Blog Archives
The Little Things
Oh No, There’s Poo on My Shoe follows a young boy who is upset about having poo on his shoe and his mom, who reminds him in a fun and gentle way that things could be worse. What was the inspiration for your story?
Just to gently remind kids not to get all worked up over the little things, and try to see the bright side of life, as you can always wipe poo off your shoe!
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
There could be worse things than having poo on your shoe!
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I enjoyed the scene when the son didn’t trip over his shoelaces, or lose at the sports races, but most importantly, the wind didn’t change when he pulled funny faces!
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?
No, it’s not in a series.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
All the while his mum keeps reminding him, in a rhyme, that there are other unpleasant things that could happen too and that it’s not that bad because you can always wipe poo off your shoe!
Therapeutic Tools
Bella and Bird Explore Anger follows a young boy who is visibly upset after being denied a slice of his favorite pie, as he learns about anger and how to process it. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for the first book in the Bella and Bird the Emotion Explorers series came after Hurricane Ian devastated our island in Southwest Florida. Just three weeks before the storm, I had adopted my therapy horse, Bella, from Southern California. After traveling across the country to her new home, Bella endured and survived a Category 5 hurricane.
Her resilience was incredible, and as I thought about her journey, I also kept thinking about the children who lived through that hurricane and children everywhere who face devastating events, whether storms, fires, floods, or tornadoes. I wanted to create a story that would help adults talk with children about big emotions in a way that felt safe and approachable.
More importantly, I wanted my books to provide practical, therapeutic tools children could carry with them for life so they would know not only that it’s okay to have big feelings, but also how to process them in healthy ways.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
One of my main goals was to help children develop both emotional literacy and emotional intelligence. Emotional literacy is the ability to recognize, name, and understand our feelings, while emotional intelligence is the ability to manage those emotions, express them appropriately, and empathize with others.
In Bella and Bird Explore Anger, I wanted young readers to not only see a character experiencing a big feeling, but also to learn the vocabulary to describe it and the tools to manage it. The story introduces simple, therapeutic strategies like box breathing, cool-down counting, and using an emotion wheel to help children process anger in a healthy way.
By embedding these skills into a relatable story, my hope is that children begin to understand that all feelings are valid, but how we respond to those feelings matters. This combination of emotional literacy and emotional intelligence sets a foundation they can use for the rest of their lives.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I had the most fun creating the box breathing scene because it gave me a chance to show a calming tool in action in a way that children can easily understand and try for themselves. But even more than that, I loved creating the character of Bird, who is based on a real bird that lives in Bella’s stall. In the story, Bird brings comic relief to balance out the heavier emotional themes. These books deal with big, sometimes difficult feelings, and I think sprinkling in humor makes the lessons more engaging, comforting, and memorable for children.
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, Bella and Bird Explore Anger is the first book in the Bella and Bird the Emotion Explorers series. The second book, Bella and Bird Explore Sadness, is going to print soon. In that story, readers will meet Molly, a little girl experiencing the heavy emotion of sadness. Bella and Bird gently teach her how to tend to her sadness, while also offering therapeutic tools that nurture both emotional intelligence and emotional literacy; skills she can carry for life.
Following that, fans can look forward to Bella and Bird Explore Happiness. Oh, what a joyful adventure that one is! And then Bella and Bird Explore Fear. Each book is designed to help children and the adults in their lives talk openly about big emotions, build the vocabulary to name those feelings, and learn practical strategies to understand, manage, and express them in healthy ways. In doing so, the series aims to nurture emotional literacy (recognizing and naming feelings) and emotional intelligence (understanding and managing those feelings with empathy and self-awareness).
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When Henry storms into the pasture, Bella, the wise horse, and her wisecracking sidekick, Bird, step in to help. Together, the friends set out to explore why Henry is angry and offer better ways to cope.
By the time Henry leaves the pasture, he’s gained new insights, is in better control of his feelings, and has tools to take along with him.
Bella and Bird Explore Anger helps children understand and manage their anger, making it a valuable resource for open and honest conversations about this challenging emotion.
The Boy Who Cried Wolf! And Other Great Stories With Lessons
The Boy Who Cried Wolf!, by Dr. Uzma Farooq, Samir Ahmad, and Amani Ahmad, is a charming collection of thirteen timeless fables originally told by Aesop, retold here with fresh language and vibrant illustrations. Each story comes with a clear moral, from “The Tortoise and the Hare” to “The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing.” The retellings stay true to the heart of the originals while making them more engaging for a modern audience. The lessons are simple and bold, making this book a go-to resource for both children and adults looking to reflect on honesty, patience, effort, and the consequences of one’s actions.
I found myself smiling often while reading. The writing is clean and energetic. It doesn’t try to be clever for the sake of it, and that’s what makes it feel real. There’s no fluff here, no over-explaining. Each fable gets right to the point, but it’s done with flair and warmth. I especially appreciated the playful rhythm and the subtle humor. The story of “The Fox and the Crow” made me laugh, while “The Ants and the Grasshopper” hit with a little sting of truth.
The heart behind the work is a standout feature of this collection. This wasn’t just a lazy rehash of old stories. You can feel that Dr. Farooq and her sons cared deeply about the messages in each tale. The dedication and acknowledgments give a window into that love for family, for storytelling, for teaching life’s harder truths without being preachy. And Kam Wing Lo and Lai Sun Ip’s illustrations are a delight. They give the book an extra layer of warmth and make it easy to imagine a parent and child reading together before bed.
I heartily enjoyed The Boy Who Cried Wolf! It’s funny, sharp, and full of heart. I’d recommend it to parents, teachers, or anyone who wants a sweet dose of old-school wisdom with a fresh coat of paint. Perfect for reading aloud, discussing over dinner, or just flipping through when you need a reminder of what really matters.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0F7S5YK3X
Social-Emotional Learning
Liam’s Lost Sparkle follows a young girl excited for Art Day at school who discovers a classmate is sad because his best friend has moved, so she offers to help him complete the rocket ship that his friend had been building. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration came from those small but powerful moments in childhood when empathy shines the brightest. I wanted to capture that magic—the way kids notice when someone’s feeling left out or sad and instinctively want to help. The idea of Art Day felt perfect because creativity brings people together, and something as simple as finishing a rocket ship can feel like rebuilding a broken world for a child. I kept thinking, what if one small act of kindness could light up someone’s whole world again? That thought became the heart of Liam’s story.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
One of my biggest goals was to weave social-emotional learning naturally into the story. I wanted children to see empathy in action—not as a lesson being taught, but as a choice that feels good and makes a difference. Friendship, kindness, and teamwork were essential themes because they’re real-life skills kids need every day. I also wanted to show problem-solving—how helping someone isn’t about having all the answers, but about caring enough to try. If kids walk away thinking, “I can be a helper too,” then I’ve done my job.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I absolutely loved writing the scene where the classroom transforms into a creative wonderland for Art Day. There’s this buzz of excitement—paint splashing, glitter shimmering, little imaginations running wild—and right in the middle of it, you see the contrast of Liam feeling lost. Then comes that turning point where the main character offers to help him finish the rocket. That moment gave me chills because it’s where kindness takes center stage. Writing it felt like watching a gray day burst into color.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can young readers expect in the next story?
Yes! Liam’s Lost Sparkle is the very first book in the Brave Kids Series, and I’m so excited to share that the next adventure will be coming out this fall. Young readers can expect another heartwarming story that celebrates courage and kindness—this time exploring a whole new challenge kids face every day. It’s going to be filled with big feelings, brave choices, and moments that show just how powerful empathy can be. Stay tuned—it’s going to be amazing!
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
When Liam’s best friend moves away, his sparkle fades—until a classmate asks, “Is your heart feeling kind of… cloudy?” This award-winning social skills book for kids helps:
Understand big feelings with gentle metaphors (“shadowy moods,” “lost sparkle”)
Practice kindness through relatable examples (“You can sit with me,” “Let’s build together!”)
Spark conversations with 8+ discussion questions and a “Feelings Detective Glasses” activity
Perfect for:
Parents seeking bedtime stories with emotional depth
Teachers building SEL skills (aligned with CASEL standards)
Counselors helping kids navigate friendship changes
Kindle Exclusive Features: Read-along mode (Enhanced typesetting for young readers)
Vibrant illustrations optimized for Kindle Fire/tablets
Bonus QR code for free printable activities
The Substi-Tooth
In The Substi-Tooth, by Kristin Manty, readers are whisked away on a sun-soaked beach adventure with young Austin and his mother. From the moment they arrive, Austin dives headfirst into the day, splashing through the waves, digging in the sand, and soaring his kite high into the sky. But there’s a tiny distraction he just can’t ignore: a wobbly tooth on the verge of falling out. With every activity, Austin can’t resist poking and wiggling it, determined to help it along.
Eventually, the tooth does come out, and Austin is thrilled. The Tooth Fairy is sure to visit him tonight! But his excitement quickly turns to panic when a large wave crashes over the sandcastle where he hid the tooth for safekeeping, sweeping it away in an instant. With the prized tooth gone, readers are left wondering, will Austin recover it in time? Can the magic of the Tooth Fairy still happen?
This charming story is a joy to read, offering fun and heartwarming moments that children of all ages will appreciate. The opening scenes of Austin and his mother heading to the beach capture the simple, meaningful joy of spending time with family. Through Austin’s excitement and playful energy, young readers are reminded of how special shared moments can be.
The narrative cleverly centers on the loose tooth, a small but relatable childhood milestone. As Austin clutches the tooth in triumph, there’s a real sense of anticipation, only for it to be dashed when the ocean intervenes. The wave’s sudden arrival adds just the right touch of suspense, pulling readers in as they anxiously turn the pages, hoping for a happy resolution.
Kaori Iha’s illustrations appear on every page, rendered in warm, earthy tones that perfectly match the story’s tone and setting. Each image feels thoughtfully placed and richly detailed, bringing Austin’s beach day to life.
The Substi-Tooth is a delightful picture book with endearing characters, an engaging plot, and expressive illustrations, making it a standout read. Whether at bedtime or in the classroom, it’s a story sure to entertain, spark imagination, and leave young readers smiling.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0F2GS7GPC
Horace in Space
Mary L. Schmidt’s latest children’s book follows young Horace, who is no ordinary pig. He’s a dreamer with his snout pointed firmly toward the stars. His greatest ambition? To venture into space. Yet, despite his lofty hopes, he quietly doubts that his dream will ever lift off. Until, unexpectedly, it does. A formal invitation arrives, and Horace is headed to the International Space Station.
Horace in Space is a delightful children’s book that effortlessly blends whimsical storytelling with factual space education. Tailored for children aged 1 to 8, this charming tale is brief in length, fitting for young attention spans, but rich in imagination and heart. The book’s vibrant illustrations serve as both emotional cues and narrative anchors, helping children see what Horace feels, thinks, and experiences.
Schmidt captures Horace’s sense of awe with genuine warmth. His naive excitement, so relatable for young readers, evolves into a more grounded understanding as his fantasy meets the real-world challenges of space. In doing so, Schmidt crafts a gentle lesson: reality might differ from dreams, but that doesn’t make it any less extraordinary.
The book strikes a thoughtful balance between imaginative adventure and educational value. Without ever sacrificing the fun, it introduces children to life in orbit, from the thrill of liftoff to the peculiarities of floating in microgravity. Facts are woven naturally into the narrative, ensuring that learning feels organic rather than instructional.
While Schmidt’s prose may not echo the playful cadences of Dr. Seuss or the clever wordplay of Shel Silverstein, Horace in Space still stands as a delightful addition to any young reader’s collection. Horace himself is an endearing protagonist, one whose journey feels ripe for expansion. It’s easy to envision this story as the launchpad for a larger series.
Horace in Space delivers more than just a tale about a pig in orbit; it offers young readers a chance to explore, imagine, and discover alongside a character who is every bit as curious and wide-eyed as they are.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0F9VX3XZ7
Paisley and Posie’s Adventures: Splish Splash Surprise
Paisley and Posie’s Adventures: The Splish Splash Surprise, by Maria Cedolini Thompson, is a joyful romp through a hot summer day with two irresistibly mischievous golden retrievers. This story is a perfect blend of playful chaos, heartfelt lessons, and charming illustrations that bring Paisley and Posie to life.
When left alone for just a short while, Paisley and Posie give in to temptation and take an impromptu dip in the backyard pool. What unfolds is a wonderfully soggy mess, full of splashes, tail wags, and comedic panic when they hear the front door swing open. The tension of their last-minute attempts to “hide the evidence” will have kids giggling and turning pages eagerly.
What makes this book more than just a tale of cute canine mischief is its thoughtful underlying message. Young readers are gently reminded that curiosity and mistakes are part of growing up, but love and forgiveness are always waiting on the other side. The story handles these themes with warmth and grace, making it a valuable addition to any child’s library.
Parents will appreciate the way the book encourages discussions about accountability, consequences, and teamwork without ever feeling heavy-handed. Meanwhile, children will be drawn in by the humorous antics and expressive artwork that capture every splash and shake.
Whether read aloud at bedtime or explored independently by early readers, Paisley and Posie’s Adventures: The Splish Splash Surprise is sure to make a splash in any home. It’s a charming tale that proves even the biggest messes can be cleaned up, with a little help and a lot of love.
Pages: 31 | ASIN : B0FBS5PGPG
Restore My Relationships
A Break in the Silence is a memoir in which you confront the heartbreak of family estrangement and the quiet, often painful pursuit of healing, faith, and reconciliation. Why was this an important book for you to write?
The writing of this book weighed heavy upon my heart for years as I’ve seen the decline in traditional family values. I’ve seen and heard the stories of those who have been torn apart by others and the court system as they were separated from the ones they love and cherish. It is my hope that my memoir will restore hope when it comes to reconciliation. I desire to see families that were once broken find their way back to one another, fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters.
What was the hardest moment to write about in A Break in the Silence, and what helped you get through it?
The hardest moment while writing this was thinking back to the memories I hold near and dear to my heart while thinking about the lost time I had with my children. Time waits for no man, once it’s gone, we are never able to get it back. The memories we could have created with our loved ones during a time of separation were never made, leaving us with a sense of hopelessness and great loss. What helped me to press on was my strong desire to find a solution that would restore my relationships with my children whom I’ve always loved and cherished. My passion and desire to make amends is what kept me writing.
How did your spiritual beliefs shape your journey through estrangement and healing?
My faith in the Lord has always been my rock, I know God wants and desires the best for all of his children, He desires us to walk in Love and Unity, one with another. It’s always been his plan from the very beginning, His faithfulness to answer our prayers is unfailing!
I’ve personally seen and witnessed his promises being fulfilled within my life as well as the lives of many others.
How do you hope this book will impact parents who are currently alienated from their children?
It is my prayer that this book will hold the power to impact and inspire not only parents but all those who have become estranged and alienated from the ones they love, to find a way back to each other. The world is full of broken people and I truly believe that my story will speak to the hearts of all of its readers, bringing forth a newfound hope in becoming a part of our children’s lives again, no matter how much time we have lost out on.
It’s never too late to start over again! Believe me when I say this our children are counting on us!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
This is where my story begins, with hopes of healing and mending broken families. It’s a story of separation and a desire to reconcile with the ones I’ve always loved and cherished, my children. While reconciliation is never easy, we always prioritize the things that are most important to us. We all desire to live a life full of purpose and meaning, which starts with happiness in our own homes. When homes are broken, lives get shattered. Picking up the pieces to put them back together is a difficult challenge to say the very least. Yet it can come with a lifetime of rewards for you and all others involved.
Please know that it’s never too late to start fresh and try again, no matter how much time you have lost out on with the very ones you love and miss. Our families are counting on us!
