Blog Archives
Creating A Modern Mystery
Shell Shocked: An Ocean Mystery follows a teen girl, along with the community, who discovers a bioluminescent, and they must solve the mystery of where it came from before it harms their island. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I have long been fascinated with the Outer Banks and the wild horses and sea turtles on the island. I remain grateful for all the organizations and individuals that care for their futures from the Corolla Wild Horse Fund to Outer Banks Forever.
I tried to create a universal story about:
- Real-world environmental concerns: The book draws inspiration from the growing problem of environmental threats to marine life, such as pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change.
- The allure of the unknown: The ocean depths hold countless secrets, and the mystery of the bioluminescence taps into our fascination with the unknown. The story is inspired by real-life phenomena like algal blooms or bioluminescent creatures, reimagined in a fictional context.
- The power of community: The story emphasizes the importance of community involvement in solving environmental problems. This is inspired by real-world examples of increasingly communities coming together to protect their natural resources.
- The potential of young people: The protagonist highlights the potential of young people to make a difference in environmental conservation. This is inspired by the growing number of young activists who are leading the charge for environmental protection.
Overall, Shell Shocked: An Ocean Mystery likely draws inspiration from a combination of real-world events, scientific concepts, and my own imagination. I found the characters to be engaging, and they really brought the story to life. Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
As a young reader, I really enjoyed and read every Nancy Drew mystery story and wanted to give back by creating a modern mystery with a strong character who worked with others to solve a variety of mysteries. The mystery itself drives the plot, highlighting the importance of scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge. The characters’ efforts to understand the bioluminescence reflect the value of curiosity and the power of human ingenuity. The protagonist’s journey suggests themes of self-discovery, taking initiative, and finding one’s voice. It explores the challenges and triumphs of adolescence and the potential for young people to make a real difference.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
- Environmental responsibility: Given the premise of a mysterious and potentially harmful bioluminescence, the book explore themes of human impact on the environment, the importance of protecting marine ecosystems, and the consequences of environmental neglect.
- Community and collaboration: The story emphasizes the community’s involvement in solving the mystery. This highlights the power of collective action, the importance of working together to address challenges, and the strength that comes from diverse perspectives.
- The relationship between humans and nature: The story explores the complex and often fragile relationship between humans and the natural world. It examines themes of respect for nature, the interconnectedness of all living things, and the need for balance between human needs and environmental preservation.
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
The Coral Labyrinth: An Ocean Mystery is nearly complete. I am hoping for May 2025 for the publication release. Alex realizes early on not to rest on her laurels. There is a bigger mystery that needs to be solved. Here’s a sneak peek:
“But for Alex? Alex was standing there, not knowing if she should feel proud of their success or like the world was now a giant target, all thanks to the turtle. She looked down at the shoreline, where the wave-crests licked the sand like they had no idea how much trouble they were about to cause. A few curious onlookers were snapping pictures of the ocean as if they’d never seen water before. She rolled her eyes. Did they really have to show off every little part of the island like it was an exhibit? Sure, the turtle’s release was a big deal—but it wasn’t like she was a human-sized billboard for eco-friendly conservation. Was she?”
Author Links: GoodReads | AKABooks.com | KathyWelton.com
Cataluna Island. A Shimmering Coastline. Two Friends. One Dangerous Mystery.
When a bioluminescent sea turtle mysteriously washes ashore, Alex and Avery’s summer takes an unexpected turn. Concerned for their beloved island and its incredible wildlife, they join forces with a group of dedicated locals to uncover the truth. Cryptic messages are etched onto its shell, leading them on a thrilling adventure. Analyzing water samples, tracking ocean currents, and deciphering ancient maps, they must race against time to find the source of the strange bioluminescence before it devastates the island. Can they uncover the source of the bioluminescence before it devastates the island? Will they be able to save the endangered sea turtles and protect the wild horses that call Cataluna Island home?
Together, they must:Decipher cryptic messages: Hidden on the turtle shells, these clues lead them deeper into the mystery.
Become ocean detectives: Analyzing water samples and tracking ocean currents, they piece together the puzzle.
Unleash their bravery: Facing unforeseen challenges, Alex and Avery demonstrate true friendship and resourcefulness.
Along the way, Alex and Avery learn about the delicate balance of the ocean ecosystem, the importance of teamwork, and the courage to stand up for what’s right. Can they save the endangered sea turtles and protect the wild horses that roam free as they chase their dreams to help safeguard the island’s pristine beauty?
Shell Shocked will ignite a love for the ocean asreaders learn about marine life, ocean currents, and the importance of conservation; foster critical thinking while solving puzzles and analyzing evidence; and inspire a sense of adventure by the group’s courage and teamwork as they face challenges.
Join Alex and Avery on their thrilling quest as they chase their dreams, discover an ocean mystery, and help protect Cataluna Island!
Collecting Quotes
The Little Book of Quotes by Women is a delightful, compact collection of 365 quotes from influential women who have graced U.S. postage stamps. Where did the idea for this book come from and how did it develop over time?
When I was in fifth grade, I was late for class and the teacher made me write “To thine own self be true” on the blackboard 100 times in front of the entire class. Needless to say, it was embarrassing. It taught me a lesson to never be late again as well as led me down a path of collecting quotes. I published my collection of favorite quotes in The Little Book of Gratitude Quotes in 2011.
The quote “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty” by Maya Angelou was my favorite, it reminds me that growing is not easy. Do you have a favorite quote from this book and why?
Quotes from Eleanor Roosevelt have always been my favorites, including “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” This quote has inspired me for many years and especially inspired me to have a dream of being a writer, hold onto the hope of that dream, and to hopefully make a difference in the lives of others with books.
Did you find anything in your research of this book that surprised you?
I started working on the first edition of this book more than a decade ago and published it in 2014. About a year ago with the debut of the stamp of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, I noticed two things. First off, I realized that the stamps were much more ornate and life-like. Second, I realized that there were many new stamps of women I admired from Betty Ford, Lena Horne, Toni Morrison, and Sally Ride to the women who appeared on the Underground Railroad series including Harriet Tubman and Harriet Jacobs. That is when I decided to update the book and include biographical information about all the women who have appeared on U.S. Postage Stamps over the past 130 years.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
In 2025, I am looking forward to the publication of my next picture books which all feature animals as storytellers: Be WHOO You Are, Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Sea Star, and Whoo! Hoo!Hoo! The Carousel at the Zoo. I am currently working on a series of middle grade ocean mystery books tentatively titled Shell Shocked about two friends who tend to sea turtles and wild horses on an island.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | AKABOOKS | Amazon
Their words of wisdom have been thematically arranged in twelve sections including “Beauty,” “Courage,” “Happiness,” “Freedom,” “Possibility,” “Service,” and “Strength.” The Little Book of Quotes by Women features quotes from more than 130 women including Emily Dickinson, Pearl S. Buck, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Lena Horne, Helen Keller, Margaret Mead, Eleanor Roosevelt, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Harriet Tubman, Mother Teresa, and more.
The women featured in this book all share one thing in common—they have indeed left their stamp on history. Their unforgettable quotes have stood the test of time.
The Little Book of Quotes by Women
The Little Book of Quotes by Women is a delightful, compact collection of 365 quotes from influential women who have graced U.S. postage stamps. Edited by Kathleen Welton, the book spans a variety of subjects like courage, beauty, strength, and love, offering snippets of wisdom from historical figures like Eleanor Roosevelt to cultural icons like Audrey Hepburn. It’s meant to be read for daily inspiration or savored in one sitting. With each quote carefully selected to uplift and motivate, the book also gives nods to the history of U.S. stamps, highlighting how these women’s words and legacies have left a permanent stamp on history.
Right from the start, I was drawn to the accessible organization of the book, broken into themed sections like “Beauty” and “Courage.” It was easy to dip in and find something encouraging. One quote that really resonated with me was from Maya Angelou: “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” Her words remind us that transformation and growth are messy but undeniably beautiful, and reading this felt like a gentle nudge to embrace my own imperfect journey. It’s clear that Welton put thought into curating quotes that are both timeless and relatable. The theme of courage stood out strongly throughout the book, particularly in the section featuring Harriet Tubman’s quote, “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” I couldn’t help but feel a surge of admiration for Tubman, knowing her life was full of extraordinary risks for freedom. The simplicity of this quote belies the fierce, relentless determination she embodied. Quotes like this gave me goosebumps, and I lingered long after reading them.
The Little Book of Quotes by Women is a lovely little companion for anyone needing a daily dose of motivation. It’s a perfect gift for a friend, a thoughtful read to start your mornings, or a quick reference when you’re searching for the right words to uplift someone. While it may not offer the depth of a biography, it delivers powerful sentiments in a bite-sized format that’s both approachable and heartening. Anyone who loves collecting words of wisdom or admires the indelible mark women have left on history will find this book a gem worth revisiting.
Pages: 140 | ASIN : B0DHFYT7WC
Inspire a Love of Reading
In Choo! Choo! Choo! The Train at the Zoo, a personable pig takes young readers on an educational journey through the zoo. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I have been visiting Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago on an ongoing basis and as a member for many years. Their train ride always seemed to bring such joy to everyone walking around and about—from the conductor and the passengers on the train to the kids and parents in line. I really love visiting the lions there as well as seeing the monkeys play and giraffes with their long necks.
What educational goals did you set for yourself when writing this book?
My goal for this book is to inspire a love of reading and life-long learning. My editor and I talked about how “The Wheels on the Bus” is such a lovely song for kids to learn words and sounds and we agreed that it could lend itself to the concept of book. I also hope that readers can embark on a fun adventure and want to visit a zoo or learn more about their favorite animals.
I enjoyed the wonderful artwork in your book. What was the collaboration process like with illustrator Tamara Joubert?
Working with the entire team at Blue Balloon Books has been a joy. From the initial call with their acquiring editor to the editing and illustration process—it has been seamless and a fantastic experience for me. Tamara Joubert is an award-winning illustrator and she captured the vision of the characters perfectly. Her illustrations really make me smile and I hope that they bring the same feelings of fun to the readers. I think that the illustrations really help the bring positive attention to the animals and to the sounds of the train. Tamara was wonderful to work with and made the process fun and her take on starting early in the day and ending as it gets dark was a special gift.
Can we look forward to more books from you soon? What are you currently working on?
There are several projects that I am excited about publishing and writing over the next few years. I am currently working with Blue Balloon books on the next book in the series for spring 2025, “Whoo! Hoo! Hoo! The Carousel at the Zoo” also illustrated by Tamara Joubert. I really love to write picture books and look forward to hopefully publishing two to three books each year for the foreseeable future.
Author Links: GoodReads | KathyWelton.com | akabooks.com | MyrtleTheTurtle.com
Imagine Your True Purpose
In Pigs Have Wings, a pig who aspires to sing and dance is encouraged to pursue her dreams with the support of her friends. Where did the idea for this book come from?
For the past few years, I have taken classes in the Writer’s Program at UCLA Extension. My confidence gradually increased with the excellent instructors and colleagues in the classes. I realized that creative writing was something that I really wanted to keep doing. When a few colleagues and a good friend encouraged me to write my own books, I leaped at the chance.
The line “And whether pigs have wings” from Lewis Carroll’s “The Walrus and the Carpenter” stuck with me and deserved some sort of answer from me. Whether I could be a writer or not?
A challenging time in my life led me to understand that if you “believe in yourself” and imagine your true purpose, then you can achieve your dreams. So I started writing lots of lines and this book Pigs Have Wings was the result. The illustrator, Chau Pham, was wonderful to work with. I love her owl illustrations.
What draws you to writing books for young readers?
My mother was a kindergarten teacher and one of the first books I remember reading was a book from her, A Friend Is Someone Who Likes You, by Joan Walsh Anglund. I treasured that book and still have a copy on my bookshelf. In my mind, introducing young readers to books is more important than ever. Giving back has always been an important part of my upbringing. I am hoping that my books can inspire a love of learning as well as increased literacy.
Is there anything from your own life included in your characters’ experiences?
Inspiration, collaboration, and creativity have always been important to me. I am grateful to many people who encouraged my writing career and helped my dreams take flight. They believed in my abilities to write a book. They encouraged me to embark on a journey as a creative soul. And others truly understood the importance of having a room of one’s own. My parents built a family library of classic works and encyclopedias—one book at a time—and inspired a love of learning at an early age. All those positive activities came together.
My publishing career has shown time and time again how books enrich lives. At this point in my career, I value what I learned from the many authors and colleagues that I have worked with over the years. They believed in me and my talents and for that, I am forever grateful.
Can readers look forward to more books from you soon? What are you currently working on?
There are several projects that I am excited about publishing and writing over the next few years. As an independent publisher, the first book in a series of puzzle books for kids is coming soon in 2025. Going forward, I value the opportunity to continue to work with amazing editors and illustrators on my picture books—more are in process. In addition, I have partial manuscripts for a YA novel trilogy and concepts for perhaps a novel or two down the road.
Collaboration with partners and working with others are the keys!! It all forms a connection with something greater than yourself. And I always like to learn new things.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | AKABooks | Myrtle the Turtle | Amazon
Miz Peg dreams she can dance and sing, but it‛s harder for a pig than you‛d think! With a little help and inspiration from her friends, Miz Peg finds she can do almost anything.
Pigs Have Wings
Pigs Have Wings, by Kathleen Welton, is a charming and whimsical tale that follows Miz Peg, a pig with big dreams of dancing and singing. Despite the challenges that come with being a pig, Miz Peg is determined to pursue her passions. With the support and encouragement of her friends, she discovers that she is capable of much more than she initially believed.
What I love most about this book is its uplifting message about perseverance and the importance of having a support system. Miz Peg’s journey is a heartwarming reminder that even when things seem difficult, having the right people around you can make all the difference. The story is filled with positivity and optimism, making it a delightful read for both children and adults alike. The writing is engaging and accessible, with a rhythmic quality that adds to the book’s charm. The language is simple yet effective, allowing readers of all ages to connect with the story and its characters.
The illustrations, by Chau Pham, perfectly complement the narrative, bringing Miz Peg and her world to life with vibrant colors and expressive details. One of the standout aspects of Pigs Have Wings is how it subtly weaves in lessons about self-belief and the power of community. Miz Peg’s dreams might seem far-fetched for a pig, but the story shows that with determination and the encouragement of friends, even the most unlikely goals can be achieved. It’s a beautiful message that resonates well with readers and leaves a lasting impression.
Pigs Have Wings is a delightful and inspiring book that would be perfect for young readers who love stories about animals and dreams coming true. It’s also a great choice for parents and educators looking for a positive and engaging story to share with children. Kathleen Welton has crafted a lovely tale that reminds us all of the importance of dreaming big and supporting one another along the way.
Pages: 30 | ISBN : 978-1960157577
Choo! Choo! Choo! The Train at the Zoo
Choo! Choo! Choo! The Train at the Zoo, by Kathleen Welton, is a delightful and educational journey for young readers. The story begins with Peg the pig, who gathers the animals to board the train. Throughout the journey, children are introduced to a wide variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, and owls, all enjoying their own train cars. The book also incorporates sounds of objects like the train’s bell and wheels, helping children expand their vocabulary and improve their ability to identify and reproduce sounds in an engaging way.
Kathleen Welton’s narration is captivating, using short phrases and simple language while maintaining a rhythmic flow. This makes the story feel like an educational game. The animals are depicted with kind and friendly behaviors, creating a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. The charming illustrations feature enthusiastic characters radiating happiness. One particularly appreciated detail is the changing background, reflecting different scenes and transitioning from daytime to nighttime, enhancing children’s ability to make associations and recognize patterns. The diversity of animals, including monkeys, penguins, and polar bears, adds to the book’s appeal. While not every animal’s sound is represented, the focus on maintaining the story’s rhythm and interest is clear.
Choo! Choo! Choo! The Train at the Zoo is an excellent choice for sparking children’s interest in animals and their surroundings. It also helps enhance their attention and concentration skills through sound imitation. This book is undoubtedly a fantastic option for fostering a love for reading.
Pages: 26 | ISBN : 978-1962202237
LITERARY TITAN 