Blog Archives
Mirroring Real World Science
Alexander Fleming’s Penicillin Promise follows two siblings and their time-traveling Dr friend who visit London in 1928 to meet Alexander Fleming to learn about the discovery of penicillin. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The heart of this story grew from a simple idea, the moment when a scientific discovery becomes a turning point for humanity.
Alexander Fleming’s chance observation in 1928 changed the course of medicine, yet behind that historic moment was a very human story of curiosity, patience, and readiness to notice what others overlooked.
I wanted children to experience that spark for themselves. By sending Daniel, Jennifer, and Dr. K back to a bustling London laboratory, readers see how ordinary people, even those who doubt their own impact, can shape the world through careful observation and persistence.
The setup allows children to witness the discovery from the inside, giving them a sense of belonging in the world of science.
What is your approach to presenting scientific information and facts in a way that children will not only understand but be excited to learn more about the topic?
My approach is to bring science off the page and into the lived experience of the characters.
Children learn best when they feel connected to the story, so I weave scientific concepts into dialogue, sensory details, and moments of discovery rather than presenting them as lessons. I also rely on curiosity. When Daniel and Jennifer ask real questions, the answers arise naturally in the narrative.
That interplay mirrors how science works in the real world.
Rather than memorize facts, readers follow the excitement of the process, the surprise, the wonder, and the small steps that lead to breakthroughs.
The goal is for children to finish the book not only with new knowledge, but with the desire to keep exploring on their own.
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
Yes, and it changed the way I wrote the book. I was struck by how accidental the discovery of penicillin truly was, yet how much preparation and scientific discipline went into recognizing its significance.
Fleming did not set out to discover an antibiotic. He simply had the habit of observing carefully, even when something looked like a mistake. I was also surprised by how long it took for penicillin to become widely available. Its early development required many hands working across years, countries, and laboratories.
That collective effort shaped the book’s message. Even a brilliant idea needs a community of people who believe in the work.
I wanted young readers to see that science is never a solo journey.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Dr. K, Daniel, and Jennifer, and the direction of the next book?
The adventure continues with Albert Einstein in Book 4: Albert Einstein’s Journey Through Relativity.
This story brings the siblings into the heart of one of the most transformative scientific periods of the twentieth century.
They travel from Germany to Switzerland and witness Einstein’s early curiosity, his time in the patent office, and the ideas that became the foundations of modern physics. The focus of the next book is not only on scientific concepts, but on resilience, imagination, and the courage to pursue questions that defy the expectations of the time. Dr. K, Daniel, and Jennifer continue to grow in their understanding of science, and also in their confidence as young thinkers who see the world with wonder and responsibility.
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In Alexander Fleming’s Penicillin Promise, readers embark on a thrilling journey that intertwines history and science. Guided by the enigmatic Dr. K, Jennifer and Daniel step into a world where a simple mold changes the course of medicine forever. They find themselves in St. Mary’s Hospital, where Fleming’s groundbreaking discovery unfolds before their eyes. The children experience the excitement of scientific inquiry, learning how curiosity and observation can lead to monumental breakthroughs. As they navigate through London’s rich tapestry of scientific landmarks, they uncover the significance of antibiotics in combating infections and saving lives. The story emphasizes the importance of perseverance, showcasing how Fleming’s relentless pursuit of knowledge led to a discovery that would revolutionize healthcare.
This engaging narrative not only entertains but also educates young readers about the fundamentals of bacteria and early medicine. It inspires them to appreciate the wonders of science and the unexpected paths that lead to great discoveries. Alexander Fleming’s Penicillin Promise is the third installment in the Dr. K’s Portal Through Time series, celebrating a quiet yet monumental achievement that continues to shape our world today. Through immersive storytelling, children are encouraged to explore their own interests in science and history, fostering a sense of wonder and a desire to learn.
Book 3 – Alexander Fleming’s Penicillin Promise: Dr. K’s Portal Through Time
Alexander Fleming’s Penicillin Promise drops you right into a bright, curious world where two kids tumble through time to witness one of the biggest medical discoveries in history. The story walks through Fleming’s accident with that famous mold, the slow uncovering of penicillin’s power, and the uphill climb to prove it mattered. What starts as a small, strange spot on a Petri dish grows into something world-changing, and the book turns that whole scientific moment into a warm adventure full of wonder. It blends history with imagination in a way that feels playful and still hits the big lessons.
I had a great time with this children’s book. The writing feels cozy and easy to fall into, like someone telling you a good story over hot chocolate. I loved how it never talks down to kids. Instead, it hands them big ideas wrapped in clear moments that feel alive. The scenes with Fleming in his messy lab made me grin because they show how discoveries are often born from accidents and curiosity. The tone bounces between gentle humor, quiet awe, and those sweet little emotional beats between Jennifer, Daniel, and Dr. K. I kept finding myself smiling when the “mold juice” nickname came up.
There was also something surprisingly moving about watching these kids witness history. Seeing Fleming’s doubts, his patience, and his strange mix of order and chaos gave the journey real heart. The book does this neat thing where it makes science feel adventurous without turning it into something cold or technical. The moments with early patients hit me hardest, especially when Fleming realizes penicillin works, but there simply is not enough of it yet. The artwork throughout the book has a polished, anime-influenced aesthetic that creates a warm and approachable atmosphere. The character designs are the standout element, characterized by clean linework and expressive faces, like in a graphic novel.
I would recommend this children’s chapter book to curious kids, teachers, parents, and any adult who wants a warm and hopeful reminder that small discoveries can grow into life-changing things. If you enjoy stories that mix history with heart, or if you just want something that lights up your sense of wonder, this one is a perfect fit.
Pages: 113 | ASIN : B0FSTF3PDJ
Book 1 – Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky (Dr. K’s Portal Through Time)
Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky tells the story of two siblings, Jennifer and Daniel, who, with the help of the mysterious Dr. K, travel back in time to meet Galileo Galilei. Through their journey, they witness Galileo’s discoveries firsthand, from the moons of Jupiter to the phases of Venus. They even help him build a telescope. Along the way, the children learn not just about the science of the universe but also about curiosity, resilience, and the courage it takes to question the world around you. It is part history, part science, and part adventure, written with young readers in mind, and it manages to make centuries-old discoveries feel fresh and exciting.
I found myself charmed by the storytelling in this children’s book. The voice is warm and approachable, and the author makes sure the science never feels heavy. Instead, it comes alive through dialogue and adventure. The way the kids interact with Galileo is delightful, and their wonder mirrors what I imagine any curious child would feel meeting a great mind of the past. I also liked how the book wove in real facts without turning it into a dry lesson.
There were moments where the writing leaned into explanation, and I felt the momentum slow. Still, those small bumps didn’t take away from the bigger experience. The heart of the book is curiosity, and that comes through loud and clear. I also appreciated how the narrative balanced Jennifer’s voice with Daniel’s. It gave the story a sense of shared discovery, which felt true to childhood adventures.
I’d recommend this chapter book to kids who are fascinated by space, science, or history, and also to parents or teachers looking for an engaging way to spark that interest. It’s perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy a mix of imagination and learning. The story encourages children to ask questions and to see science as an adventure. For me, that’s its greatest success.
Pages: 104 | ASIN : B0F4NQTCNP
Book 1 – Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky (Dr. K’s Portal Through Time)
Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis’s Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky is the first book in her Dr. K’s Portal Through Time series, and it’s part history lesson, part science primer, and part adventure story. It follows Jennifer and Daniel, a pair of curious siblings, who stumble upon Dr. K and her magical time portal. Together, they travel back to Renaissance Italy, step into Galileo Galilei’s workshop, and experience firsthand the wonder of his telescope and the audacity of his discoveries. Along the way, the kids not only learn about Jupiter’s moons, the phases of Venus, and the birth of modern astronomy, but they also discover the importance of curiosity, observation, and persistence.
The first thing that caught my attention about this book was how effortlessly it weaves fact with fiction. For instance, the scene where Jennifer helps Galileo build his telescope is not just a charming piece of dialogue; it’s a clever way to introduce kids to optics and focal lengths without feeling like a lecture. I found myself smiling at Jennifer’s excitement when the blurry image sharpened into Jupiter and its moons. That moment carried the same sense of awe I remember from my own first look through a telescope. The science was accurate but approachable, and that balance is hard to pull off in a children’s story.
I also appreciated how personal the narrative felt at times. Jennifer’s relationship with her grandfather in the opening chapter set the tone beautifully. Their bond over stargazing gave the adventure real heart. Later, when Jennifer and Daniel stood side by side at the end, promising to always explore the stars together, it felt earned. The book wasn’t just about Galileo’s discoveries; it was about how science can be shared, passed down, and made meaningful within families. That emotional thread made the whole story more engaging.
Another highlight was the way Dr. Korkidis portrayed Galileo himself. She didn’t make him an intimidating genius, but rather a patient teacher who invited the kids into his world. His explanation of the moons of Jupiter and how he realized they orbited the planet was fascinating, and his gentle encouragement to keep asking questions stuck with me. The inclusion of real historical details, like the Medicean stars and Galileo’s struggles with skepticism, grounded the story while still keeping it light enough for younger readers.
This book left me feeling inspired and a little nostalgic. It reminded me of the first time I realized science could be an adventure. I’d recommend Galileo’s Points of Light in the Night Sky to curious kids around 7–12, but also to parents, grandparents, and teachers who want to spark a love of STEM in children. It’s not just a story about Galileo, it’s a story about why wonder matters, why questions matter, and why we should never stop looking up.
Pages: 104 | ASIN : B0F4NQTCNP
The Intricacies of Relationships
The Story of Josette and Daniel follows the lives of a couple who meet at Juilliard and the path their lives take both apart and back together again. Where did the idea for this trilogy come from, and how did it develop over time?
The idea for The Story of Josette and Daniel Trilogy began as a seed when I was just 17, sparked by the initial creation of the first three chapters of Josette. However, as life unfolded and presented its twists and turns, the trilogy took shape gradually, with the completion of Book 1, Josette, during the pandemic serving as a pivotal moment. The encouragement and curiosity of my readers further fueled the development, leading to the creation of Book 2, delving deeper into Daniel’s character and perspective. Book 3 emerged as the culmination of their love story, spanning four decades and exploring the enduring nature of their connection amidst life’s trials and triumphs.
What was the inspiration for the love story and the connection the characters have?
The inspiration for the love story between Josette and Daniel stemmed from a desire to capture the essence of a timeless and profound connection. Their relationship was crafted to reflect the complexities of human emotions, the power of shared experiences, and the resilience of love across time. Drawing from personal experiences and observations of enduring relationships, I sought to imbue their connection with authenticity, depth, and relatability, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in their journey.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Several themes were integral to The Story of Josette and Daniel Trilogy, reflecting the broader human experience and the intricacies of relationships. Love, of course, was central, explored in its various forms and manifestations, from the initial spark of attraction to the enduring bond forged over decades. Themes of loss and grief added depth to the narrative, highlighting the profound impact of separation and the journey towards healing. Additionally, themes of personal growth, resilience, and the passage of time were woven throughout, resonating with readers on a universal level and prompting reflection on their own lives and relationships.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Looking ahead, my next project, The KEAK Anthology, Volume 2, continues the exploration of storytelling but in a different format. This collection of short stories offers a diverse range of narratives, each encapsulating unique themes, characters, and emotions. It is an opportunity to delve into new worlds, explore different genres, and connect with readers in fresh and unexpected ways. Stay tuned for its release, where I hope to continue captivating and engaging audiences with the power of storytelling.
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In the embrace of falling snow, Josette, now seated by the window in her cherished chair, is transported back to a moment etched in time—when she, at 25, returned from a triumphant global piano tour to the comforting blanket of snow outside her childhood home.
Josette and Daniel’s serendipitous meeting at The Juilliard School unfolds into a transformative love story. Through shared laughter and profound connection, they became each other’s anchors. Parting ways after Josette’s graduation did not sever their bond; instead, it led to a rekindling of their love in later years.
As life’s seasons unfolded, Josette and Daniel embraced retirement and the pursuit of their passions. Their shared journey witnessed the growth of family, the pursuit of dreams, and the gentle passage of time. Graciously aging together, they reveled in the joys of children and grandchildren.
Now, with snow falling outside her window once again, Josette sits alone, reminiscing. Her beloved Daniel is gone, leaving behind echoes of a lifetime filled with love and cherished memories. The gentle snowfall becomes a bittersweet reminder of a love that transcends time, forever etched in her heart.
The Story of Josette and Daniel: A Contemporary Sweet Romance Trilogy
The Story of Josette and Daniel stitches together the poignant threads of love, loss, and the redemptive power of music, concluding a trilogy that traces the intertwining lives of its eponymous characters from their serendipitous meeting at Juilliard to their twilight years. The novel unwraps the layers of Josette and Daniel’s lives, moving through their early passions, mid-life challenges, and the quiet comfort of old age, juxtaposed with a narrative that is as much about the spaces between the notes as the music itself.
Dr. Korkidis’s writing style is introspective and lyrical, mirroring the classical music that is so integral to her characters’ lives. This approach infuses the story with a poetic quality, although I felt it can sometimes slow the pace for the sake of descriptions. The book excels in portraying complex emotions and the evolution of relationships over time, capturing the sublime moments of joy and profound challenges with a finesse that resonated with me.
The novel’s focus on internal monologues and detailed backstories enriches the characters and makes them feel authentic and thoroughly developed. This depth may occasionally slow the narrative’s pace. Still, it also allows for a richer exploration of the characters’ inner lives, adding layers of complexity that are sure to be appreciated by readers who enjoy a more immersive and introspective storytelling style.
The inclusion of entire life arcs within a single volume is ambitious and generally well-handled. Korkidis successfully crafts moments of intimate, relatable drama that showcase her characters’ growth and vulnerabilities, offering readers a reflective look at the impacts of love and choice on one’s life. Her characters, especially Josette, are crafted with such genuine empathy and insight that they stuck with me long after the last page.
The Story of Josette and Daniel will appeal most to readers who enjoy sweeping romantic epics infused with a rich tapestry of emotional and musical motifs. Those with a keen interest in character-driven romance that spans decades and offers a window into the soulful dynamics of a lifelong partnership will find this women’s fiction story particularly rewarding. Dr. Korkidis has not only concluded her trilogy but has invited her readers into the inner world of two compelling characters whose music continues to echo beyond the pages.
Pages: 698 | ASIN : B0C7XRFCYF
A Flavor of the Totality of My Writings
The KEAK Anthology is a unique collection of your writing covering genres from mysteries and thrillers to nonfiction pieces and offers readers a peek into your previously published books. What inspired you to offer readers this anthology?
I enjoy reading different genres and to experiment in writing short stories or flash fiction of different genres. My goal in writing The KEAK Anthology was to offer my readers the same experience in one book. In addition I thought that compiling all my works in one volume, thereby the creation of the anthology, would provide my readers a flavor of the totality of my writings. I found from the reviews that my readers enjoyed the mixture of different genres. Each reader had their favorite story and enjoyed the diversity of genre and format offered.
Do you have one story among your short stories and flash fiction pieces that resonates with you?
I would say that my favorites are ‘Times Past’ and ‘Patient Zero’. The first story, Times Past, is my experimentation with writing a crime thriller. I was particularly interested in using my knowledge of forensic science without boring my reader. The story was well received. The second story was written while I was in the hospital for a sudden medical issue. I felt I had lost the element of control in my life, not unlike my protagonist in the story. It was my first science fiction story. ‘We The People of Earth’ was the next one to be written. I am currently writing another science fiction story on ‘Time Travel’ entitled ‘Time and Time Again’.
You are adept at writing in a variety of genres. Is there one that comes more naturally to you than the others?
Actually, that is a difficult question to answer. I hear a phrase, a word, or a saying and a story gets formed in my mind. I do not select the genre, just the content. I immediately write the story and then determine where it fits, its genre. I would say that science related fiction would be most likely my favorite genre.
What can fans look forward to seeing from you next? Are you currently working on a new release?
Yes, I am working on a memoir of my worldwide travels as a young scientist called ‘The Ardent Traveler’ and a treatise about ‘Our Changing Times’. The latter is about a lifetime of changes from technology to political and social changes. In addition, I am beginning a Children’s Fantasy Nonfiction series called ‘Dr. K’s Time Portal’ for ages 8-12. It is a chapter book. It teaches young minds about scientific principles, inventions, discoveries, through time travel and visits to the scientist responsible for work. For example, Book #1 is about Galileo, his life and his work as an astronomer, particularly his discovery of the first 4 moons of Jupiter, the phases of the Moon and Venus, and his confirmation of the heliocentric model of our Solar System. Book # 1 and Book # 2 about Madame Curie are finished. Their teacher’s guides and parents’ science primers are also finished.
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Dive into the vibrant tapestry of the KEAK Anthology, where author Katherine Korkidis collaborates with her father, Artemios Korkidis, to weave a collection that spans genres and generations.
1. Short Stories: A Kaleidoscope of Genres
Explore sixteen captivating short stories, ranging from literary fiction to mystery, thriller, historical nonfiction and fiction, romance, science fiction, and realist literature. In “Patient Zero,” witness the delicate balance between utopia and dystopia, while “Times Past” entangles you in a web of sudden deaths and hidden intentions. “We The People of Earth” transcends our known space, and “The Battle of Crete” recounts the gripping memoir of witness Artemios Korkidis during the 1941 invasion.
2. Flash Fiction: A Symphony of Brief Narratives
Under the pseudonym Katherine Elizabeth Ann Bell, the author delves into the realm of flash fiction. These succinct narratives, averaging 360 words, peel back layers and progress stories with precision. From the dysfunction of “The Blind Man, the Blind Woman” to the power of closeness in “The Hug” and the importance of self-confidence in “The Performance,” each piece is a snapshot of emotion and movement.
3. Excerpts from Published Works: Glimpses into Worlds
Journey through excerpts from five novels, including “Josette,” “Daniel,” and “Josette and Daniel” from “The Story of Josette and Daniel” Trilogy. Carefully selected chapters invite readers into the minds and experiences of the protagonists, Josette and Daniel, offering a taste of the rich narratives that unfold across these published works.
LITERARY TITAN 