Blog Archives
I Always Knew We Were Meant For You
I Always Knew We Were Meant for You is a warm, dreamy picture book that follows two loving bear parents as they hope, pray, imagine, and prepare for the children they know are meant to join their family. Each page shows a new moment in their journey, from bright blooming flowers to snowy messages drawn in the winter, from sweet notes written to their future kids to daydreams of treats and adventures. It is a gentle walk through seasons and signs and longing and joy, all building toward the moment their family becomes complete.
The book carries this steady heartbeat of hope that is surprisingly emotional. Every line starts in the same way, which works like a lullaby. I found myself leaning into the rhythm without even noticing. The idea of looking for clues in everyday beauty made me smile, because it felt so honest, like something someone waiting for a child would really do. The illustrations are really lovely as well. They are bright and sweet and just a little sentimental in a way that pulled me in.
I also loved how the story keeps circling back to love. Not flashy love. Just steady, patient love that grows with time. There is a soft faith woven into the wording. Not over the top. Just enough to show how deeply these parents hoped. Sometimes it gave me a tiny lump in my throat. I could almost feel their excitement when they imagined pictures of future little ones or when they wrote letters about favorite places they wanted to share. It all felt personal and tender and kind of universal at the same time.
I think this children’s book is perfect for adoptive families or families waiting to grow in any way. It would be lovely for kids who want to hear how loved they were even before they arrived. It is gentle enough for bedtime and heartfelt enough for special moments, and I would happily hand it to anyone who wants a cozy story that glows with love.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0FH67JWLY
There is Something Fishy About Ed. A Gentle introduction into mental health and eating disorders
This book is a heartfelt, poetic exploration of a family navigating the stormy waters of an eating disorder. Told through the eyes of two young fish siblings, it follows their journey as they learn about their mother’s struggle with “Ed” (short for eating disorder). The story gently unpacks complex emotions, fear, confusion, and love and highlights the importance of communication, support, and coping skills. With a mix of tender moments and childlike wonder, it presents a difficult subject in a way that feels safe and accessible for children.
Right from the beginning, the writing pulls you in with its simple yet evocative language. The author does an incredible job of using poetry to create a rhythm that mirrors the ups and downs of mental illness. At times, the verses feel light and playful, especially when the siblings count fish or share inside jokes but there’s an underlying weight that makes the story feel real. The metaphor of the ocean, the storm, and the lurking presence of “Ed” makes this a powerful and relatable read.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is how it doesn’t shy away from the raw emotions children might feel when a parent is struggling. The book captures that feeling of helplessness kids experience when they sense something is wrong but don’t quite understand it. At the same time, it reassures them that they’re not alone. The way the siblings support each other, like when one comforts the other with a quick fin hug, shows the power of small moments in making a big difference.
The ending takes an unexpected yet imaginative turn when the children transform from fish into humans, symbolizing growth and newfound understanding. It’s a creative touch that reinforces the idea that struggles don’t define a person they evolve, they change, they learn to cope. The final message, “Together we’ll rise! No storm will divide!” leaves readers with a sense of hope and resilience. And the fact that they still giggle about “Fred” (instead of “Ed”) makes it feel authentic because healing isn’t just serious work, it’s also about finding joy along the way.
There is Something Fishy About Ed? (A Gentle) Introduction to Mental Health and Eating Disorders would be a great fit for families wanting to introduce mental health discussions in a way that feels safe and engaging. It’s perfect for kids who might be dealing with similar challenges at home or anyone who wants a deeper understanding of how eating disorders affect not just individuals, but the people who love them. It’s emotional, beautifully written, and, most importantly, filled with hope. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist, this book is a conversation starter that will leave a lasting impact.
Woody Woodchuck: Adventure in the City
Woody Woodchuck lives with his mama in a small cabin, wrapped in quiet country beauty. He is a homebody at heart. The big city holds no appeal for him. One summer afternoon, curiosity gets the better of him when he notices a bakery truck stopped on the road, its driver busy changing a tire. Warm, tempting scents drift through the air, rich with memories of his mama’s wild berry and acorn pies. Woody gives in to temptation and hops inside. A sudden slam of the door changes everything. Trapped and frightened, he finds himself heading straight for the city.
Once there, Woody is completely out of his element. The noise, the crowds, and the unfamiliar sights overwhelm him. Fear replaces curiosity. The central question soon emerges: can a country woodchuck survive a bustling metropolis and find his way safely home?
Woody Woodchuck: Adventure in the City, by Steven Frank, is a children’s book aimed at readers roughly ages three to seven. The story echoes familiar themes found in films such as Babe: Pig in the City or Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco, though it remains firmly grounded in a gentler, younger framework.
Because of its intended audience, moments of danger never become intense. A barking dog gives chase, but the tension stays mild. The tone remains reassuring throughout. This approach makes the book especially suitable for children who are not yet ready for higher-stakes adventures. The illustrations stand out as a major strength. Bright, expressive, and full of detail, they expand the story and help hold a child’s attention, whether at bedtime or during a quiet afternoon indoors.
The idea of a character becoming lost and relying on others is familiar, yet effective. Woody meets a wise owl and other city dwellers who guide him along the way. Their help proves essential. Longtime fans will also appreciate the return of old friends introduced in the first book of the series, which adds continuity and warmth.
Frank demonstrates a clear understanding of pacing and structure for young readers. The book never overstays its welcome. The problem-and-solution arc is clean and satisfying. The underlying message about seeking help and trusting one’s community comes through naturally. Taken together, these elements give the story lasting appeal and position it as a likely favorite for both children and caregivers alike.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0FD7X2W6M
Cows Have Four Stomachs!
The Charms of US Farms: Finding Out How Things Work follows a class visiting two farms who discover how important farm work is to everyday life. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for the story came from my interaction with students around the time of the pandemic. I discovered children were befuddled when I asked if they knew where food came from. Most simply answered “the grocery story”. When I asked about clothing, the response was similar. They were interested, curious and often surprised to find how the natural world provides for us in so many ways.
The book teaches a lot without ever feeling like a lesson. How did you balance storytelling with information?
It was easy to see-saw facts with fun in my story line. For instance, cows are providers of meat and many other products for us, and the fun fact is they have 4 stomachs! Farm matters abound with those types of things. They are inherent to the theme of farming. Corn? Sure, we eat it, but it’s used to make our crayons, paints and paper, too!
How do you imagine teachers using this book in the classroom?
Farming is taught in elementary grades. Sometimes students have the opportunity to plant and grow their own vegetables or visit local farms for school trips and educational experiences. Reading The Charms of US Farms is an engaging way to further integrate lessons about farming in the Language Arts curriculum.
Elementary studies include science (i.e. animal life cycles) and math (i.e. measuring plant growth), both conducive times to introduce the book to students.
Will this book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
The Charms of US Farms is the start of a series of early readers revealing how “extraordinary” the seemingly “ordinary” things in our natural world truly are.
Illustrator Ann Pilicer and I are thrilled to share The Charms book, and hope it sparks a little inspiration for younger generations and readers around the world.
Author Website
The Tail That Told the Truth
Felix is a playful, cheerful fox who enjoys a largely carefree life in the forest. Yet one peculiar trait sets him apart from the other animals. Whenever Felix tells a lie, his tail changes color. Unsure how to handle this embarrassing problem, he attempts to hide his tail from those around him. Over time, however, Felix comes to an important realization. When he chooses honesty, no matter how uncomfortable the truth may be, his tail remains unchanged, and the problem disappears entirely. Though the choice is not always easy, he commits himself to telling the truth for the rest of his life.
The Tail That Told the Truth by Jory Perry is a children’s book aimed at readers roughly ages four to eight. It’s clear moral places it alongside classic instructional stories such as The Berenstain Bears, in which each installment focuses on a specific behavioral lesson. Some readers may also be reminded of Pinocchio, with its memorable consequence for dishonesty, though Perry’s approach is gentler and more age-appropriate.
Honesty can be challenging at any stage of life. For children especially, a small lie can feel like the easiest solution in the moment, even if it leads to bigger problems later. This book acknowledges that struggle and presents truth-telling as a skill worth practicing, rather than a rule enforced through fear.
Perry delivers this message with warmth and restraint. There is no real danger here beyond the sting of embarrassment, making the story well suited for younger audiences. The charming illustrations further enhance its appeal and are likely to encourage repeated readings, whether at bedtime or during quiet moments throughout the day.
While older readers will likely outgrow the book as they move on to more complex stories, The Tail That Told the Truth is an excellent choice for early readers and children beginning to navigate social situations. Its message is simple but enduring. Learning to tell the truth is a lifelong skill, and this story offers a graceful and engaging place to begin.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0G1SY5CCG
The Charms of US Farms
When I finished The Charms of US Farms I sat back and smiled because the whole story feels like a warm class trip rolled into a picture book. It follows a group of kids as they head out to visit two farms where they learn about crops, animals, tractors, corn, cotton, and even how baseball connects to farming. The kids ask playful questions, the farmers share fun facts, and the day ends with everyone realizing just how much of their everyday life comes from the work done on farms.
I enjoyed the easy way the book explains big ideas. It feels light and friendly. Nothing ever gets bogged down. I also loved the characters and the way the kids react to everything. Billy starts out bored and grumbly. Then he slowly wakes up to how cool farming actually is. The writing made me feel like I was tagging along with the class. The artwork is bright, detailed, and reflects the charming nature of the story.
I also had a soft spot for the little moments that sneak up with charm. Ms. Della serving date cake. Farmer Dole casually pulling a baseball from his pocket like some kind of farm magician. The cow named Bessie leaning into scratches. These details gave the story a cozy feeling that stuck with me. The ideas in the book go beyond farms. They nudge kids to wonder where things come from. Paper. Crayons. Milk. Even clothes. I like that the book makes learning feel natural. You pick up facts without ever noticing you are learning them.
I would say this children’s book is great for kids who like field trips, animals, or anything hands-on. It would also be fun for any young reader who enjoys stories that mix real facts with friendly characters. Parents and teachers could use it to spark conversations about food, work, nature, or even history. I’d happily recommend it to early elementary kids and to grown-ups looking for a cheerful read-aloud.
Pages: 40 | ASIN : B0G1CK9BN8
Fun, Unusual, and Silly
Zany Zoo Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog follows a lovable German Shepherd adopted from a rescue shelter who joins her family on a trip to the zoo and spends the day learning about the animals. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration was my niece who was a zookeeper and continues to work with animals in her current job. In addition, my love for animals!
In your story you packed in a lot of educational information, but still made it feel organic and not like reading a fact sheet. What was your thought process on deciding what facts to include?
I tried to include ‘fun’, unusual, and silly facts to make it fun for the reader- while learning- and not be boring!
The colorful artwork is dynamic and charming, especially the representation of Cadie. What was it like to work with Chris Schwink?
I absolutely love working with Chris. He really is talented in how he brings my stories- and visions- to light. Most people use digital illustrations where I like the raw talent of hand drawn ones, and Chris does an amazing job!
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
This is our 3rd book of the Adventures With Cadie Kids Book series and it just was released in December 2025. I have ideas for the next one already, with some outlines but unsure of when it will be finished at this time!
Author Links: Instagram | GoodReads | Facebook | Website
In her latest escapade, Cadie explores a bustling zoo with the help of a kind zookeeper who introduces her to a parade of fascinating animals―from towering giraffes to mischievous monkeys. Join Cadie as she discovers new friends and finds joy in every pawstep!
Along the way, young readers will follow a colorful zoo map, answer playful questions, and learn fun animal facts without even realizing they’re learning. With vibrant illustrations, interactive elements, and Cadie’s lovable charm, this story is perfect for families who cherish animals, adventure, and stories that spark curiosity.
Whether read aloud at bedtime or explored independently, “Zany Zoo Adventures with Cadie the Rescue Dog” invites children to laugh, learn, and believe in second chances.
Petey the Penguin wants a Banana!
Petey the Penguin wants a Banana! follows a young penguin who wakes up craving a banana, which is a funny problem for a penguin since he lives on the ice where bananas do not grow. So he swims a huge distance, wanders into a warm sunny land, and meets new friends who help him search for the fruit he wants more than anything. Together they explore beaches, roads, forests, and finally find a place full of bananas. Petey gets his long-awaited snack and then heads home after saying goodbye.
I had a good time with this story because it feels sweet and silly in the best way. The writing moves fast and keeps things light and simple. I liked how Petey just goes for it even though the problem makes no sense for a penguin. Something about that made me smile. The ideas are easy for kids to follow, and the moments of surprise kept me flipping pages. I also enjoyed the way the characters pop up one by one, each giving Petey a boost when he starts to drag. It felt warm.
The friendships felt gentle and kind. Kai shading Petey from the sun by getting a branch from a tree was cute. The banana hunt felt like a journey that a kid would imagine on a long day when everything feels big and exciting.
This children’s book works great for young kids who love animals and simple adventures. It’s a cozy story with bright art and friendly characters. If you want something sweet to read at bedtime or to spark a little imagination, Petey the Penguin wants a Banana! is a great picture book to pick.
Pages: 25
LITERARY TITAN 