Blog Archives
Parents Are People Too
Saanvi’s Bad Day follows a young girl who is having a very bad Tuesday and how she learns to deal with her overwhelming emotions. What was the inspiration for your story?
When I write, I always have my children in mind. I have 2 children, a 5-year-old daughter, and a 7-year-old son. I think about lessons that I would like them to learn about. I always try to find books to help introduce new or difficult topics. And while there are plenty of books about managing a bad day, I hadn’t come across a children’s book that highlights that grown-ups have bad days too. I wanted this book to emphasize that parents are people too, and can have similar emotions and experiences.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I really wanted to focus on tools that can be used to turn bad days around. I think it’s important for children to feel empowered, and to realize that these tools can be used by anyone at any age.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator?
I love Anais! She was the illustrator for my first book, Saanvi’s Family Tree, and she perfectly captures the feelings I want to convey on every page.
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?
My first book was entitled Saanvi’s Family Tree which was released by Mascot Kids in May 2024. It deals with the taboo subject of familial estrangement which is a very rare topic in children’s literature. I wrote that book for my son to explain my own difficult family dynamics. My next book will be released in 2026 and will focus on the topic that grown-ups don’t have all the answers and are also life-long learners! Another lesson I would love to teach my children!
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Join Saanvi as she learns the different ways to turn her bad days around. When Saanvi has another bad day at school the next week, will she be able to tackle her unhappiness in a positive way?
Bedtime Worries-The What-If Kid
Bedtime Worries is a sweet and rhyming children’s book about Kale, a curious boy whose overactive imagination keeps him up at night. Through a series of heartfelt and often funny exchanges with his patient mom, Kale voices all the “what-ifs” racing through his mind, from fears of monsters under his bed to worries about strange noises in the dark. By the end of the book, Kale not only manages to fall asleep but wakes up feeling confident and self-reliant.
I loved how relatable Kale’s worries were, especially for kids. His questions like, “What if monsters are waiting under my bed?” or “What if a bird taps on my window, wanting to spy?” reminded me of my own childhood fears. The author captures these anxieties vivdly. His mom’s soothing responses, like describing dreams of “lollipops, sugar clouds, and loads of ice cream,” were so tender. It’s clear that she’s trying to build trust while easing Kale’s mind.
I absolutely loved the colorful and expressive artwork that brought every page of Bedtime Worries to life. The illustrations were vibrant and full of personality, capturing Kale’s emotions perfectly. Each page felt warm and inviting, with little details like the soft glow of the nightlight making the story visually appealing.
The writing flows like a lullaby, and the rhymes make it a joy to read aloud. I also appreciated the subtle humor in moments like Kale’s mom yawning and snapping her fingers to signal bedtime rules. Those little touches made her feel real. The ending tied everything together nicely. I loved seeing Kale’s transformation in the morning, waking up confident and eager to take on the day. The last reminder that “worries are normal” is a reassuring message, not just for kids but for adults too.
This picture book is a gem for parents of young kids. It’s perfect for bedtime, especially if you’ve got a little one who’s full of questions and “what-ifs.” Bedtime Worries is a comforting hug of a book, reminding us all that fears can be soothed with love, patience, and a little imagination.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0DG45JFM5
A Common Childhood Struggle
Leo Gets His Nighttime Zzzs follows a busy boy and his diverse group of friends as they discover the power of teamwork and relaxation to overcome sleepless nights. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
All our Kids Can Club Collection stories are inspired by the fact that children often face difficult problems and emotional struggles as they grow up. They can feel helpless and believe no one else shares their challenges. We felt it was important to introduce young readers to characters who are experiencing the same issues they are and then find the strength and motivation to seek solutions and share these solutions with others.
Leo’s problem, his losing sleep at night because his mind fills up with Important Things to Remember and Worries, reflects a common childhood struggle. A review of literature reveals that up to 25% of children experience difficulties with sleep. Research studies have demonstrated that the Progressive Relaxation exercise (our “Scrunch Up Five – Unscrunch”) is an effective relaxation-promoting tool.
We want young readers to see themselves in the Kids Can Club kids. Leo, Clementine, Clara, Iris, and Nico are each unique, with varying ethnicity, backgrounds, skills, interests, and styles, and are also relatable to so many real kids. Both the child and adult characters in our book series are based on people we know, our own experiences, families, and friends.
What was the process of collaborating with Dana Regan to create illustrations that enhance the story?
We worked with Dana on our first book, Clementine Gets UNSTUCK! (published in 2022) and were so excited she partnered with us again in 2024 for Leo Gets His Nighttime ZZZs! Dana is an amazing artist and has so much experience with the book printing and publishing process. She not only illustrated our stories, but she also developed the layout and created the final files to the publisher’s specifications for both Paperback and eBook versions.
For both stories, we connected with Dana and provided her with a detailed character background/description document and the manuscript, along with our general thoughts about pagination and visuals. We also discussed font choices and variations for emphasized words and phrases. Dana provided us with an initial sketch version, then, after we reviewed, color versions with pages and text outlined, adding so many of her own amazing ideas! We had multiple rounds of reviewing, proofing, and commenting, with Dana always open to feedback. Due to busy schedules, it took about eight months from when we sent the initial manuscript to Dana to the date each book was published.
We are so appreciative that Dana takes the time to really understand our characters. This is reflected in the wonderful details she includes in her illustrations. We are lucky to have Dana on our Kids Can Club Collection team!
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Through the personal experiences of the Kids Can Club kids and their club Missions, described in the first pages of Leo Gets His Nighttime ZZZs, we wanted to engage young readers and introduce them to multiple themes: 1) Universality-that we all share similar challenges, thoughts, feelings and are not alone with our struggles; 2) Empowerment and Agency-that we have the strength and ability make positive changes in our lives and environments; 3) Empathy-understanding and considering the feelings of others; and 4) Teamwork-learning that we can do so much for others and our community if we work together.
Can you share more about the Kids Can! series and its mission to empower young readers?
Our Kids Can Club Collection will continue to grow, with characters facing additional childhood challenges and finding THEY CAN find solutions for themselves and others. We are planning for a series of at least five books. Our series mission currently expands through our KidsCanClub.com site. Here we offer free activities, games, and additional wellness exercises. We also show kids (with the participation of their trusted adults) how to start their own Kids Can Club.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Angels in the Sand
Lori Keating’s Angels in the Sand offers a touching and heartfelt exploration of loss, resilience, and the enduring power of family bonds. At the heart of the story is 10-year-old Jessica (Jess) Alexander, a young girl grappling with profound loss. Her father’s tragic accident has already left a void in her life, and now, her family faces another heartbreak: her grandmother’s terminal cancer diagnosis. As Jess and her mother prepare to spend one final Christmas with her grandmother, the narrative unfolds into a poignant journey of love, remembrance, and hope.
Keating masterfully paints the dynamics of Jess’s close-knit family. Jess’s determination to make their last holiday together unforgettable leads her to create a “must-do” list for her grandmother, filled with activities designed to create lasting memories. These moments serve as both a celebration of life and a reminder of the importance of cherishing the time we have with loved ones.
This book is an essential read for children coping with loss and for parents seeking to understand the inner workings of a grieving child’s mind. Keating captures the raw emotions of grief, illustrating not only the sorrow but also the glimmers of joy that can coexist in the healing process. The story reassures readers that it’s okay to feel happiness again, a sentiment that provides comfort and encouragement. The message that departed loved ones would want to see us happy adds a layer of solace for readers navigating similar experiences. The narrative also underscores the significance of preserving memories. Through Jess’s perspective, the book highlights how easily children can forget cherished moments, urging adults to share stories and details about those who have passed. These shared memories become invaluable threads connecting the past with the present. Keating weaves subtle Christian elements into the story with grace, using biblical references to instill hope and faith. These moments of spiritual reflection are seamlessly integrated, offering a comforting perspective to readers who may draw strength from such beliefs.
Jess’s character is a standout achievement in this book. Her innocence and curiosity shine through, making her reflections feel authentic and deeply relatable. Keating’s vivid storytelling allows readers to experience the world through Jess’s eyes, capturing the sweetness of small moments and the depth of her family’s love. These tender memories serve as a beacon of light during dark times, reminding readers of the beauty in connection and care.
Angels in the Sand, by Lori Keating, carries a profound moral: cherish the people around you and remain open to the signs that lost loved ones continue to watch over us. Keating’s gentle yet powerful storytelling leaves an indelible impression, making this book not only a source of comfort but also a celebration of life’s most precious gifts.
Pages: 112 | ISBN : 978-1957656816
Let It Out!
Let It Out! by Taylor Sawchyn offers a heartwarming and approachable way to help young children navigate their emotions. Kids often feel things deeply but struggle to understand or express those feelings. This story centers on a close-knit family with two children. When one child feels upset, the parents gently step in, offering reassurance and love. They model calming techniques, encouraging their child to relax and process those intense emotions. Along the way, the book explores a spectrum of feelings—anger, sadness, fear, boredom—balanced with joyful moments, like a trip to the park filled with laughter, fresh air, and family fun. It’s a tender reminder that positivity and creativity can help shift emotional energy into something beautiful.
One of the standout elements of this children’s book is the perspective. It’s told from the parents’ point of view and the story exudes warmth. It makes children feel safe and understood while reinforcing that the guidance is for them. The language is simple and clear, with short sentences that are perfect for young readers to follow independently. Beyond teaching emotional awareness, the story subtly instills lessons in good manners and behavior. Family trust and bonding flow naturally through the pages, whether it’s during playtime at the park or quiet moments sharing a meal at the table.
The illustrations bring the story to life, brimming with emotion and character. Each drawing feels expressive and relatable, capturing both the children’s upset moments and the parents’ calm, positive responses. Their demeanor sets an excellent example, showing how patience and kindness can make all the difference. The visuals are engaging and fun to look at.
Let It Out! is a beautiful and meaningful picture book. It reminds children and their caregivers that emotions are natural and powerful, but expressing them in healthy ways leads to understanding and growth. This is a must-read for families looking to strengthen emotional communication and create moments of connection.
Pages: 26 | ISBN : 978-1787881518
Kindness and Empathy
The What-If Kid follows a young boy whose wild imagination often spirals into anxiety and worry who is getting ready for his first day of school. What was the inspiration for your story?
My inspiration for this story was and still is our son Kale. His own worries and anxiety were very apparent on his first day of school, and I knew I just had to write this book. Other parents working through the same struggles with their own kids can absolutely relate to Kale and all the emotions brought about on his first day of school.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I wanted to share our son’s story about anxiety and how real it can be and feel especially to little ones when a change comes about in their lives. I really wanted to emphasize that kindness and empathy do still exist in this world and how even the smallest gesture can produce the biggest reward.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The scene I had the most fun writing was the school bus scene. I’m pretty sure that Kale did express his worry about the bus falling apart, which made it all the more real. First bus rides can be worrisome and I was hoping to also lighten the mood of the book in this scene.
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?
This is the first book in this series. I also have a second book out called Bedtime Worries- The What-If Kid. Just continuing on with all of Kale’s big feelings at bedtime. I am currently working on my third book in this series. It should be out on shelves by early next year called Carnival Chaos- The What-If Kid. I think that with that title you can just imagine all of the “What-ifs” that come into play throughout the pages of that book.
Author Links: Goodreads | Facebook | Website | Instagram | Amazon
Your Face Lights up the World
Your Face Lights Up the World is a delightful and heartwarming children’s book that is perfect for young readers. The story begins with siblings Harper and Hunter embarking on a fort-building adventure. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when Hunter discovers a unique, speckled stone that catches the sunlight beautifully. Harper’s initial jealousy shifts to determination as she seeks to find something even better. But the story takes a tender turn when Harper realizes her brother actually admires her freckles, likening them to a stunning constellation. This revelation is a charming and illuminating moment for both Harper and the readers.
Jodi Meltzer has crafted an engaging picture book that is rich with lessons about the beauty of being unique and embracing one’s features, like freckles. It’s a narrative that young readers, particularly siblings, will find relatable. The playful squabbles between Harper and Hunter add a realistic touch, making the characters and their experiences more approachable.
One of the standout aspects is the way the book addresses self-acceptance and emotional expression. The pivotal moment where Hunter shares his admiration for Harper’s freckles is not only touching but also highlights the impact of positive reinforcement and open emotional communication. It’s rare to find children’s books that delve into this theme so effectively.
The illustrations by Jody King Camarra are a visual feast, blending various artistic techniques, including digital art and real-world elements. The colorful and intricate images add layers of depth to the story and excellently portray the characters’ emotions. At the end of the book, there are interactive journal pages, providing an opportunity for kids to reflect and write about their own experiences, which adds a personal touch to the learning journey.
Your Face Lights Up the World is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to encourage self-esteem and understanding in young readers. It’s a valuable resource for teachers and parents aiming to address themes like sibling dynamics and self-acceptance in an engaging, thoughtful way.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0D6484DPC
From Gray to Colorful
The Gratitude Goggles follows young children as they discover the concept of gratitude and the pitfalls of comparison and want in how it impacts their mental health and well-being. What was the inspiration for your story?
Since I became a mother five years ago, I have been working on myself and trying to be the best version of myself. I have explored many resources (e.g., books, workshops), to learn and to grow spiritually. One lesson that I have learned during my journey of personal growth is the importance of gratitude to support our wellbeing. I wanted to share this message with my children and with other children. The idea of goggles that we can wear to change our perspective (from gray to colorful) came to mind as a way to explain what gratitude can do in our lives.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The core idea in this book is that gratitude can help to bring back some color into our lives when everything looks dull and gray; there is extensive research supporting the positive effects of gratitude on well-being and on physical and mental health. Another message I wanted to relay in this book is that many times we may be tempted to compare ourselves to others or we may think that buying new things or changing something about ourselves will make us happier, which is not the case. We are constantly bombarded by messages (through ads or social media, for example) telling us that we are not enough or that we don’t have enough, which may make us feel inadequate and even depressed. Gratitude can help to combat those feelings of inadequacy and the ensuing depression.
The art in this book really brings the concepts to life for young children through the visual representations. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Rita Nilson?
I am so grateful to be able to work with Rita Nilson on these books. I explored collaborations with different illustrators, and Rita was a perfect fit. Not only is she an amazing artist, but she is also a mother and she has a sensitive and kind soul. Thus, she perfectly understood the intimate and tender feeling that I want to convey with The Gratitude Goggles and other books in the Wholesome Children: Self-Awareness series.
Regarding our collaboration, we usually discuss ideas before she starts creating a storyboard. Sometimes, I will quickly sketch things that I have in mind and send sketches to her; she then takes those ideas and runs with them, adding her beautiful artistic touch.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
The following book in the Wholesome Children: Self-Awareness series is called The Puzzle Piece, and it talks about authenticity and loving ourselves just the way we are. We have not officially announced the launch date yet, but it will be in May this year.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The Gratitude Goggles guides children as they imagine a special pair of goggles that can appear by simply feeling gratitude. These are goggles that reveal the world in its true, colorful splendor. The book explains the pitfalls of comparison and want, which can cast a gray pall over everything—as if we were wearing gray goggles. But fear not; we can always trade our gray goggles for the sparkling gratitude ones, thereby illuminating life’s wonders!
LITERARY TITAN 