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Surprising Max
Christine Johansen’s Surprising Max is a gentle, reflective children’s book that follows Max, a young boy devoted to soccer and firmly uninterested in piano lessons. A bargain with his mother sets the story in motion. Max agrees to practice every day, despite the frustration that quickly follows. His lessons come with an unusual responsibility. He must water his piano teacher’s garden, home to a frail and wilted amaryllis. As days pass and practice continues, an unexpected transformation unfolds. The flower blooms. So does Max.
One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in its accessibility. The language remains clear and uncomplicated, making the story well-suited for early readers and read-aloud settings. The rhythm feels steady and reassuring. Nothing rushes. Young readers have space to absorb the narrative and reflect on each moment. Judith Gosse’s illustrations elevate this experience. Warm, expressive artwork fills every page, capturing Max’s emotions with clarity and charm. Even before a child can read the words, the story speaks through the images.
The central metaphor stands out with quiet power. The amaryllis becomes a visual reminder that growth requires patience and care. Progress appears slowly. Confidence develops the same way. As Max continues to practice, his abilities begin to surface. His self-belief strengthens. The parallel feels natural and meaningful. Children receive this message gently, without instruction or pressure. The story encourages openness to new challenges, even when discomfort comes first.
A thoughtful addition appears at the book’s conclusion. The inclusion of sheet music for Max’s recital piece, “Awaiting Amaryllis,” extends the story beyond the page. It invites interaction. It connects narrative to real music. For some children, it may even spark curiosity about learning an instrument of their own.
Surprising Max is a warm and purposeful read for children and families alike. It delivers a message about persistence, patience, and unexpected talent with sincerity and calm. The result feels comforting, relatable, and enduring, an experience young readers can truly understand and enjoy.
Pages: 37 | ASIN: B0BMSQN7V3
Literary Titan Book Award: Children’s Books
The Literary Titan Book Award recognizes children’s books that mesmerize audiences with incredible narratives, vibrant illustrations, charming characters, and fresh ideas. Offering well-earned accolades, we salute the imagination and exceptional skill of authors who create tales that spark curiosity and delight in young minds.
Award Recipients
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Literary Titan Silver Book Awards
Celebrating the brilliance of outstanding authors who have captivated us with their skillful prose, engaging narratives, and compelling real and imagined characters. We recognize books that stand out for their innovative storytelling and insightful exploration of truth and fiction. Join us in honoring the dedication and skill of these remarkable authors as we celebrate the diverse and rich worlds they’ve brought to life, whether through the realm of imagination or the lens of reality.
Award Recipients
Losing Mom by Peggy Ottman
This Is For MY Glory: A Story of Fatherlessness, Failure, Grace, and Redemption
Toil and Trouble by Brian Starr
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Empowering Family Members
Tiger and My Eye Patch follows a young girl bullied for wearing an eye patch to correct her vision whose courage becomes evident when she sets out to save her canine companion. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’ve noticed many elementary school students are reluctant to wear their glasses and eye patches because they’re worried about being ridiculed by peers. I was diagnosed with amblyopia or lazy eye as a child and experienced similar angst, prompting me to write Tiger and My Eye Patch. As I began outlining the story, I considered opening with a scene of two boys taunting the main character and pointing at her glasses and eye patch as she enters the classroom. Instead, the story begins with the main character smiling as she prepares to spend the summer with her grandparents and their Great Dane Tiger in Johnson City. This setup or opening scene places the focus on empowering family members rather than unkind classmates. I think this positive emphasis is more helpful to young readers.
Is there anything that you now wish you had included in Colleen’s story?
After Tiger and My Patch was released, I reflected on two things that could have been included in the book. I think a section with tips for parents and teachers to motivate children to wear their glasses and eye patches would be helpful. Also, a list of nonprofit organizations that give unwanted Great Danes a second chance could raise awareness about these volunteer initiatives. If an updated version of my book is released, I’ll add these resources.
Do you have a favorite moment in the book? One that was especially enjoyable to write?
The entire story rekindles fond memories of spending school vacations with my grandparents and their gentle giant. One of my favorite scenes is the pivotal moment the little girl in the story realizes she can rescue Tiger when he’s stuck in the middle of a busy street. I think this scene shows children that their unique traits can help others and solve problems. I particularly enjoyed writing this part of the story because throughout my childhood my late grandmother liked retelling the story of how I assisted local police officers coax Tiger back to safety whenever he got loose during my summer visits. “When you called him with your little voice, he’d come,” she said. “Tiger listened only to you.”
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently working on rewriting two children’s stories featuring Baxter the Beagle that I originally wrote to read to my elementary students. In Baxter’s DelightfullyDifferent Book Club, Baxter discovers the rewards of accepting differences and bypassing stereotypes. In The Super Beagle of Kindness, Baxter uncovers the power of treating others with compassion and empathy. Both fiction narratives provide young readers with life lessons in a lighthearted and entertaining way. The stories are scheduled for release in 2026.
Author Links: Website | Amazon
Fun and Realistic Education
Dali & Banksy’s Brave Bite Adventure follows two young explorers on a cozy, confidence-boosting quest that turns tasting new foods into an upbeat, family-filled adventure. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The Inspiration for the story was that I was teaching nutrition in the Flint Public Schools, and I was not happy with the book I had to read so I wanted one that was fun, realistic, and encouraged children to try new fruits and veggies.
Gram and Pepere add such comforting energy. Were they based on people from your own life?
Gram and Pepere are myself and my husband (Pepere is French Canadian). This is what Dali and Banksy call us.
The illustrations feel soft and welcoming. What guidance did you give the illustrator to achieve that mood?
The illustrations were perfect! Banksy knew who everyone was, and the illustrator was given pictures, and I just shared my vision for the book, most importantly, I wanted it to be kid-friendly and grab the attention of children and parents.
Do you imagine more Brave Bites Quests or other adventures for Dali and Banksy in future books?
Yes, the second book is currently in illustration, and it is about medically compromised children and helping them be brave.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Dali and Banksy’s Brave Bite Adventure is a heartwarming, fun-filled story about two curious siblings who discover that trying something new isn’t so scary after all!
When Dali and Banksy are invited to try a new food, they aren’t too sure. What if it tastes weird? What if they don’t like it? With a little courage, a lot of imagination, and the support of each other, they take a brave bite, and learn that stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to tasty surprises and big life lessons.
Inspired by real-life siblings, this playful picture book encourages kids to be open-minded, adventurous, and kind. It’s perfect for children ages 3–8 and families who love stories about growing together, one small step (or bite!) at a time.
Great for: Picky eaters, new experiences, sibling bonding, courage-building, and shared family reading.
Tooth-builders Came to Life
Twinkling Wings and Toothy Things follows a tooth-builder from the Tooth Fairy Realm who, while on a mission, experiences some mishaps leading to a late-night adventure filled with valuable lessons. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration was my daughter, Sadie. During family dinner, when my little girl got frustrated because she didn’t have teeth to chew, the idea of the tooth-builders came to life!
I found Nutter Nate to be an entertaining and likeable character. What was your inspiration for this character?
In real life, my brother and I own and operate a building company so naturally there would need to be a leader in the tooth building realm and I’m a little nutty, so Nutter Nate rhymed and it made goofy sense for the young audience to think that might be funny!
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Teamwork is definitely one of the main takeaways along with in life there will always be challenges to overcome whether it is on a job site or in an office building or at home.
What story are you currently in the middle of writing?
I left the ending open for more adventures for the characters. Maybe a book about lost teeth that are thrown in trash cans or swallowed (don’t want kids to be devastated thinking the tooth fairy won’t have their lost tooth). I’m always listening for book ideas that are not out there.
Author Links: Amazon | Facebook
Before a tooth fairy gets their wings, they work day and night as tooth-builders. Equipped with pearly paste, calcium soil, and bristly brushes, tooth-builders help build and install children’s shiny new adult teeth so that kids can smile with pride. Join Nutter Nate’s team of talented tooth-builders as they leave the Tooth Fairy Realm to install Sam and Sadie’s new teeth. But watch out for adults and animals—a pup’s bark could ruin Sam and Sadie’s bites!
Llife Can Surprise Us In Extraordinary Ways
The Friend from the Future: The Spark of Friendship follows a young girl stuck at home on a rainy day with homework who discovers a robot from the future has landed in her backyard. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The story was inspired by something very simple and familiar — a rainy day that feels slow, quiet, and full of hidden possibilities. I’ve always loved the idea that magical things can appear when we least expect them. One afternoon, I watched my daughter staring out the window during a storm, and in that still moment I imagined a little glow landing in the backyard. That spark became Nova.
I wanted to show that even on the dullest days, life can surprise us in extraordinary ways. Sometimes magic arrives exactly when we feel bored, stuck, or overwhelmed.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I focused primarily on emotional learning. Children often experience pressure, frustration, or confusion around schoolwork — just like Luna does. I wanted to show them, in a gentle and playful way, that curiosity, kindness, and creativity can turn stressful moments into exciting opportunities for growth and discovery.
I also sprinkled in playful futuristic elements like robots, glowing technology, and simple science concepts. Not in a heavy way — just enough to spark imagination and encourage kids to explore and see learning as an exciting adventure rather than something they “have to do.”
I found Luna and Nova’s characters to be dynamic and engaging. What was your process for writing the characters’ interactions to develop the bond between them?
I approached Luna and Nova’s friendship the way real friendships grow — with curiosity, honesty, and a bit of humor. Luna meets Nova with wonder, and Nova sees our world with fresh eyes. That contrast made their connection feel natural to write.
I let their conversations happen the way kids actually talk: sometimes excited, sometimes confused, sometimes deep without even trying. They learn from each other in small moments — a question, a laugh, a misunderstanding — and those moments slowly build trust. My goal was for readers to feel their bond forming page by page, just like a true friendship.
When will the next book in Luna and Nova Magical Journeys be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
The next book in Luna and Nova’s Magical Journeys series is already in progress, and I’m incredibly excited about it. It will be released soon — and this time, Luna and Nova step into a new kind of adventure that blends magic with a deeper emotional message.
Without giving too much away, the story will center around something very familiar to every child, something that seems small but affects the way they feel, think, and move through their day. Luna will face a challenge that requires her to look within, and Nova will guide her in a surprising way that brings mindfulness, growth, and a touch of enchantment.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Instagram | Website
One rainy day, Luna meets Nova, a robot from the future, who appeared in her backyard with a unique proposal. While he helps Luna with her daily tasks and challenges, she teaches him about friendship, empathy and emotions.
Can a curious girl and a high-tech robot prove that genuine friendship transcends time and space?
Why Families, Teachers, and Young Readers Love This Book:Engaging Rhyming Text:Makes reading aloud a joyful, memorable experience for the whole family.
Teaches Emotional Intelligence:Gently introduces themes like empathy, emotional expression, and compassion.
Sparks Curiosity and Imagination: It blends futuristic fun, whimsical moments with timeless lessons about confidence, growth, self-discovery, and embracing challenges.
Enjoyable for All Ages: Whether its storytime with little ones or independent reading, there’s something heartfelt and fun for everyone to enjoy.
Makes a Wonderful Gift: A thoughtful present for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for something special.
Give your child and your whole family a story that sparks connection and a friendship that travels beyond time and space!!!
A Way to Honor That Story
The Adventures of Belle Bear follows a cheerful polar bear cub living in the Arctic who has to move to a new home in a new country where everything is different, and she has to make new friends. What was the inspiration for your story?
When I was 9 years old, my family fled the Republic of Georgia after the collapse of the USSR. We were political refugees, ethnically Russian and Armenian in a newly nationalistic country, and had to start over in the U.S. with nothing but suitcases and survival skills. I didn’t speak English. I didn’t really fit in. I had to start over and make friends in a new place. There were no polar bears. And no one wore capes. I drew a lot of my strength and inspiration from my grandmother, my Baba. This book is a way to honor that story and my Baba’s memory.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I leaned heavily into the social-emotional aspect of belonging in this book. While the story is about moving to a new place and starting a new school. I think it’s also for every kid who’s ever felt different or out of place. And for every adult who remembers what that felt like. For example, my 7yo daughter is the only left-handed student in her 1st grade class. She told me she felt a little like Belle Bear when she first realized it. But then she remembered that it was okay to be a little different. That it made her special.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The most fun (and challenging!) scene in the book by far was the mirror-cape scene. I had the idea in my head for months, when Belle Bear internalized Baba Bear’s nightly affirmations, “I am kind, curious, and brave. I can do anything. I am a Belle Bear,” her new cape would somehow appear. But I wasn’t sure how it would work on the page. Originally, it was going to be a spin or a twirl. But the movement was hard to show in still illustrations. Nathalie, the illustrator, and I spent several weeks perfecting it after the rest of the book was done. It was the literally the last scene we finished. She really brought it to life with Belle Bear’s cape appearing in the mirror before she steps out on the next page wearing it. I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out!
Will this book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
I have BIG plans for Belle Bear. Think of Belle Bear as The Berenstain Bears of this generation with a modern voice and an orange cape. Each book will explore a different challenge kids face today, from family transitions to standing up for themselves, and help them build confidence from the inside out. Belle Bear is just getting started!
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Belle Bear is a spirited polar bear cub who lives in the arctic country of Mount Bearia with her beloved grandma, Baba Bear. Her days are filled with snowy games, cozy bear hugs, and magical moments—all while wearing an orange cape that makes her feel brave.
When Belle Bear and Baba Bear have to leave their home and move to a new country, Belle Bear’s world is turned upside down. There’s no snow, no other polar bears, and certainly no capes. At her new school, Belle Bear struggles to feel like she belongs, and she begins to doubt the very things that once made her feel special. But with a gentle nudge from Baba Bear and a heart full of courage, Belle Bear discovers her self-confidence and begins to make new friends who appreciate her for exactly who she is.
The Adventures of Belle Bear is a heartwarming story about moving to a new place, making new friends, and finding self-confidence in the process.
Belle Bear believes that every child should go to bed with a full belly and a bedtime story.
Through December 31, 2025, 100% of the proceeds from The Adventures of Belle Bear will be donated to Good Shepherd Food Bank, Maine’s largest hunger-relief organization.
LITERARY TITAN 