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Octavia Can Do It!
Liliana Tommasini’s Octavia Can Do It! introduces us to the enthusiastic Octavia, a young girl determined to bake chocolate chip cookies on her own. The story unfolds in a charming domestic setting, where Octavia, under the watchful eye of her mother, embarks on her culinary quest. However, when her mother is momentarily called away, Octavia seizes the opportunity to advance her baking independently, with the assistance of her brother, Ludovic, and their dog, Oslo. This leads to a series of amusing yet challenging moments in the kitchen, encapsulating the complexities of baking that Octavia initially underestimates.
The narrative of Octavia’s venture into independent baking is both engaging and heartwarming, reflecting a strong sense of family values and togetherness. The theme of trying new things, even when they don’t go as planned, is a valuable lesson for young readers. The involvement of her family, especially the bond between Octavia and her mother, further underscores the significance of shared family experiences and support in learning new skills. Amariah Rauscher’s illustrations, executed in a blend of charcoal pencil and watercolors, add a vibrant and distinctive visual element to the story. The artistic style complements the narrative effectively, enhancing the book’s appeal to its young audience. An interesting aspect of this book is its roots in the author’s personal life, drawing inspiration from her grandchildren, Octavia and Ludovic, who serve as the main characters. This personal connection adds a layer of authenticity to the story. Furthermore, the inclusion of ‘Octavia’s Double Chocolate Cookies’ recipe is a delightful touch, inviting readers to partake in Octavia’s baking adventure.
Octavia Can Do It! is a delightful read for children aged 4-8. It marks Tommasini’s impressive debut in children’s literature, weaving an entertaining and educational tale. The book promises a journey of learning, challenges, and family bonds and is recommended for young audiences.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B09WPB2PNK
Finding Peace at Christmas
Christmas Switcheroo follows a family preparing for the holidays who get overwhelmed with preparations and cause a gift mix-up that could be disastrous. What was the inspiration for your story?
I have to admit right away that I am a Christmas person. So, it’s fun to write stories about the Christmas season. The inspiration for my ”Christmas Switcheroo” can naturally be found in the things related to Christmas in my home country. However, I left out many Finnish-related and religion-related issues and instead focused on the general rush associated with preparations for the festive season. Christmas provides a good background for how different people’s expectations and preparations for a big celebration differ.
People’s age is significant when we follow how they feel about the upcoming holiday season. In children’s minds, fun activities, happy excitement, and the “fairytale” elements of the holiday season are highlighted. The adults may be worried about schedules, financial issues, and various responsibilities. They think about who to buy gifts for, who to visit, who to invite… It is easy to conclude that for many adults, for example, Christmas time is not the same joyful thing as for carefree children.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
In ”Christmas Switcheroo,” I also wanted to transform some typical roles into slightly new positions. I wrote about children who love peace and seek an authentic Christmas atmosphere. I tried to bring peaceful atmospheres and places where you can find genuine Christmas spirit into the story. It doesn’t happen in the hustle and bustle of a shopping center but can be found, for example, in a quiet library or a small cafe. Crafting paper snowflakes or drinking warm cocoa on a cold winter evening can give a much more incredible feeling than flashy neon advertisements and theme music blaring everywhere.
I also wanted to show that exhausted adults can even get help from children. Christmas comes for the whole family, even with less stress. Everything can be fun if the family’s Christmas preparations are done together and kept to a reasonable level. Of course, each family member may have particular wishes that must be considered and respected. One likes to bake, another puts up decorations and Christmas lights, and someone listens to music. There is a place for all of these when there is a good spirit of togetherness.
The most important message I wanted to convey is that families must also have a peaceful time together. The most valuable moment during the entire holiday season can be a quiet moment together, looking at Christmas stars and snow lanterns and singing a familiar Christmas carol together.
What is your favorite part of the Christmas season?
All parts of Christmas are dear to me and associated with many memories from different stages of my life. What is important is how the experiences of Christmas are made up of layers of all the years of my life.
My mind can take me back to situations from decades ago: To the Christmas atmosphere of the village church or visits and Christmas carol performances at a local nursing home for older people. They are dear memories to me, and I hope that as many children as possible today could experience the same.
The joy of having a good memory is that even the deceased relatives and all my departed loved ones are still present at my Christmases. I can light candles to burn on their graves and next to their photos. I can think of them as grateful for all the intangible gifts they have given to my life.
The most meaningful things in my Christmas are the children and their bright eyes as they admire the candles and the Christmas tree. Christmas time is the darkest time of the year in Finland. You can imagine how beautiful it is if there are lights outside in the dark and in the middle of the snow, even in the trees and bushes.
I had a somewhat tight childhood financially, but I felt nothing was missing in my Christmases. I collected Christmas pictures from the newspaper in a small box and admired them in the evenings. I also saved a small amount of Christmas money, which I used to buy tiny presents for my little sisters and my parents. The joy of giving was great, even though the package was insignificant.
Finally, I have to mention Christmas music and candles. What could be more beautiful than listening to music that you have chosen yourself by candlelight? – But remember to be careful with fire! As a child, I enthusiastically burned candles – and once accidentally almost a wooden table.
What story are you currently in the middle of writing?
I always have many books in various stages of the publishing process. And in our small family business, I am involved in all those stages. I’m about to send many stories to my editor in the USA just now. They include yet another sequel in The Fox Series, as well as stories for the new ”Lyrics of Life Series” and two beautiful stories set in India.
I would also like to mention the ongoing illustration projects where my new “Active Kids Series” will have the first two books illustrated by Dane D’Angeli from Brazil. They feature new kinds of adventures – even an exciting detective story about a museum robbery.
Another interesting illustration is the fourth book in my “I Did It!” series. This time, the story illustrated by Catty Flores takes place in icy winter landscapes.
For next Christmas, we will have another Christmas book, which takes place in Northern Finland. As a child, I experienced similar moods at the mercy of nature and in the middle of snowstorms in the landscapes of my mother’s childhood home. In that story, I could also include many memories of my late Grandpa, his old house and horse, and the big clock that now ticks on my living room wall.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
For Dad, the most important thing is to have the garden decorated with tons of Christmas lights to delight himself and the neighbors. But the fuses blow nearly every time he comes up with a new lights arrangement!
This year the Perksons get the last presents ready in the nick of time. But things don’t play out quite as they planned. Will Christmas still come despite this year’s less-than-perfect preparatio
Ups and Downs of Life
Many Mansions follows twin brothers living in New York who wind up in dramatically different lives after a fight that ends their relationship. What was the inspiration for the setup for your story?
Many Mansions was inspired due to my love of luxurious real estate in magazines, on TV, on social media, and in real-time. Just like, my main characters Moses and Isaac who had an interest in affluent homes. At the same time, when I was seventeen, I almost got my real estate license, but I changed my mind because I wanted to become a writer instead. I know it might sound crazy, but that was me. The biblical quote “Many Mansions” made me think of God’s home with an abundance of homes in the sky for people who did good in the world.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
The things that I find interesting about the human condition are when the characters go through ups and downs. They may have bad intentions but turn them around and do good in the end. When a character has fallen on luck and has given up on life like my character Isaac who couldn’t take the outside world looking down on him. Even his parents and then the one who was supposed to be there for him which was his brother, Moses. And any situation, a person may experience that will cause them to take drastic measures or something good.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write?
I love writing about Moses because he strived to make his real estate company a reality. I love writing about Isaac as well, even though he became homeless. I enjoyed writing about both Moses and Isaac as you know they are brothers but took different paths in life. I usually write characters who are opposites and both main characters. I had no problem writing the other characters in Many Mansions.
What is the next book that you’re working on and when can fans expect it out?
I’m working on a dark romance about an abduction. And I can’t make any promises when this dark love story will be available. I’ll keep everyone posted.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook
Moses moved on, graduated from college, and started his real estate business. He networked with real investors, contractors, and realtors in the field. He became a lucrative businessman selling luxurious homes for the rich and famous. Over the next decade, Moses thought of his brother, Isaac. He was so caught up in himself that he forgot about the brother who was out in the world somewhere. He didn’t know if Isaac was dead or alive.
While shopping at the supermarket with his girlfriend, Moses stood in line waiting to purchase his items. He noticed a filthy, unkempt gentleman who couldn’t afford his purchases, and offered to help him out. Moses noticed it was Isaac. The twins reunion wasn’t heartwarming. Instead, it was filled with jealousy, envy, and hate from the past. Moses and Isaac reconciled their differences. They realized who caused their broken bond. It was their stepfather who came into their lives, turning everything upside down. Finally, Moses and Isaac got rid of this man with the help of their mother who also suffered from this man’s lies, abuse, and cheating. Now, the brothers made their dreams became a reality. They sold luxury properties and also provided homes for the homeless.
Many Mansions
In Many Mansions, Alexis Soleil presents a narrative rich in emotional depth, intricate character development, and themes that invite reflection. Her prose adeptly handles the complexities of human connections, societal challenges, and the resilience inherent in the human spirit.
Soleil’s talent shines in her character creation. Each individual in the narrative is shaped with remarkable depth and realism, fostering a strong connection between the reader and the characters’ journeys. From youthful aspirations to the burdens of adult life, Soleil captures the essence of her characters’ growth with sensitivity and subtlety. The book also tackles the issue of societal discrimination with relevance and poignancy. Soleil uses her characters’ experiences, such as Isaac’s struggle with prejudice due to his albinism and others’ encounters with neglect and domestic violence, to illuminate the often harsh realities of those marginalized by societal norms. Her approach to these challenging topics is handled with both grace and empathy, encouraging a deeper understanding in her readers.
The narrative structure of Many Mansions further distinguishes Soleil’s work. The intertwining of various perspectives and timelines creates a dynamic and engaging reading experience. The unique addition of a playlist further enriches the narrative, drawing readers deeper into the story’s world. A notable aspect of Soleil’s writing is the underlying thread of hope and redemption. Despite the obstacles and trials faced by her characters, there is an enduring sense of optimism and resilience. Moments of reconciliation and healing within the story highlight each person’s potential for growth and change.
Alexis Soleil’s Many Mansions is a compelling exploration of storytelling’s power. With her vivid prose and engaging characters, she guides readers on a journey that encompasses self-discovery, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the human condition. In today’s divided world, Soleil’s work stands out as a source of inspiration and a reminder of our shared complexities and potential for unity.
Pages: 349 | ASIN : B0CLJGB5LH
Marco, Pablo, & Olivia Volume One: New School
Marco, Pablo, and Olivia: New School takes readers on a captivating journey as three siblings adapt to life in a new coastal town after their father’s promotion relocates them from their beloved mountain home in Ecuador. This heartwarming tale is a testament to family bonds and the resilience of young hearts facing unfamiliar challenges.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Guayaquil, Ecuador, Ana Cortes’ writing and illustrations vividly capture the city’s culture, morals, and enchanting allure, making it accessible and engaging for young readers, even those who have never visited. Through the siblings’ adventures, Cortes imparts valuable life lessons, portraying them as role models for children in handling conflicts and adapting to new circumstances. Beyond the endearing trio of Marco, Pablo, and Olivia, Cortes introduces a captivating array of supporting characters, from loyal friends to intriguing acquaintances and the occasional bullies and troublemakers. Each character is thoughtfully crafted, adding depth and interest to the story. The interactions within the Costa family are equally charming, infusing the narrative with humor and warmth.
The children’s graphic novel Marco, Pablo, and Olivia: New School maintains a lighthearted tone, and it is a comic that carries a profound message about the enduring importance of family, friendship, and personal growth for young readers. Cortes’ storytelling prowess shines through, making this graphic novel an exceptional choice for young children, offering them a delightful adventure while instilling valuable life lessons.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0C8VHBWNV
The Woman’s Curse
Ginger Taylor’s The Woman’s Curse is an intellectually rich amalgamation of bible study, personal accounts, and pragmatic guidance tailored to couples. From the onset, Taylor candidly admits her years-long struggle with being an ideal wife, which sets the tone for this divinely inspired text. Her intent is to aid women in mastering the art of being a “submissive” wife and fulfilling their potential as the jewels in their husbands’ lives.
Taylor’s narrative is a journey of self-realization that carries the reader through a boisterous childhood, the pains of marital dissolution, and the tribulations of rearing seven children. She shares her joy in discovering love again with her second husband, giving us a window into her enduring fortitude and indomitable spirit. Her transparency regarding her struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder creates a relatable narrative that will strike a chord with many.
Throughout the text, Taylor deftly intertwines biblical teachings with stimulating questions ranging from theological to those echoing a marriage counselor’s office. She draws inspiration from the biblical story of Sarah, encouraging women to follow in Sarah’s footsteps by referring to their husbands as “Lord,” signifying a submissive wife. She ardently advocates for the importance of sexual intimacy within marriage and proposes that child discipline should chiefly be a father’s duty.
Undoubtedly, The Woman’s Curse will provoke intense reactions and potentially attract criticism, particularly given the current societal evolution in gender roles. However, Taylor unequivocally champions the idea that women are not inferior to men; she perceives their unique roles as an integral part of divine design. She holds women in high esteem, underlining their invaluable presence in men’s lives.
Despite Taylor’s self-confessed non-writer status in her introduction, it becomes evident that she is brimming with enthusiasm, which seeps into her words. I have immense respect for her resilience and commend her unswerving commitment to bettering the lives of others. That said, the occasional challenge of following her narrative due to an abundance of ideas or unintentional repetition is a minor shortcoming.
The Woman’s Curse is a bold exploration of marriage, spirituality, and the role of women according to the author’s interpretations of biblical teachings. Taylor’s openness about her personal journey and her commitment to fostering healthier relationships provide ample food for thought, even for those who may not subscribe to every aspect of her worldview. This book provokes contemplation and discussion, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in delving into a unique perspective on traditional roles in marriage.
Pages: 205 | ASIN : B0C383RXJH
Stella and her Spiky Friend
Stella and the children living in Berry Bay are mystified by the new pharmacist. She seems so different from everyone else around them. Visiting the pharmacy now requires them to go in groups because she is so, well, mean. They aren’t used to this kind of treatment. When Stella happens upon the pharmacist outside of the pharmacy one afternoon, she learns something about her that explains not only her strange behavior but also her ever-changing appearance. Stella quickly learns that she and the rest of the neighborhood were as wrong as they could possibly be about Betty Birdington.
Stella and Her Spiky Friend, written by Tuula Pere and illustrated by Emanuel Tamas, is a lovely children’s book that demonstrates how the curiosity of a child can reveal some important life lessons. Young Stella, about to turn eight years old, is mystified by the town’s new pharmacist. Stella and the children of her neighborhood are highly relatable in their wonderment and their reactions to an adult who is, for lack of a better term, a meanie. Betty Birdington is both written and illustrated in a way that will spark readers’ imaginations. Her character is fascinating from the first pages of Pere’s work. The illustrations Tamas has created stir a spectrum of emotions in young readers, from the feeling of trepidation to pure joy. I truly enjoyed the storyline and believe young readers will find Stella’s tender love and care toward her little hedgehog interesting, but I would love to have seen more of the storyline with Betty Birdington. I found myself looking throughout the rest of the book for a reappearance of the pharmacist and a bit more about her interactions with the townspeople.
Stella and Her Spiky Friend is an imaginative children’s story showing the curiosity that children have and how it can manifest in some situations. I highly recommend Pere and Tamas’s book for parents and teachers of children ages 6 to 10.
Pages 42 | ISBN : 952357003X
We Are Born With A Specific Destiny
The Final Eight Seconds follows a man in the hospital who has to examine his life and choices before a committee in the afterlife. I think this original idea is intriguing. How did you come up with this idea and develop it into a story?
Some years ago, I heard the expression “Each of us are born into this world with a specific destiny, even though we may never know what it is.” This idea has stayed with me, and eventually I had to write about it.
What were the morals you were trying to capture while creating your characters?
Kindness, generosity, loyalty, honesty, helpfulness. While the characters were far from perfect, they were basically “good” guys.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Choices. The protagonist usually acted instinctively, which caused him to often make wrong choices and to lose the only woman he ever loved. However, ultimately destiny (his? hers?) brought them together.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
My next book explores reincarnation. It will be at least one year before it is ready.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Olivia Godat’s The Final Eight Seconds is a thought-provoking exploration of man’s weaknesses and ultimate end. Through Joey’s story, she examines the power of faith and the choices we make in life, and the consequences that follow.
LITERARY TITAN 