Blog Archives
Literary Titan Gold 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
Nurse Florence®, Tell Me About the Pancreas by Michael Dow
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Literary Titan Silver Book Award October 2024
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.
WanderBros: Adventure to Cancun
Learning about different cultures is a valuable way for children to broaden their understanding of the world, and Wander Bros: Adventure to Cancun, by Nikki T. Carter, offers an engaging tool to support that journey. Jase and Jordan are two adventurous brothers who love exploring new places. One winter day, they’re surprised with plane tickets to Cancun, Mexico. Excitement fills the air as they board the plane. When they arrive they are greeted by the warmth of Cancun’s breeze, the vibrant sounds of mariachi music, and the beauty of crystal-clear beaches. Throughout their adventure, they make new friends, pick up some Spanish phrases, and explore the bustling streets.
This children’s book instantly captivated me because it inspires children’s imaginations while also encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new experiences. This picture book promotes cultural curiosity by introducing readers to a different way of life and customs, which may spark an interest in learning new languages or appreciating other cultures. The fast-paced adventure will keep young readers engaged as Jase and Jordan dive into a variety of activities. The vivid illustrations bring friendly characters and vibrant scenes to life, highlighting themes of family bonding and togetherness. The narrative flows seamlessly and the inclusion of explanations about Mexican culture adds depth to the story.
This book is a fantastic opportunity for building vocabulary, especially with its helpful glossary and fun facts section about Mexico. The story fosters values of tolerance and respect, encouraging children to develop a more open and appreciative mindset toward diverse cultures and customs. Wander Bros: Adventure to Cancun is a delightful children’s book that inspires curiosity and offers a positive way for children to explore the world.
Pages: 27 | ASIN : B0DBGJFP39
Summer Adventures
In Gigglet the Happy Little Piglet Goes to Summer Camp, a cheerful piglet embarks on a heartwarming summer adventure filled with outdoor fun, friendship, and the joys of teamwork. How did you approach balancing the themes of fun, friendship, and teamwork?
It’s in Gigglet’s nature to be all-inclusive. She wants to spread love and joy everywhere she goes to everyone she knows. She finds fun in everything she does and loves to include her friends. Gigglet wouldn’t have it any other way.
The pacing of the book is very reflective and calm. Was that intentional to mirror the idea of slowing down and enjoying nature?
Yes, absolutely! This book is all about savoring the moments no matter how big or small. Gigglet has waited all year long to spend summer camp with her best friends Waddles and Dandy, and she just can’t get enough of all the simple pleasures camp has to offer. At the end of the book when Gigglet is reunited with her mama and papa, she can’t wait to relive her exciting day by covering every single activity in great detail.
What message or feeling do you hope young readers take away from Gigglet’s summer camp experience?
Whether you are a child who has already experienced summer camp, have never been to camp, or have aspirations to go, this book should get young readers excited about meeting new friends and reuniting with old buddies. They should look forward to a variety of fun and engaging activities, times of great joy, happiness, and endless summer adventures.
Are there any personal summer camp memories or experiences that influenced the story?
I’ve always wanted to go to summer camp but never had the opportunity. I wrote this book with the idea of how I imagined summer camp. Writing this story gave me the chance to live vicariously through Gigglet and her friends. It brings me so much joy and happiness to share Gigglet’s camp adventure with others.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes to Summer Camp is a delightful children’s picture book that captures the essence of summer camp adventures. With vibrant illustrations and a charming narrative, this book takes young readers on a journey filled with sunshine, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Join Gigglet, the lovable little piglet, as she and her friends explore the great outdoors, play games, paddle canoes, make friendship gifts, and much more! This heartwarming tale encourages imagination, appreciation for nature, and the simple joys of childhood. Gigglet Goes to Summer Camp is the perfect addition to any little one’s summer reading list, creating cherished memories that will last long after the final page is turned.
Just a Puppy
Heart Trouble for ZZ follows a playful dog who receives a lot of help from his loving family when he has a difficult time remaining calm after being diagnosed with a heart condition. Where did the idea for this story come from?
I love golden retrievers. I have had many of them over the years.
When I got my newest English golden retriever, Zawadi, (his nickname is ZZ), he was a handful. Just kooky!
But that was okay, I loved him regardless.
Then, I took him to the vet for his first check-up.
They told me they thought ZZ had a heart problem!
What…?
A heart scan was done, and I had to wait days for the results.
I was a crazy dog mommy, trying to keep both ZZ and me calm.
One of the worst weeks.
Then, I thought, If this is tough for me, it must be even harder for ZZ. He’s just a puppy! He doesn’t understand what’s happening.
Then…ding, ding, ding! The idea of Heart Trouble for ZZ came to me.
Is there anything from your own childhood experiences included in ZZ’s story?
When I was young, my family had an absolutely nutty dog called “Maxwell Smart.” I included some of his antics in this story.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Zoe Saunders?
Zoe was a dream to work with. Every day, she would send me a page she worked on to get my approval or for me to tell her what to “tweak.” She took any suggestion with a positive attitude and changed anything I asked for. Zoe is quite talented! I was amazed at the variety of expressions she was able to give to ZZ! After six weeks of working with her daily, I had Zoe withdrawal when the book was completed!
Can young readers look forward to more books from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes, I have three more picture books coming out in 2025.
Fried Taters is about a little girl in W.V. who is on a quest to find potatoes so her grandmother can fix her fried taters again.
LillieMae’s Safari Hat (Zoe illustrated this book too!) is about a girl who goes on safari wearing her favorite hat, but when it blows off her head, different baby animals find it and use it for their own devices!
Old Long Snout is about a shy little girl who befriends an invisible pig that helps her overcome her loneliness and timidity.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with ZZ, the lovable golden retriever pup whose resilience and zest for life shine bright in ‘Heart Trouble for ZZ.’ Join ZZ as he navigates the challenges of a heart condition with unwavering determination and the support of his devoted family. This heartwarming tale is more than just a story about overcoming obstacles—it’s a celebration of unconditional love, courage, and the joy that pets bring into our lives.
A must-read for animal lovers, ‘Heart Trouble for ZZ‘ promises to uplift and inspire readers of all ages. Don’t miss out—order your copy today and discover why ZZ’s story is touching hearts everywhere!
Perfectly You
Perfectly You offers a heartfelt exploration of self-acceptance, delivering its message in a way that will resonate with readers of all ages. The story begins with Mama Flamingo lovingly guarding her precious egg through day, night, and storm. Flamingos from far and wide gather, captivated by the promise of a perfect, princess-like flamingo. But when the egg hatches, little Flo emerges, not as beautiful, tall, or clever as everyone had anticipated. Despite her efforts to fit in, attending Flamingo School and trying to meet expectations, Flo feels isolated and unsure of herself. It is only when her father steps in, reminding her of her uniqueness, that Flo begins to discover her own special talents.
Author Leigh Doest skillfully weaves a touching narrative that encourages children to embrace their individuality and practice kindness toward themselves and others. The rhythmic verses paired with a well-structured plot keep readers engaged as Flo navigates various settings, like her home, school, and interactions with other flamingos. Each experience guides her toward self-discovery.
Flo’s journey unfolds gradually, making her emotions relatable and her growth easy to empathize with. Despite the depth of the story, Doest conveys it through clear, concise sentences that I think are perfect for young readers. The illustrations are lively and vibrant and add to the charm of the book. The playful designs and the expressiveness of the flamingos bring the story to life and create a visual experience that enhances the narrative.
The real focus is on Flo’s journey of self-growth and discovery, and the story beautifully conveys the importance of recognizing one’s unique abilities. Flo’s talents shine, demonstrating that self-acceptance leads to confidence and the ability to value both ourselves and others.
Inspiring and beautifully presented, Perfectly You is a fantastic picture book for teaching children to recognize and celebrate their strengths, fostering a positive self-image as they grow. This children’s book is a delightful read with an enduring message.
Pages: 31 | ASIN: B0DCGGTDNM
Sally Mitts And The Land Of Imagination
Sally Mitts and the Land of Imagination is a children’s book where whimsy and adventure collide in a delightful celebration of creativity. The story begins with Sally, a curious cat, who is resting when she hears footsteps. Expecting Fred, her owner, to return from work, she instead finds a pair of shoes walking on their own. Intrigued, Sally follows them to a mysterious red door with “Imagination” inscribed above it. With a brave heart, she steps inside and enters a fantastical world where both the sun and moon share the sky. There, she meets Clair, a rabbit singing opera, who explains that they are in a place where anything is possible. Sally seizes the opportunity, painting the sky in different colors and exploring limitless possibilities. However, the peace is disrupted when Grumpy Grey, a hungry fog, arrives and smothers the magic, preventing them from enjoying the wonders of the land. Sally and Clair join forces, determined to restore the enchantment and bring back the joy of imagination.
Shain Stodt crafts an original tale that highlights the boundless power of imagination. The world she creates is filled with endless possibilities, encouraging young readers to embrace their dreams and creativity. The story’s sense of adventure captivates readers with unique and surprising moments like Sally and Clair soaring through the skies in an airplane.
The narration is both playful and engaging and is laced with humor and rhythm, making it a perfect read for children honing their reading skills. The illustrations stand out not only for their beauty but because they are hand-drawn, which I think adds a special personal touch. Each illustration reflects the care and creativity behind the story, making the visual experience as heartwarming as the narrative itself. The cast of animal characters living harmoniously in this magical world fosters empathy and a sense of connection with nature, which children will appreciate.
Sally Mitts and the Land of Imagination is a joyful and adventurous children’s book that reinforces themes of love, friendship, and self-acceptance. With its positive messages, imaginative storytelling, and heartfelt illustrations, this picture book is sure to inspire young minds and nurture their creativity.
I’m THAT Cat
August E. Allen’s I’m THAT Cat is a charming collection of whimsical cat tales brought to life through enchanting rhyming poetry. This beautifully illustrated children’s book combines Allen’s artistic brilliance with a storytelling style that captivates young readers and their families. The poems introduce a delightful array of feline characters, each embarking on lighthearted adventures. Whether celebrating birthdays, dodging raindrops, or tackling the ever-dreaded bath, readers are whisked away on a fun and relatable journey.
Allen’s rhyming narration gives the book a lively and musical rhythm that makes it easy to follow and a joy to read aloud to younger audiences. The text has a whimsical flow that elevates the playful tone, ensuring every turn of the page is met with enthusiasm. What truly stands out to me is how Allen’s playful language captures the joy in everyday moments. From the simple pleasures of a cat’s life to the more special celebratory occasions.
The illustrations are vibrant and full of life and perfectly match the spirited verses. They enhance the storytelling and will hold the attention of young readers. These full-page artworks offer visual appeal, and they convey the emotions and personalities of the cats, sometimes without needing words at all. The mischievous expressions during bath time, for example, are particularly amusing and will undoubtedly make children laugh. The book’s ability to appeal to both children and adults is a testament to its versatility and charm. Allen’s mix of engaging poetry and delightful illustrations creates an experience that can be enjoyed time and time again.
The book offers a fresh dose of joy with every reading. Whether you’re a cat lover or simply appreciate a well-crafted children’s book, I’m THAT Cat is sure to win your heart and leave you smiling.
Pages: 26 | ASIN : B0DBL2G4MY
LITERARY TITAN 