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The Big Dream: Middle-Grade Fiction (The Crow’s Tales) Book 2
Victoria E. Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson’s The Big Dream is a lively, humor-filled adventure that captures the magic of summer, childhood friendships, and one boy’s determination to chase an unlikely dream. It follows Brandon Woodberry, a kid with an endless imagination, a mischievous pet crow named Ralph, and two best friends, Josh and Skip, as they set out to enter a remote-controlled car race. The problem? They need to raise nearly $2,000 to buy a car kit and customize it. Their summer becomes a whirlwind of hustling for cash, plotting pigeon-catching schemes, and dealing with school, family, and growing up. With its warm humor and engaging storytelling, the book is a delightful ode to youthful ambition.
Brandon’s voice is instantly engaging and full of personality and wit. His internal monologues, whether he’s trying to stay awake in English class or navigating a hilarious dinner-table debate about his summer plans, feel authentic and relatable. The humor is spot-on, and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. The authors do a fantastic job of making the characters feel like real kids, complete with wild ideas, exaggerated reactions, and a boundless sense of possibility.
One of the book’s strongest aspects is its pacing. There’s never a dull moment. Whether it’s the boys pulling off a chaotic car wash, burning cookies during a bake sale, or dealing with an infuriatingly smug rich guy who tosses them a measly nickel as a tip, each chapter propels the story forward. The setbacks the boys face feel real, but there’s a persistent optimism that makes you root for them. Ralph the crow is another highlight, and his antics, from stealing cookies to strategically “decorating” a rude customer’s car, add a layer of unexpected hilarity to the story. His presence gives the book a slight whimsy, making it even more charming.
Beyond the humor and adventure, The Big Dream has an underlying message about perseverance and teamwork. The boys don’t always see eye to eye, and at times, their plans seem completely doomed (especially when their money-making schemes fall short). However, their friendship carries them through, and their determination to see the project through despite all odds is inspiring. The moment when they finally start believing they can do it is when they shift from seeing obstacles to finding solutions, is genuinely uplifting. It’s a wonderful message for kids.
I’d recommend The Big Dream to middle-grade readers who love stories about friendship, big ideas, and crazy summer escapades. It’s funny, heartfelt, and full of that electrifying feeling of endless summer days where anything seems possible. Whether you’re here for the humor, the adventure, or the sheer joy of watching a group of kids take on a seemingly impossible dream, this book delivers.
Pages: 312 | ASIN : B0DRZ88WZ9
The Gift of Friendship
The Cabin tells the story of two children who become attached to the mystique surrounding a cabin in the woods and the sense of loss and subsequent resilience upon its destruction. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
This story is inspired by a true event that took place on Hog’s Back Mountain in Upstate New York. Summers spent on my grandmother’s farm provided a real time experience of life, play, and death. Due to our wonderful experiences, we blossomed as human beings while there.
Is there anything from your own experience found in the characters of Keith and Cynthia?
Haha! Actually, yes! We are the characters and I could not be happier with what they discover through unexpected friendship, loss, and the continuance of their rhythm of farm life.
The artwork in your book is wonderful. Can you tell us a little about your collaboration with illustrator Alex Bigatti?
Alex understood and loved the story from the start. I wanted the medium of watercolor to convey a sense of wistfulness and she agreed. Neither of us knew much about doing art for a children’s book, but she was persistent and did her research. Alex’s insight and passion for her art is clearly seen in the illustrations and she was so easy to work with. She captured the emotional world of the characters and the story!
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The theme of resilience was the top theme for me. It emerged as I did the rewrites: Resilience in the face of loss. What also came out was the importance of rhythms in our life…rhythms that can carry us through difficult and wonderful times, but are always there. The gift of friendship also seemed important. The joy and surprise as well as the fragility of them is clearly seen and felt in The Cabin.
Author Links: Instagram | Website
Families and Friends
In Better Than Coffee, a family learns to resolve their differences and rediscovers the power of Christianity through regular meetings and a renewed supportive family network. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The comfort of how coffee and tea in society brings families and friends together and my love for drinking a hot cup of tea or ice cold glass of tea.
Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your characters’ lives?
Yes, watching meaningful tea and coffee talks through world events and enjoying tea and coffee talks with family and friends through the years.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The importance of a healthy support system of family and friends who are safe to share hard times, tears, and laughter, with the joy of enjoying a cup of coffee or tea for additional comfort and relaxation.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes, I am in the formation stages of writing family and friends fun books.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
learn later that although coffee provides them with temporary comfort, God becomes their ultimate comfort for every walk of their lives, unhealthy addictions, brokenness, and despair in their lives with God’s help and the support of one another.
Although the characters are fictional, the power of God and Christianity is real.
May readers be inspired to love God, enjoy coffee or tea, and share their blessings and life’s adventures with their loved ones.
The Secrets of the Shallows
Gloria Barnett’s The Secrets of the Shallows plunges readers into a mesmerizing underwater world brimming with life, adventure, and purpose. Set on the idyllic Caribbean island of Pontus, the story revolves around Lucy, a resourceful and spirited young diver who shares her love of the sea with her close-knit group of friends. Their paradise, however, is threatened when a corporation proposes building hotels to attract tourists. As tensions rise, unscrupulous individuals destroy turtle eggs on the beach to fabricate a narrative of marine life decline, further pushing the project forward. Refusing to stand by as their home and its fragile ecosystem face destruction, Lucy and her friends embark on a mission to protect what they love.
Barnett’s evocative storytelling stands out as one of its most compelling aspects. Vivid descriptions effortlessly transport readers into the underwater realm, capturing the fluid dance of light on water and the rich biodiversity of the ocean. The narrative structure is tight and engrossing, propelling the reader through Lucy’s challenges while celebrating her bond with her friends. Humor, camaraderie, and the power of solidarity infuse the story with warmth and relatability. Barnett’s passion for marine conservation is evident in every word, fostering empathy for sea creatures and a profound respect for nature without ever feeling preachy.
Adding to the book’s charm are supplementary features, including a photo guide to the marine species featured in the story and a detailed illustration of Lucy’s diving equipment. These thoughtful additions enrich the reading experience, making the book not only a compelling narrative but also an educational resource.
The illustrations, while beautifully executed, are relatively sparse. I feel that including them within the chapters could have enhanced the reader’s ability to visualize the marine creatures as they appear. However, their placement at the end provides convenient access for quick reference. Beyond the visuals, the book’s detailed world-building and character development shine. Lucy and her friends aren’t just brave adventurers—they embody teamwork, critical thinking, and proactive problem-solving. Their efforts to engage the mayor and propose peaceful solutions underscore the importance of collaboration and dialogue in tackling real-world challenges.
Gloria Barnett weaves a tale that is both entertaining and inspiring, leaving readers with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the ocean and the urgency of protecting it. The Secrets of the Shallows is a testament to the power of storytelling to ignite passion, educate, and empower, making it a must-read for nature lovers of all ages.
Pages: 139 | ASIN : B08JKP56TR
The Mouse, the Llama and the Sheep
Rayner Tapia delivers a delightful tale in The Mouse, the Llama and the Sheep, an engaging and heartwarming story. The narrative begins with Mouse enjoying a piece of cheese when he encounters a new friend, Llama. Through their conversation, Mouse learns that Farmer Joe has brought Llama to the farm for his wool. With a spark of determination, Mouse sets out to find the sheep, believing that Llama and Sheep would make great friends since they share something in common.
Mouse’s journey across the farm introduces readers to an endearing cast of characters, including Dog, Pig, and Cow, before finally reaching Sheep. In the end, all the farm animals gather to meet Llama, and together they form a wonderful bond, showcasing the true spirit of friendship. Tapia’s storytelling is both simple and captivating, making it easy for young readers to follow.
The illustrations evoke the nostalgia of Little Golden Books, offering a visual charm that harks back to childhood memories. Children will especially enjoy the whimsical portrayal of the farm animals, such as the chicken wearing heels, which adds a playful touch to the artwork. The author skillfully weaves in the unique sounds of each farm animal, adding an interactive and engaging element that young readers will adore.
The Mouse, the Llama and the Sheep, by Rayner Tapia, beautifully imparts an important lesson: the value of friendship transcends appearances. Young readers will be enchanted by the story’s warmth and its timeless message of inclusivity and kindness. I highly recommend Tapia’s touching tale to parents or teachers looking to add that next beloved selection to their libraries.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0BWYZF848
Albert the Donkey Solves a Mystery
Albert the Donkey Solves a Mystery is an endearing tale about friendship, problem-solving, and kindness. Set on a charming little farm, Albert the donkey and his loyal companion Eddie the dog embark on an adventure to help their bunny friend, Hoppy, solve the case of her missing carrots. The mystery unfolds with teamwork and a touch of suspense, eventually leading to a heartwarming resolution that emphasizes the values of honesty and cooperation.
The author’s depiction of Albert and Eddie’s friendship feels genuine and warm. Early in the story, the duo’s willingness to drop everything and help Hoppy shows their selflessness. The characters are easy to root for, and the sunny farm setting creates a cozy backdrop that draws you in. The story keeps the mystery light and straightforward, making it easy to follow and enjoyable for younger readers. The clues, like the carrot bits and paw prints, are presented clearly and lead smoothly to the resolution. While the scene where they find Remy surrounded by half-eaten carrots is humorously predictable, it adds a charming touch that fits perfectly with the story’s playful tone. This simplicity ensures that the narrative remains accessible and engaging for its target audience.
I also appreciated how the book sneaked in a moral lesson without feeling preachy. When Remy admits his mistake, Albert’s response is a masterclass in gentle leadership. The way the group works together to gather more carrots for Hoppy feels genuine and satisfying. It’s lovely how the story ends with the characters enjoying each other’s company as the sun sets—a perfect reminder of the joy found in friendship and forgiveness.
Albert the Donkey Solves a Mystery is a delightful read for children and adults who enjoy lighthearted tales with a message. It’s an ideal bedtime story, especially for kids who love animals or are beginning to understand the importance of kindness and teamwork. If you’re looking for a heartwarming story with a sprinkle of mystery, this one’s a keeper.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0DF9KHLXV
The Cabin
Cynthia S. Vander Ark’s The Cabin is a poignant and nostalgic picture book of a childhood summer spent on Hog’s Back Mountain, intertwined with unexpected friendships, innocent adventures, and a quiet reckoning with loss. Through lyrical prose and wonderful watercolor illustrations by Alex Bigatti, Vander Ark tells the story of two kids, Keith and Cynthia, who fall into the magical rhythm of life with a group of gentle “hippies” building a cabin in the woods. What starts as a carefree exploration of summer days culminates in the heartbreaking yet tender image of ashes where the cabin once stood. The narrative moves seamlessly between joy and sadness, making readers feel as though they, too, are meandering through blackberry bushes and ravines.
The writing is intimate. Vander Ark’s descriptions paint the farm and its surrounding woods in colors both vibrant and melancholy. Lines like “The hippies became a part of our landscape… the warp and weave and rhythm of our daily lives” give life to the fleeting beauty of human connection. I especially loved how the text shifts from playful moments, like learning to whistle through joined thumbs, to contemplative reflections on impermanence. There’s a rhythm to the prose that echoes the seasons of the mountain itself: growing, burning, grieving, and renewing.
What really struck me was how Vander Ark handled the theme of loss. When the children return to find the cabin reduced to “ashes, laid out in a rectangle,” the watercolor scene is deeply affecting. You can feel the heavy stillness as Keith and Cynthia stand “frozen” with “lumps like rocks” tumbling in their stomachs. It’s an honest portrayal of grief. How it surprises you, settles in your heart, and becomes part of your world. I loved the watercolor scene on this page. Vander Ark doesn’t shy away from this complexity, even in a story accessible to younger readers.
The book’s simplicity is also its greatest strength. It doesn’t try too hard to impart a lesson or wrap up emotions with a tidy bow. Instead, it trusts the reader to sit with the feelings. The cabin’s fate is tragic but not hopeless. Nature persists, as do Keith and Cynthia, exploring ravines and picking wildflowers. “When we looked closely through the light and shadows,” the author writes, “we would always find flowers that had just enough sunlight to grow.” That small detail—finding flowers in the shadows—left me with goosebumps. It’s a perfect metaphor for resilience and hope, all wrapped in childhood wonder.
The Cabin is a quiet treasure of a children’s book, brimming with warmth, wistfulness, and the wisdom of letting go. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy reflective storytelling and beautifully simple prose. Parents could read this with their children to gently explore loss and resilience. Adults, too, will find echoes of their own summers and moments of grief in its pages.
Me and the Missouri Moon
One night, Scarlet and her father hit a cyclist while driving. Pleading for him to stop and help, Scarlet was met with cold refusal. Her father’s fear of jail, compounded by his troubled past, led him to threaten her into silence. Guilt consumed Scarlet, but her burden grew heavier when she befriended a new girl at school—the injured cyclist’s sister. Juggling guilt, complicated family dynamics, and her friends’ struggles, Scarlet feels utterly lost. In her darkest hours, Scarlet clings to her grandmother’s words about the Missouri moon: a magical force that grants wishes to those who believe deeply enough. The moon becomes Scarlet’s refuge, her silent confidant. Yet, deep inside, she knows that no wish can replace the strength she must summon within herself.
Me and the Missouri Moon, by Nancy Stewart, is a profoundly moving novel. Scarlet’s story is layered with hardship, responsibility, and hope. She faces a troubled father, a mother working tirelessly at two jobs, and the challenge of caring for her younger sister. Her life is anything but simple. Amid her struggles, Scarlet remains a pillar of support for her friend Henry, who deals with difficulties at home. By contrast, her best friend, Cricket, comes from a privileged, loving family. Scarlet doesn’t resent Cricket but wrestles with understanding the stark differences between their worlds. Stewart captures this complexity with masterful precision, painting Scarlet’s world in rich, realistic detail without ever overwhelming the reader.
Nancy Stewart’s novel delivers powerful lessons about friendship, loyalty, and resilience. Each character shines with individuality, their backstories thoughtfully crafted to add depth and authenticity. Moments of pain and guilt are palpable, while scenes of kindness and camaraderie resonate with warmth. Stewart’s writing style is straightforward, honest, and captivating—a perfect balance for tackling such weighty themes. The short chapters ensure the story flows smoothly and remains accessible.
Me and the Missouri Moon is a heartfelt and inspiring story that explores the complexity of life, family, and self-discovery. Through Scarlet’s journey, readers witness the true meaning of inner strength and the profound impact of love, forgiveness, and courage. This book will immerse you in a world of challenges and triumphs, leaving you deeply moved and reflective. Nancy Stewart’s novel is a triumph—an emotional, realistic tale that will linger long after the final page.
Pages: 220 | ASIN : B0D46HWBC5
LITERARY TITAN 