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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
Feeling of Isolation
Little Bear and the Big Hole follows a young bear struggling with his grief over the loss of his father, who sees his absence as a literal hole—vast, lonely, and invisible to others until a friend shows up and helps him process his pain. Why was this an important book for you to write for children?
I was 35 when my husband died – not a child, but at a time in my life when I knew no one like me. It felt like everyone else my age was in the blossoming of life – new marriages, having children, having fun, etc. and I was at an end of some kind. I didn’t know anyone like me – a widow in her mid-30s – and it felt very isolating. This feeling, that your world has stopped while everyone else’s around you is still joyfully spinning, made me feel so terribly alone on top of all the other heavy feelings of grief. Also, I found that most people (unless very, very close friends or family) tended to avoid talking with me about grief because I think they just didn’t know how to, which made them feel uncomfortable. Children are also at an age/life stage where it is less common to experience a profound loss, so they would very likely encounter this feeling of isolation as well. When I learned that 1 in 12 children will suffer the loss of a parent or sibling by the age of 18 I was astounded, and I wanted to write a book that would help them feel that they are not alone, that their feelings are normal and that grief will eventually transform into healing. I also wanted the book to show others how to be a friend to someone who is grieving.
The artwork in your story brings the concepts to life so that children can visualize Little Bear’s emotions. What was the collaboration process like with Mirjam Siim?
My publisher does not allow direct communication between the writer and the illustrator, but they did allow me to communicate through an art director due to the sensitive nature of this book. One of the main points of discussion was the concept of the hole, as it was very important to me that the hole appear, at least in the beginning, like it was boundless. I knew that if we didn’t get the hole right, the concept would fall flat, and I think Mirjam did a beautiful job depicting the hole and all of the big emotions in the book. Interestingly, I have since commissioned Mirjam to do the artwork for my website (so fantastic!) and a few other projects. She is a joy to work with and so very talented!
What was the most challenging part of writing Little Bear and the Big Hole?
There were so many things I wanted to convey in this book and I think the hardest part was making only the choices necessary for this story. I had to tell myself that there are so many facets of grief, and my one story cannot address them all. Even if it did (this would be a very long book), it would lessen the impact.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
You are not alone.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram | Amazon
Dylan’s Dilemma (Dylan’s Dog Squad Book 1)
Dylan’s Dilemma is a sweet, funny, and sometimes heartbreaking story about a cocker spaniel named Dylan who starts his life in a cramped crate in South Korea and winds up on a wild adventure that brings him all the way to sunny Southern California. The book follows Dylan’s ups and downs as he finds freedom with his first owner, Aiden, faces abandonment when Aiden can no longer keep him, and eventually struggles to find a place in a new family with a boy named Casey and his no-nonsense mother. Written mostly from Dylan’s point of view, the book brings readers right into the mind of a lovable, mischievous pup who’s just trying to figure out where he belongs.
What really struck me about this book was how real Dylan’s emotions felt. Kathleen Troy doesn’t just tell you Dylan is happy or scared; she makes you feel it. When Dylan thinks, “My lungs are shrinking. I can’t breathe,” after Aiden gives him up, my heart physically hurt. Troy’s writing captures Dylan’s innocence perfectly, especially in moments like when he tries to “help” in Casey’s mom’s office by turning her important project into a shredded hamster collage. I found myself laughing aloud, though it was a bittersweet kind of laughter, recognizing that the little dog was simply trying his best.
The pacing of the story kept me locked in, too. One minute, I was giggling over Dylan’s craft skills (destroying cords, baseboards, and tables like a tiny wrecking ball), and the next, I was genuinely nervous when he was sent off in a crate across the ocean. The humor balances out the emotional gut punches really well. Plus, Casey’s character is just the right mix of loyal and goofy. His determination to keep Dylan, even when his mom is dead set against it, made me root for them both so hard. Their bond is simple but strong, like when Casey calls Dylan “Little Buddy,” giving him a sense of belonging again after losing Aiden.
One thing I noticed is that some of the adult characters are written with a playful exaggeration, especially Casey’s mom, who shifts from grumpy to affectionate with the speed of a light switch. It actually adds to the lively, slightly cartoonish tone of the story (particularly during hilarious moments like Eddie-the-Whiner’s antics at dog training). The vibrant style suits the book’s mission: to entertain first, warm the heart second, and sprinkle in seriousness just where it’s needed.
Dylan’s Dilemma is a real charmer. It’s perfect for anyone who loves dogs, funny misadventures, and heart-tugging stories about finding your forever home. I’d especially recommend it for middle-grade readers or adults who just want a sweet escape for a few hours.
Pages: 256 | ASIN : B09RQCDPG5
LITERARY TITAN 