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A Way to Honor That Story
The Adventures of Belle Bear follows a cheerful polar bear cub living in the Arctic who has to move to a new home in a new country where everything is different, and she has to make new friends. What was the inspiration for your story?
When I was 9 years old, my family fled the Republic of Georgia after the collapse of the USSR. We were political refugees, ethnically Russian and Armenian in a newly nationalistic country, and had to start over in the U.S. with nothing but suitcases and survival skills. I didn’t speak English. I didn’t really fit in. I had to start over and make friends in a new place. There were no polar bears. And no one wore capes. I drew a lot of my strength and inspiration from my grandmother, my Baba. This book is a way to honor that story and my Baba’s memory.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I leaned heavily into the social-emotional aspect of belonging in this book. While the story is about moving to a new place and starting a new school. I think it’s also for every kid who’s ever felt different or out of place. And for every adult who remembers what that felt like. For example, my 7yo daughter is the only left-handed student in her 1st grade class. She told me she felt a little like Belle Bear when she first realized it. But then she remembered that it was okay to be a little different. That it made her special.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The most fun (and challenging!) scene in the book by far was the mirror-cape scene. I had the idea in my head for months, when Belle Bear internalized Baba Bear’s nightly affirmations, “I am kind, curious, and brave. I can do anything. I am a Belle Bear,” her new cape would somehow appear. But I wasn’t sure how it would work on the page. Originally, it was going to be a spin or a twirl. But the movement was hard to show in still illustrations. Nathalie, the illustrator, and I spent several weeks perfecting it after the rest of the book was done. It was the literally the last scene we finished. She really brought it to life with Belle Bear’s cape appearing in the mirror before she steps out on the next page wearing it. I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out!
Will this book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
I have BIG plans for Belle Bear. Think of Belle Bear as The Berenstain Bears of this generation with a modern voice and an orange cape. Each book will explore a different challenge kids face today, from family transitions to standing up for themselves, and help them build confidence from the inside out. Belle Bear is just getting started!
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Belle Bear is a spirited polar bear cub who lives in the arctic country of Mount Bearia with her beloved grandma, Baba Bear. Her days are filled with snowy games, cozy bear hugs, and magical moments—all while wearing an orange cape that makes her feel brave.
When Belle Bear and Baba Bear have to leave their home and move to a new country, Belle Bear’s world is turned upside down. There’s no snow, no other polar bears, and certainly no capes. At her new school, Belle Bear struggles to feel like she belongs, and she begins to doubt the very things that once made her feel special. But with a gentle nudge from Baba Bear and a heart full of courage, Belle Bear discovers her self-confidence and begins to make new friends who appreciate her for exactly who she is.
The Adventures of Belle Bear is a heartwarming story about moving to a new place, making new friends, and finding self-confidence in the process.
Belle Bear believes that every child should go to bed with a full belly and a bedtime story.
Through December 31, 2025, 100% of the proceeds from The Adventures of Belle Bear will be donated to Good Shepherd Food Bank, Maine’s largest hunger-relief organization.
Wonderfully Mischievous
Bubble Gum Rocks follows three sisters spending a summer at their grandparents’ Kansas farm, who stumble into the long-forgotten magic of bubble gum rocks. What inspired the adventure the sisters go on?
The core inspiration for Bubble Gum Rocks is drawn directly from my own childhood, and it’s a very heartfelt, authentic memory for me. My grandparents own a farm that dates back to the 1800s, and for my sisters and me, that farm wasn’t just dirt and fields—it was a landscape of untapped magic.
The ‘bubble gum rocks’ themselves are very real. They are the rocks that look like chewed-up pieces of bubble gum that we would hunt for tirelessly. And when we found one, we would treat that rough diamond like it was pure gold. That simple act of discovery—the feeling of unearthing a secret treasure—became the foundation for the book’s central, forgotten magic.
But the adventure truly began with my uncle. My sisters and I were, let’s just say, wonderfully mischievous. We were constantly pushing the boundaries and getting into trouble. My uncle was the brilliant mind who channeled all that youthful energy. He would invent these elaborate, imaginative games to keep us entertained and, frankly, out of the way of farm work. It was his playful spirit and the inherent adventurous nature of exploring an ancient farm that inspired the sisters’ journey.
So, the book is really a love letter to that time: to the bond between sisters, to the creative genius of a loving adult, and to the idea that even the most ordinary-looking farm can hide the most extraordinary secrets if you just know where to dig.
What was your inspiration for the characters and their relationship?
My inspiration for the characters and their relationships is rooted in the most honest place possible: they are 100% real and based on my own family. While I’ve changed their names to ‘protect the innocent’—as the saying goes—their personalities, quirks, and the complex, wonderful dynamic between them are completely true to life.
For me, the personalities are the heart and soul of the book. I wouldn’t have had the amazing, adventure-filled childhood I did if it weren’t for the unique combination of my sisters, my uncle, my mom, dad, and my grandparents.
We’re a family that truly puts the ‘fun’ in ‘dysfunctional,’ and oh, what fun it is! You have:
- The older sister who tries to maintain order but is secretly the first one to break the rules.
- The middle sister, who is the creative, mischievous dreamer. (That’s often me!)
- The younger sister who looks up to the others but always surprises them with her free spirit and bravery.
It’s the way they tease each other, the way they fall back on each other when they’re in trouble, and the way they speak in their own little family code that brings the story to life. By basing the characters so closely on my family, I wasn’t just writing fiction; I was capturing the electricity of a real bond—a bond filled with deep love, playful rivalry, and shared mischief. That genuine relationship is what makes their on-page adventure feel so real and relatable.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Without a doubt, the scene I had the most fun writing was the moment Avianna makes her wish, and the magic of the bubble gum rocks finally ignites.
It was a joy to write because it wasn’t just a turning point in the plot; it was the moment the book itself underwent a magical transformation. I envisioned the first part of the book in a kind of subdued, sepia-tone atmosphere—it represents the quiet, sometimes overlooked, reality of the farm and the mundane start to their summer.
Avianna makes that wish, and the long-forgotten magic truly awakens; the pages burst into beautiful, vibrant colors. Writing that shift felt like going from watching an old film clip to seeing the world in full HD.
It was the moment when the potential of the farm became reality. It’s where the secret Avianna was searching for finally manifests, and it felt incredibly rewarding to write. It’s where my real childhood memories of seeking treasure finally got to become a spectacular, larger-than-life fantasy on the page.
Will this book be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
I’m thrilled to confirm that Bubble Gum Rocks is the very first book in The Magical Farm Mysteries series!
When I finished writing the girls’ first adventure, I realized there was so much more untapped magic on that old Kansas farm that their story was far from over. The world felt too rich and the characters too real to leave behind after one summer.
I am already deep into planning and writing the next installment. Readers can certainly expect the three sisters to stumble into many other adventures with even more magic, unexpected twists, and fun new hidden secrets. It’s an ongoing journey, and I can’t wait for readers to follow the girls as they uncover the full scope of their family’s magical legacy.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | AMB Kids Books
When three curious sisters – Avianna, Avery, and Ainsley – spend the summer at their Grandma and Grandpa’s farm, they stumble upon a magical and sparkly surprise, bubble gum rocks! What mysterious powers do these magical stones hold?
Join the sisters as they discover the wonders of the magical farm in their delightful first mystery of The Magical Farm Mysteries series!
Perfect for ages 6-10
Full of heart, humor and a touch of farmyard magic!
Literary Titan Book Award: Fiction
The Literary Titan Book Award honors books that exhibit exceptional storytelling and creativity. This award celebrates novelists who craft compelling narratives, create memorable characters, and weave stories that captivate readers. The recipients are writers who excel in their ability to blend imagination with literary skill, creating worlds that enchant and narratives that linger long after the final page is turned.
Award Recipients
Talthybius by Jessie Holder Tourtellotte and Nathaniel Howard
Golem Mine by Donald Schwartz
A Trail in the Woods by Mallory O’Connor
Messenger of the Reaper Part 2 by Jimmy Straley
Missing in Lincoln Park by Staci Andrea
Medusa: Or, Men Entombed in Winter by Kyle Farnworth
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Literary Titan Book Award: Children’s Books
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
The Moments Between Choices by Harris Kamal
Secretos De Familia by Diego Uribe
Once Upon A Time In The Big Easy: Down On The Bayou by Wilson Jackson
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Dali & Banksy’s Brave Bite Adventure
Dali and Banksy set out on a bright morning for what they call a Brave Bites Quest. Gram sends them off with a picnic full of surprise foods, and Pepere gives them a sweet little pep talk about being bold with new bites. It feels like the whole day is meant to nudge them into trying things they have never tasted before, and turning it into an adventure instead of a chore.
I had a warm and fuzzy feeling while reading it. Something about Gram waving from the window made me smile. The writing is simple and upbeat. It has this cozy family energy that feels familiar. I like how the story frames trying new foods as something exciting rather than scary. The tone is gentle throughout.
The ideas behind it hit me in a good way. I love it when a children’s book teaches something without sounding like a lecture. This one just lets the adventure do the work. Pepere’s line about every new bite making you stronger actually stuck with me for a second. It is a tiny message. It still feels encouraging. The illustrations help too. They add a soft, friendly look that makes the whole thing even sweeter.
I’d recommend Dali & Banksy’s Brave Bite Adventure to young kids who get nervous about new foods and to the adults trying to help them along. It is cheerful, cute, and easy to read. It would be great for preschoolers and early elementary kids who enjoy simple adventures told with kindness.
Pages: 36 | ASIN: B0FKTCRQRJ
The Circle of Life Continues
The Adventures of Troy Home Again follows a bald eagle who discovers companionship and sets out on new adventures with his partner by his side. What is your process for capturing the thoughts and feelings of animal characters?
We have two dogs and two cats. After a while, you really get to non-verbally communicate with them. As the fourth book of the Troy series, it’s been wonderful developing these characters over the years. Although they are animals, they certainly have their own distinct personalities.
Do you have a favorite scene in this story? One that was especially fun to write?
This book was so much fun to write and illustrate. I especially love the last page. Troy and Aliana in their nest, with their two little baby eagles about to hatch. The circle of life continues.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently writing?
I’m writing a psychological thriller that should be completed soon.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The book includes a glossary of “The 20 Words” at the back of each book that offers simple definitions of words highlighted throughout the story to help increase a young child’s vocabulary. Parents will enjoy reading these books to their toddlers. Elementary school children will love reading these heartwarming tales of friendship and adventure on their own.
Author and Illustrator, Hope Kelley, is Owner of ECBYbooks, a fully integrated online bookstore. She is also Producer, Director, and Writer for Hope Kelley Productions & South 16 Films. Ms.Kelley hosted and directed the tv program, SA Style, in San Antonio, Texas. She was awarded the honor of directing and producing a documentary, Project Hope, in Washington, D.C. Ms. Kelley is also a talented journalist, anchor, actor, and spokeswoman who has appeared in films, tv programs, and commercials. Ms. Kelley was awarded the UIL Scholarship in Music to the University of Texas at Austin. As a classical clarinetist, she has performed in symphony orchestras. Ms. Kelley graduated from the University of Texas at Austin earning a Degree in Broadcast Journalism. She began her broadcasting career as an Intern and Journalist for ABC Austin, and at the Dallas ABC News Bureau at the Capitol of Texas. As an artist and illustrator, you can find her work on her gallery at ECBYart.com.
As a published Author and Illustrator, her books, The Adventures of Troy A New Home, The Adventures of Troy Rescuing Lily the Lamb, The Adventures of Troy the Bald Eagle, The Adventures of Troy Home Again, The G Sin, and her novel, Fire in Forgotten (Winner of the International Impact Book Award in Historical Fiction), are available in thousands of bookstores worldwide. Ms. Kelley also enjoys helping other writers achieve their goals as published authors. Learn more at HopeKelley.com
Living In The Moment Method
Bart Bantam The Flying Rooster follows a small bantam rooster who has big dreams of flying, offering young readers important lessons about believing in themselves. Where did the idea for this story come from?
The inspiration for this book actually began 25+ years ago. You see, I am a father of two sons, and when I needed to wake them up for primary school, I coerced them to get up and get ready by using a chicken’s voice. The irritation of my chicken voice worked supremely well! In 2014, I bought an iPad and started doodling. It came to me with a sketch of a bantam rooster and a vague outline of a story. A barnyard chicken is not very large; however, a smaller Bantam, with an even smaller voice, sparked my imagination. Wouldn’t it be surprising if this small rooster did what others were incapable or unwilling to do? As a former therapist, I witnessed the struggles of children in families. I saw Bart as a friend to anyone needing a friend, and a voice to convey a message to further help others in a meaningful way.
What was your favorite scene in this story?
This is an easy answer for me. I gravitate to the final page of the book where Billy, a former bully, has reformed into an appreciative young rooster whose life has changed forever. Billy can’t contain his gratitude, and he lifts the bantam roosters in his wings as the teacher and classmates cheer them on.
The artwork in your book is wonderful. Can you share with us a little about your illustration process?
I am both a writer and an illustrator of my books. Both tasks are challenging to say the least. I am currently using an art program called Procreate. This app allows scenes to be stacked like pages in a book. The tools I use while drawing allow my story to develop. I build the storyline as I draw. Let’s back up a bit. I had the idea for the chicken, then the idea for a Bantam rooster. Finally, alliteration kicked in and Bart Bantam became the main character’s name. As I began drawing young Bart, it helped me see his unique personality. I felt my way through the book page by page, and as I drew, I developed the narrative and the story’s conflicts and resolutions. I believe they call this technique “Pantser.” “Flying by the seat of your pants.” Or as I have laughingly renamed it, “Living in the moment method.” There is an honesty and freshness to this technique in my humble opinion, though editing has become an important collaborative tool.
Can we look forward to more books for young readers soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes indeed! So far, The Tales of Bart Bantam series has a total of four books. Also, there is a supplemental coloring book encouraging young children to express themselves in coloring their favorite characters of Bart and his friends. I also have an adorable non-fiction children’s story about carving a rabbit out of a dead tree stump. As you can probably guess by now, I’m just getting started with this new-found love of writing and illustrating books. Thank you again for your attentiveness. Kindly yours, Papa Fred.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
★★★★★ “… Brimming with charm, gentle humor, and an uplifting message, (this book) offers inspiration without ever feeling heavy-handed. …Young readers will find a hero in Bart’s boundless enthusiasm.” – Literary Titan
Get ready for an adventure like no other! Join Bart Bantam, a young rooster with big dreams, as he navigates life on the farm with his mother, Mama Betty. But things take an unexpected turn when Bart finds himself in a showdown with the school bully, a rooster much larger than him. With the help of a new friend named Buddy, they set out to do what no other chicken has done before, “Fly!” But when danger strikes, Bart and Buddy must use their newfound skills to save the day. Will they succeed? Find out in the thrilling tale of Bart Bantam The Flying Rooster!
This story highlights:
achieving goals
perseverance and resilience in doing hard things
handling peer pressure around a bully
showing kindness and compassion to others
the power of friendship
Bart’s journey will warm your hear and inspire readers of all ages. From beautifully hand drawn illustrations with vivid color and detail to a tender story from the author’s heart about friendship and forgiveness, Bart’s kindness leads the way!
This book is a true labor of love. It is a created by a dedicated author who uses his own story and illustrations from his own hand (No AI) to help children in a meaningful way. Large 8.5×11 pages bring the characters to life and engages the reader whole heartedly. Premium color and glossy pages make these illustrations dynamic to grab one’s imagination. This short story is perfect for shared reading with little ones or as independent reading for primary school readers ages 7 and up.
If you enjoyed books like Charlotte’s Web and Stuart Little, you’ll love Bart Bantam The Flying Rooster. So don’t wait, grab your copy now and lose yourself in the wonders of Bart’s World.
LITERARY TITAN 