Blog Archives
June’s Big Wave
June’s Big Wave tells the story of a little girl named June who is spending a fun day at the beach with her family. Everything seems perfect until worry sneaks up on her, turning her sunny day into a swirl of “what-ifs.” June feels scared and anxious. What if the wind blows everything away? Through her imagination, she learns how to handle her worries by comparing them to waves. She learns to breathe, float, and swim through them rather than fight them. The book ends with June feeling proud and calm, and there’s even a caregiver’s guide in the back that gives parents tips for helping kids deal with anxiety too.
I really liked how this story makes something as complicated as anxiety feel easy to understand. June feels real. Her worries sound like the ones I had as a kid. The “what-ifs” idea is so clever and relatable. The author doesn’t sugarcoat the feelings, but she also doesn’t make them scary. The tone is gentle and warm, and the way June learns to face her fears feels empowering. The breathing exercise and the idea of swimming with the wave are just so smart. It’s practical, but also imaginative enough to keep a child’s attention.
The caregiver’s guide at the end caught me off guard in the best way. It’s full of real advice that makes sense, not just fluffy “stay calm” stuff. It talks about what anxiety looks like, what not to do, and how to actually help a kid work through it. I love that the book treats both the child and the adult as part of the same team. You can feel how much the author cares about kids and families. The writing is calm and kind, and it feels like a hand on your shoulder saying, “You got this.” The illustrations evoke a gentle and peaceful atmosphere, perfectly suited for a children’s picture book. The soft watercolor technique, combined with a colorful palette, creates a warm and inviting scene.
June’s Big Wave is a sweet and meaningful children’s book that balances story and support perfectly. I’d recommend it for kids ages 5 to 9 who struggle with worries or big emotions, and for parents, teachers, or counselors who want to help them. It’s not just a picture book; it’s a tool that makes you feel seen and understood. A great book to keep on the shelf for those days when the “what-ifs” roll in.
Pages: 56 | ISBN : 1968996001
Bunny and Fawn: The Midnight Creature Mystery
Bunny and Fawn: The Midnight Creature Mystery by Michael Lingo is a delightful and heartwarming children’s story brimming with curiosity, courage, and gentle humor. The tale introduces readers to Bunny and Fawn, who, after a devastating event, must leave the comfort of their cozy hollow log and begin anew in a different corner of the forest, accompanied by their steadfast friend, Bear.
Life in their new woodland home seems peaceful until one night, a strange noise breaks the quiet. Fear ripples through the trio, yet Bunny’s curiosity outweighs her fright. Determined to uncover the truth, she ventures out the next day in search of the mysterious creature. Along the way, they meet Truffles, a timid pig equally frightened by Bunny, Fawn, and Bear. What begins in fear soon turns into friendship, and the four spend a joyful afternoon swimming and laughing together.
Lingo crafts a story that feels alive, almost cinematic, each scene unfolding with the charm of an animated short. The illustrations, lush and nature-centered, bring a soothing tranquility to the pages and perfectly match the tone of the narrative. Bunny’s fear of the unknown is deeply relatable; many children will recognize themselves in her cautious curiosity. Moving to a new place can feel daunting: new faces, unfamiliar sounds, strange shadows. Yet, through Bunny’s journey, young readers learn that the things that seem frightening in the dark often lose their power in the light of day.
Equally touching is the friendship between Bunny, Fawn, and Bear, a reminder that change feels easier when you’re not facing it alone. Bunny and Fawn: The Midnight Creature Mystery is more than a bedtime story; it’s a gentle lesson in bravery, empathy, and the comfort of companionship. Lingo’s work captures the magic of childhood wonder while reassuring readers that fear can give way to friendship, and that even in unfamiliar places, warmth and kindness can be found.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0FNQGCMPW
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
Carnival Chaos-The What-If Kid
In Carnival Chaos, Nicole Drinkwater tells the story of Kale, a curious, anxious young boy navigating the sensory overload of his first carnival experience. From the spinning Ferris wheel to clowns towering above him, every moment brims with questions and wonder. Guided by his calm and supportive mother, Kale slowly faces his fears and ends the day not just braver, but full of joy and pride. The story wraps up with a tender bedtime scene and a gentle reminder that worry is a normal part of life.
What struck me most was the raw honesty in Kale’s questions. The writing feels real, like a child whispering every thought that crosses their mind. It’s whimsical, yes, but also grounded in the truth of what it’s like to be small in a big world. I loved how the mother answered each fear with patience and love, never brushing him off. There’s a quiet beauty in how she holds space for his feelings. The rhyme scheme flows smoothly, with a natural rhythm that makes it a pleasure to read aloud.
I also really appreciated the emotional arc. Kale’s transformation from a bundle of nerves to a joyful little adventurer is subtle but powerful. That’s what makes this book stand out. It’s not just about a carnival. It’s about courage, trust, and the quiet magic of being seen and supported. The illustrations are bright, bold, and full of heart. The colors are vibrant and the characters are expressive, which helps young readers connect with their emotions. Overall, the artwork adds warmth and depth to the story, balancing the chaotic energy of the carnival with the calm, steady presence of a loving parent. I also loved how the story slowly transitions from day to night as the story progresses.
I’d recommend Carnival Chaos to parents, teachers, or anyone raising or working with a sensitive or imaginative child. It’s a warm, reassuring read that acknowledges fear without judgment and celebrates small victories. It’s sweet, soothing, and full of heart.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0F6TP65Y3
Stormy Sailing
Stormy Sailing tells the story of Liban, a young boy on an endless journey with his refugee family, searching for a place to call home. From the first pages, you can feel the exhaustion of his parents and the weight on his little shoulders. The story follows Liban and his father as they are separated from their family, forced to build a makeshift boat, and sail into the unknown, hoping for a reunion on the other shore. The ending, though bittersweet, leaves you with a sense of relief.
What I loved most about this picture book is how real it felt. Liban isn’t some larger-than-life hero, he’s just a kid trying to be brave. The moment when he begs his parents not to leave his old uncle behind? That one really got me. It’s heartbreaking because you know he’s right, but there’s no good choice. And then there’s his dad, always trying to stay strong, even when you can tell he’s just as scared. The scene where he promises Liban, “Tomorrow everything will be better,” even though they both know that’s not true, was so raw and honest.
The writing is simple but powerful. It doesn’t waste words, which makes every moment hit harder. Watching Liban and his dad gather scraps and somehow turn them into something that could carry them across the sea was oddly hopeful. It was messy and desperate, but it was also kind of beautiful. And when Liban says, “No one else has anything like this!” you can feel the pride in his voice, even though you know how fragile that little boat really is.
Then came the storm. That scene was terrifying. And when Liban’s dad tells him, “As long as I stay afloat, don’t let go!” I actually teared up. The stakes were so real. It’s not a story where you know everything will be okay. This is survival.
Stormy Sailing is for anyone who wants a story that makes them feel something. It’s not just a children’s book, it’s a book for anyone who’s ever felt lost, scared, or hopeful. It would be a great read for older kids who can handle serious topics, and for adults who want a deeper, emotional story in a simple, beautiful package.
Pages: 42 | ISBN : 9528202071
What Makes Us Different, Makes Us Beautiful
Jane Escapes to the Jungle of Individuality follows a young girl grappling with feelings of not fitting in who takes an adventure in her imagination to an exciting jungle filled with animals. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for my story was a mixture of life experiences I’ve had as a little girl, in addition to some of the experiences I’ve observed from others in my life. I originally had the idea of Jane as a character mapped out in my mind before I started writing the story. I wanted her to be humble, unique, quirky, and intelligent, but a bit socially awkward, as most of us can relate to that feeling of not quite fitting in at some point in our lives. As someone who mentored kids in the past, I know that bullying has been a recurring problem, especially with social media in this day and age. I wanted to craft a story about a girl who had such a vivid imagination, she was able to escape into a daydream where this Jungle had animals who were strong to us as humans, but were actually just like Jane when it came to their own unique features. Like Tim the Tiger for example, who has a mohawk. He didn’t love his mohawk at first, but eventually realized it was a characteristic that made him special. I just started writing one day and it clicked that these animals were metaphors for the strength that Jane always had inside of her, but didn’t know.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
One of the ideas that was important for me to share in this book was that no matter what quirks we may have, what makes us different, makes us beautiful. The correlation to animals Jane meets in the Jungle of Individuality that are viewed as strong to us like Apes, Cheetahs, and Tigers, but still experienced the same feeling of being different at first, shows that it’s something many of us go through. I wanted children to read this book and understand that not everyone’s the same and that is okay. I also thought it was important to have diverse representation in the book amongst the characters, especially Jane. Lastly, I wanted to shed light on the importance of children having open conversations with their parents if experiencing bullying at school. In the book, Jane talks to her mom about what’s going on at school, and her mom makes sure to listen and provide helpful feedback and is supportive to Jane in that moment.
What is one thing that you hope young readers take away from Jane Escapes to the Jungle of Individuality?
I’d love for young readers to take away the last paragraph of the book when Jane tells her mom that her individuality makes her strong. I hope that they understand that the features that Jane thought made her stand out in a not-so-good way are actually the exact qualities that make her who she is, and that she should embrace them, celebrate them, and ultimately stand up for herself with confidence. I hope that resonates with young readers and that they also enjoy the animals inside The Jungle of Individuality as they guide Jane through this incredible adventure. The imagery is vivid, and the characters are certainly memorable. I hope that young readers find a character within this story that makes them smile, and inspires them to think of one thing they absolutely love about themselves.
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. There will definitely be another story within this series. I hope that Jane becomes a familiar face that young readers learn to know and love. The first book will come out in Summer of 2024, and then hopefully, the next part of the series with Jane will come out in late 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | Website
JANE ESCAPES TO THE JUNGLE OF INDIVIDUALITY
In Jane Escapes to the Jungle of Individuality, author Jennifer Nestor crafts a delightful narrative centered around Jane, a young girl grappling with feelings of not fitting in. Jane’s journey begins en route to school when her imagination whisks her away to a vivid jungle setting. There, she encounters Tim the Tiger, a friendly guide introducing her to various unique animals. This imaginative adventure is a metaphor for embracing individuality and the beauty inherent in our differences.
Nestor’s storytelling is both engaging and instructive, ideal for young readers. She skillfully weaves a tale that encourages self-acceptance and bravery. Nestor uses the metaphor of the “waterfall of strength” to convey a powerful message about finding inner confidence and overcoming life’s challenges. Jane’s character development is particularly noteworthy; her transformation from a shy girl to one who discovers her inner strength is both compelling and relatable. The captivating illustrations are both vivid and bright, effectively immersing readers into Jane’s world. The depiction of jungle animals is particularly engaging, with each creature uniquely and thoughtfully represented, adding depth and enjoyment to the visual experience.
Jane Escapes to the Jungle of Individuality is a charming and meaningful read that imparts essential lessons about individuality and self-confidence. It’s a book that tells a captivating story and leaves its young readers with a lasting positive message.
A Mindful Exercise with a Calm Outcome
Clover Finds Her Calm follows a high-energy puppy struggling to settle down when it is time for bed who discovers a way to relax and sleep. What was the inspiration for your story?
Sleep had been elusive in my home for my son and myself for many years. I researched quite a few remedies and found that box breathing was right for us, being an activity that was a free-to-do mindful exercise and a natural way to settle in for a restful sleep. Adding to that idea, I only had to look down beside me for my character – Clover. My Jack Russell puppy was my muse for this story. It seemed fitting that a high-energy puppy could use some ‘calm’ at bedtime.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The main idea is the benefit of box breathing as a mindful exercise with a calm outcome. Also, brings awareness to finding a simple solution to a problem that can be found within yourself, regardless of age.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Rodrigo Merched?
Rodrigo Merched is an amazing illustrator who identified, quickly, what I was looking for and worked magic to bring the ideas to life on the pages of this book. With creative freedom and forward communication, Rodrigo managed to create dreamy illustrations with characterization and detail fitting for the story.
The idea was to use watercolour and maintain a dreamy look throughout the book. The result was gentle to the eye and soothing.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book will include Clover and a young friend facing a challenge on their journey, a challenge that many children face when traveling, for which they discover a solution with their creative minds. The outcome is quirky, unique, and fun. Together they share the gift that the mind can deliver magic! Availability will be mid-2024. Rodrigo Merched will be the illustrator for this project.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram
A bedtime story for young restless, energetic toddlers.
Clover is a bouncy, wriggly puppy who finds her inner calm as she learns to ‘box breathe’ when she spots 4 bright stars in the night sky to follow with her eyes.
“With stars as her guides, Clover’s journey is near. To a land of sweet slumber, without any fear. In this magical realm, she drifts off to sleep, with calmness inside, her dreams she will keep.”
LITERARY TITAN 