Blog Archives
Literary Titan Gold Book Award: Children’s Book
The Literary Titan Book Award recognizes children’s books that mesmerize audiences with incredible narratives, vibrant illustrations, charming characters, and fresh ideas. Offering well-earned accolades, we salute the imagination and exceptional skill of authors who create tales that spark curiosity and delight in young minds.
Award Recipients
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Literary Titan Silver Book Award
Celebrating the brilliance of outstanding authors who have captivated us with their skillful prose, engaging narratives, and compelling real and imagined characters. We recognize books that stand out for their innovative storytelling and insightful exploration of truth and fiction. Join us in honoring the dedication and skill of these remarkable authors as we celebrate the diverse and rich worlds they’ve brought to life, whether through the realm of imagination or the lens of reality.
Award Recipients
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Lemons and…More Lemons
I just finished reading Lemons and…More Lemons by A.D. Williams and Kendal Fordham, and wow—I wasn’t expecting such a heartwarming and eye-opening read, especially from a kids’ book. This story follows a boy named Mark on his summertime journey as a young entrepreneur running a lemonade stand. But it’s much more than that. It’s about family, dreams, business smarts, community, money lessons, and a squirrel named Mansa who somehow drops more wisdom than most adults. Through conversations with his mom, uncle, cousin, and a few new faces, Mark learns about budgeting, investing, ownership, and even whether or not to take on a business partner.
I love the vibe of this children’s book. The writing is super fun and easy to follow but never feels like it is talking down to young readers. It has real heart. One of my favorite parts is when Mark’s mom breaks down the family budget at the dinner table. It’s such an honest family moment. The whole “income is positive, expenses are negative, like a hug versus a push” analogy is brilliant and funny. The scene where Mark realizes they don’t own their house is such a relatable, awkward, and important conversation about homeownership and gentrification, and the authors handle it with care.
Another standout moment is the wild purple brownies made with ube. Mark and Cuzzo try them at Jimmy’s house. I love how that one scene turns into a whole new business idea. But what hits even harder is Mark’s inner debate about partnering with Jimmy’s dad to grow his lemonade empire. I could feel the weight of his decisions. It reminded me how complicated growing something can be, especially when it means giving up control. Still, the authors didn’t push one answer. They let Mark explore and think, which I loved because it felt real.
This book is written for children, but it’s packed with life lessons most adults could use a refresher on. If you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone who likes inspiring, feel-good stories with real heart and humor then Lemons and… More Lemons is a solid pick. It’s smart, sweet, funny, and full of juicy life wisdom.
Pages: 48 | ASIN : B0DWTD8PP7
A Glimpse of Hope
You Can’t Stop Me follows a diverse group of young girls who transform their so-called weaknesses into strengths, proving that determination, self-belief, and authenticity can break any barrier. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I remember the day I decided I was going to write and publish You Can’t Stop Me. I was holding my then 4-month-old daughter, watching women’s rights being stripped away. Angry, sad, scared—I was trying to understand the world my daughter is going to grow up in. How could I make a difference? How could I make sure young girls and women keep fighting and not let the everyday battle knock them down? How do I explain it to my daughter?
I began writing down ideas immediately. Almost 2 years later, You Can’t Stop Me was born.
How did you develop the different characters, and was there one character you felt most connected to?
A small part of me can connect and relate to each girl portrayed in You Can’t Stop Me—and unfortunately, I think most girls and women will feel the same. I wanted to showcase as many types of girls as possible. I wanted the young girls reading it to think, “Oh, she looks like me and she’s in space!” or “I’m in a wheelchair too, that doesn’t mean I can’t be president!”
But if I had to choose one character I relate to the most, I would say it’s the author!
The book challenges societal expectations placed on young girls. What impact do you hope it has on readers?
My main goal has always been to give a glimpse of hope and power to little girls that don’t get told they’re enough, they’re smart, they’re brave, that they’re unstoppable. I hope You Can’t Stop Me gets in their hands and they realize that can do or be anything they set their mind to.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently working on an apocalypse-style YA novel. It’s in the early stages, so no dates yet. This is a project I’ll be taking my time with as it’s written in memory of my brother, who will be one of the main characters.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
You’re too bossy? Sounds like you know how to get stuff done.
You’re too weak? Well, that’s not possible. You’re the toughest person I know.
You’re too nice? That’s not even a thing.
Being too “you” is not a bad thing. You are the best you I’ve ever seen!
You should embrace who you are, and use it to make your dreams happen.
Girls can do anything, and no one can stop us!
Seeing Beyond Appearances
Pretty in Purple follows a young girl on her 7th birthday who meets her spirit guide, and she is given a special gift: the ability to see auras. What was the inspiration for your story?
I’ve always been fascinated by energy, intuition, and the unseen connections between people. As a mother, I wanted to create a story that teaches children about inner beauty, kindness, and the energy we share with the world. Pretty in Purple was inspired by my daughters and the lessons I hope to pass down to them; lessons about self-worth, empathy, and seeing beyond appearances. The idea for Sophie’s story first came to me in 2014, after my first daughter was born, but it wasn’t until my second daughter arrived in 2024 that I truly felt the push to bring it to life.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I wanted to introduce young readers to the concept of auras in a way that feels both magical and relatable. While auras are often seen as a spiritual concept, I present them as a visual representation of emotions; helping kids understand that our energy, attitude, and kindness affect how others feel around us. The story also explores important social-emotional lessons, like making friends, dealing with unkind behaviour, and learning that true beauty shines from within.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the collaboration process like with illustrator Katya Mo?
Working with Katya Mo was an incredible experience. I had a very clear vision for the book. I wanted it to be vibrant, whimsical, and full of energy to reflect the story’s themes. Katya beautifully brought Sophie’s world to life, especially in the way she portrayed the auras with soft, glowing colors. We worked closely to ensure each illustration complemented the emotions of the scene, from Sophie’s excitement to her moments of doubt. The end result exceeded my expectations, and I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out!
What next book are you working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently working on the sequel to Pretty in Purple! In this next adventure, Sophie meets a boy named Alex, who spends most of his time indoors on his tablet and is afraid of the outside world. With Zoe’s guidance, Sophie helps Alex reconnect with nature, and he begins to heal; both emotionally and physically. This story highlights the power of nature, movement, and play in our well-being. I’m also adapting Pretty in Purple into a 24-page board book with rhyming text for younger readers, focusing even more on the concept of auras. I hope to release both books within the next year!
Author Links: GoodReads | LinkTree | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Amazon
A Gentle Giant
In Barney, the Big Brown Dog!, a Labrador Retriever’s life is changed when his elderly owner must give him up and he begins his journey to find a new family. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Barney was such a love and his day-to-day presence and routine always put a smile on my face! After he had passed, I said one day that I would write a story about him, and I kept my word. Just like his presence, I loved every minute writing this story about him and so pleased to come to this moment and be able to share this story with children and families. One other thing I would like to add. Due to Barney’s quiet demeanor, I was able to bring him where ever I went. He was by my side almost anywhere. I never had that opportunity with a pet before.
Barney was a gentle giant, a Labrador with a heart as big as his frame. He came into our lives at just the right time, a silent, loving way about him when we needed him the most. With his shy and his lumbering gait, he seemed to walk through life with the innocence of a child and with his soft large brown eyes asking for acceptance and love.
He wasn’t just a dog, he was a large, brown bear who found his way into our family’s rhythm, offering affection in his own special way. Barney never barked which was part of his charm and shyness! Every room he entered was greeted with the subtle thud of his paws, or the thump of his tail beating against the floor, letting you know how he was happy to see you; in addition to the unspoken promise that his presence would never be a burden, only a comfort.
Is there anything from your own life included in Barney’s story?
Receiving two hours’ notice before his arrival was very true! Our cat graciously accepted Barney and this was not the norm for her at all. The two were like close buddies. The children, including our neighbors adored him.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Rebecca Popp?
Among any of the illustrators whom I interviewed, Rebecca could read me. We connected very well. Her samples reflected just what I was looking for…one particular sample of her art had a scenery with greens and blues and her sketches of the animals and children were life-like. I wanted a presence of family, home, colors that were inviting, not scary or intimidating, and Rebecca did just that! When I gave Rebecca a description to reflect a chapter, she provided everything I requested including a little humor too.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
With trying not to give away too much, I have drafted two books.
Barney meets two dogs (pups) who become service dogs. This is in memory of my older brother who became blind at the age of five. I hope this story will be published December 2025 or by February 2026.
My other book is Hunter and Spencer are curious to learn more about their religion and of their friends’ religions and beliefs. Learning about the diversity and understanding of various religions and learn that they can believe. Barney and Charlie are in the background of this story too! This story is one that I am most excited about creating. My timeline for this book is hopefully by April 2026.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Barney, the Big Brown Dog!
In Barney, The Big Brown Dog by Patrice LeMoine, readers are introduced to Barney, a lovable yet uncertain brown Labrador Retriever whose life is about to change. His elderly owner can no longer care for him, and as a result, he is being driven to a new family that will take him in temporarily. However, at the last moment, plans fall through, leaving Barney unexpectedly homeless. The driver, after some reflection, decides to reach out to her sister and her family, hoping they might provide the shelter and care Barney so desperately needs. Fortunately, they welcome him, offering a temporary haven.
Upon arrival, Barney’s sheer size astonishes everyone. This massive Labrador, though affectionate, is undeniably clumsy, often struggling in tight spaces. Despite this, his new family does their best to accommodate him, understanding that Barney has nowhere else to go. The central question lingers: Can Barney adapt to his new surroundings? Will this temporary home become permanent?
I found this story deeply touching, and I have no doubt that children will be equally captivated. The heartache of Barney losing his original home due to circumstances beyond his control tugs at the emotions, making readers yearn for him to find the love and stability he deserves. When he is taken in at the last moment, hope blossoms that this family will ultimately become his forever home. The story beautifully conveys a powerful lesson: appearances and first impressions should never dictate judgment. Despite Barney’s imposing size and initial awkwardness, what truly matters is his loving nature and his earnest attempt to fit into his new environment.
Initially, I worried that Barney’s size would hinder his chances of finding even temporary shelter. My concern deepened when he was relegated to sleeping in the den alongside Charlie, the family’s cat. Would they get along? Would Barney’s occasional mishaps jeopardize his place in the home? With every misstep, tension builds, making readers anxious about his fate. Yet, despite the challenges, the ending is heartwarming and fulfilling, imparting an invaluable lesson to young readers: perseverance and patience can lead to beautiful outcomes, even when life takes unexpected turns.
The book is further enhanced by the vibrant illustrations of Rebecca Popp. Her colorful, expressive artwork breathes life into Barney’s adventures, making each page a delight to explore. Readers will find themselves grinning at Barney’s endearing expressions and laughing at his playful antics. Impressively, this book marks Ms. Popp’s debut as a published illustrator, a noteworthy accomplishment given her lifelong passion for the craft.
Barney, The Big Brown Dog is a heartwarming tale that resonates with readers of all ages. It’s a story of resilience, love, and the simple yet profound desire for belonging. From start to finish, Barney’s journey is one that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.
LITERARY TITAN 