Blog Archives

Millie & Marty Muldoon Miss Out

Millie & Marty Muldoon Miss Out is a whimsical and heartwarming children’s book that masterfully captures the essence of youthful curiosity. The story follows Millie and Marty, two lively and imaginative siblings who are convinced that their parents are having all the fun after they go to bed. From ice cream bowls mysteriously left behind to the discovery of a karaoke machine and a misplaced Snickerdoodle game, the siblings’ detective work draws readers into a playful, after-dark adventure filled with humor and intrigue.

The author does an excellent job of portraying Millie and Marty’s growing excitement and suspense as they hunt for clues, all while sprinkling the narrative with laugh-out-loud moments. Young readers will undoubtedly relate to the siblings’ vivid imaginations and their determination to uncover the secrets of the night. The writing is engaging and age-appropriate, making it a perfect read-aloud book for parents and children to enjoy together. What sets this story apart is its gentle reminder about the wonder in everyday life and the simple joys that come from being part of a family. The resolution, which cleverly highlights that reality is sometimes more ordinary than the adventurous tales we conjure up, leaves a warm and comforting feeling. It teaches children that even the most mundane moments can be special, especially when shared with loved ones.

Millie & Marty Muldoon Miss Out is a charming and delightful read that strikes a perfect balance between mystery and meaningful lessons. It is a must-have for families and young readers who enjoy a good mix of fun, curiosity, and heart. This book will not only entertain but also inspire children to appreciate the magic that surrounds them every day.

Pages: 32 | ISBN : 978-1068824418

Buy Now From Amazon

Sasha the Lab Retriever

The picture book Sasha the Lab Retriever tells the sweet and simple story of Sasha, a black Labrador, and her fun-filled life with the narrator’s uncles. Sasha is a loyal and energetic dog who spends her days learning commands, helping out on hunting trips, and enjoying the snowy outdoors. The story follows her through her favorite activities, from fetching in the woods to taking long rides in a truck, with plenty of cozy moments of love and play sprinkled throughout.

One thing I loved about this children’s book was how clear and straightforward the writing was. It’s the kind of language that would make any child understand and relate to Sasha’s playful spirit. The way Sasha is described helping her uncles, like retrieving birds during hunting trips, made me smile.

The illustrations are just as warm and inviting as the story itself. They look like photographs that were turned into artwork. They do a great job capturing Sasha’s joy. The picture where Sasha is stretched out after a nap is an adorable highlight. But, I think the book could’ve added more dynamic scenes. Sasha’s adventures, like swimming or riding in the truck, are sweet, but I was left wanting more movement in the images to match the action described. Despite that, there’s something charming about the homey art style that fits the book’s gentle tone.

Another thing that stood out to me was the theme of loyalty and love. The bond between Sasha and her owners is wholesome. Sasha’s eagerness to help, to play, and just to be close to her uncles made me think of the dogs I’ve known and loved.

I’d recommend Sasha the Lab Retriever to young readers, especially dog lovers. It’s a great bedtime read for kids who adore stories about pets and want to see the loyalty and joy a dog can bring to a family. The story has a calming and happy vibe that’s perfect for winding down.

Pages: 34 | ISBN : 978-1778137365

Buy Now From Amazon

Gentle Lessons

Ricardo Demi Author Interview

The Adventures of Lucky Rocky follows a fun-loving and adventurous puppy who loves to spend time with his friends and learn valuable life lessons and problem-solving skills together. What inspired this series?

This series was born out of my desire to create a joyful book that teaches children about friendship, kindness, and helping each other. Rocky the puppy is a friend who, together with his friends, takes little readers on fun and heartfelt adventures. I wanted children to see warmth in these stories and learn valuable lessons while simply enjoying tales of friendship.

What ideas were important for you to share in this book?

I wanted to show that kindness and friendship make life brighter and more interesting. Through Rocky’s simple and relatable adventures, children can see how wonderful it is to support each other and enjoy being together. These stories are filled with gentle lessons that teach children to help, share, and be attentive to others — qualities that are so meaningful to cultivate from a young age.

What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?

I especially enjoyed writing the scene in the first story where Brisket hides under a bucket, accidentally causing a commotion in the yard. It’s a fun and a little chaotic moment, with a lot of laughter and unexpected twists. Brisket’s mishap adds humor to the story and shows children that even when things don’t go right the first time, they can laugh about it, especially with the support of friends.

What will the next book in the series be about, and when will it be published?

The next book will continue Rocky’s adventures with his friends. It will bring new characters and explore more themes of friendship and helping each other. We’re planning for its release soon so that children can enjoy the warm, happy world of Rocky and his friends once again.

Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon

This is a HARDCOVER GIFT EDITION about the adventures of Rocky the Lucky.
The book combines the best stories from this series and is sure to bring joy and happiness to kids and their parents alike.
In this edition:
beautiful illustrations that capture attention
engaging stories that children will want to read to the end
simple sentences printed in large font for easy reading
It is perfect for bedtime reading for children aged 3-5 and for reinforcing independent reading skills in children aged 6-8.
There is nothing more thrilling for a child than fun adventures!
Fun adventures are the motto of the book’s main character, Lucky Rocky, a brave puppy who loves to spend time with friends and learn new things!

Why is Rocky called Lucky?
What helps him stay positive, smart and kind?
What discoveries does Rocky make in each new story?

Find out together with your beloved child by reading this exciting book, which:

• is great for children aged 3 years and older
• contains cute hand drawn illustrations that children love
• is filled with love, support and care for our little ones
• teaches your child the basics of friendship, kindness, mutual assistance and respect in a fun and easy way
• includes funny incidents and clever plotlines that will interest the child so that they will want to go back to them again and again
• consists of short stories, ideal for reading before bedtime – or at any other time
• is a good fit for first-time readers, new parents, and primary school teachers
• is a perfect gift for birthdays, holidays or any other important events
• will take you and your little treasure on a real adventure together

Books are small steps towards a big future!
Take this step! Take this book with you! Give your child the gift of a wonderful story!

Talent Show Troubles

Talent Show Troubles follows the adventures of King Crush Sir Turtletin at Turtle Beach. Readers get a front-row seat as he stresses out about an upcoming talent show. It’s a big journey filled with a bunch of funny attempts at discovering his talent, from instrument disasters to croaking that scares off imaginary frogs. Eventually, it all leads up to an epic dance number that totally saves the day. It’s a cute and playful children’s book that’s easy to dive into, perfect for a lighthearted read.

I found the humor in this book to be charming. There’s this quirky and self-aware vibe that makes it enjoyable for both kids and adults who appreciate a good laugh. The writing is simple but effective. The whole part where he polishes his dancing shoes “until they were shimmering more than the stars in the night sky” had me grinning at how seriously he took his newfound talent. The humor and warmth of the storytelling really won me over.

King Crush Sir Turtletin feels the pressure of expectations. Everyone thinks the king should have all the answers. So when he admits, “I know I’m the king and I’m supposed to always know what to do in every situation, but I have a problem,” it feels relatable. The author cleverly captures the struggle of living up to what people expect of you. Yet, there’s something heartwarming about how he eventually finds his strength in dancing, especially with a little help from his family. His son teaching him to dance made me smile, and I loved how the book emphasized learning new things with the support of loved ones.

This book is divided into short, easy-to-read chapters, making it perfect for young readers just starting with chapter books. Each chapter flows smoothly into the next and is packed with playful humor and engaging adventures that keep kids entertained without overwhelming them. The simple language and fun, relatable story make it a great choice for building confidence in early readers.

Talent Show Troubles is a delightful picture book for kids and anyone who enjoys a good chuckle. I think it’s especially great for families, teachers looking for a fun story to share, or anyone needing a dose of feel-good vibes.

Pages: 40 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DHY53MQV

Buy Now From Amazon

Hope in Any Situation

Preethi Saravanakumar Author Interview

Walking with the Sun follows two best friends who decide to walk to the West in an attempt to escape the scorching Sun, only to find no relief. What was the inspiration for your story?

My humble greetings to all the Readers! Long back, around 2010, I was a member of an online writing community. I had a Basic Portfolio with my poems and writings. We could participate in various contests; this particular contest had a picture prompt. The picture captured a beautiful Sunset; in the foreground were silhouettes of an Elephant on the ground and an Eagle flying. We all know that the Sun rises in the East and sets in the West. This idea of what happens if you travel and move with the Sun was the intriguing question that lingered in my mind. I could only think of a Children’s story. And I wrote Walking with the Sun.

The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Julia Duclos?

Thank you! Yes, @juhd is fantastic. We have collaborated on six books so far. We are working on the next one. I love Julia’s unique, dreamy illustrations and memorable character designs. First, she read the story and made a storyboard; we split the text into a standard 32-page book with 12 full Illustration spreads. Then, we started with the characters Gaja and Garud. I was specific about the characters’ features being expressive. After a few attempts, we locked the character-looks. I was highly impressed! Having your characters come to life after almost 10 years is a great feeling. We celebrated by posting the Character introduction on all our social media platforms. Once the characters were designed, everything else just flowed. Despite any artistic disagreements, we share a beautiful friendship after working together for so long. We have a really strong bond that way. To work together as collaborators, we need the delicate understanding to treat work disagreements separately and not take things personally. After all, both the Author and the Illustrator are walking towards the same destiny and want the book to excel. Keeping the best ideas of both is the key. To more collaborations!

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

“Following Garud’s idea, they walk towards the West to escape the scorching heat. The ignorant friends only learn at the end that they are walking with the Sun. Later, there is a big surprise awaiting Gaja!”

As I wrote the story, I knew I had to talk about sorrow and how to handle discomfort. It is essential to show Children that it is impossible to come out of sad feelings if you sit with them.

You have to walk out and move away to overcome discomfort. And there is hope in any situation. There is definitely a way out.

Three key talking points/messages in the book:

  1. An interesting journey with Gaja, the Elephant, and Garud, the Eagle. Beautifully illustrated
    characters and story events. The illustrations are dreamy, soothing, and intriguing all at the same
    time!
  2. Morals:
    ●Walk away from discomfort to overcome it.
    ●Sorrow is never permanent.
    ●After every sunset, there is a promising sunrise.
  3. A sweet surprise and a celebration at the end!
    Walking with the Sun is a cute jungle friendship story, with an Elephant and an Eagle as
    characters. This book is a winner of 2023 Literary Titan Award and a 2024 Next Generation
    Indie Book Awards Finalist.

What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?

After Walking with the Sun, I have published a poetry chapbook (A Mirage of Golden Glitter). And I recently published a Science Fiction Novella, Lost. Leap. Loop. Both of these are available on Amazon. Also, I recently published an Audiobook version of Walking with the Sun. It is free if you have a Library Card (Overdrive and Libby). It is available on Audible, too. I am currently working on another Children’s Picture Book, The Work of Art on the Wall.

Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Libby | Amazon

Walk, walk, walk
round the clock,
Did they find a hawk?
Or a big rock?
What did Gaja talk?
Who did Garud mock?
Ideas, they unlock!
Squawk… squawk…
Knock… knock…

Following Garud’s idea, they walk towards the west to escape the scorching heat. Did they really walk away from the Sun? Later, a big surprise awaits Gaja!

The Fox’s New Channel

The Fox’s New Channel, by Tuula Pere, captivates readers with a timely and engaging tale that brings real-world issues into a format young readers can grasp. The story follows Francis the Fox, who, burdened by bills and financial woes, hatches a clever business plan. Armed with electronic gadgets and communication gear, he creates a home studio with help from his ever-supportive mother. But Francis has a sharp tongue and an even sharper sense of humor. His commentary becomes merciless, disregarding people’s privacy and the repercussions of spreading gossip. Surprisingly, his project thrives, and he moves to the city to launch The Fox’s New Channel. Fame skyrockets, followers pour in, but his reckless spread of fake news spirals beyond his control, forcing Francis to face the real-world consequences of his actions.

Tuula Pere’s storytelling is wonderfully accessible, wrapping serious themes in a narrative children can easily follow. I admire how she uses Francis’ journey to shine a light on pressing societal issues, from the dangers of misinformation to the complexities of media influence. The book also explores the significance of family support and the wisdom of elders, illustrating how Francis’ disregard for good advice leads to chaos. The pacing keeps readers engaged; each chapter introduces new challenges and goals, driving the story forward with momentum and energy.

Andrea Alemanno’s illustrations enhance the reading experience. They’re bright and inviting, full of expressive and endearing characters brought to life with soft, warm colors. The artwork adds a visual charm that perfectly complements the narrative, making each page pop with personality. While the ending left me wanting a bit more closure, the overall story remained enjoyable, with humor skillfully interwoven throughout to keep things lighthearted and fun.

The Fox’s New Channel is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering children a playful yet meaningful lesson on integrity, media responsibility, and social dynamics. It’s a book that teaches while delighting, and one I’d wholeheartedly recommend for parents and educators seeking a story that sparks important conversations in a kid-friendly way.

Pages: 44 | ISBN : 978-9528200697

Buy Now From Amazon


The Adventures of Zoli and Her Turbo-Charged Broom

The Adventures of Zoli and Her Turbo-Charged Broom, by Jane Clack, is a whimsical tale that follows a spirited witch named Zoli on her latest escapade. Zoli has eagerly awaited the arrival of her turbo-charged broom. When it finally lands on her doorstep, she is too excited to follow any instructions and takes off immediately. Her thrilling ride sends her soaring through space, navigating breathtaking sights like Saturn’s rings and shimmering shooting stars. However, when her broom breaks down on the moon, Zoli faces the consequences of her impulsiveness. It’s a story packed with humor, lively rhymes, and even some educational tidbits about space.

Right from the start, Zoli’s wild adventure hooked me. The writing’s playful tone mirrors the witch’s uncontainable excitement. The rhymes are catchy and fun, making the story flow quickly, like the broom’s thrilling flight. The narrative rockets from one vivid scene to another. But, honestly, what struck me most was how well Clack captured Zoli’s carefree, slightly reckless spirit. The imagery of her shooting past meteor showers with a cry of “WHOOOOP!” paints her as a character full of zest for life. The descriptions are vibrant and exciting. The mix of fantasy and education is clever.

I appreciated how Clack sneaks in fascinating facts about space in the “Did You Know?” section. The book not only entertains but leaves room for children to learn about our solar system. I can imagine curious young readers buzzing to find out more about planets or looking at the night sky differently. The humor, too, adds a delightful touch, like the astronaut-themed jokes at the end. They might make adults chuckle, and children will definitely giggle, though some puns might feel groan-worthy in the best way possible.

The Adventures of Zoli and Her Turbo-Charged Broom is an absolute joy. It’s perfect for young readers who love adventure with a touch of magic and humor, as well as those eager to learn fun facts about space. Jane Clack’s story is a wild ride, reminding us of the importance of patience without being preachy. It’s a book best read aloud, where rhymes can dance off the tongue and illustrations can captivate. For families looking for an engaging, educational, and giggle-worthy read, Zoli’s adventure is one I’d wholeheartedly recommend.

Pages: 52 | ISBN :  978-1739344313

Buy Now From Amazon

Bob and Fluffy’s First Adventure: A Story of Kindness and Friendship

Bob and Fluffy’s First Adventure: A Story of Kindness and Friendship, by Hong Lee, is a delightful children’s book that captures the joy and responsibility of caring for pets. The story follows Bob, a lively and compassionate young boy who discovers a lost, shivering puppy named Fluffy while exploring his neighborhood. Instead of leaving Fluffy in distress, Bob takes him in, feeds him, and gives him warmth and comfort, demonstrating the selflessness and care involved in helping an animal. Determined to reunite Fluffy with his family or find him a permanent home, Bob’s adventure unfolds with a message of kindness and compassion.

Hong Lee crafts this heartwarming tale with simplicity and charm. The writing flows easily, using short, clear sentences that young readers can grasp with ease. This rhythmic, approachable style ensures the story is engaging without overwhelming its audience. Despite the book’s concise nature, it packs an emotional punch, teaching not just the practicalities of pet care but also the love and empathy that come with it. Moments of Fluffy’s journey, from being separated from his mother to adjusting to new surroundings, are poignant and relatable, helping young readers understand that pets have feelings, too. Yet, Lee balances these tender scenes with playful adventures, like Bob and Fluffy’s visits to different homes and their sweet, joyful moments together.

The illustrations in this book truly stand out. They’re simple yet vividly colorful, bringing Bob, Fluffy, and even side characters like neighbors and other animals to life. Each expression and gesture is rendered with great detail, making it easy for children to understand the emotions of the characters. The artwork amplifies the narrative’s impact, making every scene feel lively and full of heart.

I found this book particularly effective at teaching empathy. It offers young readers a gentle but powerful lesson about the responsibilities of caring for animals, while also emphasizing the bonds of friendship and loyalty. Bob and Fluffy’s First Adventure isn’t just an engaging story; it’s an invitation for children to consider the feelings and well-being of the animals around them. It’s a must-read for families looking to instill values of kindness and understanding in their little ones.

Pages: 40 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DFZYRLXG

Buy Now From Amazon