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A Tall Tale: How the Ostriches Got Their Long Necks and Long Legs
Scott Sollers’ children’s book, A Tall Tale: How the Ostriches Got Their Long Necks and Long Legs, transports readers to a distant, fantastical land divided by a ridge and inhabited by two distinct communities: the resource-poor No-Haves led by Chief Nobody, and the prosperous Have-Alls under Chief Somebody. The stark contrasts between these groups—one struggling on barren land without water or wildlife, the other thriving among lush greenery, abundant water, and playful creatures called Squatz—sets the stage for a tale of envy, conflict, and ultimately, resolution.
Sollers’ narrative shines with creativity, particularly in the invention of the Squatz, adding a layer of whimsy to his portrayal of societal disparities. The plot revolves around the No-Haves’ ill-fated attempt to steal Squatz, leading to a pivotal moment of confrontation and the exploration of themes like fairness and justice. Without revealing too much, the story cleverly explains the mythical origins of ostriches’ distinctive features in a way that is bound to captivate young imaginations.
The moral lessons are clear and thoughtfully integrated into the storyline. Children are shown the pitfalls of envy and the repercussions of theft, alongside the virtues of seeking compromise and collaborative solutions. Such messages are delivered through a narrative that encourages understanding and empathy, even when characters initially falter. Alejandro Echavez’s illustrations are another highlight, with each page presenting vibrant, mural-like drawings that draw readers deeper into the story’s richly painted world. The visual storytelling complements Sollers’ words beautifully, enhancing the magical and educational experience.
Suitable for readers aged 4 to 8, A Tall Tale is more than just an entertaining read; it’s a book that imparts valuable lessons through a delightful narrative. It is a commendable addition to any young reader’s library, promising both enjoyment and educational value.
Pages: 38 | ISBN : 1637557736
Finding Footprints
Finding Footprints: A Sasquatch Saga written by the team of Erik Daniel Shein, Melissa Davis, and Karen Fuller, is set in the lush Pacific Northwest, where protagonist Lily Evergreen, a hearing-impaired girl with a deep connection to her Native American roots, explores the enchanted forests accompanied by her service dog, Malachi. The narrative takes a fantastical turn as Lily uncovers a portal to another world and meets Winston, a young Bigfoot. Faced with the choice of embarking on a daring quest or returning to her familiar world, Lily grapples with the decision, her journey exploring themes of courage and cross-species friendship.
The story’s strength lies in its portrayal of Lily, who transcends her hearing impairment to engage with her environment in unique and insightful ways. Her friendship with Winston, characterized by non-verbal communication, beautifully illustrates the power of understanding beyond words. This narrative is a celebration of overcoming obstacles and forming unbreakable bonds. While the treatment of time in the story can sometimes seem fluid, with transitions between scenes that move swiftly, akin to a video game’s dynamic cutscenes, this narrative style adds a layer of briskness and excitement to the unfolding events.
The book’s concise length allows for a fast-paced journey that hints at deeper scenes and character developments, suggesting a broader world and story that could be expanded upon in future installments. This brevity ensures that readers are continually engaged, always anticipating more, and leaves them eager to explore more of the potentially epic moments and evolving friendships that lie within this rich narrative tapestry. The core of the story— the profound friendship between a girl, a Bigfoot, and a loyal dog—resonates deeply, emphasizing emotional connections without reliance on dialogue. The narrative is like a finely brewed cup of tea that has yet to reach its full flavor, yet it remains a commendable read for those interested in tales of adventure, cultural richness, and magical realism.
Finding Footprints: A Sasquatch Saga will engage young readers who are looking for an exciting and meaningful adventure that is rooted in folk tales and myths. It celebrates the beauty of diversity and the importance of friendship, especially those that are unexpected, and is sure to inspire and delight readers of all ages.
Pages: 154 | ASIN : B0CZ7WNG57
The World of Fae and Magic
Bobbin and the Magic Thief follows a shunned faerie who sets out on an adventure to rescue her best friend, who has been kidnapped by a human. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve always loved fairytales, and often wondered about the many variations the Brothers Grimm collected before writing the versions that most people know today.
If there had been many variations around a particular tale, was there some grain of truth to it? What would it have been?
I started thinking about Rumpelstiltskin. What if he wasn’t the one spinning the gold? What if he was just an opportunist?
Somewhere in the mix, I started wondering why there weren’t many tales about faeries and spinning or cloth production. Fae are often either mischievous or helpful in stories, and I’m sure I would have appreciated some help spinning all the thread needed for making cloth for everything from clothing to sails for ships.
So I created Spindle Faeries and decided to play with different tales involving spinning or clothing, starting with Rumpelstiltskin.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I tended to fall in love with each new character as I wrote them, but I truly adore the pixie clan. I’ve started writing some short stories about some of them.
Bobbin was probably the most challenging. Being the main character, she carries the story and I wanted to pace her growth, but my creative mind kept wanting to play with the other characters. Staying focused on her was sometimes difficult.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Bobbin has often felt like a misfit or outsider, even when she’s trying very hard to fit in. It’s something I can personally relate to. When she finds and accepts the friendship of others who accept her as she is, her unique qualities come through. It makes her personality shine and allows her to be the brave person she is.
I also tried to really ground the story in a historical period. Yes, it’s the world of fae and magic, but most faerie and folk tales take place in a primarily medieval time. So I did research on the 14th-16th centuries in Europe to get a good sense of place. How flax would have been spun, what kind of food and plant life might be around. I took some literary license, but I feel the research helped to make the story much more textural and real.
Can you tell us a little about where the story goes in book two and when the novel will be available?
The next book, Bobbin and the Stolen Thread, will be a twist on The Emperor’s New Clothes and takes place following the main events of this book, but before the epilogue. Bobbin and her friends continue their adventures, traveling further north in Rose Valley. The Magic Thief doesn’t make a direct appearance in this one, but the mischief he causes is still the root of the problem. I’m hoping to release it at the end of 2024 or early 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | SpindleSpark | LoreWeaver | Amazon
Bobbin is losing everything. Abandoned by her mentor and banned from her trade, the young Spindle Faerie’s best friend is now gone. But when she discovers the thief’s true intentions, she is compelled to disobey faerie law or risk losing her friend forever.
Hoping to stop the nefarious plot, Bobbin joins forces with unexpected allies. But the greed for magical things soon places all their lives in peril.
Can Bobbin succeed in saving her friend and ceasing the thief’s mischief, or will her failure result in the end of the Spindle Faeries?
Bobbin and the Magic Thief is the first book in the faerie tale retelling adventure series The Spindle Faeries.
Bobbin and the Magic Thief: A Middle-Grade Fairytale Retelling
Step into a world of enchantment with Bobbin and the Magic Thief, where Bobbin, a spirited fairy, embarks on a spellbinding adventure alongside some unlikely companions. Her best friend, the charming Heddy, has been mysteriously kidnapped by a cunning human thief, setting the stage for a captivating journey filled with surprises. As Bobbin embarks on her daring rescue mission, she encounters a delightful array of characters, from mischievous pixies to otherworldly beings. But it soon becomes clear that Heddy’s captivity is not an isolated incident, adding layers of complexity to Bobbin’s quest.
Author Kat Farrow artfully weaves elements of traditional fairy tales into the narrative, including a clever nod to Rumpelstiltskin. Throughout the book, occasional illustrations add depth to the story, helping readers visualize the enchanting settings and characters. The author masterfully combines elements of fantasy and suspense, creating a narrative that is as enthralling as it is heartwarming. Bobbin’s unwavering determination and the bond of friendship that drives her forward make her a relatable and endearing protagonist. As the story unfolds, the reader is drawn deeper into a world of enchantment and mystery. The well-crafted plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeps you guessing until the end. The stakes are high, the danger palpable, and the emotional resonance of Bobbin’s quest is undeniable. The story introduces many characters, but you can’t help but love them all.
Bobbin and the Magic Thief is captivating perfect for older children and fantasy-loving tweens. It transports readers to a world brimming with imagination, delivering the essence of a timeless fairy tale that will leave them spellbound and eager for more. Dive into this enchanting adventure and let your imagination take flight!
Pages: 286 | ASIN : B0C7FNBNYQ
Pirate Dreams
Pirate Dreams, the first installment in the Ginny McC’s Mysteries series by DL Morton, takes readers on an exciting journey alongside the protagonist, Ginny, and her remarkable clairvoyant dreams. These dreams serve as valuable tools for unveiling the truths behind the captivating mysteries she encounters. Accompanied by her loyal and supportive friend Rita, fondly known as Ritz, they embark on an unforgettable adventure at the enchanting pirate-themed festival, Pirate Days. The story truly comes to life as Ginny’s dreams transport her to the deck of the festival’s centerpiece pirate ship.
The novel revolves around a group of young adults who face relatable challenges such as jobs, rent, and finding a new place to live. Including these realistic aspects adds depth to the characters and grounds the story in a believable setting. Although the book touches on their personal lives, it does so in a lighthearted and humorous manner, incorporating playful allusions to their bedroom activities. While the plot may appear simplistic at first glance, it ultimately proves to be charming and engaging, capturing the essence of a captivating children’s adventure. The author’s writing style, although straightforward, effectively conveys the story, allowing readers to effortlessly immerse themselves in Ginny’s world. The narrative adheres to the fundamental principle of “Show, don’t tell,” vividly bringing the scenes to life. The characters, particularly Ginny and Rita, possess a genuine and relatable dynamic, engaging in realistic arguments and moments of introspection. Their interactions mirror authentic human behavior, and though they occasionally backtrack on their initial stances, it serves to showcase their growth and emotional depth. One aspect worth noting is the deliberate exposition that subtly foreshadows character traits, allowing readers to anticipate their development. By skillfully revealing these traits, the writer invites readers to form deeper connections with the characters and better understand their motivations.
I recommend Pirate Dreams to those seeking a delightful and whimsical adventure, complete with mystery and intrigue. The novel’s imaginative storyline and relatable characters make it an enjoyable read.
Pages: 264 | ASIN : B0C2JW6TN7
Elysia
Courtney and her friends have finally re-entered the world of Elysia, only to discover the world that needs their help. Sinister characters are trying to harness the magic to steal the Crystal of Light from the dreamland, and they must be stopped. So Courtney and her friends must travel to another dreamland known as the magic world to stop them. Through their mission to stop the bad guys from taking the crystal, they face unique challenges to protect themselves in the dream world and reality. Will they make it through and save the dream worlds; find out in Elysia: The Magical World by Malcolm Chester!
Elysia: The Magical World is a story full of exciting plot concepts, including the traditional coming-of-age tale. Regarding plot and pacing, Elysia was a great and entertaining read. I was reading an Alice in Wonderland retelling. With the dream elements, special honey, and creative dream characters, Elysia carries the same magic as Lewis Carroll’s classic children’s book. It even further resembles the Disney live-action remakes with the amount of adventure that takes place.
I felt that Courtney’s interactions with Reginald felt forced. When they first meet in Elysia again and kiss, it becomes awkward and uncomfortable for the reader. I felt like I was reading middle school fanfiction. With lines such as “Reginald’s lips tasted like the most delicious food Courtney ever ate.” and “The heat between them grew stronger.” You can attribute some of these matters to the age of our characters, but there may have been a better way to write these scenes and the dialogue within them. But overall, it gave the novel a sweet and quaint ending that many will appreciate.
Elysia: The Magical World is an entertaining children’s fantasy novel that takes readers into a magical dream world. This adventure story is a fun and fast-paced read that was easy to digest in one sitting. I look forward to seeing what Chester publishes in the future!
Pages: 166 | ASIN : B07N7RN2VW
Elysia
Elysia: The World In Children’s Dreams is a children’s book written by Malcolm Chester. It features 11-year-old Courtney, who has a troubled home life. In addition, she is a young girl just starting puberty and experiencing all the emotions that go along with this stage of life. Elysia is an escape for Courtney. It is a dream-like fantasy world that allows her to forget her problems at home. However, problems soon plague Elysia as the crystal that supplies the world’s magic is stolen by an evil king in this world. Courtney’s primary goal is to find and return the crystal and restore the magic and balance to Elysia.
Chester does a great job at creating a relatable character in Courtney. She is a caring girl while also dealing with issues children might be dealing with. For example, her father was sent to prison. Unfortunately, these issues are rarely brought up in books made for children. Hence, it is essential to shine a light on these types of relationships. Children need to have an outlet and understand that although their situation might not be typical, they are not the only ones going through it.
Chester creates a world that is so imaginative and charming readers will want to exsperance the magic of Elysia themselves. This lets the reader understand why Courtney doesn’t want to leave. The world of Elysia is symbolic and an excellent allegory for growing up. By saving Elysia, Courtney learns it’s important to be proactive when trying to fix a problem bigger than herself. She learns that she is brave and strong enough to resolve any issue in front of her. This is a lesson she can take to her real life and issues that will arise from puberty and growing up.
Elysia: The World in Children’s Dreams is a children’s and middle-grade fantasy novel. This story can be read by anyone looking to find inspiration. It’s a great story that teaches change doesn’t have to be scary, a lesson many of us could use today.
Pages: 320 | ASIN : B0792XS13D
Rooty the Rutabaga: A Story About Vegetables, Inclusion and Seeing the Sunny Side of Life
Rooty the rutabaga is all alone. He sits in a dark patch of the garden, away from all the other vegetables. Rooty has no friends and has never ventured out of his garden corner to discover what is making all the noise he hears on the other side of the plants. Then, one day two peppers are playing and accidentally throw their nut over into Rooty’s corner of the garden. While looking for their nut, they meet Rooty, who is initially rude and unfriendly. Not to be dissuaded, the peppers lead Rooty out into the sun and introduce him to all the rest of the vegetables. Soon he is making friends and learning how to play for the first time ever.
Children’s author Steven Megson has created an entertaining picture book with illustrator Andy Yura to teach kids about inclusion. Kids usually hear about the more common vegetables, like broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, and tomatoes, which are all friends and grow in the bright sun. However, rutabaga is a vegetable that many kids have never heard of. It has a strange name and looks really different. Megson uses this to teach children that even thorough someone is other, they are still part of the community.
The moment that stood out for me was when Rooty was rude to the peppers; they thought about leaving him alone and returning to their friends. Instead, they saw Rooty was lonely and afraid. So they took his hands and led him to meet the rest of their community. It was more than just being kind; it was seeing someone that needed help and taking a chance on them. This is a motivating story to help children learn to identify others needing help and show them ways that, even as children, they can make a difference in their world.
Rooty the Rutabaga: A Story About Vegetables, Inclusion and Seeing the Sunny Side of Life is a heartwarming picture book that children and adults can appreciate and learn from. This is an excellent children’s book for school classrooms and libraries to teach about multicultural groups and the value of kindness.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B09RG9YW6X
