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Baby Dragon Finds His Family
Baby Dragon Finds His Family, by Sheryl Bass, is a heartwarming children’s book that beautifully highlights the diversity of families, fostering empathy and acceptance in young readers. At the heart of the tale is a kind dragon who spends his days helping the villagers, but despite his good deeds, he feels a deep sadness because he hasn’t received a name from his parents. This missing piece weighs heavily on him, so he sets out on a quest to find his family and discover who he is. Along the way, he meets magical creatures like an elf, a unicorn, and a fairy, all of whom he helps. In return, they teach him a valuable lesson: family isn’t just about where you come from but about being with those who love and care for you.
Sheryl Bass crafts an emotionally resonant story, drawing readers into the dragon’s feelings of loneliness and his desire to belong. Despite his sadness, his selflessness shines through as he generously helps others, showing young readers how kindness and positive actions can create meaningful connections. The joy the dragon feels when surrounded by his caring friends offers a powerful lesson on the importance of relationships, making him a wonderful role model for children. This picture book not only teaches children about belonging and resilience but also encourages them to respect others’ feelings, showing the strength that comes from forming bonds based on kindness and understanding.
The illustrations are bursting with vibrant colors and enchanting scenes that draw readers into the magical world Bass has created. The plot unfolds with imagination and energy that I think is perfectly paced for young readers. The short and rhythmic sentences make it easy for early readers to follow along, while the occasional longer phrases add a layer of challenge that encourages growth.
Beyond the engaging story, the book serves as a useful tool for adults to initiate discussions with children about the uniqueness of families and the importance of values like kindness and compassion. The dragon’s emotional journey adds depth to the character, making him even more relatable and compelling as the story progresses.
Baby Dragon Finds His Family is a touching and imaginative children’s book that resonates with both children and adults and offers a meaningful exploration of family, friendship, and the power of kindness. It’s a charming picture book that will inspire young readers to embrace diversity and form strong and caring relationships.
Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0CLRX6WKG
Moving Forward
The Space Between Dreaming follows two women struggling to have a family of their own who meet at an art gallery and form an unlikely friendship. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had always wanted to write a story that featured strong friendships that was perhaps a bit unexpected. I decided to do this through friendships that spanned different generations and different circumstances as a way to show the strength we gain from women who are in our corner. Since I’m also an artist, I took a lot of inspiration from my own experience in showing in galleries and working at art fairs.
Grace and Jane are both relatable characters that readers are drawn to and want to help. Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your characters’ lives?
I used my real-life great-grandmother’s name for one of the characters, although the personality of the character is totally different. The character of Jane loves the Milwaukee Art Museum and has since she was a kid, which is something I took directly from my own life.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
My love of art and the power of expressing emotions through painting is something I wanted to convey. I wanted readers to feel how valuable the practice and appreciation of artistic endeavor can be in healing, decision-making, and everyday life. Also the theme of moving forward despite difficult circumstances was an important one to include. I wanted this to be an inspiring, hopeful book for someone to pick up.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I just released an art book called Poetry and Paint. It features my original paintings and poetry. I’m also working on another novel, but I don’t have a date for its release yet.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Grace and Jane both crave family but for much different reasons. Grace longs for the child she was never able to conceive and Jane for the new family she will have once she marries her boyfriend. They meet and become unlikely friends when Grace’s husband paints his masterpiece and Jane’s gallery represents him.
As they ponder their future, Jane’s meddling 80-year-old landlady helps them see the beauty in letting go of expectations. Grace and Jane each see something different in the painting, and it causes them to look beyond their stubborn dreams to a fresh reality that could hold the key to their happiness.
Little Joe and The Big Rain
Little Joe enjoys taking naps in his basket on his front porch. One day, his friend Hopper invites him to his house to make fly soup. Being naturally curious and adventurous, Little Joe eagerly agrees. On their way to Hopper’s house, it starts to rain, forcing them to seek shelter from the storm. In their search, they encounter a hungry bear named Roxy. Little Joe helps Roxy, and in return, she provides them with shelter and tea until the storm passes. Afterward, Little Joe rushes home to tell Anna all about his exciting day.
One of the most engaging aspects of Mike Darcy’s Little Joe and the Big Rain is its delightful character development. Little Joe’s curiosity and bravery are infectious, making him a relatable and inspiring protagonist for young readers. Hopper’s enthusiasm and big-heartedness bring a light-hearted energy to the story, while Roxy’s nurturing nature adds a comforting presence. Their interactions are heartwarming and often humorous, illustrating how different personalities can complement each other perfectly. The narrative flows smoothly, with each chapter presenting new adventures and lessons.
The book’s gentle teachings on diversity and friendship are seamlessly integrated into the plot. The characters’ differences are highlighted in a way that celebrates uniqueness rather than division. This thoughtful approach helps young readers appreciate and embrace diversity naturally.
Little Joe and the Big Rain, by Mike Darcy, is a delightful read that offers more than just an adventure; it’s a journey into understanding and embracing diversity. The story’s engaging characters, smooth narrative, and gentle yet profound lessons make it a perfect addition to any child’s bookshelf. It’s particularly well-suited for young readers who are just beginning to navigate the complexities of friendships and differences. This book is sure to encourage children to look beyond the surface and discover the friend in everyone they meet.
Pages: 28 | ISBN : 978-1964544007
Empowered and Secure
Oddly and Eve: Magical Addition Pairs follows a frustrated and sad odd number who struggles with his feelings and finding friends. What was the inspiration for your story?
Many years ago, while teaching a math lesson to my youngest students, we noticed and briefly discussed that two odd numerals added together made an even number, as did two even ones. Since I tend to anthropomorphize just about everything, I began to wonder how the numerals felt about those outcomes, especially from the odd ones’ perspective. Thinking ahead to a possible book, I created a file that stayed in my desk for a long time. When I recently came across it again, I was inspired to finally write that story for my younger readers. The original title was “Odd’s Revenge,” but I decided that was a bit too negative. So, Odd led to Oddly, and then Eve appeared, and the book was born, focusing on the positivity of magical addition pairs.
Your children’s book is more than a simple counting story. You have included important lessons about friendship, acceptance, and cooperation. Was this intentional in your writing, or did it happen naturally as your story developed?
I always aim to weave meaningful life lessons into my writing to help and inspire my readers. That said, the way those themes emerged happened naturally as I wrote the story. First came Oddly with a chip on his shoulder, and then Eve’s unstoppable positivity that even Oddly couldn’t ignore forever. Professor Plus also blossomed on his own as a guide on the side, as did his camaraderie with Count Calculator.
I loved the scene in the book where Oddly and his friends are blocking the road. What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Yes, that’s a fantastic scene, and I must credit my illustrator Barry Davian, whose artistic talent brought each moment to life beautifully. What I love most about that point of the story is how Eve calmly and directly calls out Oddly on his actions while handling the situation with grace. This concept is vital because children need to learn how to respond and communicate in the moment, rather than freezing up and letting life push them around. The sooner they realize that they can steer their own course, rather than being like a cork bobbing helplessly on the ocean, the more empowered and secure they will feel as they mature.
The scene I most enjoyed writing in Oddly and Eve: Magical Addition Pairs was when Professor Plus opened Oddly’s mind to new ways of thinking, followed by his conversation with Count Calculator. With Professor Plus, I wanted to nod to one of my favorite literary characters, Professor Digory Kirke from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, particularly when he explains logical thinking to Peter and Susan. Having regularly introduced philosophy to students as early as second grade, I’ve found that children embrace this kind of thinking early on, and it’s very important to me to include that in my writing. As for my favorite illustration by Barry, it’s the one where Oddly and Eve make their amazing discovery together in a burst of energy that appears above them on page 12 of the paperback!
When is your next book coming out, and what can your fans expect?
I have many more books coming out, even this month, and throughout the year, for entire families to enjoy. Right now, I’m building a well-rounded body of work for all elementary grades, from pre-K to 6th, to increase my audience and enrich my standards-based and lively presentations during my school author visits.
Author Links: Goodreads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website | Amazon
Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends
Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friendship by Jen Kirkley is an exceptional children’s book that beautifully explores themes of acceptance and diversity. Willard DoGooder the Dog starts a new school year only to find himself without any of his friends in his class, making everything seem unfamiliar and challenging. Struggling to make new friends, Willard reflects on his teacher’s advice: name the difference, find the good, and move on with kindness. His journey leads him to a magical trail where he meets various animals, each distinct in their own way. Through his teacher’s wisdom, Willard learns to embrace these differences, making new friends and helping others accept themselves.
Each animal Willard encounters, from the nearsighted Tommy Tiger to the nut-allergic Layla Squirrel, stands out from their peers. By applying his teacher’s advice, Willard assists each animal in accepting their uniqueness, enriching his understanding of friendship in the process. The narrative is deeply empowering, illustrating how simple acts of kindness and acceptance can create meaningful connections. The illustrations by M. Brayer are enchanting and perfectly complement the story’s classic charm. They bring the characters to life, adding a visual delight that will captivate young readers. One minor issue is that three of the friends have names starting with the same letter, which could be slightly confusing for younger readers. However, the distinct personalities and characteristics of each animal make this a minor concern that does not detract from the overall experience. This story gently introduces readers to concepts of racial diversity and physical differences in a safe and meaningful way. Willard’s method of naming the difference, finding the good, and moving forward with kindness is a practical and powerful approach that readers of all ages can apply in their daily lives. This simple yet profound method showcases how we can all be agents of change, embracing kindness and diversity.
Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friendship is a delightful tale of friendship, kindness, and acceptance. Its strong message, engaging storytelling, and beautiful artwork make it an excellent choice for any reader who loves animals and stories about friendship. This book is a wonderful addition to any child’s library, offering valuable lessons in a heartwarming and enjoyable way.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0D88JZTBD
Axel’s Baking Day (Axel and Ava)
Axel’s Baking Day, by Tuula Pere, with delightful illustrations by Nyamdorj Lkhaasuren, is a charming tale that captures the heart of childhood curiosity and the joy of baking. The story follows young Axel, who faces an unexpected challenge when his parents have to leave, disrupting their usual Saturday baking routine. Determined to uphold the tradition, Axel sets out to bake on his own, leading to a series of humorous and relatable mishaps.
Pere’s writing is both engaging and accessible, making it a perfect read for children. Tuula Pere has a knack for capturing the essence of a child’s perspective, particularly through Axel’s determination and disappointment when things don’t go as planned. The narrative is straightforward yet rich in detail, which makes it easy for young readers to follow along and stay interested. For instance, the description of Axel struggling with the sticky dough and his efforts to call his friend Ava for help are both vivid and entertaining.
One of the highlights of the book is the illustration work by Nyamdorj Lkhaasuren. The images are colorful and expressive, adding depth to the story and bringing Axel’s adventures to life. Each page is filled with charming details that complement the text, from the messy kitchen to the final triumphant pancake. The illustrations not only support the narrative but also provide visual cues that enhance comprehension for younger readers. The book also subtly imparts valuable lessons about perseverance, problem-solving, and the importance of friendship. Axel’s determination to bake despite the obstacles, and Ava’s willingness to help, showcase the power of teamwork and resilience. The humorous tone and light-hearted approach make these lessons enjoyable and memorable.
Axel’s Baking Day is a delightful book that I would highly recommend to parents and educators looking for a fun and educational read for children. Its engaging story, combined with beautiful illustrations, makes it a joy to read aloud or enjoy independently. This book is particularly suited for young readers who are beginning to explore their own interests and hobbies, as well as those who enjoy stories about friendship and family traditions. Whether you’re a fan of baking or simply enjoy a good laugh, Axel’s baking adventures are sure to entertain and inspire.
Pages: 32 | ISBN : 978-9528200536
Change Can Open Doors
The Crow’s Tales: The Bird Caper follows a ten-year-old boy whose family is moving to a new home, and he is worried about what his future will hold for him and his pet birds. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Deep in the process of writing our first book, The Big Dream, we agreed to create a series. The dilemma was that The Big Dream didn’t capture the essence of what we wanted for Book One. This challenge ignited the inspiration for The Bird Caper as the perfect opportunity to introduce Brandon, his pet crow, Ralph, and the evolution of new friendships. The goal is to make the reader feel like they truly know and relate to Brandon. You get to meet Brandon’s family and intimately share his fears about moving to a new home and see his strength in resolving difficult situations on his own. We hope perhaps readers will even like him as a friend.
It seemed like you took your time in building the characters and the story to great emotional effect. How did you manage the pacing of the story while keeping readers engaged?
Pacing is a middle-grade challenge in today’s fast-paced electronic world. As novice writers, we followed a basic formula. We created dialogue wherever possible and used care with dialogue tags. Varied sentence and paragraph length. Monitored filler words. Inserted new twists and events in every chapter. And kept the chapters short.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The primary theme is “change.” The story shines a light on young Brandon’s new life experience, showing him that, while daunting, change can also open doors to new friendships and adventures. The story depicts what kids go through all over the world. But it’s not often as scary as it seems. This is an excellent message for young readers.
Additionally, the story emphasizes the value of friendship and community as we follow Brandon’s journey of leaving his beloved neighborhood and longing for a sense of belonging in a new environment. The story introduces determination, exploration, and perseverance as his means to cope with his newfound challenges.
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?
The Bird Caper is Book 1 in our The Crow’s Tales trilogy. Book 2, The Big Dream is scheduled for release as a 2nd Edition in 2024. In this book, Brandon and his friends desperately try to raise money over the summer break to enter a remote-controlled car race. They will stop at nothing to achieve their dream even if it means bending the rules, just a little bit. Young readers will laugh out loud at the fund-raising adventures and the (mis)adventures of Ralph the Crow, who is drafted in to help. The book captures the essence of summer, childhood friendships, and the innocence of youth. A fun read, with a surprising, unexpected twist at the end. Book 3, The Crow’s Ring, is a clever mystery about finding the truth (Coming 2025).
Author Links: Facebook | Instagram | Website
THE BIRD CAPPER in the fun book series everyone’s been waiting for!
THE CROW’S TALES.
Are you ready for a thrilling adventure that will leave you on the edge of your seat? Look no further. In THE BIRD CAPER (Book 1), ten year old Brandon is faced with the ultimate challenge when his parents decide to sell his home. This change means moving the family away from his beloved neighborhood and friends. Desperate not to move, Brandon turns to his pet crow, Ralph, for comfort. But when Ralph becomes the suspect in a string of mysterious bird incidents, Brandon must race against time to clear his name and save his friendship with his best friend, Josh. As tensions rise and new challenges emerge, Brandon must uncover the truth behind the crimes and chaos before it’s too late. Will he be able to outsmart the dreaded B.B. Boy bullies? And who knew that ladybugs could play such a pivotal role in the grand scheme of things? With action at every corner, this middle-grade mystery adventure is a must-read for boys and girls. A perfect book for 8-12 year olds. Fans of books like “The Mysterious Benedict Society” will devour this captivating tale. Don’t wait any longer, grab your copy of THE BIRD CAPER today!
Bonus! Teacher Reading Resources Included.
Don’t forget to read THE BIG DREAM! Book 2 of THE CROW’S TALES, a 3-book series. Entertaining stories with wholesome values!
The Bird Caper
The Bird Caper by Victoria E. Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson is a heartwarming tale about embracing change and overcoming fears. The story follows Brandon, a boy who cherishes his friends, family, and a host of pets, particularly his beloved pigeons and a crow named Ralph. His world is turned upside down when his parents announce an unexpected move, forcing Brandon to confront uncertainties about his relationships and his cherished pets. As he navigates his new reality, Brandon embarks on a journey filled with surprising adventures and challenges, from dealing with a friend’s disappointment to standing up to bullies who mock his passion for birds. Along the way, he discovers his knack for solving mysteries.
Moving can be a daunting experience for many children, often seen as a negative disruption. However, The Bird Caper beautifully illustrates how such transitions can be opportunities for growth and new friendships. Brandon’s gradual adaptation process, narrated from his perspective, allows readers to deeply connect with his emotional journey. The plot is rich and engaging, covering various aspects of school, family life, and social interactions, providing a multifaceted view of Brandon’s experience. The story’s mystery elements add an intriguing layer to the narrative. Brandon’s involvement in small but significant mysteries, like when Ralph the crow steals computer chips from his best friend, showcases his problem-solving skills and adds excitement to the plot. These episodes, while rooted in everyday occurrences, maintain a dynamic and relatable storyline that keeps readers invested in Brandon’s adventures. While the plot revolves around the move, it remains lively and authentic, portraying real-life situations that children can easily relate to. Some might find the story’s calm, realistic approach different from more fantastical tales, but this groundedness makes this book captivating and encouraging. It may even inspire young readers to embrace new experiences and challenges.
Victoria E. Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson have crafted a delightful and engaging story that will undoubtedly capture the interest of young readers. The Bird Caper is a must-read for children facing changes in their lives and for anyone who enjoys a heartfelt, realistic adventure.
Pages: 165 | ASIN : B0D3Q4VW84
LITERARY TITAN 