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Self-Taught Illustrator
Happy Bumble Bee follows a cheerful little bee on his daily nectar-gathering adventures, teaching children about pollination, friendship, and the beauty of working together in nature. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I always love animals and nature, and I love bees. And so is my 4-year-old son. One day, he asked me if I could find a book about round bumble bees for him, and I decided that I should be the one who wrote and illustrated that book. That’s how Happy Bumble Bee was born. It is the book per my son’s request.
How did you balance scientific facts with storytelling to keep the book both educational and engaging?
I did a bit of research about bees, and I also read other authors’ works regarding bees.
Can you describe your illustration process and the choices you made along the way?
As a self-taught illustrator, it is not easy at all to write and illustrate the book yourself. I had to do research on how to do mood boards and format the book. I looked for different references, did many sketches, and learned more about color theory when I started coloring the book. There were a few artists that I admire and I joined their online courses, it did help me a lot through the process of illustrating the book.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently sketching my 2nd book. It is another children’s picture book, age group is 2-6. It is about the friendship of a little boy and his rescued cat. This one will be a little longer, 44 pages. Therefore it may take me a while to finish. Hopefully early 2026 it will be available.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Website | Amazon
He wakes up, he does his morning routines, and flies out of his cozy nest to look for flowers.
On the way, he also meets many friends. If it rains, he will find shelter so his little wings can stay dry.
He works hard all day as a pollinator, bringing lives and happiness to all the plants, crops, animals and people.
“Happy Bumble Bee” is a a perfect book for children and parents who love to learn more about animals and nature. It also teaches young children about nature and the benefits of bumble bees with the important message : Bees are friends!
The book is a Gold Award Recipient of Mom’s Choice Award (April 2025).
An Alien Took My Cheese
An Alien Took My Cheese hooks young readers right from the start. Owen wakes up one morning, only to discover his favorite snack has vanished without a trace. But who—or what—could be behind this? As the story moves forward, the possibility of an alien culprit comes into focus. With his loyal dog Clover by his side, Owen dives into a thrilling adventure, determined to solve the mystery of the missing cheese. What he finds along the way, though, is something he never expected.
Janice Hostetter spins a tale that sparks curiosity and lively discussion, especially during story time. Humor and suspense blend seamlessly, pulling readers in and holding their attention tight. The idea of an alien thief adds a fun and imaginative twist, keeping the story vibrant and fresh. Owen’s close bond with Clover brings warmth to the narrative, turning their quest into more than just a hunt for stolen cheese—it becomes a touching story of friendship. The interactive nature of the book shines through as Owen picks up clues around the house, inviting readers to join the detective work. Bright, engaging illustrations amplify the experience, urging young minds to dive deeper into the story and ask questions. The sensory details Hostetter weaves in—like the stench in the garage, the clatter of mysterious noises, and the eerie green slime—make the tale come alive. These vivid elements not only enhance the story but also offer a subtle educational layer, perfect for helping children explore their senses.
This story moves at a brisk pace, perfect for young readers who love a good mix of humor and adventure. The quick tempo keeps the energy high, ensuring kids remain captivated from start to finish. With its blend of comedy, heartwarming moments, and surprising twists, An Alien Took My Cheese stands out as a must-read for any child eager for a mystery full of delightful surprises.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0D7WZ4STT
LITERARY TITAN 