Blog Archives
Santa Claws: A Christmas Tail for Cats
Apollo is a fortunate black cat. He enjoys a warm, loving home, rests comfortably by the fire, and has everything he could ever need. Yet life was not always so kind. Although his memories are faint, Apollo once lived on the streets, struggling to survive. That all changed when he was rescued and brought to an animal shelter. Now, grateful for his second chance, he cherishes every moment of his life. On Christmas Eve, Apollo receives an unexpected visitor—Santa Claus himself. Unfamiliar with the jolly figure, Apollo listens as Santa explains his mission to deliver gifts to children around the world. Curious, the black cat asks if there is a Santa Claus for cats. Santa admits there isn’t but offers to transform into one, a gesture Apollo eagerly accepts. Driven by his past, Apollo hopes to spread the Christmas spirit and help other cats facing struggles similar to his own.
Denise Alicea delivers a heartwarming and meaningful story that resonates deeply. Her ability to convey so much with so few words is remarkable. Through Apollo’s journey, Alicea highlights the challenges faced by pets, reminding readers to value and care for animals. At its core, the story explores themes of home, affection, and selfless giving—perfect lessons for children during the holiday season. The narrative is fast-paced yet thoughtfully structured, ensuring readers remain engaged while gaining insight into Apollo’s experiences and heartfelt thoughts.
Children will find the story both uplifting and relatable. Apollo’s desire to share joy and help others captures the true magic of Christmas. The charming illustrations further enhance the book’s warmth, evoking feelings of comfort, hope, and festive cheer. Together, the words and visuals create an immersive and delightful experience for young readers. Alicea emphasizes empathy, generosity, and kindness—values that extend beyond the holiday season. Apollo and Santa, as characters, are sweet, kindhearted, and serve as wonderful role models for young readers.
Santa Claws: A Christmas Tail for Cats is a beautifully crafted tale that captures the essence of giving, gratitude, and the joy of sharing. It is a perfect holiday read, offering children a fun and thoughtful way to embrace the Christmas season while reminding them to appreciate what they have and extend kindness to those in need. Denise Alicea’s story will undoubtedly warm hearts and inspire young readers to spread love, empathy, and generosity.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DKJPF9S4
Christmas Actually: A festive novel about family and forgiveness
Christmas Actually, by Lisa Darcy, is a heartwarming yet humorously chaotic exploration of midlife, motherhood, career revival, and family dynamics set against the backdrop of the holiday season. Katie, the protagonist, is a once-aspiring photographer grappling with the pressures of parenting, a faltering marriage, and the rediscovery of her professional identity. The story unfolds with relatable messiness and sharp wit, drawing readers into Katie’s world of imperfect Christmases and the quest for fulfillment.
Lisa Darcy’s writing is charmingly down-to-earth, though, at times, it feels a bit overly descriptive. Early in the book, Katie’s chaotic dinner party with her husband’s Mormon colleagues is laugh-out-loud funny yet painfully awkward. The tension between Katie’s desire to reclaim her photography career and her insecurities about keeping up with new technology is palpable. Darcy has a knack for making the reader feel like they’re part of Katie’s bustling household, with all its mishaps and tender moments.
What I enjoyed most were the layered relationships, especially between Katie and her teenage daughter, Lexi. Their interactions brim with a mix of love and exasperation, reflecting the generational clash over social media and self-expression. The holiday theme is cleverly interwoven without being overbearing. Katie’s hesitation to embrace Christmas traditions mirrors her internal struggles, and her eventual engagement with the festive season aligns beautifully with her personal growth. Darcy’s portrayal of the season’s chaos, complete with mismatched decorations and burned pavlovas, is refreshingly real.
Christmas Actually is perfect for readers who appreciate stories about juggling life’s messiness with humor and grace. It’s especially suited for working moms, fans of domestic dramas with comedic undertones, and anyone needing a reminder that life doesn’t need to be picture-perfect to be fulfilling. Lisa Darcy’s relatable characters and sharp observations will leave you smiling—and perhaps reaching for your camera to capture your own “perfectly imperfect” moments.
Pages: 346 | ASIN : B0DCDCFY1B
Boundless Imagination
In A Christmas to Remember, a young girl sets out to renew her best friend’s belief in Santa Claus and the two find themselves on an adventure at the North Pole. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration comes from the joy and magic that stories can bring to people of all ages, especially during special times of the year. My wife, Linda, has a deep love for Christmas and all the wonder that comes with it, including festive films and timeless traditions. I wrote this book as a gift for her, capturing the warmth, hope, and enchantment that the season offers.
What draws you to write children’s literature?
Writing children’s literature allows me to tap into a sense of innocence, curiosity, and boundless imagination. Through these stories, I can create moments of joy, encourage belief in magic, and celebrate the values of kindness and togetherness. Knowing that these tales can spark joy in children, and the child within every adult fills me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Are there any of your own childhood experiences included in this story?
Yes, there are several elements of my own childhood experiences woven into this story. Christmas was always a magical time for me, filled with wonder, excitement, and cherished traditions. One thing that stands out in my memories is that we always had mistletoe in the house, a small but meaningful symbol of Christmas.
We weren’t wealthy, but my parents worked hard to keep the magic of Christmas alive for us children for as long as they could. Their love and dedication ensured that the season felt special, no matter our circumstances. The anticipation, the togetherness, and the small traditions they upheld created a sense of wonder that has stayed with me to this day.
I drew on these feelings of hope, love, and enchantment to shape the story’s themes. My goal was to capture that childhood sense of magic and share it with others, reminding readers of all ages that the true spirit of Christmas comes from the love and joy we share with one another.
Can young readers look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Absolutely! I’m excited to share that I’m currently working on another Christmas book set to be released next year, continuing my love for festive storytelling.
Additionally, Book 2 in the Shamera trilogy is on track for release around Easter, and I can’t wait for readers to continue that journey. Beyond that, I am also co-writing a supernatural horror novel titled The Eye of Vengeance and working on Book 2 in the horror series Ravenswood.
It’s shaping up to be a very busy and thrilling year ahead, with stories for a range of readers, whether they’re seeking holiday magic, fantasy adventures, or spine-chilling horror.
Author Links: Facebook | Website | Amazon
In the snow-draped village where children’s laughter pierces the cold air, “A True Believer” unveils the stirring story of Lily, a young girl with fiery red hair and emerald eyes, facing a profound Christmas revelation. Clad in her pink scarf and bobble hat, Lily writes to Santa in her diary, her faith in holiday magic unwavering. Yet, her spirit is tested when her friend Sophie reveals a sombre truth: Santa might just be a myth. This revelation threatens Lily’s cherished beliefs, but instead of succumbing to doubt, she embarks on a quest to discover the reality of Santa Claus. “A Christmas to Remember” weaves a heartwarming narrative of innocence, faith, and friendship, as Lily and Sophie navigate the true essence of the Christmas spirit, proving that some magic is indeed real. This tale is a testament to the enduring power of belief and the magic that binds us during the festive season.
From the hushed whispers of doubt to the resilient bonds of friendship, join Lily as she seeks to uncover whether the spirit of Santa Claus really exists. This enchanting narrative is a testament to the enduring wonder of Christmas, promising to warm your heart and restore your faith in the magic of the season. Perfect for anyone who cherishes Christmas traditions and the timeless question of what it truly means to believe.
Grandpa’s Christmas Gift
Grandpa’s Christmas Gift, by Istvan Sanyi, is a charming holiday story that takes us to a humble village where a poor family struggles to make Christmas magical. The narrative focuses on two children, Oliver and Francesca, whose heartfelt plea to their late grandfather brings about an extraordinary miracle. Through an angel named Elsa, their grandfather grants them the joy of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, thoughtful presents, and a feast to remember. The story culminates in a heartwarming moment of gratitude and familial love, reminding readers of the spirit of giving and the strength of family bonds.
The writing feels wonderfully nostalgic, almost like a bedtime story from another era. I loved how the snowy setting was described, it really made me imagine a cozy Christmas scene. The story’s central message—that love and kindness can create miracles—is beautifully conveyed. Grandpa’s intervention from heaven and Angel Elsa’s generosity show how even the smallest acts can change someone’s world. The scene where the angel decorates the house and leaves a note from Grandpa made me smile. It was a little predictable, but that’s part of what makes it feel like a classic Christmas tale.
Chloe Nyiri’s illustrations added a lovely charm to the book. The pictures matched the cozy tone of the story and brought the snowy village and the little family to life. One particularly endearing image was of the children dancing in the snow. It was so sweet that I found myself lingering on that page.
Grandpa’s Christmas Gift, by Istvan Sanyi, is a delightful story that will resonate with families looking for a wholesome holiday read. Its simplicity is both its charm and its limitation, but it shines brightest in its earnest message of love, faith, and generosity. I’d recommend it to young readers, parents who enjoy reading aloud, and anyone needing a little reminder of the magic of Christmas.
Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0CP9JJR1Q
A Christmas to Remember
In the picturesque village of Santaclausby, young Lily eagerly anticipates the arrival of Christmas. Yet her excitement falters when her best friend, Sophie, begins to question the existence of Santa Claus. Undeterred by doubt, Lily resolves to rekindle Sophie’s belief in the magic of the season. Their determination leads them on an unexpected journey, culminating in a mysterious invitation to the North Pole that sweeps the girls into a whirlwind of enchantment and holiday wonder.
A Christmas to Remember captures the charm of two young girls as they strive to revive their village’s fading holiday traditions. Lily and Sophie are portrayed with warmth and sincerity, their dedication shining through every page. With the help of Jingles the Elf and the encouragement of kind-hearted villagers like Mrs. James, the pair uncovers long-lost magic while delving into the history of their home. The journey to the North Pole serves as the story’s crowning moment, offering a richly imagined setting that sparks delight and vividly showcases the author’s adept use of language. At its heart, the book conveys a powerful message of hope and kindness. Small acts, it suggests, hold the potential to create meaningful change. This theme resonates deeply, transcending the boundaries of the Christmas season. One missed opportunity lies in the character of Willow the Dog, whose absence from the main adventure feels like a significant omission. A more prominent role for Willow could have added depth and charm to the story, enhancing its emotional appeal. The book’s underlying themes and heartfelt narrative shine through. It emphasizes the importance of community, joy, and resilience, offering a tale that inspires readers to spread kindness wherever they can. Recommended for readers aged 10 and up, A Christmas to Remember does include mentions of mortality, which may require sensitivity for younger audiences.
This whimsical tale of friendship, discovery, and the enduring magic of the holiday season leaves a lasting impression. It remains a touching and imaginative exploration of Christmas spirit, earning its place as a charming read for wintery days.
Pages: 190 | ASIN : B0DKZSBPJ8
Creating Lasting Memories
In The Christmas Kittens, readers are treated to photos and rhymes that convey the warmth and joy of the Christmas season. What inspired you to write this book?
The inspiration for The Christmas Kittens came from wanting to create a lasting memory for my children, capturing the special time we shared during the pandemic while caring for six adorable kittens. It was such a fun and joyful experience that I wanted to preserve it in a way they could revisit and cherish. The idea of combining the festive magic of Christmas with the playful antics of kittens seemed like the perfect blend for a heartwarming story. A fun fact—one of the white curly kittens stayed with us, and my children named him Inteleon, after the Pokémon character!
I love the idea of using photos to illustrate poetry. Can you tell us a little about the process of getting that “just-right” picture?
It was a combination of patience, creativity, and a bit of luck! My children and I created a Christmas house for the kittens using a cardboard box, complete with a brick backdrop and a cozy fireplace, all using printed materials. We decorated the house with festive touches like a mini Christmas tree, a ceramic Mrs. Claus with her gingerbread cookies, and cotton-ball snow. While my kids played with the kittens, I snapped many shots, trying to capture that perfect moment of joy and playfulness. The photographic illustrations were brought to life using multiple artistic techniques, blending natural moments with creative backdrops for a truly unique visual experience.
What is one thing you hope young readers take away from your book?
I hope young readers take away the idea that the holiday season is about more than just gifts—it’s about joy, curiosity, and spending time with loved ones. Through the kittens’ adventures, I want children to see that simple pleasures like playing with ornaments, discovering new things, and being together are what make the holidays truly special. I also hope the rhymes inspire a love for language and that the book encourages them to explore reading in a fun and interactive way.
Can we expect to see more books from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes, absolutely! I am currently working on a few new projects, including a series of level-one reader books for young children. In addition, I’m excited to be working on a story about a fuzzy caterpillar and the wonder of its life cycle, introducing young readers to the magic of nature. My goal is to continue creating heartwarming, engaging stories for young readers that celebrate the beauty of everyday moments and the joy of animals.
Author Links: GoodReads | Book Review
LITERARY TITAN 