Blog Archives
The Backyard Detectives: Operation Family Mystery
When I first opened The Backyard Detectives, I thought I was stepping into a lighthearted story about kids solving a simple puzzle. Instead, I found myself pulled into Rose and Jacob’s tender, brave attempt to piece together the truth about their family. It starts with whispers in the night, a word spoken that shakes their world, and from there the children form their detective agency to uncover what their parents won’t say out loud. The story follows them as they gather clues, scribble notes, and stumble into painful truths about divorce, betrayal, and the shaky ground of family change. Beneath it all, it’s about love, resilience, and the way siblings can hold each other up when the world feels like it’s falling apart.
Reading this book stirred a lot in me. I was moved by how raw and honest the writing felt, especially when seen through the eyes of kids who don’t have the words yet for heartbreak but feel it anyway. The mystery framework was clever, but what really struck me was how the author captured the silence that children notice, the small details that adults think slip by but never do. I felt protective of Rose and Jacob, and at times, I caught myself clenching my jaw at the father’s actions. The scenes in the attic, with the hidden box of photos, hit me hard. I could almost feel the air leave the room. The emotions were messy, which made them real.
At the same time, I admired how much heart there was in the writing. Even with the storm of lies and loss, the book never gave up on hope. Rose and Jacob’s loyalty to each other carried everything. I loved how they shifted from being detectives chasing secrets to being, in their own words, the “Heart Team” who protected their mom and each other. That small twist made me tear up. It reminded me of how children often shoulder more than they should, yet they still find a way to turn pain into strength. The dialogue felt authentic, and the pacing kept me hooked. There were moments of laughter too, light scenes tucked into the heaviness, and they mattered just as much as the heartbreak.
The story doesn’t pretend that everything will be okay right away, and I appreciated that. It honors the confusion and grief while still pointing toward healing. I’d recommend this book to parents who want to help their kids navigate big changes, to kids who need to feel seen when their family is breaking apart, and to anyone who has lived through divorce and wants to see that story told with care. It’s not just a children’s book. It’s a reminder that even in brokenness, love can still hold.
Pages: 86 | ASIN : B0FDVKSRRH
Sparky’s Night Adventure
Readers will embark on a journey into a mesmerizing realm with Sparky’s Night Adventure. Meet Sparky, a daring firefly with an insatiable curiosity who thrives on exploring the mountains of Tennessee under the cover of the night. One fateful evening, beneath the radiant glow of a brilliant moon, Sparky stumbles upon an uncharted path, leading him to an encounter with other kindred fireflies. Together, they set off on a celestial dance of play and delight across the night sky.
Sparky’s Night Adventure, by Christal Majestic, is an exquisitely crafted children’s book that beckons young readers to embrace the unknown with open hearts. I couldn’t help but share in Sparky’s exhilaration as he discovered companions who mirrored his adventurous spirit. Sparky’s lust for life is contagious, and I found myself admiring his unwavering character. This picture book is a treasure trove of life lessons, gently teaching young minds that stepping out of their comfort zones can lead to unexpected and joyous discoveries. Majestic’s endearing story is tailor-made for budding readers eager to test their literary wings.
In Sparky’s Night Adventure, you’ll find a narrative that is not only visually stunning but also brimming with a spirit of adventure that resonates with readers of all ages. It’s a moving reminder that life’s greatest treasures often lie just beyond the horizon of our comfort zones, waiting to be explored. Dive into the magic of Sparky’s world and watch as young hearts are ignited with the same spark of curiosity and courage.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0C8RBJV9D
Being The Best You
Ruby the Emotional Stingray follows a stingray family who, together, teach and learn how to manage their emotions. What was the inspiration for your story?
As an adult, I have struggled with understanding and processing my emotions, and I’ve always said I wish I would’ve had a way to learn this sooner. After my grandfather passed away, I was at the beach by myself, watching the sun come up, and I finally decided that I was going to be the one to create such a book. If I could help just one child learn and understand their emotions, what causes them, and how to control them that’s the difference I want to make.
Children are often fascinated by aquariums and all the different sea life in the ocean. What made you choose a Stingray for your main character?
I have always been drawn to aquariums myself, so much so that it is my goal to visit every aquarium. I came up with Ruby when I was at the beach last year. I got up every morning before the sun came up to welcome the day and spend time with the animals. every morning I would walk the beach and I would see the same baby stingray every morning. I would sit and watch it, and that’s when I knew I had to finally start my dream of writing a book. Stingrays are amazing creatures, and it seemed very fitting. Stingrays have always been my favorite.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
My main goal was to give tools that would be easy to remember but strong enough to make a difference. Emotions can have a huge impact on your day-to-day life, and having that outlet and understanding can make a major difference.
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?
Yes, this is the first book in the series but not the last by far! I expect the next book will be out before Thanksgiving of this year. Right now, there is a journal that goes with the lessons that Ruby has learned that children can use to put these tools to use. The next book will cover some very important topics essential to learn at a young age such as self-love, being the best you, and other topics that will help make kids feel like they are not alone. It will give them easy tools that will have a positive impact on their growth.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Website | Amazon
This book follows the journey of Ruby as she learns to navigate her emotions and communicate effectively with those around her. Throughout the story, readers will meet Ruby’s family and best friend Diamond, and witness her experience a range of emotions, including anger, fear, and sadness. With the guidance of her parents, Ruby learns valuable skills for managing her emotions and handling difficult situations. Overall, Ruby the Emotional Stingray is a heartwarming and educational story that will resonate with readers of all ages.
Ruby The Emotional Stingray
Ruby the Stingray is three years old and has all the emotions that come with being an active youngster. She reacts quickly and without first thinking. Ruby is learning, though. Her parents are diligent and intentional with their lessons on controlling reactions to emotions and remembering to think before she speaks. Being little is certainly hard, and Ruby is in the perfect position to help her little brother navigate the same emotional waters. From accidents to dangerous situations, Ruby does a wonderful job keeping herself calm and thoughtful and passing her knowledge on to her brother.
Ruby the Emotional Stingray, by Christal Majestic, is a unique children’s book written with parents and toddlers in mind. Majestic’s main character, Ruby, is typical of every little one who reacts with intense emotion and tends to lash out before giving themselves think-time. She is the ideal character for the 2-5 age group. Young children and emerging readers will find the author’s memory tools for remaining calm easy to remember and even easier to use. Majestic’s story provides parents who may be at their wit’s end with a wonderful strategy that can be immediately employed.
Majestic’s illustrations are precious. Sweet, expressive faces against bold but simple backgrounds dominate the pages. Readers will find themselves focused on Ruby and the other characters’ faces as they grapple with each trying situation. Majestic clearly understands the importance of conveying emotion through both text and illustrations.
As a mother, I would love to have had a book like this when discussing self-control and how to remain calm in stressful situations with my little ones. Majestic’s contribution to the parenting genre is invaluable. I will, without a doubt, gift Majestic’s fantastic story to my friends and coworkers who are currently fighting the good fight with their headstrong toddlers.
Pages: 43 | ASIN : B0BFVCL9M2
LITERARY TITAN 