Blog Archives
Moving Magic: Moving with Children
Moving Magic is a charming activity book designed to make the daunting process of moving less overwhelming and more fun for kids. It blends practical advice, interactive activities, and creative exercises to help young readers understand and embrace the concept of moving to a new home. From setting up a garage sale to designing a “First Day Box,” this book keeps children engaged while offering parents a helping hand during a hectic time.
I loved how this book turns a stressful event into an exciting adventure. The activity where kids draw their current home and imagine the new one really stands out. It’s a mix of creativity and emotional preparation, which can help kids visualize the change in a positive way. I found myself wanting to grab a crayon and join in. The “Box Sorting Word Match” game is another great touch because it sneaks in lessons about organizing and responsibility while feeling like playtime.
The writing is simple and upbeat, which suits the audience perfectly. The light tone and direct instructions make it easy for kids to follow, even without adult intervention. It’s clear the author knows how to keep things fun without being too wordy.
One of my favorite parts is the “New First Day Box” activity. It encourages kids to focus on what’s most special to them and ensures their favorite things are at hand during the move. It’s a subtle way of showing them that their happiness and comfort are priorities, even in a time of change. The inclusion of word puzzles and coloring pages is another win because they’re not just distractions but also ways to spark conversations about the move.
Moving Magic is a delightful read for families gearing up for a move. It’s ideal for kids, but parents might find it just as helpful for keeping the move organized and fun. If your family is packing up soon, this children’s book could make all the difference in turning a challenging time into an exciting new beginning.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0CW2GYJNY
Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape
Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape takes readers on an enchanting journey through the eyes of two spirited Border Collie puppies. Eager to explore after a rainstorm, Charlie and Sophie set out on a walk with their owner, Nicky. However, when Nicky momentarily runs back to the house to grab his forgotten hat, the curious pups can’t resist the call of adventure. They bolt into the woods, reveling in the muddy ground beneath their paws and the rich array of scents left by passing animals. Their playful pursuit of a brown deer leads them deep into the forest, far from familiar paths. Lost but exhilarated, the puppies embrace their surroundings, encountering wildlife, observing nature, and using their keen senses to navigate their way home.
Charlie and Sophie are brimming with charm, their energetic and curious personalities shining throughout the story. Their adventure feels vivid and authentic, brought to life by Farial English’s rich descriptions. Sensory details—sounds, textures, and smells—immerse readers in the puppies’ world, offering a unique glimpse into how animals experience their environment. These elements lend the story a special warmth, making it not just entertaining but also educational. The inclusion of a concluding section on how dogs use their senses is a thoughtful touch, providing readers with practical insights into pet care and animal behavior. The illustrations elevate the story further. Realistic and finely detailed, they use soft, inviting colors to create a sense of wonder and serenity. From Charlie and Sophie’s playful antics to their encounters with forest animals, the artwork captures their curiosity and the beauty of the natural world. While a few sentences may run long for very young readers, the language remains accessible and engaging, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable reading experience.
Farial English has crafted a delightful tale that combines adventure, empathy, and education. Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape invites children to connect with animals and nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world around them. It’s a heartwarming story that both entertains and inspires, making it a standout addition to any bookshelf.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DJDFLXXG
Ella’s Letter To Santa
In Ella’s Letter to Santa, Ashley Hohmann delivers a charming and heartfelt story that blends childhood innocence with a valuable lesson in patience and love. The tale begins with Ella, a young girl filled with hope, writing a letter to Santa in May. Her request? A baby sister. As weeks passed with no reply, her excitement turned into worry. Did Santa even receive her letter? When Ella finally hears the news she’s been waiting for, she discovers she will be a big sibling. But there’s a twist: the baby isn’t a sister; it’s a brother. Disappointment washes over Ella as she grapples with unmet expectations, but her parents gently explain that some things, even with Santa’s magic, are beyond control. The story takes a delightful turn as Ella welcomes her baby brother, quickly forgetting her initial wish. Her love for him blossoms, proving that the greatest gifts often surprise us.
Hohmann’s storytelling shines with its delicate balance of humor, emotion, and relatability. The book’s visual elements are just as captivating as its narrative. From whimsical illustrations to endearing details like hearts dotting the “i’s” in the text and Ella’s handwritten letter, the book exudes charm, drawing young readers into Ella’s world. This delightful story teaches patience and embraces the unexpected joys that come from opening our hearts. Hohmann gently reminds readers that while we can wish for specific outcomes, life often gifts us with what we truly need, not just what we want. The book beautifully conveys that believing in magic, especially during the holiday season, is what keeps the spirit of Christmas alive. The ending of the story took an unexpected twist that left me chuckling in surprise.
Perfectly suited for young audiences, Ella’s Letter to Santa is more than a story; it’s an experience. Its warmth and playful details make it an engaging read for children while offering a meaningful takeaway for families. Hohmann’s work is sure to become a beloved addition to any child’s bookshelf, celebrating the magic of love, family, and embracing life’s surprises.
Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0D9JGSYTW
Ezra’s Day Off
Ezra the earthworm decides to take a break from his daily underground duties and ventures into the garden for an adventure. He meets a variety of garden creatures like Abeja the bumblebee, Nya the ladybug, Matteen the ant, and Dante the roly-poly, each with their own jobs and unique personalities. As Ezra explores, he learns about the interconnected roles every creature plays in maintaining the garden’s health. By the end of his journey, Ezra realizes the importance of his own work and returns to his underground home with a newfound appreciation for his role.
I loved how this children’s book managed to pack so much charm and personality into each character. Ezra’s curiosity is so relatable, especially when he marvels at the colorful flowers and buzzing bees. His interactions with Abeja are something I love about this book. Her brisk but kind personality balanced Ezra’s more laid-back vibe. Their exchange about Ezra’s dangerous exposure to the robin felt like a little life lesson tucked in there about knowing your limits and the risks of venturing into the unknown.
The writing was playful and sprinkled with fun facts, which I thought was a brilliant touch for kids and curious adults like me. I learned that earthworm castings are just fancy worm poop, and I was weirdly fascinated by the fact that bumblebees flap their wings 200 times a second. These bits of trivia didn’t feel forced but rather added to the whimsy of the story. It made me feel like I was learning alongside Ezra.
The illustrations are fantastic. Every page felt vibrant and the details really brought the garden to life. Ezra marveling at the huge watermelon was one of my favorite moments. But more than the visuals, it’s the story’s heart that shines. Ezra’s fainting spell from being out of his element was funny but also drove home how important it is to appreciate one’s role, even when it feels mundane.
This wonderful picture book left me with a warm feeling and a deeper appreciation for the tiny things that keep our world running. I’d recommend Ezra’s Day Off to parents looking for a fun and educational read for kids, especially those who are curious about nature.
Pages: 25 | ASIN : B0DJNL1QFC
Guided By Grace
It’s Christmas Tonight: Santa’s Visit follows a curious young girl who, in the stillness of a snowy evening, has a delightful encounter with Santa Claus himself and finds out the true meaning of the holiday. What was the inspiration for your story?
In a way, that’s a difficult question because inspiration just is. It comes from God. I wanted to write a Christmas verse and began playing with it. I remembered my own childhood when I was sitting by the window, looking at the dark garden with old trees covered in snow, and hoping for something amazing to happen.
And then, when I was working on the poem, I simply started writing and came up with some rhymes. And then, when the story reached Santa’s reply to the girl’s question, I had a feeling that I was writing it down while someone was dictating. Looking back at it, it was an experience guided by grace.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Chloé Nyíri?
Chloé is a very talented artist. She does something very few book illustrators do these days – draws and paints by hand on paper, with real watercolors. Her technique is beautiful and her art is a true reflection of her soul. Chloé is a lovely person. Also, she has a little daughter who is her inspiration, and she can truly relate to a child’s curiosity on a Christmas Eve.
Working with Chloé was a breeze. I simply shared the poem and told her to draw and paint as if it were her own. In the end, there were only one or two tiny revisions. The artworks were perfect.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
If we talk about the fun part, it was the bit where the girl is humming a tune she made up about Santa flying to the moon. That reminded me of myself and of my children who make up silly songs all the time.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
Chloé and I are now working on a children’s story about a Border Collie dog who liked playing handball with his best friends – three boys. They play every day but then the boys grow up and move out.
Another project we’re working on together is a book about pregnancy and motherhood. So, hopefully, we’ll soon have plenty to share with our readers even though we don’t have a release date planned yet!
Author Links: Eliza’s Website | Chloé’s Website | Book Review
Santa, with his twinkling eyes and hearty laughter, sits down with the girl in her warm living room, sharing a magical revelation about the essence of Christmas, illuminating the profound significance of this holiday.
Beautifully illustrated by a traditional watercolor artist from Hungary, Chloé Nyíri, this picture book makes the perfect Christmas gift.
Would It Be Weird?
Would It Be Weird? is a playful dive into a child’s wild imagination, where every dinnertime question is a ticket to an absurd and funny “what if” scenario. From piano-mouths to alien makeovers, the kid’s zany ideas keep the story moving with energy and charm. Mom’s patient but hilarious responses add to the comedy, making it a perfect blend of childlike wonder and parental realism.
What I loved most about this children’s book is how vividly it captures the endless curiosity of kids. The idea of dinosaurs taking kids to school and making them always on time (but ruining picture day) made me laugh. It’s these little touches that show author Edgar Garcia really gets how kids think. I also love how the book taps into universal childhood questions. Who hasn’t imagined fighting giant chicken pirates or being a dragon with a sweet tooth?
Mariano Epelbaum’s art truly shines in this picture book. It’s bright and lively and just an explosion of energy and detail that pulls you into every wild scenario. I loved how the emotions on everyone’s faces were so expressive and spot-on. What really stood out to me was how the illustrations perfectly captured what made each moment funny. It matches the whimsical and fun tone of the story perfectly. This attention to detail is what makes the book feel like a mini-adventure on every page. Epelbaum takes these absurd “what if” questions and brings them to life with so much humor and charm. It’s impossible not to get swept up in the silliness when the art makes the scenarios feel so vibrant.
The back-and-forth between the young girl and Mom is pure gold. Mom’s deadpan humor steals the show, especially when she calmly suggests finding a piano-fixing dentist or bringing a cat to scare mummies. The balance of her exasperation and indulgence in her child’s silliness is funny and heartwarming.
Would It Be Weird? is a perfect pick for kids with wild imaginations and parents who’ve heard it all. It’s funny, charming, and brilliantly illustrated. I’d recommend it for bedtime reading, classroom storytime, or any kid who loves to ask, “What if?” It’s a little weird, a lot wonderful, and is guaranteed to make you laugh.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0CX2YSDH9
Oh, Tal! Not Today
Oh, Tal! Not Today by Tal Anderson is a beautifully illustrated and deeply resonant picture book that gently champions the importance of individuality and creativity. Written with sensitivity and charm, the story introduces readers to Tal, a child who, despite her quiet demeanor and unique approach to life, radiates imagination and independence. Accompanied by her ever-loyal cat, Winnie, Tal’s journey offers a touching reminder that there’s more than one way to navigate the world.
The narrative shines not only through its engaging storytelling but also in its ability to inspire reflection. Tal’s perspective invites readers, both children and adults, to appreciate differences and understand that what may seem unusual at first glance often carries a deeper, valuable purpose. Through the eyes of her loving parents, we witness a transformative arc as they come to realize the profound beauty in Tal’s individuality. The illustrations add a layer of magic, capturing the whimsy and vibrancy of Tal’s inner world while reinforcing the story’s themes of acceptance and love. I especially loved how Tal’s personality is portrayed through the smallest details, like her connection with her cat, Winifred. It reminded me of the small comforts we all cling to during rough days. This visual feast makes the book especially appealing to young readers, while parents and educators will appreciate its subtle but powerful message about empathy and open-mindedness.
Oh Tal! Not Today is more than just a story, it’s a celebration of being yourself and finding joy in doing things your own way. Heartfelt and uplifting, it’s a must-read for families and classrooms looking to nurture creativity, kindness, and understanding.
Pages: 35 | ASIN : B0DJCFRFH1
My Large Wild Animal Book
My Large Wild Animal Book is a nature adventure for kids, full of facts about various wild animals. Each page introduces a new animal with its scientific name, habitat, group names, and diet. The book showcases well-known animals like the Black Bear, Bison, and Polar Bear with illustrations that aim to capture the beauty of these creatures. It’s an easy guide for young ones to learn about wildlife, from rocky cliff-loving mountain goats to tundra-wandering caribou.
This children’s book serves as a fantastic educational resource by offering clear, simple explanations about wild animals’ habitats, diets, and group names. Which I think is perfect for young children. It also introduces scientific terms in an easy-to-digest format, helping to build a child’s foundational knowledge of wildlife.
The writing is straightforward and simple. I liked how each animal’s description was broken down into clear sections, but at times, it felt a bit dry. For instance, the section on Black Bears mentions their habitat from Alaska to Mexico and their love of honey, but there isn’t much excitement in the way it’s presented. I think the book could’ve benefited from a few lively anecdotes or fun facts to jazz it up.
What stood out to me were the animal group names. Did you know a group of bears is called a “sleuth or sloth”? These little nuggets of information are memorable, and I could see kids being surprised by them. The author did a good job peppering these in, though I wish there were even more of these delightful surprises scattered throughout the book.
The illustrations in this educational picture book are lovely. I think they work well for children who are trying to understand these animals. The colors and details reflect how majestic and calm each animal is, like the solemn Kodiak Bear or the noble Moose.
My Large Wild Animal Book is great for young animal lovers, especially kids who are just starting to learn about wildlife. It’s a good introduction for children who want to learn about the habitats and diets of wild animals. It would work well as a classroom resource or a bedtime story for kids who dream of forest adventures and snowy tundras.
Pages: 39 | ASIN : B0855PCD6S
LITERARY TITAN 