Blog Archives
How To Celebrate Your Fandom
How to Celebrate Your Fandom is both a guidebook and a love letter to the communities that form around shared passions. It is structured around 52 activities designed to help fans of any age dive deeper into their chosen interests. From writing an elevator speech about your fandom, to hosting watch parties, making crafts, or even creating charity projects, the book celebrates creativity, connection, and joy. The later sections include interviews with fans of all ages and backgrounds, showing just how wide and welcoming fandom culture can be. The tone is encouraging, lighthearted, and inclusive, with constant reminders that there is no “wrong” way to be a fan.
I loved the spirit of this book. It feels like a big hug from the fandom world, the kind of thing that makes you smile while reading. The writing is simple, but it’s clear that the authors want everyone to feel included and safe. I especially liked the emphasis on kindness and respect, because fandoms can sometimes get messy. The little tasks are fun and surprisingly practical. Even something as small as decorating a bag with fan art or sending someone a compliment reminded me of why I fell in love with my own fandoms in the first place. It’s not just about stuff. It’s about joy, and that comes across on every page. The charming sketch artwork scattered through the book gives it a playful, handmade feel that makes the whole thing warmer and more inviting.
Some of the activities, like “put a photo of your fandom on your phone wallpaper,” made me smile because I already do that without thinking twice. But then I realized that’s part of its charm. The book isn’t about reinventing fandom, it’s about celebrating even the small things. It’s almost childlike in tone, but there’s a sincerity here that cuts through cynicism, and in a world that’s often harsh, that kind of sincerity is refreshing.
I think this book would be a wonderful fit for younger fans just starting out, or for families who want to share fandom activities together. It’s also a sweet pick for anyone feeling jaded and looking for a reminder of why being a fan matters. If you’ve ever cheered too loudly at a game, cried at a show finale, or stayed up way too late talking about your favorite character, you’ll find something here that sparks a smile. It’s not heavy reading, but it is heartwarming, and sometimes that’s exactly what we need.
Pages: 135 | ASIN : B0DGN4VSLK
Therapeutic Tools
Bella and Bird Explore Anger follows a young boy who is visibly upset after being denied a slice of his favorite pie, as he learns about anger and how to process it. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for the first book in the Bella and Bird the Emotion Explorers series came after Hurricane Ian devastated our island in Southwest Florida. Just three weeks before the storm, I had adopted my therapy horse, Bella, from Southern California. After traveling across the country to her new home, Bella endured and survived a Category 5 hurricane.
Her resilience was incredible, and as I thought about her journey, I also kept thinking about the children who lived through that hurricane and children everywhere who face devastating events, whether storms, fires, floods, or tornadoes. I wanted to create a story that would help adults talk with children about big emotions in a way that felt safe and approachable.
More importantly, I wanted my books to provide practical, therapeutic tools children could carry with them for life so they would know not only that it’s okay to have big feelings, but also how to process them in healthy ways.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
One of my main goals was to help children develop both emotional literacy and emotional intelligence. Emotional literacy is the ability to recognize, name, and understand our feelings, while emotional intelligence is the ability to manage those emotions, express them appropriately, and empathize with others.
In Bella and Bird Explore Anger, I wanted young readers to not only see a character experiencing a big feeling, but also to learn the vocabulary to describe it and the tools to manage it. The story introduces simple, therapeutic strategies like box breathing, cool-down counting, and using an emotion wheel to help children process anger in a healthy way.
By embedding these skills into a relatable story, my hope is that children begin to understand that all feelings are valid, but how we respond to those feelings matters. This combination of emotional literacy and emotional intelligence sets a foundation they can use for the rest of their lives.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I had the most fun creating the box breathing scene because it gave me a chance to show a calming tool in action in a way that children can easily understand and try for themselves. But even more than that, I loved creating the character of Bird, who is based on a real bird that lives in Bella’s stall. In the story, Bird brings comic relief to balance out the heavier emotional themes. These books deal with big, sometimes difficult feelings, and I think sprinkling in humor makes the lessons more engaging, comforting, and memorable for children.
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?
Yes, Bella and Bird Explore Anger is the first book in the Bella and Bird the Emotion Explorers series. The second book, Bella and Bird Explore Sadness, is going to print soon. In that story, readers will meet Molly, a little girl experiencing the heavy emotion of sadness. Bella and Bird gently teach her how to tend to her sadness, while also offering therapeutic tools that nurture both emotional intelligence and emotional literacy; skills she can carry for life.
Following that, fans can look forward to Bella and Bird Explore Happiness. Oh, what a joyful adventure that one is! And then Bella and Bird Explore Fear. Each book is designed to help children and the adults in their lives talk openly about big emotions, build the vocabulary to name those feelings, and learn practical strategies to understand, manage, and express them in healthy ways. In doing so, the series aims to nurture emotional literacy (recognizing and naming feelings) and emotional intelligence (understanding and managing those feelings with empathy and self-awareness).
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When Henry storms into the pasture, Bella, the wise horse, and her wisecracking sidekick, Bird, step in to help. Together, the friends set out to explore why Henry is angry and offer better ways to cope.
By the time Henry leaves the pasture, he’s gained new insights, is in better control of his feelings, and has tools to take along with him.
Bella and Bird Explore Anger helps children understand and manage their anger, making it a valuable resource for open and honest conversations about this challenging emotion.
The Power of Imagination
Luella’s Library follows a young book-lover who invites her tech-obsessed best friend to her home library, where they wind up on an unexpected journey when a book opens a magical portal to enchanted worlds. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Getting lost in a book gives kids the opportunity to connect with characters, go on wild adventures, and make choices and opinions based on the plot. So, I decided to write Luella’s Library to show kids the magic of reading a book. Children will be able to follow Luella and Lino on the many adventures their book takes them on. Lino is inspired by one of my own cousins who loves to spend time playing games on his iPad, and Luella has traits of my sister, who has a library of books in her bedroom. Together, Luella and Lino travel through many enchanted lands, all of which have been inspired by my favorite Barbie and Disney movies growing up. As a child, I fell in love with the magical settings in Barbie and Disney; they were places that I wished to visit, which is why I chose to make the settings of my story have a similar vibe. I want kids to be able to feel like they’ve been sucked into these vibrant worlds along with my main characters. My goal is to show children in a fun, interactive, and relatable way that picking up a book can be more of an exciting experience than picking up an iPad.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
In the past few years, I’ve seen a major shift in how young kids spend their free time. Rather than using their imaginations to play games, read a book, or enjoy the outdoors, I’ve noticed that their playtime is heavily spent on their iPads and phones. It’s become less reading and more tapping. If this trend continues, kids won’t know the experience of getting lost in a book anymore and expanding their imagination. Will kids even be creative if they’re always told what to believe through their iPads and never form opinions of their own? This question inspired me to write Luella’s Library. I believe kids should learn at a young age the power of imagination and creativity in this digital world we live in today.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
My favorite scene to write was the scene where Luella, Lino, and their newfound leprechaun friend ride Pegasuses into the sky in a land filled with fairies, mermaids, and mystical forests. My favorite movies growing up were always the ones that included fairies or mermaids, so I felt like I was tapping back into my childhood dreams of living in a land with magical creatures.
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?
As of right now, I haven’t decided if I will make this into a series. Yet, I loved writing it and bringing the world of Luella’s Library to life, so there is definitely a possibility!
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Amazon
Luella loves to read books, but her best friend, Lino, doesn’t.
What Lino soon discovers is that the books in Luella’s library are magical! When one of her books transports them to an enchanted land, they have to face unexpected obstacles and help new friends.
Will Luella and Lino complete their journeys along the way? Will they be able to help their new friend find his way back home? Or will Lino choose his phone over the adventures Luella’s library has in store?
Profound Learning Experience
Freckles is the sweet and heartwarming story about the unlikely friendship between a young girl and a duck decoy who spreads the message that being unique is something to be proud of. What was the inspiration for your story?
My inspiration stemmed from my daughter’s charming and unique, real relationship with a duck decoy she named “Freckles.” Since she was three, Freckles has been her constant companion, and their unusual friendship has touched the hearts of many, spreading joy wherever they go. It became clear to me that this story was worth telling from the moment they started interacting with others.
I dove into the project, dedicating countless hours to writing and exploring the publishing landscape. Thankfully, I connected with a publisher who resonated with my vision and a talented illustrator who brought my ideas to life on the pages. This journey has been a profound learning experience, filled with late nights to bring this tale to light.
I’m excited to share this uplifting tale about friendship, self-discovery, and the power of kindness. It’s a family-oriented book that chronicles Freckles’ adventures alongside my daughter and captures their special bond. I hope it brings joy to all who read it.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The book is written simplistically but has some deep underlying and important messages for children, such as empathy and friendship, showing the importance of kindness, and reaching out to others. It also encourages imagination and creativity while fostering emotional growth and embracing one main, simple truth: it’s okay to be different. My goal was to allow children to learn some valuable lessons in a heartfelt, light, and meaningful way.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator?
Thank you! I wanted art for the book that was focused on being real and true to the story, so I set out on a journey to find the right illustrator to convey this tale with watercolor in the most vibrant way. The collaboration process was incredibly rewarding; I shared my vision and the essence of Freckles and my daughter’s adventures. The illustrator took the time to understand the emotions and nuances I wanted to capture, which resulted in an authentic representation of our story. Together, we explored various styles and color palettes, ensuring the art not only complemented the narrative but also engaged young readers. The exchange of ideas and feedback created a beautiful synergy, culminating in illustrations that truly brought our enchanting tale to life. Communication was absolutely key, and providing real-life images helped us get through all illustrated-related challenges!
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
We aren’t sure what’s next for Mave and Freckles, but we know they have many more adventures ahead!
Author Links: GoodReads | Blue Balloon Books | Instagram | Amazon
Freckles is a captivating children’s story based on a true friendship between a little girl named Mave and her beloved duck decoy, Freckles. From the moment Mave pulls Freckles out of the box, it’s clear that he is no ordinary duck.
As Mave takes Freckles to school, the library, and around the community, he quickly becomes a source of comfort and happiness for everyone he meets. He starts to make an impact with his unique presence, fostering connections and encouraging kindness in a world filled with challenges.
Throughout their adventures, Freckles proves that being different is not only acceptable but something to be celebrated. He teaches those around him the importance of joy, compassion, and friendship. The story culminates in a powerful message: It’s okay to be different.
Liam’s Lost Sparkle
A young girl named Maya eagerly anticipates her favorite part of the day, going to school. It’s art day, and she can’t wait. But when she arrives at her usual seat, she finds Liam sitting there. Something is off. Liam isn’t his usual self; he’s quiet, withdrawn, clutching a toy spaceship, and unwilling to participate in class. Maya is frustrated at first; her spot was taken, and Liam didn’t even engage in the activity. Curious and concerned, Maya turns to her teacher and learns that Liam’s best friend has moved away.
Instead of staying upset, Maya chooses kindness. She offers to help Liam complete the rocket ship he and his friend had started together. Through this thoughtful gesture, she watches Liam slowly begin to regain his lost sparkle.
Liam’s Lost Sparkle is a tender, insightful story that offers a meaningful lesson in empathy and emotional awareness. Maya’s response to Liam’s sadness is not just compassionate, it’s proactive. Rather than focusing on her own disappointment, she seeks to understand and support a classmate in need. This kind of emotional intelligence, especially when portrayed through a relatable child character, resonates deeply with young readers.
The illustrations are bright, engaging, and brimming with warmth. Each image enhances the story, bringing its characters and emotions vividly to life. At the end of the book, readers are invited to reflect with thoughtful questions, encouraging deeper conversations between children and adults. Additional activities, like crafting “feelings glasses” or practicing small acts of kindness, extend the story’s impact beyond the page.
Liam’s Lost Sparkle is highly recommended for children learning to navigate their emotions and understand those of others. It would be a valuable addition to any classroom or pediatric waiting room, where empathy, understanding, and emotional growth are essential themes.
Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0FG3L929K
The Philly Phenoms
The Philly Phenoms is a heartfelt coming-of-age novel centered around Lee Lomax, a golf-obsessed fifth grader who leads his neighborhood friends in forming a makeshift golf tour on their elementary school grounds. What starts as a fun summer pastime quickly morphs into a deeper tale about friendship, family, courage, and grief. Through the eyes of Lee, we watch these kids battle broken windows, dig for softballs in overgrown woods, and wrestle with real-life events like 9/11 and a parent’s failing health. Author Nate Oxman captures all the chaotic beauty of growing up with humor and a whole lot of heart.
What really grabbed me about this book was how natural and funny the writing felt. Oxman writes the way kids actually think and speak, with a little bit of mischief and a lot of imagination. I felt like I was back on my own elementary school playground, sweating through a July afternoon and getting in just the right amount of trouble. The characters weren’t polished or perfect, which made them feel real. Latterman made me laugh, even while I was shaking my head at him. Lee’s voice is smart, tender, and stubborn in the best way. I found myself rooting for him, not just to sink his putts, but to figure out the messiness of life, even when it gets heavy.
The emotional core of the story hits hard, especially as Lee confronts his mother’s illness. Oxman handles grief in a way that’s quiet and gutting at the same time. There’s a chapter late in the book that completely broke me. The writing didn’t beg for sympathy; it just told the truth. That’s the power of this book. One minute you’re laughing about a kid trying to sneak a golf ball out of a broken school window, and the next, you’re blinking back tears as Lee tries to hold his world together. The pacing slows a little in the middle, and sometimes the golf lingo slowed me down, but overall, the story never lost me.
I’d recommend The Philly Phenoms to anyone who loves a good story about growing up, especially if you’ve got a soft spot for golf, tight-knit neighborhoods, or father-son bonds. It’s perfect for middle schoolers, parents reading with their kids, or adults looking to revisit the simpler, more complicated days of being a kid. If you’ve ever had a summer you didn’t want to end, this book will take you right back.
Pages: 272 | ASIN : B0F7NSDD78
Charlie and The Magic Tree
Charlie and The Magic Tree is a heartwarming celebration of wonder, imagination, and self-love. Set in a vibrant park where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, this beautifully illustrated children’s book invites readers into a world where magic lives in nature and in ourselves.
The story follows Charlie, a curious and spirited young girl who stumbles upon a magical tree. What unfolds is a whimsical journey filled with surprises, delightful creatures, and an enchanting bond of friendship. But what truly makes this book stand out is how it weaves visual and emotional richness together with a powerful message of representation.
From the first page, the illustrations shine. The characters, African American children in a lovely spectrum of brown skin tones, are depicted with care and joy. The colors are bold and lively, capturing the magic of the story and the magic of real-world diversity. Every page is a visual affirmation.
This children’s book doesn’t just entertain, it empowers. It speaks directly to children of color, offering them a mirror in which they can see their worth and their wonder. And for children of all backgrounds, it opens a window into the beauty of difference and the joy of shared humanity.
Charlie and The Magic Tree isn’t just a picture book to read, it’s a book to treasure, gift, and revisit often. Its artistry and message are both timeless and timely. A must-have for every child’s bookshelf.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0CLZRDRH2
Dogg the Cat
Dogg the Cat is a playful and tender picture book about a cat who dreams of becoming a dog. His owner, kind-hearted and open-minded, doesn’t just accept this unique wish, he embraces it. With curiosity, compassion, and a bit of internet research, they explore the world of dogs together. Along the way, we learn all sorts of fun facts about dogs, from their superpowered sense of smell to their ability to understand words and routines. The book ends on a joyful note: a cat named Dogg who feels fully seen, supported, and happy just as he is (or wants to be).
I really enjoyed this wonderful children’s book. The writing is simple but clever, with just the right amount of humor and heart. It walks a fine line—playful enough to charm kids, thoughtful enough to tug gently at adult emotions. The pacing is quick, but not rushed. There’s a natural rhythm to it, and the voice of Dogg is both quirky and honest. The blend of storytelling and animal trivia is surprisingly smooth. It never feels preachy or forced—it’s more like a cat joyfully rambling on about why dogs are awesome, and it’s kind of delightful.
What really stuck with me, though, was the message. It’s subtle, but strong: you can be who you want to be, especially when someone’s in your corner. There’s something sweet and quietly profound about a story that encourages kids to follow their instincts and to love others for exactly who they are—or who they’re becoming. And the illustrations are bright and full of character. They add extra warmth and energy to a book that’s already got a lot of heart.
I’d absolutely recommend Dogg the Cat to families with little ones, especially ages 4 to 8. It’s great for animal lovers, daydreamers, and any kid who’s ever felt a little different. Teachers and librarians will also find it useful for classroom read-alouds. It’s short, funny, and ends on a sweet, positive note.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0DZW5WB11
LITERARY TITAN 