Blog Archives
Be In Love With Your Own Life
The Things I Love follows a little boy and his mother who are looking through a cherished memory book at bedtime. What was the inspiration for your story?
I said “no” to my daughter when she was two or so, and it hurt her feelings. My mom said to me, “You’re her first love,” to which I responded in my head, “I loved her first.” I wrote the story about my daughter but happened to be pregnant with my son, so I decided to change the story to imagine what things he would love to do.
The book’s art is fantastic and really brings the memories to life. Can you tell me more about the collaboration process with illustrator Jenny Slife?
I had such a fun and fulfilling experience working with Jenny and continue to be grateful that she took a chance on me (and this book) when I reached out through Instagram. We would meet over zoom where she could show me sketches live and we could collaborate real-time on what we envisioned. I told Jenny I wanted it to be like the Adventure Book from the movie “Up,” and she delivered. The most exciting part of our collaboration was when we decided to have certain photos jump off the page as though the reader were experiencing it live.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share with children and their families in this book?
I realized after I wrote the book that “it’s really for the moms” (said with a chuckle), particularly that last page. Besides the depth of a mother’s love, what’s important is being in love with your own life – experiencing different activities, holding onto the memories, and growing along the way.
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?
Actually, I hadn’t considered a series until this question – and I’m so glad you posed it! I’m happy to report that I have the girl edition already underway, and, of course, she has her own varied interests. I’m aiming for a 2025 publication date. I’m also working on the Spanish translation of The Things I Love, along with a separate book that discusses how love can be quite messy.
Author links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Instagram
A short book with fewer than 200 words, The Things I Love engages readers in the process of getting older, exploring interests, and feeling the depth of the mother-child relationship.
It’s bedtime! A boy and his mother snuggle up with his memory book to relive all the many things he loves. But what does he love most of all? Part “what boys are made of” / part mama one-upping her son, this story will stir up nostalgia, give ideas for a kid bucket list, and pull on the heartstrings.
This bedtime countdown story is intended for children ages 2+ and is an award-winning and five star industry-reviewed book. The hardcover book is printed on bamboo paper with soy-based ink and includes an embossed dust jacket for a tactile experience.
The Things I Love
In The Things I Love, Christina M. Carroll weaves a nostalgic and whimsical tale, inviting young readers to join a boy’s journey through his cherished childhood memories. The narrative counts backward from the age of ten, capturing the essence of youthful adventures — from camping and imaginative play to hiking, rollerblading, walking the dog, practicing karate, and even the simple joy of rolling in the mud and chewing on his toes. Through the protagonist’s reflections on photographs with his mother, the book celebrates the bond between parent and child.
Carroll’s storytelling is both engaging and relatable, marked by a delightful use of rhyme that adds rhythm and charm to the narrative. The vivid and captivating illustrations complement the text, holding the attention of young readers and sparking their imagination. The warmth and love conveyed through the little boy’s recollections are palpable, creating a heartfelt reading experience. This book serves as a wonderful tool for parents and children to explore together, encouraging them to share their own precious memories. Carroll’s writing style is lively and entertaining, making The Things I Love an enjoyable read for both adults and children. It stands out as a thoughtful choice for bedtime stories or interactive reading sessions, fostering a love for storytelling and a sense of connection across generations.
The Things I Love, by Christina M. Carroll, is a delightful narrative that not only entertains but also fosters a deep sense of nostalgia and connection, reminding us of the simple joys of childhood.
Pages: 25 | ISBN : 979-8-88974-000-1
LITERARY TITAN 