
Maddy & Apollo’s Magical Garden Adventures is a delightful picture book that blends heart, humor, and health in a way that entertains while it educates. Light in tone but rich in purpose, it’s a joyful adventure through a garden where the true magic lies in open minds and open mouths.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0FG1Q4RCC
Inspiring Children
Oceans of Thoughts Book Four: The Little Pianist follows several children who get together for a playdate, which becomes an adventure in learning and fun. What was the inspiration for your story?
I have been a pianist from childhood and have lived in a music family environment. I have seen different cultures embrace music in their own way, and how they relate to their baby’s attraction to the piano or any other musical instrument. Some mothers encourage the attraction of their children from a very young age, and others hesitate and pull them away from the piano keys, disturbing their flow of their frequency in music within their being. Oceans of Thoughts is an inspirational poetry book series and Book Four falls nowhere short of that inspiration. The Little Pianist is written with a burst of passion and meant to inspire the children, expand their creativity, excite their curiosity, and their science and observation skills.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I wanted to include much of music learning and interest the children in music theory and math skills. My goal was to educate the children along those lines and to show them that interactive learning with educational toys can be exciting and interesting and much fun.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Ali Raza?
Ali Raza is a brilliant illustrator. When I hired him, I told him that I wanted to take this project slowly. I wanted him to understand and to realize the mission on Oceans of Thoughts. It was difficult at first as the interest is to get the work done quickly, but I was not interested in that pace. I was not in a rush. I was interested in a slower pace and getting detailed work with those illustrations. And we persevered and did it . It took a lot more time than usual, but we had a triumphant finish. With patience comes excellence.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
Oceans of Thoughts is an inspirational poetry book series. Occeans of Thoughts Book Four was written after much interest from educators, teachers and parents for a book for the children. I only write from life experiences and so ‘The Little Pianist’ was written and published. The children’s passion is sure to continue. Look out for other books for children in the series.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | X | Website | Amazon | Pinterest | Barnes & Noble
Mrs. Collins and her children, Joselyn, Jonathan and Jenny, invited Mrs. Jeffrey and her daughter Alana to their house one afternoon in June. Jenny and Alana had lots of fun together as they played happily with Jenny’s educational and musical toys. They played music on the pianos and used the abacus, reading books, and other toys that stimulate learning in childhood education. The children’s creativity and observation skills are shared with each other, along with their eagerness and encouragement for learning. All children are invited to dive into The Little Pianist to explore the adventure of reading.
Perfect for children ages 2-8 as a read along book. For children ages 5+ for independent reading.
Pretty in Purple
Pretty in Purple by Andrea Bower is a heartwarming children’s book about Sophie, a seven-year-old girl who wakes up on her birthday to find a glowing, magical figure named Zoe at the end of her bed. Zoe is Sophie’s spirit guide, here to help her navigate life and see beyond what’s on the surface. As Sophie embarks on a new school year in an unfamiliar place, she quickly learns a valuable lesson about kindness, friendship, and the true meaning of beauty. Through Zoe’s guidance, Sophie discovers that what shines from within is more important than how things look on the outside.
I loved how the book tackled such an important message in a way that felt magical and engaging. The moment Sophie sees Jessica, the new girl in class with her perfect outfit and confident air, it’s easy to understand her insecurities. Sophie immediately assumes Jessica is better just because she looks a certain way. But when Jessica turns out to be mean and manipulative during recess, things shift. Seeing Sophie learn that outer beauty doesn’t equal kindness was such a refreshing moment. And then there’s the whole “aura” concept—Zoe teaching Sophie to see people’s energy was such a unique way to illustrate emotional growth. Jessica’s aura starts dull and gray but brightens as she learns to be kind. It’s such a simple but powerful way to show kids how our actions affect the world around us.
I liked how the book avoided making Jessica a one-note “mean girl.” Instead of just punishing her for her behavior, Sophie reaches out, offering friendship and a lesson in empathy. The moment when Jessica admits she thought looking pretty would make people like her was such a relatable feeling. The story does a fantastic job of showing that true friendships aren’t built on appearances but on how we treat each other. By the end, when Jessica’s aura shines as brightly as Sophie’s, it feels earned. The artwork bursts with bright, vibrant colors that make every page feel magical and full of life. The illustrator does a fantastic job of capturing the characters’ emotions.
Pretty in Purple is a wonderful picture book for young kids who are starting to navigate friendships and self-worth. The magical elements make the message feel fun rather than preachy, and the illustrations help bring the story to life. It’s perfect for kids who might feel unsure about their own worth or who need a reminder that kindness is what truly makes someone beautiful.
Pages: 46 | ISBN : 1779623410
Oceans of Thoughts Book Four: The Little Pianist
On a warm and sunlit June afternoon, Mrs. Collins and her three children, Joselyn, Jonathan, and Jenny, welcomed Mrs. Jeffrey and her daughter Alana for a delightful playdate in Oceans of Thoughts Book Four: The Little Pianist, a heartwarming children’s book by author Rosalind Severin McClean. Jenny and Alana, close in age, quickly bonded over an array of educational and musical toys thoughtfully arranged for their enjoyment. From engaging reading books and interactive math games to a variety of musical instruments, there was something to captivate every curious young mind. Even Sheba, the family’s spirited Golden Retriever, along with their two lively cats, Ginger and Tibby, joined in the playful chaos.
What sets this story apart is the palpable sense of creativity that flows through every page. The joy of discovery radiates from the children as they read, explore, and, most notably, gather around the piano, a central element in the story, as Mrs. Collins is a piano teacher. The energy and enthusiasm leap off the page, inviting readers to experience the magic of music for themselves. One particularly delightful moment is Sheba’s playful interaction with the piano, tapping the keys with her paws, an image that’s both charming and memorable.
This book stands out for its unique focus on educational enrichment through play. Few children’s stories place such a strong emphasis on learning tools, especially musical instruments like the piano. The narrative gently promotes early exposure to learning in its most joyful form, encouraging young readers to explore math, reading, and music as gateways to creativity and growth. It’s a gentle reminder that the earlier children engage with these enriching experiences, the more natural and enjoyable learning becomes.
A thoughtful touch at the end of the story is the inclusion of “Interactive Questions For A Child’s Creative Thoughts.” This section features eleven questions designed to reinforce comprehension and engagement, asking readers to recall details such as the book’s title, the names of the visitors, and even the pets. It’s a wonderful way to deepen the reader’s connection to the story while strengthening critical thinking skills.
The illustrations by Ali Raza are nothing short of vibrant and lifelike. Every page bursts with color and detail, offering full-page artwork that complements the text beautifully. These visuals invite young readers to linger, absorbing the intricate scenes and expressive characters. The depictions of Sheba, in particular, stand out as favorites, her playful spirit perfectly captured in each stroke.
Oceans of Thoughts Book Four: The Little Pianist is a delightful blend of fun, education, and artistic charm. With endearing characters, a creative storyline, and exquisite illustrations, it’s a book that will captivate both children and adults alike. It’s a joyful and enriching reading experience and is highly recommended!
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0DPTY7PN8
Lumilore: The Original Story of the Dragon who Glowed
Lumilore by Sabine Ruh House is a beautifully written tale set in an enchanted forest where dreams whisper through the leaves. At the heart of the story is Lumilore, a lilac-colored dragon whose tail shimmers like the Milky Way. One evening, news spreads through the forest that the Sparkling Stream has dried up, throwing the woodland creatures into distress. Determined to help, Lumilore sets off on a quest to restore the stream’s life force, but not without a flutter of self-doubt. As he braves the challenges of the magical forest, he learns that the biggest adversary he faces is his own fear.
The writing is lush and poetic, drawing you right into the magical world from the first page. Descriptions like Lumilore’s “rich velvet coat, the color of lilacs” make the character feel vivid and almost touchable. I adored the imagery of his glowing tail lighting up the forest like the Milky Way; it’s a detail that stayed with me long after finishing the story. The author’s way of using words is whimsical and soothing, and that soft, dream-like quality kept me enchanted. When Lumilore worries about his own strength and abilities, it resonates deeply, capturing how fear and self-doubt can feel like monsters lurking in the shadows. The story shines brightest when Lumilore’s courage blossoms along his journey. A scene that strikes a chord is when Lumilore crunches a dried leaf in the silent night, holding his breath in fear of Grouchylo. The tension there is palpable, and I found myself rooting for him to succeed. But it’s not just the suspense that’s well-crafted; the author cleverly uses Lumilore’s interactions, like with the playful otter and wise cardinal, to show how support from others can lift your spirits. The plot, although simple, is peppered with meaningful moments. The supporting characters, like the otter, add humor and wisdom, balancing the narrative’s emotional weight with lighthearted charm.
Lumilore is a lovely read for children and adults who enjoy a touch of magic mixed with heartfelt life lessons. It’s perfect for readers who love tales of courage and self-discovery wrapped in poetic prose. The book’s themes—self-belief, inner strength, and the power of friendship—are timeless. I’d recommend this book for bedtime reading, as it feels like a comforting lullaby with just the right dash of adventure. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt or needed a reminder of your inner light, Lumilore’s story will leave you glowing.
Pages: 55 | ASIN : B0DC45YS92
Trying New Things Can Be Hard
Charlie Chaloosy Is Often Quite Choosy follows a young boy uncomfortable with change who makes a new friend and learns that trying new things can be fun. What was the inspiration for your story?
I think my inspiration for creating Charlie is a combination of my 34+ years in education, getting in touch with my “inner-Granddaddy” with the advent of 6 grandchildren over the last 4 1/2 years, and having multiple family members that are on the autism spectrum. I see how anxiety and fear can get in the way of children fully engaging in life and trying things they want to do but they lack the social skills and confidence sometimes to even try. My hope for Charlie is that he provides comfort, encouragement and a platform for caring adults to talk with children about having the courage and confidence to try new things. We could all use a nudge sometimes to engage in a micro-adventure by trying something new outside of our regular routine. I hope Charlie will allow children to see how he is locked into his own routine of comfort and predictability but he longs for more so he thinks about it, makes some plans and takes some action.
Charlie’s character is typical of many toddlers who don’t like strange new things, and it takes a lot to try something unfamiliar. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
As I stated prior, sometimes it’s easier to observe something in someone else than it is to be introspective and admit our own fears and apprehensions. It’s as true for adults as it is for little ones. If children can see that Charlie is stuck in his routine but he was willing to try something new, and like it, then maybe they can think about one thing they would like to try that is new for them. If children experience success like Charlie then they can keep adding one new thing at a time. I’m so committed to the growth mindset that I wanted to move the book beyond being conceptually true and leave a little room for every chubby-knuckled little hand that holds this book to have a call to action. I left the final two pages for the reader to share a picture and a story of something new they are committed to trying. I hope this book moves from being a fun sweet story to a keepsake for a child and his or her parents. Each book will have this feature where children will be able to “write their own story.”
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I want this book to help get children fully engaged in their life. I would love for this book to be in the toolbox of parents, educators and therapists as we all work together to launch young children into the rest of their respective lives. Oh, and I want children to love Charlie and to feel comforted and encouraged by his adventures.
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?
This is my first children’s book but Charlie Chaloosy is going to be a series. I have already written other books in the series that will be published and I’m thinking through the timing of when to get them into the production process with the owner of Yorkshire Publishing. Over the next couple of years you can be on the lookout for the following books;
Charlie Chaloosy Goes on a Cruisey (Charlie goes on a great adventure)
Charlie Chaloosy Comes Down with Flusy (Charlie gets sick and has to miss an important school function)
Charlie Chaloosy Ends Up with a Bruisey (Charlie inadvertently gets hurt playing with friends and they have to work it out through forgiveness and understanding)
Charlie Chaloosy Refuses to Snoozy (Charlie refuses to take a nap and misses all the wonderful dreams that await him while he sleeps)
Author Links: Instagram | Facebook | Website
Charlie Chaloosy Is Often Quite Choosy
Charlie Chaloosy Is Often Quite Choosy by Brad Mason is a delightful exploration of a young boy’s journey as he learns to embrace new experiences. The story centers around Charlie, a character whose adherence to routine and preference for familiar things resonate strongly with the typical behaviors of a toddler. Mason’s narrative is both engaging and insightful, offering a mirror for young readers to reflect on their own reluctance to step out of their comfort zones.
What makes this book particularly appealing is its combination of vivid illustrations and Mason’s playful writing style. These elements together create a vivid and immersive world that draws readers into Charlie’s experiences. The illustrations are eye-catching and play a significant role in storytelling, effectively complementing the text. A key aspect of the book is its emphasis on encouraging children to try new things. This theme is presented in a gentle and persuasive manner, making it an excellent read for parents and their toddlers. The inclusion of a section at the end of the book for young readers to jot down something new they’d like to try is a thoughtful touch. It extends the book’s impact beyond the reading experience, inviting children to actively participate and apply the story’s message in their lives.
Charlie Chaloosy Is Often Quite Choosy is a charming and thoughtful book that not only entertains but also imparts a valuable lesson about the joys of discovering new things. Mason’s approachable storytelling makes this book a delightful read for both children and adults.
Pages: 24 | ISBN : 1960810367
LITERARY TITAN 