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Marvel at the Magic
The Paper Butterfly follows a delicate butterfly as she emerges from her glass cocoon and takes flight while protecting a tiny monarch egg till it hatches and joins her on her adventure. What was the inspiration for your story?
My garden is a registered Monarch Waystation and a Canadian Wildlife Federation Habitat Garden. Three summers ago, while placing the tiny Monarch Watch paper ID tags on a couple of newly eclosed monarchs, I felt compelled to write and illustrate a story about their migration south to help raise awareness about this amazing species.
My protagonist in the book, a paper butterfly, evolved because the Monarch Watch tags are made of paper. A single piece of paper is also known as a ‘leaf of paper’, and monarch butterflies shelter under leaves for protection against the elements. From these connections, the idea for ‘The Paper Butterfly’ was born.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
When I worked as a teacher of the deaf one 13-year-old once said to me ‘Mrs Kingdon, you don’t teach us. We just have fun and I learn.’ It made me think about both education and the way most of us continue to learn through life. We absorb information when we are engaged; when we laugh or cry, get angry or empathize, not when we are given a list of isolated facts that have no meaning. It was the student’s words that echoed in my mind as I wrote The Paper Butterfly. As we laugh with, cry with, or feel many other emotions with her, we too are absorbing information.
I wanted the book to appeal on many levels to different age groups because, as both a teacher and a parent, I know that, even if it is essentially a story for children, it won’t be just children who will read, or become engaged in the book.
To the young, the paper butterfly will probably become as real as any butterfly in their minds. They will learn about the environment and marvel at the magic of metamorphosis with her. They will hopefully want to track her adventures on maps and follow her process as she migrates. A teenager, on the other hand, might be encouraged to reflect on what true beauty is and take on board the message the veteran monarch conveys. They might also empathize with the paper butterfly as she tries to find how she fits into the world and what her ultimate purpose is. To a mother reading the book, their focus may be more on the caring and love that the paper butterfly shows others. To someone who loves nature, whatever their age, it may encourage them to discover more about raising and tagging monarchs or making their garden a more pollinator-friendly environment. To someone older, it might encourage them to look more closely at the world around them and notice the small pockets of magic that the paper butterfly is so good at seeing.
If the book encourages people to dwell upon the questions the paper butterfly asks as she interacts with the world around her then, to me, it has been successful; if there is discussion or reflection afterwards, even better. Many of the questions the paper butterfly asks have no right or wrong answer and this in itself is an important thing to learn especially when reading to or working with children. Very little in life is black or white, yes or no. There are so many factors that can affect things including our experiences. Knowing that it is ok not to know the whole answer at that moment is important too. If we want to improve our world these are the things we need to be encouraging.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
As a young child, I grew up in the world of the theatre, so bringing the characters to life in the book was the part I enjoyed the most. Each animal that the paper butterfly meets became real in my mind. I imagined the Karner Blue butterfly that the paper butterfly meets early in her adventures as a knowledgeable university professor, the father of the Child of the Moon as a battle-worn veteran returning from duty, and the spider, who is my only animal antagonist in the book, as one of the witches of Macbeth to name but a few. All three were such fun to bring to life. My favourite part to write, however, was when the paper butterfly first met the Child of the Moon. As my two main characters of the book, I wanted to form a strong bond between them from the onset, and having such a young, innocent character to play with meant I could really have fun with it. I have made a short video of me reading a small snippet from this first interaction. I hope you enjoy listening to it.
What next book are you working on, and when will it be available?
I actually liken the creation of any book to the metamorphosis of a butterfly. At first, you have the small egg of an idea. The ideas grow and seem like a lumbering caterpillar with too many legs. The idea needs to be broken back down to the essence of what I want to convey, then and only then can I let my imagination truly fly. With my next book, I am still at the lumbering caterpillar stage, with way too many legs or ideas, so I am slowly breaking it down to its essence and then I will be ready to share my process of creation. I can reveal though that it will be brimming with watercolours and will be ecologically/conservation-based as these are where my two main passions lie.
When will it be available? Some things are just worth waiting for. To me, the joy is in the creation so writing and illustrating a book is not something I want to rush. I love to include my followers in the process of creation, so if you want to jump on board as I create the next book, follow me on Facebook, or bookmark my website. These will be the two places where I share my next journey of creation with you all.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Emotive Expressions | Website | YouTube | Amazon
The paper butterfly felt certain that her Maker had designed her to be beautiful, but she also wondered if there was a deeper reason why he had created her. Skillfully formed with many paper folds, she knew that he never intended her to take to the skies. But when a sudden gust of wind lifts her out of an open window, she is propelled into a world brimming with life, beauty, and adventure. How can a mere paper butterfly, however expertly crafted, play a role in this fascinating place?
With over 80 breathtaking watercolour illustrations, this book takes you on a journey of discovery through the eyes of the paper butterfly. Feel her curiosity as she eagerly interacts with the environment around her. Sense her excitement as she experiences the life cycle of the endangered monarch butterfly and sees, first-hand, the magic of metamorphosis. Connect with her as she befriends, defends, and journeys with a super monarch on his epic migration south. Follow her quest to discover her true purpose.
Summer Adventures
In Gigglet the Happy Little Piglet Goes to Summer Camp, a cheerful piglet embarks on a heartwarming summer adventure filled with outdoor fun, friendship, and the joys of teamwork. How did you approach balancing the themes of fun, friendship, and teamwork?
It’s in Gigglet’s nature to be all-inclusive. She wants to spread love and joy everywhere she goes to everyone she knows. She finds fun in everything she does and loves to include her friends. Gigglet wouldn’t have it any other way.
The pacing of the book is very reflective and calm. Was that intentional to mirror the idea of slowing down and enjoying nature?
Yes, absolutely! This book is all about savoring the moments no matter how big or small. Gigglet has waited all year long to spend summer camp with her best friends Waddles and Dandy, and she just can’t get enough of all the simple pleasures camp has to offer. At the end of the book when Gigglet is reunited with her mama and papa, she can’t wait to relive her exciting day by covering every single activity in great detail.
What message or feeling do you hope young readers take away from Gigglet’s summer camp experience?
Whether you are a child who has already experienced summer camp, have never been to camp, or have aspirations to go, this book should get young readers excited about meeting new friends and reuniting with old buddies. They should look forward to a variety of fun and engaging activities, times of great joy, happiness, and endless summer adventures.
Are there any personal summer camp memories or experiences that influenced the story?
I’ve always wanted to go to summer camp but never had the opportunity. I wrote this book with the idea of how I imagined summer camp. Writing this story gave me the chance to live vicariously through Gigglet and her friends. It brings me so much joy and happiness to share Gigglet’s camp adventure with others.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes to Summer Camp is a delightful children’s picture book that captures the essence of summer camp adventures. With vibrant illustrations and a charming narrative, this book takes young readers on a journey filled with sunshine, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Join Gigglet, the lovable little piglet, as she and her friends explore the great outdoors, play games, paddle canoes, make friendship gifts, and much more! This heartwarming tale encourages imagination, appreciation for nature, and the simple joys of childhood. Gigglet Goes to Summer Camp is the perfect addition to any little one’s summer reading list, creating cherished memories that will last long after the final page is turned.
Deep and Lasting Connections
Willie Lost, But Not Really, follows a young girl from Maine who discovers a newborn harbor seal pup, and together, they learn about kindness and friendship. What inspired your story?
The inspiration for my story Willie, Lost But Not Really Comes from two main sources. First and foremost, it was inspired by my granddaughter, Alora, who has shown me a new and bright perspective on the world around me, especially a renewed appreciation for nature. Additionally, my deep-rooted connection to Maine, where I grew up on Peaks Island in Casco Bay, plays a significant role.
After spending eight years in the Southwest for school and staying on after graduating from the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico, I returned to Maine and reconnected with my roots as an artist and sculptor. I began creating sculptures of harbor seals, merging them with ceramic and driftwood, and during this process, I educated people on the nuances of harbor seal behavior, particularly about when a seal appears stranded but is simply following nature’s course. These experiences with my granddaughter and my artistic endeavors in Maine inspired the creation of Willie’s story, blending my love for Maine, Harbor seals, and the insights from my granddaughter.
I found Alora to be a fascinating character. What was your inspiration for this character?
The inspiration for my character Alora comes from the beautiful spirit and fresh view of the world seen through the eyes of an eight-year-old. My granddaughter Alora, is a uniquely, insightful, intuitive, and imaginative child, very special and deeply in touch with nature. Alora’s sensitivity extends to her interactions with the environment, for example, she asks permission from a tree before taking anything from its base for our artwork. Spending time with her has opened my eyes to a very pure and appreciative way of viewing the world, which I aim to capture and share through my storytelling.
What was one scene in the novel that you felt captured the morals and message you were trying to deliver to readers?
One of the most special parts of the story is when Willie, now a mature harbor seal, returns to the harbor to find Alora. In this scene, they are together in the water, with me describing Alora as being up to her chest in the water, face to face with Willie. This reunion is deeply significant because it stems from the respect and kindness Alora showed Willie when he was just a pup. The illustration captures them almost nose to nose, bonding once again. It is a powerful depiction of their enduring relationship highlighting the theme that kindness to nature fosters deep and lasting connections. This scene where they meet again, matured and bonded by past kindness, really encapsulates the essence of the story.
Can you tell us about the next book in the series and when it will be available for fans to purchase?
I am currently working on a new series alongside continuing the Nana Dee and Ari series. This new project is called 12 Months of Harmony It is a collection of twelve interrelated volumes intended for young readers and adults alike. The first 3 months are currently available on Amazon: Grazie’s Peace Pasture, Lady of the Ferns, and Toby Rose.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Amazon
This beautiful tale intertwines a journey of discovery and the profound connections between life and the natural world, highlighting the impact of empathy and the essence of community where every being has its place.
Join Willie and Alora in a transformative journey that celebrates the wonders of nature and the bonds of friendship.
Nori’s Amazing First Hike
Springtime has finally arrived, bringing with it lush green trees and fresh, growing grass. In Nori’s Amazing First Hike, we follow the adventures of three-year-old Nori as she embarks on her first hike with her parents. Excited for the day ahead, Nori packs a small backpack with essentials: a water bottle, sunhat, warm jacket, and a notebook to capture all the exciting sights she encounters on their journey. Her parents choose the Butterfly Trail, an ideal path for young explorers like Nori. Early in the hike, Nori’s father spots a beautiful butterfly and takes the opportunity to teach her about the butterfly’s life cycle, from egg to adult. Enthusiastically, Nori draws a butterfly in her notebook, capturing the moment. As they continue their hike, the family revels in the stunning scenery and the melodic songs of birds along the trail. Reaching a breathtaking mountain view, Nori’s parents surprise her by planting a baby tree, teaching her the importance of giving back to nature.
This children’s story, inspired by the author’s own daughter, Nori, is both heartwarming and educational. Mr. Stoyanchev’s vivid descriptions make readers feel as if they are hiking alongside Nori, seeing the butterfly, feeling the moss on the trees, and hearing the birds’ songs. Children will easily immerse themselves in the story, imagining their own adventures on a nature trail. Stoyanchev skillfully conveys his love of nature and hiking in a way that young children can understand and enjoy. The story encourages young readers to explore nature with their families, promoting the joys of spending time together outdoors. It beautifully illustrates the fun of exploration and the value of family bonding.
Kateryna Mansarliiska’s colorful illustrations perfectly complement the narrative, bringing the story to life. Each illustration enhances the storytelling, making readers feel as though they are part of Nori’s adventure. The vibrant artwork progresses the story at an enjoyable pace, allowing readers to savor each scene.
Nori’s Amazing First Hike is a delightful tale that will captivate young readers and inspire them to embark on their own nature adventures. Stoyanchev has done an excellent job creating a story that is both engaging and educational, making it a must-read for young explorers. Highly recommended!
Pages: 41 | ASIN : B0D3QTJVD2
Love and Nature/Amor y Naturaleza
Love and Nature/Amor y Naturaleza, authored by Abraham Garcia, is an eloquent compilation of bilingual poetry, seamlessly blending themes of love, nature, humanity, and fantasy in both Spanish and English. Garcia commences his collection with “Forever,” a heartfelt ode that reveals his profound appreciation and adoration for his partner. Through his vivid depiction of eternal love, Garcia not only celebrates the joy and serenity this bond brings into his life but also sets the tone for the collection.
As the book progresses, Garcia explores the intricate and inseparable relationship between love and nature, portraying them as fundamental and authentic aspects of life. His writing delves into the subtle, often unnoticed beauties of the natural world – the serenity of rainfall, the majesty of trees, the freedom of birds, and the warmth of sunshine. In doing so, he invites the reader to pause and relish the omnipresent yet frequently overlooked marvels of the natural environment. As a reader who has experienced love, the authenticity and relatability of Garcia’s love poems evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection.
His keen attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of moments speak to his profound observational skills and deep emotional connection with his subjects. The poem “Essence” particularly stands out, showcasing Garcia’s dedication and enchantment with his muse, evoking a desire in the reader for such personalized, heartfelt verses. “The Train,” my personal favorite from this collection, resonates on a different level. It vividly captures the tranquil pleasure of train journeys, echoing the simple joys of watching the landscape pass by and the inherent peace in such moments. Garcia’s skillful use of language and imagery in this piece mirrors these sentiments, connecting profoundly with anyone who cherishes similar experiences.
The bilingual presentation of this anthology is a commendable feature, making it accessible and appealing to a diverse readership. Compact yet impactful, Love and Nature/Amor y Naturaleza is a delightful read, especially for enthusiasts of romantic poetry. It’s an invitation to explore the depth of love and the beauty of the natural world through the eyes of a poet who skillfully intertwines these themes.
Pages: 70 | ASIN : B0CX47R7GQ
Protecting the Planet
In Harmony: Saga of the Earth, you share with readers your appreciation for nature, its beauty, and the delicate balance between humans and their environment. Why was this an important poetry collection for you to share?
I wanted to share the beauty and gifts that Nature has to give. I also wanted to emphasize the importance of preservation for future generations. The natural world is in a delicate balance that should be cherished for years to come, and it is vital to spread that message.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your collection?
I hope my readers appreciate that the natural world is out there waiting for them, to be both admired and protected. Experiencing wildlife and planet life is part of our lives. Protecting the planet means taking small steps to make it an everyday habit. I hope that this book helps put Nature into a true perspective, inculcating a desire to be a part of something larger than ourselves.
You mention that your love of the outdoors began at an early age. Can you share with us a particularly memorable experience with nature?
I remember visiting Central Park when I was younger. I would look at the trees in awe and roll around in the soft grass, hoping the visit would never end. In the winter, the grass would be covered in delicate flurries and the spring would have the park bursting with flowers and bees. Summer meant playing in the sprinkler, and autumn, my favorite, would cover the trails in orange and gold. This was my first taste of the natural world in a bustling city.
Can readers expect to see more poetry from you soon? What are you currently working on?
As of now, I am focusing my efforts on promoting this book, but I plan on working on another poem book in the near future.
Author Links: Goodreads | Amazon
All of the proceeds from the sale of the book will go towards charity for environmental protection.
Instinct to Nurture Wild Animals
Mother to Elephants follows the life of Daphne Sheldrick and her journey from caring for orphaned animals to rescuing elephants and becoming a conservationist. What inspired you about her life that made you want to tell her story?
My wife and I spent many weekends on safari and could not get enough of the Kenyan wildlife – especially the elephants. I guess it was meant to be that I heard about the elephant orphanage and decided to check it out. Little did I know that my visit to the Sheldrick orphanage would start the seeds for this book project and a book launch many years later! Through the years, I participated in the adoption program, the organization, and still receive regular updates (field notes) about a particular elephant’s progress. I learned that this instinct to nurture wild animals started at a young age for Daphne through her various books and film footage. Although there is a lot of coverage and material for adults, I couldn’t find anything for kids to read, and I felt that the younger generations should also have a chance to learn about the work of this remarkable lady. In addition, the determination Daphne showed in facing some setbacks was inspirational to me. Daphne was the first to develop a formula suitable for milk dependent elephants. Sadly, before Daphne’s discovery, unfortunately many of the youngest orphaned elephants didn’t make it.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Kateryna Rohotova?
I was lucky to find an illustrator such as Kateryna. In my search, I was primarily looking for 2 things: An artist who is familiar with painting elephants and uses colors that suit the Savannah landscape of Africa. Kateryna’s work stood out right away to me, and when I learned that she was also a great animal lover, I knew this would be a good fit. As this was to be a biography picture book, it was important that the scenes be authentic. Kateryna researched her drawings so that even the plants and smallest creatures were native to Kenya where the story takes place. The process with Kateryna went very smoothly. She would first make a sketch based on my description of the scene, before painting in watercolor by hand, and finally scanning and retouching the scene.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The main ideas I wanted readers to come away with is through love and determination, many things are possible. Daphne grew up in Africa, not only surrounded by wild things at an early age, but she was given the task by her parents to also care for them. Little did she know then that this would eventually lead to her adult mission in life in rescuing and rehabilitating orphans. I took the word her dad told her that ”If you truly love a wild animal in your care, you must one day set it free when nature calls,” to frame the book. Daphne takes this to heart upon founding her elephant orphanage with the goal of returning these same elephants to the wild. The idea that these marvelous, intelligent animals were born free and should one day be able to live freely in the wild again is another major idea I hope readers take away from the book.
Are you working on other biographies to share with children? Will this be the start of a series?
Thanks for this question. Yes, I have another book started about a young hero who discovered trash in the ocean and is now doing something about it. It was actually kids who brought this issue to my attention during my teaching awhile back. Before that, I am sad to say, I wasn’t aware of areas such as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. I love it when I, as a teacher, learn through my students. In fact, I have thought about the possibility of having a series about kids who, early on, show that they care for the environment enough to do something about it.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Website | Amazon
No doubt you’ve heard the saying, “Mother knows best!” But what if the baby is a six-hundred-pound elephant, and the mother is of the two-legged kind? Would the saying still hold true?
Mothering elephants is what Daphne Sheldrick did her entire life. As a young girl, she was put in charge of wounded or abandoned animals. As a grownup, Daphne and her dedicated team saved and nurtured countless elephants.
When a tiny, milk-dependent calf arrived, Daphne’s determination would be tested. No one had ever hand-reared an elephant baby this young, but what Daphne learned with Aisha would be the key to saving future orphaned elephants. What’s more, she had an elephant-sized dream of returning them to the wild!
This non-fiction biography picture book for kids is sure to inspire young budding conservationists and make the perfect gift for elephant lovers everywhere!
Includes a section with many ele-fantastic elephant facts!
The perfect choice for parents and teachers looking for:
Inspiring nonfiction narrative books
Biographies about women
Role model books for children
Kids STEM books
Buy NOW and receive the “Mother To Elephants” Extra Childhood Scene and Ice Cream In A Bag science activity for FREE
(details inside book)!
Turbulence & Fluids
Turbulence & Fluids by Karla K Morton is a wonderfully unique collection of poetry. The author’s almost spiritual connection to the surrounding world is evident in every poem. The opening poems give voice to the water, a captivating turn that starts a journey full of introspection and connection. Morton’s lived experiences, especially her Texas upbringing, are a pervasive influence in the collection, tying together hazy childhood memories with a passion for the Earth and the relationship between it and humans. Morton’s gratitude and reverence for the environment are palpable, and many lines showcase her ability to infuse even the simplest moments with a profound sense of wonder.
The strength of Morton’s voice resonates throughout, layered with a spectrum of emotions that invite readers to embrace life’s complexities. The poem’s core encourages embracing life fully, even amid challenges, and Morton calls readers to find beauty and resilience in difficult circumstances. The poems reflect a deep sense of community, echoing familial ties and the companionship of pets. These themes are underpinned by an unobtrusive spiritual thread, providing a broader perspective without imposing.
This collection is not broken into sections, so if you’re a fan of more organized books, this might not be your favorite. However, the absence of those section breaks contributes to a seamless flow, mirroring the continuous passage of time and the interconnectedness of life’s experiences. Through poems like “Shine Shine Shine” and “Washita River,” Morton draws parallels between ancestral waters and the river of human existence. This approach effectively highlights the shared journey of history and the individual.
Turbulence & Fluids is a poetic expedition guiding readers through the depths of emotion, history, and connection. Morton’s evocative language and relatable themes create a tapestry of human experience, offering moments of both solace and inspiration. This collection is a reminder that, despite life’s challenges and losses, our stories continue to flow, and we find meaning by embracing them.
Pages: 117 | ASIN : B0BVMVPYMD
LITERARY TITAN 