Blog Archives
Beautiful Holidays
Let’s Talk! Celebrating the Holidays follows a group of young friends curious about one another’s holiday traditions who find a way to celebrate their differences together. What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in your book?
Some educational aspects that were important to me to ensure to include were holidays other than Christmas that occur during the same time. As beautiful a holiday as Christmas is, I feel like it is focused on too much. There are some beautiful holidays that occur during the Christmas season, and I wanted to showcase them. It was also important to me to focus on sensory processing disorder as best I could. It is touched on enough in the book and focused on a great deal more in the sixth book that will come out in a few years.
The art in your book is beautifully presented. Can you tell us a little about the collaboration process with your illustrator?
Thank you! The illustrator did an incredible job! I was a bit worried about this book because the holidays showcased are so vibrant, and I wanted them to come off so beautiful. I feel so lucky that Blueberry Illustrations really did such an incredible job. For the process, I write up summaries, and for this book, I actually did research and put in specific pictures for each illustration. I wanted things to look a certain way, and the illustrator is amazing! They took my notes and really did a wonderful and beautiful job.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book I am working on is book 2 in the Cat Brothers series, Mischievous Cat Brothers. It will be available in 2024–just not sure of a drop date yet. I will be publishing multiple books, including book 3 in that series. Have to stay tuned for more information!
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However, this is not just a celebration of holiday customs; it is also a journey of understanding and acceptance. Emma lives with autism, and her friends take this opportunity to learn about her sensory processing disorder. Along with Harper and Jerry, young readers will learn what it means to support a friend with sensory sensitivity and explore how to be empathetic and considerate of differences. Lets talk! Celebrating the Holidays offers not only a diverse cultural immersion but also an opportunity for readers to appreciate the spectrum of human neurodiversity.
Let’s Talk! Celebrating the Holidays
Let’s Talk! Celebrating the Holidays, by Lisa Jacovsky, is an engaging narrative that thoughtfully highlights the value of embracing cultural diversity through festive traditions. The book centers around Harper, who celebrates Christmas, and her friends Emma and Jerry, who observe Diwali and Hanukkah respectively. Their curiosity about each other’s traditions leads to a collaborative effort to learn and celebrate together, culminating in a party that integrates elements from all three festivals.
Jacovsky skillfully portrays the characters’ diverse backgrounds and personalities, weaving them into the fabric of the story. The author underscores the theme of inclusivity with the addition of Emma, an autistic character, who communicates using special cards. The characters’ interactions embody mutual learning, emphasizing the significance of understanding and valuing different cultures. This is particularly evident as the children work together to blend their traditions into a harmonious celebration.
The narrative, while straightforward and without a central conflict, succeeds in being both educational and enjoyable. It effectively imparts universal values such as empathy and friendship, alongside fostering creativity in problem-solving and event planning. Jacovsky’s writing style is clear and accessible, making the book suitable for young readers. The story’s vibrant illustrations further enrich the experience, vividly portraying moments of joy and cultural sharing.
Let’s Talk! Celebrating the Holidays emerges as an effective resource for initiating conversations about inclusivity, tradition, and respect among children. It not only entertains but also educates, making it a valuable addition to any young reader’s collection. Jacovsky’s balanced representation of the three holidays reinforces the book’s message of equality and mutual appreciation among different cultures.
ASIN : B0CKTY4TSS
There is Beauty in Being Different
Purrrfect As I Am is the heartwarming tale of three kittens, all with special needs, who prove that there is indeed beauty in being different. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Working in the field with children that are special needs has created a view into this beautiful world that most people don’t try to see. Along with this I am very passionate about animals. Having a different view has enabled me to see things in animals too most people don’t see or even know about. I had landed on different foster organizations for cats with special needs. I have been following these amazing organizations for a few years and that is really what the inspiration was. I realized that there are barely any books about animals with special needs. And there are people that when I would show them the pictures would think they are not cute or adorable like I do but once I explained their story they had a totally different view. Following these fosters showed me the beauty in these special animals. I wanted to share that with the world so that maybe someone out there would not give the animal back but would seek out help. Or that someone would be open to adopting one of these amazing animals. Its about showing the world the beauty in being different, not just for humans, but animals too.
What kind of research was required to make sure you portrayed the kittens’ special needs accurately?
I follow three different amazing foster organizations for special needs cats specifically. What I did was go through their pictures and posts again to ensure I had the correct information for the disorders. Also, for the behaviors the cats could be seen engaging in. Then I found online through searching some pictures that I wanted to use for my characters. I also used an amazing company named Brainstorm Productions to do the illustrations. For the style I asked one specific individual if she would do all twelve for me. I used the first book in Cat Brothers series, Rascal Cat Brothers, to decide on a specific style. With characters that need to be specific and wanting them to be cute and adorable, I took my time in deciding on a style. I got very lucky in that she agreed to do the illustrations for the whole book.
What is one thing you hope young readers take away from Purrrfect As I Am?
Even though an animal is different looking, they can still be silly and funny and adorable lap cats if that is what the family Is looking for. Look beyond the differences on the outside and adopt the cat anyways. They can be just as amazing friends and companions as any other. However, if the cost is too much, to please find a suitable foster organization; please do not surrender them to a shelter they cannot help. Be kind to these beautiful creatures.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book I am working on is actually a spin off Purrrfect As I am. The three characters are going to use their specialness to solve cute mysteries. The first book is going to be available sometime in 2024. It will have the same illustrator as well.
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Siblings Learning Together
The Rascal Cat Brothers follows a black cat who, up until now, was a solitary cat, and now has a kitten moving into his home and has to adapt. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The story is the true events of adopting my two cats. The black cat, Midnight is actually my first cat I adopted from a shelter. The second cat, Snowball, is actually my silly younger cat, and this is the story of the day I brought him home. Ever since, the two boys have been amazing brothers, and Snowball has been super silly. I was inspired to write their story and their amazingly funny behaviors into a book series. They are my first pets, and I had no idea how silly and funny they could be. I thought their behaviors could be a great book, and what came out also came with a beautiful message.
Getting a new sibling can be challenging and confusing for children, as can bringing a new animal into the home with existing ones. Both situations can be the scene for humorous moments. What was your favorite scene in this story?
My favorite scene in the story is definitely when I find Snowball on the top shelf in my closet. That is a true event, and the illustrations in the books are my actual pictures. I just heard something in the closet one day and walked in to see this tiny 8.5 pound kitten on the top shelf of my closet. Midnight, of course, came to check it, too, but I was surprised and could not stop laughing. I think that is one of my favorite memories of Snowball. A favorite memory of both boys is definitely anytime they are cuddled up with me sleeping. I love when they cuddle with me and together. Snowball is bigger than Midnight in real life, and it is so cute and funny when he lays down on top of his brother rather than next to him.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I really did not set out to explore themes. I wanted to write down the silly and adorable things I have seen my two cats do. I thought starting with how I brought him home and the silly things Snowball did along with the cuddles that Midnight loves would be perfect. I did not know then I would make it into a series. I thought the way I wrote it could be either a series or a stand-alone book. It just morphed into this adorable funny story of siblings learning together and becoming family. I am very lucky to have it unfold that way.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am working on the next book in the Lets Talk! series called Lets Talk! Celebrating the Holidays. It is available November 1, 2023. The second book in the cat brothers series is going to come out sometime in 2024. Stay tuned for updates because that one is Snowball’s point of view.
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The Rascal Cat Brothers
The Rascal Cat Brothers by Lisa Jacovsky expertly delves into the theme of adjusting to the arrival of a new sibling, a common challenge for children. The narrative unfolds through the endearing perspective of Midnight, a solitary black cat closely bonded with his owner, affectionately called Mommy. Midnight initially grapples with discomfort when Mommy introduces Snowball, an exuberant kitten, into their home. However, as their relationship develops, Midnight discovers the joys of companionship.
This book skillfully addresses significant topics such as adapting to new family members and responsible pet care, making it an excellent choice for young children and feline enthusiasts. It also serves as a valuable tool for parents and caregivers to facilitate discussions about family dynamics with children. The story underscores the importance of sharing space and attention at home when a new member joins the family. Through Midnight’s engaging adventures, young readers learn that having a new sibling can be an enjoyable experience. Midnight’s exploration of new toys and shared moments emphasizes the positive aspects of togetherness. Lisa Jacovsky thoughtfully emphasizes that both cats can receive love and attention simultaneously, conveying a heartwarming and reassuring message.
Jacovsky’s narrative employs simple vocabulary tailored for young readers, complementing Midnight’s engaging perspective. This approach enriches the storytelling and effectively conveys a beautiful message of unity and harmony. The book not only offers an exciting and enjoyable reading experience for children but also serves as a valuable resource for parents and caregivers to broach topics related to family, friendship, and adaptability. The charming narrative, complemented by endearing illustrations, renders this book a delightful addition to any child’s book collection.
The Rascal Cat Brothers is a heartwarming and relatable story that celebrates the beauty of embracing change and the joy of welcoming new friends into our lives. Midnight and Snowball’s journey underscores the transformative power of friendship and the enduring bonds that define us as a family. This book has a wonderful message for children and families seeking an engaging, heartwarming, and meaningful story.
Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0BXLV8QMX
Spooky Oooky Dance Party
Spooky Ooky Dance Party by Lisa Jacovsky is a fun, Halloween-themed book for kids. It’s a beautifully illustrated story about a cat named Moon, who enjoys secret adventures with other animal friends. Moon explains how humans don’t know everything about their pets, and sometimes, they have powers or magical abilities that allow them to explore and enjoy things that are very different from their regular lives. The book focuses specifically on Halloween and how this celebration brings together Moon and friends for an extraordinary experience.
I found the book ideal for school-aged kids and enjoyed reading it to them and their friends. It’s engaging and imaginative by encouraging kids to create interesting stories about their own pets and the unusual but fun journeys they might embark on if they, too, had access to special places and powers. The tale is narrated, in part, from Moon’s perspective, and how easy it is to sneak outside the world of humans and into a different place with magic and new possibilities. During Halloween, these adventures become more special, along with seasonal costumes, decor, and themes.
I found the lively nature of the story and illustrations to be spectacular. The author does a great job of building excitement for the reader in anticipation of what’s next. The animal characters provide a fantastic tale that’s unique in that it shows how they celebrate Halloween in a different yet similar way to humans.
Spooky Ooky Dance Party by Lisa Jacovsky is a whimsical, creative story that’s ideal during Halloween or whenever it’s a good time to inspire young kids. The story features likable characters with colorful adventures and a positive theme throughout. I found the illustrations appealing and the book easy for kids to read and understand. I highly recommend this story to grade school teachers, parents, and daycare staff.
Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0CD861FKD
Purrrfect As I Am
Bones is a loving kitten who enjoys cuddling and playing with both humans and fellow fur buddies. Despite being a special needs cat with hydrocephalus, he doesn’t let it slow him down. Bones shares his journey with readers, explaining how his condition can sometimes make him feel sleepy and affect his ability to walk. However, a special visit to the vet helps him recover fully. His fur friend Beau, who is blind, can chase a ball across the room independently, while Bender, with three legs, can still run incredibly fast. Their disabilities do not hinder these cats from living life to the fullest and experiencing joy, fun, and love.
Purrrfect As I Am is an enchanting and inspirational read that conveys an important lesson to young readers: Treat everyone with kindness, regardless of their appearance or special needs. Author Lisa Jacovsky has crafted a story that encourages love and compassion for all. The beautiful illustrations accompanying the narrative portray the kittens’ physical disabilities in a way that neither frightens nor worries young readers. It’s heartening to see the author depict these kittens as typical feline companions who enjoy the usual activities like playing, eating, and snuggling. I loved that Bones is the narrator of the story, providing valuable insight into the world of special needs animals and teaching us that they are truly extraordinary. This perspective offers a unique and engaging way to connect with the story’s message.
Purrrfect As I Am is a delightful tale that celebrates diversity, friendship, and the indomitable spirit of special needs animals. It serves as a reminder that love knows no bounds, and every creature, regardless of their unique challenges, can lead a life brimming with joy and adventure. This book encourages readers to cherish and embrace the differences that make each of us special, echoing the resilience and spirit of these three remarkable kittens.
Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0C6BQTYXP
Near And Dear To Me
Lets talk! Learning to bowl follows two friends to the bowling alley where they learn about the importance of wearing a mask and how people with autism communicate differently. What inspired the idea to have this story take place in a bowling alley?
Each book has a different setting and activity that is near and dear to me. I grew up bowling and had even worked at the local bowling alley. In doing that I got to see a lot of children begin to bowl and fall in love with it. I thought it would be great to showcase that in a book. Not many books show bowling and I loved the idea of it being something different that can also inspire kids to want to try a bowling league too.
Was there anything that you pulled from your own experience and used in the book?
Oh absolutely I did! All of my books have things in them that are from my experience in the field. This book in particular though is special and near and dear to me because I did work at the local bowling alley and volunteer coached. In this book I bring back the idea of using the index cards for Emma to understand and communicate. That is a technique I use a lot in my current career in applied behavior analysis.
I modeled the bowling alley and coach after what I knew growing up. The bowling alley is similar to the one I worked in. I decided to use a coach because I had coached as a volunteer too. I had worked with children and seen little ones with disabilities try to bowl. I pulled from my own memories and experiences to shape the character of the coach. It also influenced the front desk and the types of shoes the characters are wearing. I made sure those were all authentic when I wrote out how I wanted the illustrations to look. I loved that I could put my experiences in and be super authentic when It came to the communication device and the activity this time.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun creating?
Most fun creating, I would have to say it was figuring out how to address Emma wanting to take the mask off and helping her to understand why it needs to stay on. Emma taking the mask off is very real and similar to experiences I had in my own career once we were able to go back to in person therapy. I think that was the most fun to actually write and pull from my own experiences. I really loved writing in the character of Coach Phil too. So many people do not realize how fun bowling is or that a little one with a disability can do it too. I loved that I was able to show people that with a little effort and a few questions, our teenage or adult coaches can understand how to work with our littles ones with disabilities too. Also, one last fun part, was making the character of Coach Phil Native American. Diversity is so important to me and being able to showcase that in a main character was really amazing.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
Currently, I have a few things in the works. I have some books written that under contract. The first book in a new series with the illustrators being amazing individuals with autism. Then there is a third series that was actually picked up by a traditional publisher. That first book in the series is actually written from Emma’s point of view. There will be more information and teases coming up! Also, there is book 4 in the Lets Talk! series which is called Lets talk! celebrating the holidays. This will be available by April 2023. Lots to come! I am very excited for everything that is moving forward!
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LITERARY TITAN 