Blog Archives
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.
Conquering a Challenge
Noodles Noodles Everywhere follows a spirited child who embarks on a whimsical adventure to conquer the challenges of dinnertime, one noodle at a time. What was the inspiration for your story?
My two-year-old granddaughter had just finished lunch and walked into the room, completely covered in noodles. I looked at her and exclaimed, “Noodles, noodles everywhere!” And that’s when the inspiration hit!
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I’m a big fan of rhymes and stories where the child takes center stage as the hero. I wanted to create a story that shows a child conquering a challenge, all while blending humor with a fun, rhythmic rhyme.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Mark Nino Balita?
I shared my manuscript with Mark and asked him to design a character. I was thrilled with what he created. His artwork was incredible in my last book, and I had full confidence in his talent and illustrations.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
This book isn’t part of a series, but I do have another one being released this month. It’s the first in a series about an adorable, dancing cow named Missy Moo and her barnyard friends.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
It starts with a plate of noodles—but before long, noodles are everywhere! From the floor to the door, the walls to the ceiling, this noodle disaster is quickly spiraling out of control. What began as a simple dinner has turned into a wild, wiggly mess as noodles take over every corner of the house.
As chaos erupts, someone must step up to stop the noodle madness before it’s too late. With the family scrambling to contain the disaster, it’s up to one clever little girl to find a solution. But where will all the noodles go when the madness finally slows down?
Packed with giggles, messes, and plenty of imagination, Noodles, Noodles Everywhere! is a deliciously fun story of a dinner gone wildly wrong—and how one child saves the day. Perfect for young readers who love big laughs, crazy adventures, and—of course—oodles of noodles!
Are you ready for a side-splitting, noodle-twisting adventure? Get your copy of Noodles, Noodles Everywhere! and find out how one clever kid saves the day—before the house is buried in spaghetti!
Places I Had Visited
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA West follows a travel-loving snake and his friends as they enjoy some of the sights on the West coast of the USA, from Hollywood California to Alaska and Waikiki Beach, Hawaii. What was the inspiration for the destinations they visit in your story?
Fred asked me which places I had visited and liked best.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Meeting the bear in Alaska. “If you meet a bear, be brave, shout out loud, and madly wave. Get together in a bunch to avoid becoming lunch.”
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
The old word “Eskimo” is no longer proper. We should refer to the different nations, like Inuit and Aleut.
What is your favorite place to visit, and does it hold any special meaning or memories for you?
San Francisco was the first US city I visited in 1971 while still living in England. I was impressed by its grandeur, pretty houses, sunshine, and hamburgers.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
A Double-Edged Sword
Just Like You, Papa follows a young boy who dreams of moving just like his father until he learns that even the strongest need time to rest. Did you draw from personal experiences when creating the father-child relationship?
Yes, this is the story of my son and his father. While we are an active family, and my son thrives in sports and looks up to his father, what he needs to learn is to take it easy sometimes. Ambition is a double-edged sword. I want to teach him balance in life.
How did you decide on the rhythmic, capitalized style for the book?
I love reading books to my kids, and I found I especially love those with rhythmic, simple text, and which use repetition. Kids love repetition. I explicitly aimed to achieve this effect myself. This book relies on the illustrations and bold text so that the energy jumps off the page.
What message do you hope both children and parents take away from the story?
To enjoy life to the fullest, dream big, but also to achieve a balanced outlook and enjoy the process. For example, if my son doesn’t manage a climbing route he wants to be able to do, his frustration and anger overwhelm him at times, and he needs reminding that he climbs because it is fun. He can sometimes then simply enjoy the process of learning, and take a break. He needs to learn to let go sometimes.
Was there a particular moment in the story that was especially meaningful to you?
There is no particular moment, but I like how the voice changes in the middle of the book from the perspective of the child to the perspective and wisdom of the father.
Author Links: Facebook | Website | Instagram | Amazon
Famous Places and Memorials
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA, Central follows an adventurous snake and his crew as they travel across the central United States. What was the inspiration for your story?
Fred and friends enjoyed visiting sights in the Eastern States and asked Jim to take them further.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Bonnie Lemaire?
Great illustrator living near Toronto, Canada. We connected via the publisher and worked together online until we started on the 4th book, about Charleston, SC, where Fred and I live. She came down to see what she would be drawing. Terrific talent. She not only draws my ideas, but enhances them, adding lots of special wrinkles. Purple hair then…
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Introducing young kids to famous places and memorials.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Fred and his friends and the direction of the next book?
Jim says they will be off to the West Coast. Maybe Hollywood? Alaska?
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When Fred the Snake and Friends explore USA-West (Fred the Snake Series Book 9)
Peter B. Cotton’s When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA West is a playful, rhyming adventure following Fred and his friends as they travel through the western United States. From the glitz of Hollywood to the icy tundra of Alaska, the group encounters famous landmarks, wild landscapes, and even a few unexpected mishaps along the way. The book, filled with Bonnie Lemaire’s lively illustrations, is both a fun journey and an introduction to geography, history, and culture for young readers.
What makes this book shine is its whimsical storytelling. Cotton’s rhymes are bouncy and engaging, pulling kids along from place to place without ever feeling forced. Take, for example, the moment in San Francisco when Jim daringly flies through the Golden Gate Bridge, “Devilishly he flew right through it. You are not supposed to do it!” That cheeky humor, combined with the fun rhythm, keeps the story moving at a delightful pace. The book doesn’t just inform, it entertains, making each stop on the journey feel like an adventure.
The illustrations add even more charm. Bonnie Lemaire’s artwork is bright and full of personality. Each scene bursts with color and detail, making every location feel distinct. In Yosemite, when Jack helps rescue a wounded eagle, the expressive characters and dramatic action pull kids right into the moment. There’s a warmth to the way she brings these animal friends to life, making their friendships feel genuine. Whether it’s Fred grinning under the Hollywood sign or the group bundled up under the northern lights in Alaska, the images make the book feel like a travel scrapbook of unforgettable memories.
The book moves at an exciting pace, making it a thrilling journey from one destination to the next. With so many places to explore, each stop offers a glimpse of adventure before the group moves on. For children who love rich details, it might spark curiosity and inspire them to learn more about specific locations. Meanwhile, the fast-moving storyline is perfect for kids with shorter attention spans or those just beginning to explore these places. It’s a whirlwind tour full of energy, ideal for bedtime reading and sure to leave young minds eager for more discoveries!
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA West is a delightful read for young adventurers and parents who want to introduce their kids to the wonders of travel. The rhymes are catchy, the illustrations are vibrant, and the humor keeps it light and engaging. It’s perfect for kids who love animals, geography, or just a fun, fast-paced story. Whether you’re looking for a way to spark a child’s curiosity about the world or just want a fun book to read aloud, Fred’s latest adventure is a great pick.
Pages: 66 | ASIN : B0CHWMWVV6
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA Central (Fred the Snake Series Book 8)
Peter B. Cotton’s When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA Central is a lively, rhyming adventure that follows Fred and his crew as they travel across the central United States. Through colorful illustrations and playful verse, the book introduces young readers to famous landmarks, historical sites, and natural wonders, from the Alamo to Mount Rushmore and the Grand Canyon. Along the way, Fred and his friends engage in fun activities, attending a rodeo, panning for gold, and even witnessing a wedding in Las Vegas. The book is a celebration of exploration, friendship, and curiosity, all wrapped in a lighthearted storytelling style.
The whimsical rhymes and bouncy rhythm make this book a delight to read aloud. Cotton keeps the energy high with short, punchy lines that carry a singsong quality, making the journey feel even more exciting. The humor is gentle but effective, as seen when Jack mistakes a bison for an enormous cow or when Fred and Bernadette try their luck on a trapeze. These little moments add charm and keep the narrative engaging. The writing style is simple yet expressive, ensuring that kids stay entertained while subtly absorbing geographical and historical facts.
The illustrations by Bonnie Lemaire add another layer of magic to the story. Each page bursts with vibrant colors and lively characters, bringing the adventures to life. The depiction of famous locations, like the towering sandstone formations of Monument Valley and the fiery eruption of Old Faithful, captures their grandeur in a way that’s accessible to children. The expressive faces of Fred and his friends make their experiences even more relatable, whether they’re braving a storm or marveling at presidential sculptures. Lemaire’s artwork complements the story perfectly, enhancing the book’s fun and educational value.
One of the standout elements of the book is how seamlessly it blends fun with learning. While Fred and his friends are busy having adventures, young readers are exposed to American history and geography in a way that feels effortless. The mention of Crazy Horse, the importance of the Alamo, and the vastness of the Grand Canyon are woven into the storyline without feeling like a lesson. Even practical life lessons, like the warning against gambling in Las Vegas, are sprinkled in with humor. The book strikes a great balance, never too serious, never too silly.
When Fred the Snake and Friends Explore USA Central is a fantastic pick for young readers who enjoy adventure, animals, and travel. It’s an excellent choice for parents looking for an engaging way to introduce their kids to famous American landmarks, as well as for teachers who want to add a fun book to their geography lessons. The rhymes, the humor, and the lively illustrations make this a book that kids will want to revisit, and the promise of more Fred the Snake adventures to come makes it even better. If you love books that entertain while they educate, this one is a great addition to your collection.
Pages: 48 | ASIN : B0BSVHYVGG
Lifelong Love for Nature
Macie and the Magic Veggies follows a lively five-year-old who adores vegetables and when she gets to go grocery shopping, it turns into a thrilling adventure. What was the inspiration for your story?
After I stepped away from the corporate world, my initial plan was to write a leadership book—something that distilled the professional lessons I’d picked up over the years. But then my granddaughter, Macie, was born, and it hit me that the most meaningful way to pass on those insights might be through her eyes instead. That’s how Macie and the Magic Veggies came about. I wanted to infuse the story with curiosity, compassion, and a sense of wonder—so it wouldn’t just share lessons, but truly inspire Macie and future generations to grow a little magic in their everyday lives.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
My goal in writing Macie and the Magic Veggies was to create a story that not only entertains but also educates and inspires. It’s an engaging tale that blends vibrant illustrations with hands-on, interactive elements—making the learning journey fun from start to finish. Through Macie’s eyes, I want to spark a passion for growing vegetables, a love for the environment, and a deeper understanding of how caring and kindness can help things flourish. This story shows children that the world around them is brimming with magic, just waiting to be discovered!
And the best part? The adventure doesn’t end when you turn the last page. Kids can keep the fun going with activities like singing Macie’s Veggie Song, searching for hidden gems in the artwork, or even starting their own little gardens at home. Ultimately, it’s all about fostering a lifelong love for nature, a sense of wonder, and bringing families closer together.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The scene that brings me the most joy is when Macie exclaims, “Now I’m a farmer too!” Originally, she said something more along the lines of “I can share with you,” but I changed it after one of my daughter’s elementary school students mentioned she’d never seen a book where a girl took on the farmer’s role. That moment flipped a switch for me—I wanted to celebrate the idea that girls can absolutely be farmers, too! It’s a small line change that carries big meaning, reflecting how excited my own family felt when we planted blueberries and built a barn on our property. Even now, that scene makes me smile every time, knowing it might inspire a future generation of young farmers.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
I’m so glad you asked! The Macieverse is expanding in wonderful ways, with fresh adventures designed to spark curiosity and fun at every turn. We’ve already started crafting stories like Macie and the Magic Berries, shining a light on sharing and kindness; Macie and the Magic Beans, where kids discover patience and perseverance; and Macie and the Magic Dirt, showing how we can turn “waste to wow!” through composting. Each story even comes with its own original song, so children can sing along while they learn.
But that’s just the beginning! We’re also hard at work on Macie and the Magic Water Garden, exploring how small spaces can hold big gardening ideas—thanks to vertical planting. Plus, there are more songs and even Macieverse TV projects on the horizon.
At the heart of it all, every Macieverse story is created to inspire young minds to explore nature, care for each other, and nurture our planet. Stay tuned—there’s plenty more magic on the way!
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Linkedin | Amazon
From Grocery Aisles to Garden Rows-Join Macie’s Journey to Where Real Magic Grows!
Are you ready to discover where all your favorite veggies come from? Macie sure is!
As Macie sets off on her adventure, she learns that the true magic of vegetables reaches far beyond soil and sunshine. With the guidance of her Grandpa, they meet Farmer Lundyn, a friendly young farm girl who helps Macie discover the joy of planting, nurturing, and harvesting her own food-and shares the secret that makes her farm extra special.
Filled with vibrant illustrations and rhythmic, engaging language, Macie and the Magic Veggies captures the wonder of a child’s curiosity and celebrates the love that grows from family and nature. This heartwarming story is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, inviting them to explore the magical journey from seed to table and the power of connection.
Sprinkle on Some Extra Magic-Activities Await!
Once the last page is turned, the adventure continues! Macie and Grandpa invite you and your little one to enjoy fun interactive questions and delightful activities to deepen the story’s magic and meaning. Let the learning and laughter continue as you revisit Macie and the Magic Veggies, cultivating curiosity and a love for nature together, one page at a time.
LITERARY TITAN 