Blog Archives
Leaving a Lasting Impression
Catalina Plays the What? follows a young girl getting ready for show-and-tell day at school who is nervous about sharing her passion for her favorite instrument, the double bass. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for Catalina Plays the What? stems from my personal connection to the world of double basses through my husband, Gary Upton, who is a luthier and has been manufacturing double basses for years. Before meeting him, like many people, I had little knowledge of this remarkable instrument, which is often overlooked in schools and society despite being the foundational cornerstone in nearly all music worldwide. Many people say, “Oh, it’s a big cello, right?” I wanted to shed light on the double bass, an instrument that deserves far more recognition, especially among young learners.
Additionally, the field of double bass is predominantly male and Caucasian, so it was important to me to feature a young girl of color as the protagonist. Representation matters deeply—when children see themselves reflected in various fields, they are more likely to feel inspired and motivated to pursue their interests. Through Catalina’s journey, I hope to encourage more girls, especially those from diverse backgrounds, to explore and embrace the double bass.
Catalina starts out nervous but builds confidence as she goes along, in part thanks to the help of her grandpa. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
The themes of perseverance, self-confidence, and the importance of supportive relationships drive Catalina’s character development. Her initial nervousness reflects a universal experience for many children who feel uncertain when sharing something they are passionate about. However, as Catalina progresses through her presentation, her confidence builds, largely due to the steady encouragement from her grandpa. This relationship, which highlights the significant role that mentors and family members play in empowering young people to overcome their fears, is a key element in the story. I wanted to convey that with support, determination, and a belief in oneself, even the most daunting challenges can be met with success.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
As a former elementary school teacher, I have a deep passion for making learning enjoyable and accessible for children. In Catalina Plays the What?, I aimed to introduce the fundamentals of the double bass in an engaging and easy way for young readers to understand. The story breaks down the different parts of the bass, its various names, and its role in different genres of music, all within the context of a fun and relatable narrative. My goal was to create an educational experience that would not only entertain but also inform children about this incredible instrument, leaving a lasting impression that learning can be both informative and entertaining.
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?
Catalina Plays the What? is not currently part of a series, but I’ve been considering the possibility due to readers’ positive feedback and interest. Many have expressed a desire for more stories educating about musical instruments. While I haven’t yet committed to a series, I am finishing another story, Thea and Her Purple Dragon. This upcoming book delves into the complex and often painful topic of Parental Gatekeeping, exploring the deep emotional impact on children and parents when an adult fails to work together in the child’s best interest. This book aims to open a dialogue about the importance of cooperation and understanding within families, especially for the child’s well-being.
In addition to Thea and Her Purple Dragon, new readers can also explore my other works. Jayla Spreads Loving Kindness introduces children to the peaceful mindfulness practice of loving-kindness meditation, following a young girl as she practices sending love to those around her throughout her day. The book aims to teach that the more loving-kindness you send out, the happier and more peaceful you will feel. My other book, You Are Loved, tells the story of a little girl entering foster care and aims to teach children that, despite difficult circumstances, they can always find love and support in the world around them.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Amazon
Bones Are Amazing
Nurse Florence, Tell Me About the Bones follows three friends who, after seeing a classmate recovering from a broken arm, ask the school nurse about how broken bones heal. What was the inspiration for your story?
Simply, it was time to write a book about bones. Bones are amazing and kids should know how they work.
You provide a lot of interesting information and present difficult concepts in a way that is understandable to even those outside the medical field. Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
Eating nuts and seeds are also good for your bones.
How do you hope your work will impact your readers?
There is a nursing shortage in the United States and it continues to grow. We need more kids interested in the health professions. I hope to make health information accessible for all so that many, many people will consider a career in the health sciences. The health professions are very challenging for many reasons, and we need capable minds pursuing jobs in these fields. I hope these books help prepare more future scientists.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
In 2023, we published a book every 10 days. In 2024, we have accelerated to a new Nurse Florence® book every 5 days. We have also launched a mental health series for teenagers and adults titled Nurse Dorothea. We publish a new Nurse Dorothea every 5 weeks. The next book is published in order of completed drawings so I kind of never know which will be the next. I have about 30 other children’s book series in mind and hope one day to be a full-time author so that I can write three books a day. This is a lot of fun for me.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Empowered and Secure
Oddly and Eve: Magical Addition Pairs follows a frustrated and sad odd number who struggles with his feelings and finding friends. What was the inspiration for your story?
Many years ago, while teaching a math lesson to my youngest students, we noticed and briefly discussed that two odd numerals added together made an even number, as did two even ones. Since I tend to anthropomorphize just about everything, I began to wonder how the numerals felt about those outcomes, especially from the odd ones’ perspective. Thinking ahead to a possible book, I created a file that stayed in my desk for a long time. When I recently came across it again, I was inspired to finally write that story for my younger readers. The original title was “Odd’s Revenge,” but I decided that was a bit too negative. So, Odd led to Oddly, and then Eve appeared, and the book was born, focusing on the positivity of magical addition pairs.
Your children’s book is more than a simple counting story. You have included important lessons about friendship, acceptance, and cooperation. Was this intentional in your writing, or did it happen naturally as your story developed?
I always aim to weave meaningful life lessons into my writing to help and inspire my readers. That said, the way those themes emerged happened naturally as I wrote the story. First came Oddly with a chip on his shoulder, and then Eve’s unstoppable positivity that even Oddly couldn’t ignore forever. Professor Plus also blossomed on his own as a guide on the side, as did his camaraderie with Count Calculator.
I loved the scene in the book where Oddly and his friends are blocking the road. What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Yes, that’s a fantastic scene, and I must credit my illustrator Barry Davian, whose artistic talent brought each moment to life beautifully. What I love most about that point of the story is how Eve calmly and directly calls out Oddly on his actions while handling the situation with grace. This concept is vital because children need to learn how to respond and communicate in the moment, rather than freezing up and letting life push them around. The sooner they realize that they can steer their own course, rather than being like a cork bobbing helplessly on the ocean, the more empowered and secure they will feel as they mature.
The scene I most enjoyed writing in Oddly and Eve: Magical Addition Pairs was when Professor Plus opened Oddly’s mind to new ways of thinking, followed by his conversation with Count Calculator. With Professor Plus, I wanted to nod to one of my favorite literary characters, Professor Digory Kirke from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, particularly when he explains logical thinking to Peter and Susan. Having regularly introduced philosophy to students as early as second grade, I’ve found that children embrace this kind of thinking early on, and it’s very important to me to include that in my writing. As for my favorite illustration by Barry, it’s the one where Oddly and Eve make their amazing discovery together in a burst of energy that appears above them on page 12 of the paperback!
When is your next book coming out, and what can your fans expect?
I have many more books coming out, even this month, and throughout the year, for entire families to enjoy. Right now, I’m building a well-rounded body of work for all elementary grades, from pre-K to 6th, to increase my audience and enrich my standards-based and lively presentations during my school author visits.
Author Links: Goodreads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website | Amazon
Children and Adults Have Fears
Dread in the Dark follows a little boy that has a new sister and a new room, but the new room is scary at night. What was the inspiration for your story?
It must be admitted that I am fascinated by different fears. That’s why I have written a whole Little Fears Series! Both children and adults have them, and the ways to cope with them vary. I think that adults have a great responsibility to ensure children’s welfare. This does not mean growing up in cotton wool and removing all difficulties, but sensitivity to recognize situations where help is needed. In this book, on the one hand, I deal with the common fear of the dark, but as a side plot, I also deal with the significant change that the birth of a little sibling causes in the family.
I remember trying to sleep in the kitchen for a while as a child – with no success. Although I wasn’t afraid of the refrigerator, its vibrations and noises in the middle of the night made it difficult to fall asleep. The birth of a new child also creates confusing contradictions in the lives of many families. Older children often feel that they are losing something in their status and may worry about their parents’ feelings for them. Fortunately, as a child, I was thrilled to be a big sister, so that side of the story is not based on my experiences.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Dread in the Dark is a book in the Little Fears Series that addresses various situations of wise parenting – seven books so far! So, the book’s target group includes both children and their parents. Little ones can best overcome their fears with adults’ encouraging and calm attitude.
With my book, I want to highlight the importance of cooperation between adults and children when fear disturbs a child’s life. When viewed through the eyes of an adult, recognizing the need for help may be complicated because fearful situations often seem pointless from their perspective. The little person doesn’t always get the parent’s patient attention and calm handling in a problematic situation.
A child’s fear may unexpectedly appear in an everyday situation where the adult’s attention is on other, more important things in his opinion. In the middle of a rush, he may ignore the child’s fear lightly, even irritably, or postpone dealing with it to a more suitable time from his point of view. Of course, giving the case enough time is a good idea, but this promise must not go unfulfilled. A few friendly words of encouragement, even in the middle of a rush, might help as first aid. So the child will be noticed and feel valued.
Children may also be reluctant to confess their fears and talk about them. The pressure of coping alone and being brave is also there. Building trust and revealing even sensitive thoughts is a long-term process. You could also write a whole book about it under the parenting title!
What was your approach to writing the interactions between Elliot and his dad?
It is no coincidence that I chose a child and his father for this book. My relationship with my father was the bedrock of my childhood. Although Father was an old-fashioned man in many respects, he also could understand a child’s sensitivity and need for security. On the other hand, I have gained the challenge of coping with different situations myself.
My parenting experiences as a mother of three children – and now also a grandmother – have confirmed my idea that dealing with different fears is essential. There are many ways. There is first aid and long-term work. There are playful solutions, serious discussions, and, above all, sensitive listening. It’s pointless to try to force quick solutions, no matter how busy you are as an adult. It is better to find time and patience when the child’s need is greatest – not until tomorrow or next week. Childhood is short, but what it creates for the rest of life is vital!
Some essential topics in Dread in the Dark relate to Elliot’s trust in his father and the security he represents. Catty Flores’ delightful illustration brings humanity and warmth to both main characters. Adult readers can undoubtedly identify with the sleepy father’s attempts to get the situation under control in the middle of the night, with his own eyes half closed from fatigue.
What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
Especially with the Little Fears Series books, I often get into conversations where adults reveal their surprising childhood memories. I am usually amazed at how big someone’s small fears can become in a person’s mind. Situations that seem trivial in themselves may have grown into problems that affect even an adult’s life.
Often, fearful situations and memories concentrate on two kinds of strong feelings. The first category is anger and disappointment with the adults of one’s childhood: Why didn’t anyone notice? Why didn’t anyone understand? Why didn’t anyone help? The second type of thought is a shame that an adult feels: Am I still the same timid child? Dare I admit to anyone that I still need help dealing with this old fear?
I have sometimes ended up hugging and comforting an adult for whom painful memories from childhood have suddenly surfaced. That’s when I’m on the right and necessary path when writing books like this. I have succeeded if I can help children in challenging situations and make it easier for parents struggling with parenting issues!
I often get suggestions from children and their parents for new stories in the Little Fears Series. I collect them because they may inspire more books in this much-needed series. – One of those topics brewing in my mind recently popped up, and I found a fun way of handling one more fear! Just wait and see!
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Elliot has a new baby sister. He also has a room of his own now, where he can build castles out of blocks, as big as he likes.
But there is one thing that worries Elliot. In his new room, he can’t fall asleep as easily as he did when he slept closer to Mom and Dad. On top of that, a monster is nesting under his bed. It growls every single night, even though no one believes Elliot.
Finally, with Dad’s help, Elliot learns the cause of the strange noise, and he can sleep peacefully again.
Ava as a Top Seller
Ava as a Top Seller by Tuula Pere is a charming tale of a young girl named Ava who dreams of becoming a market vendor. One weekend, Ava gets the chance to help Mr. Stuff, a friendly shopkeeper at the local market, and her entrepreneurial spirit is put to the test when he leaves her in charge of his stall for the first time. This opportunity allows Ava to demonstrate her sales skills and learn valuable lessons about responsibility and the value of money.
From the outset, I was captivated by Ava’s vibrant and enthusiastic character. Her excitement about selling and her interactions with Mr. Stuff are beautifully depicted, creating a warm and engaging atmosphere. The narrative is straightforward and easy for children to follow, making it an excellent read for young audiences. The illustrations by Nyamdorj Lkhaasuren perfectly complement Pere’s storytelling. The bright, colorful artwork brings the bustling market to life and adds a layer of visual appeal that keeps young readers engaged. The characters are expressive, and the scenes are detailed enough to spark curiosity and imagination. Ava’s relationship with Mr. Stuff is heartwarming and central to the plot. A significant highlight of the story is the role of Ava’s best friend, Axel, who helps her problem-solve when things go awry. When Ava realizes she forgot to charge customers, Axel is quick to suggest a solution, showing the importance of friendship and collaboration in overcoming challenges. This aspect of the story not only enriches the plot but also provides a valuable lesson in teamwork and thinking on one’s feet.
Ava as a Top Seller is a delightful and educational story that I would highly recommend for children. It encourages young readers to pursue their interests, understand the importance of money, and learn from their experiences. This book is perfect for parents and educators looking to inspire entrepreneurial thinking and independence in children, all wrapped up in a fun and engaging narrative.
Pages: 36 | ISBN : 9528200451
Learning Should Be Fun
Our Dinosaurs: Discoveries, Distinctions, & More takes readers on a journey through the prehistoric period to explore the age of dinosaurs and make the science of paleontology accessible to children and adults alike. What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write this book?
I always had a fondness for dinosaurs as a little boy, and when Julie and I were discussing our next educational book to follow “Our Planets: Moons, Myths, & More,” I suggested we do a book about these ancient creatures. At first, Julie wasn’t as excited as I was, seeing the idea as a mammoth project, but she was equally excited as me when our research began.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
We had several goals. First, we wanted to share dinosaurs that really don’t make it into the spotlight. Second, we always want to present information or find connections that perhaps haven’t been thought about or presented yet. Third, we always want to make a fun and entertaining presentation. Learning should be fun.
Did you discover anything surprising in your research of this book?
Yes, quite a bit. There is a diversity of dinosaurs, especially in their size, and there are discrepancies regarding each species. In the end, we reconciled this as paleontology is a living science, and by that we mean it is an ever-changing, ever-evolving science, as new information is found almost daily. We may never know all the truths about dinosaurs, but we know a heck of a lot more today than we did in 1676 when Robert Plot described the first dinosaur bone.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be published?
Julie and I are constantly working on books and since the publication of “Our Dinosaurs: Discoveries, Distinctions, & More” we’ve published our third children’s fantasy poetry book, “The Enchanted Faerie Realm, Too Volume 3,” a pair of ABC children’s concept books offering nutritional information entitled “Fruitabet: the alphabet one fruit at a time” and “Vegetabites: the alphabet one veggie at a time,” also “Ho’oponopono: Words to Forgive and Love, ”Illusion, The Lighter Half, Volume 4,” and “Slag & Other Worthy Things.” Oh, and “Monster Me ABCs: My First Look at Understanding Me,” a concept book about emotions with tips for parents on helping children de-escalate when their emotions run away.
Still, this year, we plan to publish the second book, “The Literary Hedgehog” in our Hedgerow Series, which includes book one, “The Poetry Mouse,” published in 2022, and maybe one more children’s book this year, too. Regarding my writing, I have two poetry books slated for publication, one in December of this year, “New Year’s Frost” and one in January 2025, “Beyond This Realm.” I’m also working on my first fiction novel. Julie’s writing a YA version about understanding emotions and has a MG supernatural vampire story coming out later this year. Next on our educational list of books to write? It just might be “Our Periodic Table,” and I wonder what fun spin we’ll put on it.
Julie L. Kusma Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Instagram | Website
Derek R. King Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Instagram | Website
Dive into the prehistoric world of “Our Dinosaurs: Discoveries, Distinctions, & More” and embark on an extraordinary journey through time. From the dawn of Earth’s formation to the twilight of the Mesozoic Era, this captivating book offers a panoramic view of the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous Periods, where giants once roamed and ruled.
Uncover the mysteries of Paleontology as you explore the fascinating realms of Saurischian and Ornithischian Dinosaurs. From the fearsome predators of the Theropoda and the colossal herbivores of the Sauropodomorpha to the majestic Ceratopsia, formidable Ankylosauria, and graceful Ornithopoda, witness the incredible diversity and distinctiveness of these ancient creatures.
Discover where dinosaurs are now and unravel the tales of the pioneering dinosaur hunters who traversed uncharted lands in the 1800s and 1900s, laying the groundwork for modern paleontological discoveries. Meet the trailblazers of today who continue to unearth new fossils and push the boundaries of our understanding of the prehistoric past.
Packed with mesmerizing artist representations, engaging activities, and some coloring pages, “Our Dinosaurs” offers an immersive experience for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages. This book is sure to spark your imagination and ignite your passion for these ancient marvels.
Nori’s Amazing First Hike
Springtime has finally arrived, bringing with it lush green trees and fresh, growing grass. In Nori’s Amazing First Hike, we follow the adventures of three-year-old Nori as she embarks on her first hike with her parents. Excited for the day ahead, Nori packs a small backpack with essentials: a water bottle, sunhat, warm jacket, and a notebook to capture all the exciting sights she encounters on their journey. Her parents choose the Butterfly Trail, an ideal path for young explorers like Nori. Early in the hike, Nori’s father spots a beautiful butterfly and takes the opportunity to teach her about the butterfly’s life cycle, from egg to adult. Enthusiastically, Nori draws a butterfly in her notebook, capturing the moment. As they continue their hike, the family revels in the stunning scenery and the melodic songs of birds along the trail. Reaching a breathtaking mountain view, Nori’s parents surprise her by planting a baby tree, teaching her the importance of giving back to nature.
This children’s story, inspired by the author’s own daughter, Nori, is both heartwarming and educational. Mr. Stoyanchev’s vivid descriptions make readers feel as if they are hiking alongside Nori, seeing the butterfly, feeling the moss on the trees, and hearing the birds’ songs. Children will easily immerse themselves in the story, imagining their own adventures on a nature trail. Stoyanchev skillfully conveys his love of nature and hiking in a way that young children can understand and enjoy. The story encourages young readers to explore nature with their families, promoting the joys of spending time together outdoors. It beautifully illustrates the fun of exploration and the value of family bonding.
Kateryna Mansarliiska’s colorful illustrations perfectly complement the narrative, bringing the story to life. Each illustration enhances the storytelling, making readers feel as though they are part of Nori’s adventure. The vibrant artwork progresses the story at an enjoyable pace, allowing readers to savor each scene.
Nori’s Amazing First Hike is a delightful tale that will captivate young readers and inspire them to embark on their own nature adventures. Stoyanchev has done an excellent job creating a story that is both engaging and educational, making it a must-read for young explorers. Highly recommended!
Pages: 41 | ASIN : B0D3QTJVD2
Fluent by Fire: Language Learning RPG
In the vibrant world of role-playing games (RPGs), players immerse themselves in character-driven adventures, embarking on quests and navigating complex interactions. Jason Comely’s Fluent by Fire: Language Learning RPG ingeniously applies this gaming concept to the process of language learning, presenting a novel and engaging approach. Comely proposes that mastering a new language can be akin to participating in the most immersive RPG. Each conversation becomes a quest, and every interaction is an opportunity to level up in your linguistic abilities. This analogy transforms the often-daunting task of language acquisition into an interactive and dynamic experience, reminiscent of the skills-building in video games.
The book suggests that by treating language learning as an RPG, individuals can adopt a playful yet strategic mindset. Approaching lessons and real-world interactions with the same enthusiasm and determination as one would in a game allows for a deeper appreciation and a more effective learning process. Each successful communication becomes a victory, comparable to completing a challenging quest in a game. This concept stands out as one of the most original and innovative methods for language learning. Comely’s analogy simplifies the learning process, making it accessible and appealing, especially to the millions who have grown up enjoying RPGs. For these readers, the idea of “leveling up” through each new conversation is both familiar and motivating.
While I feel the RPG analogy may not resonate as strongly with those unfamiliar with gaming, the approach still offers valuable insights. Even readers who are not avid gamers can benefit from the motivational framework Comely provides. The book emphasizes the sense of achievement that comes with advancing in language skills, likening it to the satisfaction of overcoming a challenging game scenario.
Fluent by Fire provides a refreshing perspective on language learning. By merging the engaging aspects of RPGs with the intricacies of acquiring a new language, Comely delivers a compelling strategy that could revolutionize how people approach language education. This short yet impactful read promises to inspire and motivate anyone looking to enhance their language skills in a fun and meaningful way.
Pages: 64 | ASIN : B0CNQK444F
LITERARY TITAN 