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Not Me!
Not Me! by Deb Mortensen is a fun and meaningful children’s book about responsibility and honesty. The story follows Joshua, a young boy excited for his first day of school, but things don’t go quite as planned. A mischievous little character named Not Me appears on Joshua’s shoulder, whispering excuses and leading him to deny his mistakes. As Joshua’s day unravels, spilled milk, a runaway class hamster, and even a cafeteria mishap, he finds himself in deeper trouble. Eventually, he learns that blaming Not Me isn’t the answer, and taking ownership of his actions is the only way forward.
One of the best things about this book is how relatable it is. Every kid has been in Joshua’s shoes, messing up and wanting to dodge the blame. When he spills milk at breakfast and instinctively blurts out, “Not Me!,” I could almost hear the chorus of kids everywhere doing the same. The story captures that real moment of hesitation between telling the truth and avoiding trouble. Mortensen nails that internal conflict kids feel, making it an engaging and teachable story without ever being preachy.
The way Not Me! builds up Joshua’s frustration is hilarious and a little heartbreaking. Every time he tries to shake off Not Me, the troublemaker just digs in deeper. One of my favorite scenes is when Joshua, desperate to fit in, launches peas across the cafeteria and immediately hears Not Me blurt out the excuse. It’s a perfect moment of peer pressure, mischief, and regret all rolled into one. The humor keeps the story light, but there’s a clear emotional undercurrent that kids (and even adults) will recognize.
The turning point is what really makes this book special. When Joshua finally admits to everything, there’s no harsh punishment, no dramatic meltdown but a simple conversation with the principal and a realization that honesty feels better than hiding. That moment feels so genuine. When he tells Not Me to go away because he’s “not any fun,” it’s a small but powerful act of maturity. Instead of being lectured into honesty, Joshua arrives at it himself, making the lesson feel earned and real.
Not Me! is a fantastic read for kids who are just starting school or struggling with personal responsibility. The playful language and lively illustrations make it fun, while the underlying message about honesty sneaks in without feeling forced. Teachers, parents, and librarians will appreciate how it sparks conversations about accountability in a way kids actually understand. This is the kind of book that sticks with you and not just because of the charming story but because every kid will meet their own Not Me at some point. Hopefully, like Joshua, they’ll learn to send him packing.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 978-1779441867
Open to Diversity
The Mystery of the Vanishing Fish follows a three-legged cat detective as he and his brothers embark on a hilarious investigation to uncover the truth behind their humans’ disappearing pet fish. What inspired you to write from a cat’s perspective?
I think it was really about showcasing the cute personality of the narrator, even though they were special with three legs. When I write, I find that it comes out with a first-person narrator. However, I think that is the best thing for my type of stories. Getting to see from the individual’s perspective or the cats, I think helps readers to understand them better.
What do you hope young readers take away from Bender’s adventure?
I want readers to see that even though he has three legs, he can still do anything and everything other cats can. I want the readers to relate to Bender and think he’s cute and silly in wanting to find where his fish friends went. Understanding and relating to him on a level as a child would can make the child more open to diversity and possibly adopting a cat too.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wanted to explore the use of Bender’s difference in that he had three legs. I want this series to focus on each brother’s difference and show it in a positive light. The use of a detective mystery was to gain attention from the readers. Then they could read the story and see that even though he has three legs, it does not stop him from running, jumping, and exploring to find where his friends went to.
Do you have plans for more mysteries featuring Bender, Beau, and Bones in the future?
Yes I do =) There will be at least one more book, possibly two more in the series. The next one will be narrated by Beau, whom we were introduced to in Purrrfect As I Am but never got to be the head of solving a mystery. We will see if that is the final book in the series or maybe the brothers have found more mysteries to solve.
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In this tale, Bender and his brothers engage in one of their favorite activities – solving mysteries. The family owns a fish tank, which often catches Bender’s interest as he tries to interact with the fish. On this particular day, Bender notices that all of the fish are missing from the tank. Puzzled but excited, the feline brothers jump into action. Using his keen sense of smell and touch, Bender leads the investigation. He’s determined to find out what happened to their missing fish friends.
Where did the fish go? Will Bender and his brothers be able to find them? Come find out in this sweet mystery.
Just Like You, Papa
Mila Winter’s Just Like You, Papa is a charming and heartfelt children’s book about the bond between a father and his child, celebrating adventure, movement, and shared experiences. The story follows a young boy who admires his father’s strength and abilities, aspiring to run, ride, swim, and climb just like him. With rhythmic and simple prose, the book encourages young readers to embrace physical activity while also recognizing the importance of rest and reflection.
What I loved most about this picture book is its sense of boundless energy and admiration. The child’s enthusiasm leaps off the page. He doesn’t just want to run, he wants to RUN like his father. The capitalized words add an extra punch, making the emotions feel larger than life. The boy’s desire to do everything his dad does, even dreaming of flying, captures that innocent yet fierce determination kids have. It’s a lovely tribute to the way children look up to their parents and see them as their ultimate role models.
The book also reminds kids that even the best athletes need to pause. “Did you know even the best take time to REST?” This shift in tone is beautifully done. After pages of movement, the story slows down, encouraging children to appreciate quiet moments. It’s a subtle but effective way to teach balance, something both kids and adults often forget.
The writing is beautifully simple yet impactful, with a rhythm that makes it delightful to read aloud. The light, playful language creates a joyful experience that children will love hearing again and again. The story itself is wonderful, and the perspective through the child’s eyes adds a heartfelt touch.
Just Like You, Papa is a warm and energetic read that is perfect for parents and children who love outdoor adventures. It’s a book that encourages movement, admiration, and the joy of simply being together. Young kids, especially those who look up to a parent or older sibling, will find it relatable and inspiring.
Thunderstorm Dragons
Mila Winter’s Thunderstorm Dragons is a charming adventure that turns childhood fears into thrilling discoveries. The story follows Lotta and Leo, two curious kids who stumble upon the magic hidden in a storm. When a thunderstorm crashes over their campsite, instead of running for cover, Leo imagines dragons hiding within the clouds. He convinces Lotta to join him on a wild ride, transforming fear into wonder. Through their adventure, they learn that the rumbles of thunder are actually dragon wings beating, and the lightning is the fire from their breath. By the end of their journey, Lotta sees thunderstorms in a whole new light, not just scary, but magnificent.
The way Winter captures childhood imagination is delightful. Leo’s enthusiasm jumps off the page as he spins the idea of dragons into reality, and Lotta’s hesitation feels real. The contrast between their personalities makes the story engaging. Leo, the fearless dreamer, and Lotta, the cautious skeptic. The moment Lotta finally takes Leo’s hand and joins him on the dragon’s back is pure magic. It’s that perfect blend of excitement and bravery that kids will connect with. The writing flows effortlessly, making it an easy and enjoyable read for young minds.
I also loved the book’s message about fear and perspective. Lotta starts out terrified of thunderstorms, but by the end, she embraces them. The transformation feels natural and satisfying. The line, “You know Leo, thunderstorms are still scary… but wonderful!” is a beautiful takeaway. It acknowledges that fear doesn’t just disappear, it evolves. That’s a powerful lesson for kids who struggle with anxieties. Instead of dismissing fears, the story encourages looking at them differently, and that’s a lesson even adults could use.
The illustrations by Nita Candra bring the magic to life. The dragons are awe-inspiring yet friendly, making them the perfect bridge between fantasy and reality. The golden hues of the dragon’s gift at the end add a touch of warmth and wonder. The artwork perfectly complements the story, making it feel even more immersive. The pacing of the picture book is just right, with each page turn offering a new thrill. Even the little details, like Lotta carrying a stick in her purse, make the characters feel real and relatable.
This children’s book is perfect for kids who love adventure and need a little encouragement to face their fears. It’s an ideal bedtime story, exciting, but with a comforting ending. Parents, teachers, and librarians will find Thunderstorm Dragons a great addition to any child’s book collection. If you’ve ever had a little one afraid of storms, this might just be the book to help them see the magic hiding in the clouds.
The Love of Language Learning
The Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Lobo reimagines the beloved fairy tale with a vibrant Spanish twist, blending language learning, cultural elements, and artwork into a captivating bilingual experience. What inspired you to add a Spanish twist to The Three Little Pigs?
I’m a big advocate of language learning and believe everyone should have an opportunity to learn a second or even a third language. I found that infusing language into a classic tale that many already know would be a great way to spark the love of language learning. The intent is for kids (and adults) to feel like they can learn foreign language words easily without feeling overwhelmed. My hope is that these families incorporate those words into their daily lives and continue building their language vocabulary.
How did you select the 30 artists featured in the book, and what was that collaboration like?
This was the most difficult part of the book making process. We had many more candidates that wanted to be part of the project but not enough pages to go around. I prioritized having artists from different parts of the world as I found that everyone had, at one time or another, heard the story of the Three Little Pigs. I thought it would be great to showcase how this story transcended borders. I had to look through all of their art portfolios and see how best to sprinkle their art style across the book. The collaboration was tough as I had multiple artists working on different art pieces at a time. I had one amazing artist, Darya Shch., develop the character designs based on distinct features (colors, sizes, etc.) and then I had to think ahead on certain elements (example daytime vs. nighttime) to make sure the pages flowed into a cohesive story. As I worked with the artists, I had them use the character designs to keep the characters cohesive but did allow them to have some artistic freedom to create the page based on their imagination.
What challenges did you face in balancing the classic story with bilingual learning elements?
I originally had a lot more words in Spanish. I had to scale back to make the story flow better. I had to be selective of the words used to keep it simple while still moving the needle on language substance. I also had to balance grammar components as the grammar can sometimes be different between English and Spanish. This led to the inventory of Spanish words used in the story today.
What classic tale would you love to reimagine next, and how would you approach it differently?
This is a great question and one that I have thought about quite a bit. I’m looking to do two things next. The first one is I’m looking to create a Spanish version of The Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Lobo that introduces readers to English words. Both of these English and Spanish versions can stand independently or be used jointly if the reader is looking to immerse themselves more into either of those languages. Also, given the success of the book and the great experiences I’ve had with getting to know so many talented artists from around the world, I’m looking to do a similar collaboration project with Little Roja Riding Hood as one of the next books in the series. This time, I’m contemplating giving artists the ability to collaborate on the same page as someone else to create a joint masterpiece and/or adding a few double page spreads to allow artists to immerse the readers into the story further.
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It’s a classic tale with a delightful Spanish twist!
Designed with young language learners in mind, this timeless story sprinkles in a few Spanish words, making them easy to learn through the magic of storytelling. What makes this book truly special is the talented team of thirty illustrators from around the world who bring this inventive version of The Three Little Pigs to life with their unique styles in this collaborative visual masterpiece.
Bones and Friends: The Mystery of The Vanishing Fish
Lisa Jacovsky’s The Mystery of the Vanishing Fish is a delightful, lighthearted tale following Bender, a three-legged cat with a knack for solving mysteries. Alongside his equally quirky brothers, Beau and Bones, Bender embarks on a mission to figure out where their hoomans’ pet fish have disappeared. Their playful, paws-on detective work takes them through the house, investigating sinks, bathtubs, and even kitchen pots before uncovering the not-so-sinister truth. Told from Bender’s charming, cat-perspective, the book is a fun and heartwarming read.
Right away, Bender’s voice is infectious. His mischievous energy bounces off the page, making him an instantly lovable narrator. He’s got that perfect mix of confidence and curiosity that makes cats so entertaining. I particularly loved his little asides, like when he brags about being the fastest despite having three legs or playfully teases Bones for his climbing antics. These moments give the story warmth and personality, making it feel like we’re truly inside the mind of a clever (and slightly chaotic) feline detective.
The mystery itself is simple but engaging, perfect for young readers. The way the cats approach their investigation is hilarious, especially when they seriously consider whether the fish could have jumped into the toilet or landed in a cooking pot. Their logic is cat-like but oddly reasonable, which adds to the charm. The buildup keeps kids curious, and the reveal is satisfying without being too dramatic. It’s a gentle, wholesome resolution that fits well with the book’s overall tone.
One of the standout elements of the book is the way it embraces diversity. Bender’s three legs are mentioned but never seen as a limitation. Instead, he’s just as fast and capable as his brothers, which subtly reinforces a great message about ability and resilience. It’s a small detail, but it makes the story even more special. The same goes for the playful depiction of sibling relationships; Bender, Beau, and Bones have their differences, but they always come together as a team.
The Mystery of the Vanishing Fish is a fantastic pick for young animal lovers, budding detectives, or anyone who enjoys an adorable, feel-good adventure. The playful storytelling, lovable characters, and gentle humor make it a great bedtime read. It’s lighthearted, engaging, and leaves you with a smile. If you have a kid who’s ever looked at their pet and wondered what’s going on in their little head, this book is a must-read.
Pages: 32 | ASIN: B0DTT9K5KB
The Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Lobo
Edgar Garcia breathes new life into a timeless tale with The Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Lobo. This fresh retelling blends the familiar story with a vibrant Spanish twist, making it both engaging and educational for readers of all ages. Each pig sets out to build a home, selecting materials that reflect their distinct personalities. The first, lazy and carefree, opts for straw. The second, impatient and eager to finish quickly, builds with mud and sticks. The third, cautious and resourceful, carefully constructs her house from sturdy bricks. When the Big Bad Lobo arrives, each pig faces a daunting challenge, will their homes withstand his powerful breath?
What makes this retelling stand out is Garcia’s seamless integration of Spanish elements. This clever adaptation introduces readers to simple Spanish vocabulary in a natural and accessible way. A helpful glossary at the end of the book provides translations, allowing children to expand their language skills as they follow the story. This interactive approach transforms a classic tale into a bilingual learning experience, making it both fun and enriching.
The illustrations elevate the book to another level. Unlike traditional children’s books, this one showcases the work of thirty artists from around the world. Each page bursts with unique artistic styles, creating a visually dynamic reading experience. The variety of interpretations adds depth and excitement, ensuring that every page turn offers something fresh. This global collaboration makes the picture book truly one-of-a-kind an artistic masterpiece as much as a literary one.
Garcia, a Texas-based children’s author, has a deep appreciation for classic fairy tales. His passion shines through in this creative retelling, which marks his third published book. His ability to weave cultural elements into beloved stories demonstrates a gift for storytelling that is both innovative and meaningful.
The Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Lobo is a delightful reimagining that captivates with its bilingual twist and stunning illustrations. The fusion of storytelling, language learning, and artistic diversity sets it apart from other children’s books on the market. Young readers and adults alike will find joy in this imaginative retelling.
Pages: 37 | ASIN: B0DD92SZ8J
Ziggy on the Rock
Mornings start slowly for Ziggy. Snuggled in bed, he isn’t quite ready to face the day, but his mommy gently urges him to awaken. They have a full day ahead, and adventure awaits in Ziggy on the Rock… A Day on the Rock by CM Rohan.
Set in the Caribbean, the story follows Ziggy, his mommy, and his grandmother as they enjoy breakfast together, watching cruise ships roll into port. Soon, Ziggy and his mommy set off on their daily adventures, making stops at the bustling market for fresh fruit before grabbing a bite to eat. The highlight of Ziggy’s day, however, is meeting up with his best friend, Coco. Together, the two embark on their own little escapades, bringing readers along for the fun.
This book offers young readers a delightful glimpse into Ziggy’s world, showcasing the warmth of his bond with his mother. That sense of closeness is woven throughout the story and beautifully reflected in the vibrant illustrations. What makes this book particularly special is its setting. Children’s literature rarely highlights the Caribbean, making this story a refreshing and unique addition to the genre. Rohan masterfully captures the region’s charm, from the grandeur of cruise ships gliding into port to the tantalizing descriptions of island cuisine. As readers follow Ziggy and Coco, they will feel as if they, too, are experiencing a mini getaway in the Caribbean.
The hand-drawn watercolor illustrations by Sophia Foster add another layer of enchantment to the book. Each page bursts with color, perfectly complementing Rohan’s storytelling. A celebrated artist from St. Thomas, Foster draws inspiration from nature, and her talent shines through in the picturesque scenes that bring Ziggy’s world to life.
Rohan, a native of the Virgin Islands, was inspired to write this book after struggling to find children’s stories set in the Caribbean for her nephew and daughter. Determined to fill that gap, she crafted Ziggy on the Rock as a heartfelt celebration of Caribbean culture, ensuring young readers everywhere could experience the magic of island life.
Ziggy on the Rock… A Day on the Rock is a captivating children’s book that transports readers to a tropical paradise. With its engaging characters, lively storytelling, and richly detailed setting, this book is a wonderful addition to any child’s library. Whether readers are familiar with the Caribbean or discovering it for the first time, they are sure to be charmed by Ziggy’s adventures.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0CBSNJDLT
LITERARY TITAN 