Blog Archives
Nurse Florence®, Why Do I Need to Eat Vitamin B-1 or Thiamine?
In Nurse Florence, Why do I Need to Eat Vitamin B-1 or Thiamine? by Michael Dow, best friends Jean, Sonia, and Condi are once again gathered for a learning lunch with their kind and knowledgeable mentor, Nurse Florence. As they enjoy their meal, Nurse Florence introduces the topic of vitamin B-1, also known as thiamine and its critical role in the body. Through engaging dialogue, the girls learn how this vitamin helps convert food into energy, and they discover its broader impact on overall health.
Michael Dow’s latest picture book is a thoughtfully crafted and informative addition to the “Nurse Florence” series. With its engaging narrative, clear explanations, and inclusive illustrations, it successfully makes the science of vitamins both accessible and enjoyable. Michael Dow’s ability to present complex topics in a way that resonates with young readers while still providing valuable insight for adults solidifies this book as a fantastic educational tool. Whether for classroom use or at home, this volume serves as an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about health, biology, and the importance of nutrition.
This children’s book is a great choice for young readers who want to learn more about vitamins, biology, and health. I highly recommend it for its excellent educational value. This entry in the Nurse Florence series is a great tool for parents, teachers, and anyone who wants to learn more about biology.
Jodi Meltzer Author Interview
What was your inspiration for Your Face Lights up the World?
Writing Your Face Lights up the World was such a liberating process. I let my imagination take me where it wanted to go without parameters, a key differentiator from my previous books.
My first title, When You Lived in My Belly, was written to fulfill my beloved deceased mom’s dream of writing a children’s book and to answer my son’s question: What was it like when I lived in your belly? A delightful month-by-month storytelling of pregnancy from the perspective of both baby and mom, When You Lived in My Belly gives children a glimpse into a past they can’t remember, and takes moms back to a time they will never forget. It features kid-friendly descriptions of the developmental milestones babies reach in utero, coupled with the corresponding physical and emotional changes experienced by moms. This book also includes a page for moms to pen a personal note to their children about their individual pregnancy journey.
I wrote my second title, Goodnight Star, Whoever You Are after my young son’s father and three grandparents died in quick succession. It helps kids cope with grief, loss, and longing in an enchanting way, sparking meaningful conversations about the everlasting power of love. With an imaginative point of view, kids discover that the connection they share with the person or pet who died transcends the space between them. Children can reflect on their unbreakable bond with an “I Remember” page at the end of this beautifully illustrated picture book, providing comfort during trying times.
When I sat down to write Your Face Lights up the World, I didn’t have an angle or an outline. I just started writing. Intrinsically, this is the story I wanted to tell. If I had approached this title with writing fundamentals in mind and boxed myself in with an outline, I don’t know if these characters would have emerged. Harper and Hunter were developed through a journey of creative chaos and self-discovery.
Do you see elements of yourself in Harper or Hunter?
Upon reflection, Your Face Lights up the World is a book I needed to read when I was a young girl. I had conflicting feelings about the spray of freckles that appeared on my face during the summer. One day, I embraced them. The next, I tried to scrub them off. I was all over the place, with pangs of jealousy over a friend’s porcelain skin. Alternatively, I envied another friend’s beautiful face full of freckles. I just didn’t feel that comfortable in my skin, which is something I still struggle with at times, though I have made significant strides at age 51!
Besides my internal push-pull with self-acceptance, I was inspired by my son, as always, and by my neighbors’ children, who are growing up before my very eyes. Harper’s name is in honor of an exquisite little girl with a fantastic spray of freckles who lives a few doors down. The twin concept is inspired by the adorable red-headed identical twins who live next door. Characteristics of both main characters are rooted in a precocious, insatiably curious little girl who devours books in a house to my right. Harper and Hunter are a culmination of all of us. Though generations separate us, coming of age issues are timeless and universal.
Can you share with us a little about the collaboration with Jody King Camarra that led to such fantastic illustrations?
Jody King Camarra, illustrator extraordinaire of all my children’s books, has been my best friend for more than 45 years. We first met in kindergarten, immediately bonding over our shared first and middle names (Jodi Lyn and Jody Lynn, respectively). She was my closest confident throughout my formative years, and we graduated together from Sharon High School in Massachusetts. I served as her matron of honor, she held me up after I lost my mother to ovarian cancer. We have steadfastly supported each other through triumph and tragedy and everything in between…and that will never change.
After my mother’s passing, I approached Jody with the idea and verse for When You Lived in My Belly. She automatically agreed to illustrate it in my mother’s memory. The unexpected success of When You Lived in My Belly spawned Goodnight Star, Whoever You Are and Your Face Lights up the World. I am so grateful for her unparalleled talents and friendship.
Your Face Lights up the World has won a number of awards prepublication, including a Literary Titan Gold Book Award. When will the book be released?
I am honored and humbled by the Literary Titan Gold Book Award and other accolades for Your Face Lights up the World prepublication. Your Face Lights up the World was recently recognized as a #1 New Release on Amazon as well, in large part to the excitement surrounding this title. It will hit bookshelves on October 15 and is available for preorder wherever books are sold online right now. I am looking forward to getting Your Face Lights up the World in the hands of young readers who will benefit from its hopeful message of self-acceptance. I can’t wait to meet many of them at upcoming book tour events.
For more information about Jodi, please visit jodimeltzer.com.
About Your Face Lights up the World
Harper and Hunter are fraternal twins with only one thing in common: they once lived together in their mom’s belly. When their mom tells them they must play outside together after a fight, they decide to build a fort tall enough to keep her out!
While gathering sticks and stones to stack, Hunter finds a super-spotty sparkle stone and has a lightbulb moment. He wonders which one has more spots, the speckled stone or his sister’s freckled face?
Your Face Lights up the World is a powerfully written and distinctively illustrated picture book that explores themes of self-esteem, sibling rivalry, and jealousy with flair, whisking kids off on an unforgettable journey toward self-acceptance. Complete with journal pages to capture renewed feelings of confidence, this inspirational book will help kids see themselves in a new light.
About Jodi Meltzer
Jodi Meltzer is the multi-award-winning author of three children’s books: When You Lived in My Belly; Goodnight Star, Whoever You Are; and Your Face Lights up the World. A former television news anchor/reporter, she has also written extensively about grief, divorce, and parenting for various publications, including HuffPost, The Mighty, Scary Mommy, and Thrive Global. She’s a self-described pizzaholic who adores ’80s music/movie binges with her beloved son and crust-loving rescue dog by her side. To learn more, visit jodimeltzer.com.
Author Links: Facebook | Instagram | X
Nurse Florence®, What is Dementia?
In Nurse Florence, What is Dementia? by Michael Dow, Nurse Florence makes a special visit to Ms. Smith’s class, where best friends Jean, Condi, and Sonia, along with their classmates, learn about dementia in a way that is accessible and engaging. Nurse Florence explains the symptoms, possible treatments, and preventive measures for this complex illness, which affects so many families.
This book offers an excellent introduction to a challenging subject. Dementia, often a frightening topic for many, is handled with care as Nurse Florence guides the children through the nuances of the illness. Her approach is gentle yet informative as she walks the class through the signs of dementia and demystifies the spectrum of conditions that fall under its umbrella. While the illustrations by Lindsay Roberts may not be my preferred style for children’s books, they are detailed and complement Nurse Florence’s biology presentation effectively. What truly sets this book apart is Nurse Florence’s interactive teaching style. She doesn’t simply lecture; she engages the students in meaningful dialogue, encouraging them to think about prevention and care. This approach helps soften the intensity of the topic, making it easier for young readers to process without feeling overwhelmed. Nurse Florence’s emphasis on maintaining the dignity of those affected by dementia and the importance of supporting caregivers adds a thoughtful and compassionate touch to the lesson, bringing the discussion to a well-rounded conclusion. Approaching a subject as difficult as dementia is no easy task, and Michael Dow deserves recognition for this thoughtful and educational introduction. By providing clear facts, practical advice on prevention, and meaningful guidance on how to support those affected, this book answers many tough questions in a way that is accessible for young readers.
For its remarkable educational value and ability to address dementia without inducing unnecessary fear, Nurse Florence, What is Dementia? is ideal for readers aged 8 and up. This book is an excellent resource for anyone wanting to learn more about dementia, its causes, and potential treatments. It serves as a valuable tool for understanding a common yet complex illness in a way that encourages curiosity and compassion.
Pages: 240 | ISBN : 1312012390
Why The Fisherman Fished
Why The Fisherman Fished by D.T. Rossi offers a heartwarming tale that highlights the joy of living in the moment. Set in a small village by the sea, the story follows a curious little boy who spends his days watching the fisherman head out to sea, always wondering what exciting catch the man will bring back. The boy imagines all sorts of fish; big, strange, and colorful. One day, he finally approaches the fisherman to ask what he’s caught. To his surprise, the fisherman reveals that he hasn’t caught anything, yet he enthusiastically shares stories of the incredible things he encountered, like a bird with rainbow feathers or tea with a mermaid. Day after day, the boy asks, and while the fisherman never has a catch, he always has a new adventure to share, sparking the boy’s curiosity even further.
What makes Why The Fisherman Fished truly special is its imaginative narrative, particularly from the fisherman’s point of view. His stories, full of whimsy and wonder, invite readers to appreciate the magic in everyday experiences. The young boy’s determination to understand the fisherman’s mindset shows how different perspectives can shape our understanding of the world. This contrast between the boy’s curiosity and the fisherman’s carefree outlook enriches the story, helping children grasp that life is often more complex than it appears on the surface.
The story’s narration is beautifully composed in short and vivid verses which adds a lyrical quality to the reading experience. The illustrations complement the text wonderfully, portraying the serene beach by day, night, and during stunning sunsets. The fisherman’s happiness is palpable, and the details of his adventures come to life with vibrant visuals that captivate young readers.
Why The Fisherman Fished remains a sweet and original children’s book that is brimming with imagination and thoughtful reflections on happiness. This picture book invites readers to see the beauty in the journey rather than focusing solely on the outcome, making it a delightful read for children and adults alike.
Pages: 33 | ASIN: B0DBDM1KSF
Nurse Florence(R), Why Do I Need to Eat Vitamin B12 or Cobalamin?
Nurse Florence, Why Do I Need to Eat Vitamin B12 or Cobalamin? is an educational children’s book by Michael Dow, aimed at explaining the importance of Vitamin B12 in a simple, accessible way. Through a friendly conversation between three girls and Nurse Florence in their school cafeteria, the book breaks down complex science into digestible pieces. The characters talk about the sources of Vitamin B12, its role in the body, and what happens when we don’t get enough of it. Vivid illustrations and straightforward explanations make this a solid resource for young readers interested in science or health.
What struck me first was how the book introduces such a specific topic—Vitamin B12—yet makes it relatable to kids. The casual conversation with Nurse Florence creates a comfortable learning environment. I appreciated how the author used real-world examples, like eating chicken or fish, to explain how we get B12 from our diet. The breakdown of scientific concepts, like how bacteria create the vitamin, felt thoughtful. One thing that stands out about the writing is how the author isn’t afraid to introduce bigger words and terms, like “cobalamin” or “anemia,” while still explaining them in a way kids can grasp. In the “Pronunciations” section, readers can practice saying these words aloud, which makes it interactive. I can see this being a great tool for parents who want their kids to develop scientific literacy early. The illustrations play a crucial role in the book’s appeal. The detailed drawings help visualize everything from how B12 is made to what happens inside our bodies. It’s one thing to read about nerve function, but seeing it illustrated brings the text to life. At the same time, I think more vibrant colors or varied scenes could make the visuals even more engaging for younger readers.
Nurse Florence, Why Do I Need to Eat Vitamin B12 or Cobalamin? is a thoughtful educational tool for kids, especially those with an interest in science or health. It’s informative, clear, and written with a genuine intent to educate. I’d recommend this book for parents, teachers, or librarians looking to introduce nutrition and science concepts to elementary-aged children in an approachable way.
Pages: 74 | ISBN : 1312012285
Self-Confidence and Resilience
Jaimie’s Magical Words follows a young girl who begins her day with a series of uplifting affirmations, setting a positive tone as she embarks on her daily adventures. What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
In Jaimie’s Magical Words, I wanted to emphasize the power of self-belief, positivity, and the importance of representation. It was important for me to share that words can shape our thoughts, feelings, and actions—especially for young children. I wanted children of all backgrounds, especially girls of color, to see themselves reflected in a story that encourages them to love who they are and to speak kindly to themselves. The affirmations in the book serve as a tool to help build self-confidence and resilience, which are crucial for navigating life’s challenges.
The art in this book is fantastic and brings your story to life. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Katerina Voytes?
Collaborating with Katerina Voytes was a wonderful experience. We were both passionate about ensuring that Jaimie’s world was vibrant, joyful, and reflective of her spirit. Katerina has a gift for capturing emotions and expressions, and that was incredibly important to convey my message in a way that felt authentic and relatable to children. We worked closely on each illustration to make sure it aligned with the vision of the story and would resonate with my younger readers. I am so grateful for Katrina’s attention to detail, talent, and dedication to this project.
Will there be a follow-up book to this story, maybe a book of child-friendly affirmations? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Yes, there will definitely be a follow-up book, but it won’t be focused solely on affirmations. While I don’t want to reveal too much just yet, I can share that the next project will continue to inspire and encourage my young audience—especially girls—that they can do and be anything. The new book will continue to build on the themes of empowerment and positivity that are central to Jaimie’s Magical Words while exploring new and exciting adventures. I’m excited to continue this journey and share more when the time is right! My hope is to create a series where each book becomes a tool that parents, teachers, and caregivers can use to nurture self-confidence, emotional intelligence, and more in children. Stay tuned—there’s more magic on the way!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Say hello to Jaimie, a cheerful little girl who relies on the power of daily affirmations to navigate through all of life’s moments. Jaimie’s affirmations become her guiding light – instilling confidence, kindness, and self-love. Through colorful illustrations and heartwarming storytelling, ‘Jaimie’s Magical Words’ inspires young readers to embrace positivity and the magic that lies within.
Nurse Florence®, What is Type 2 Diabetes?
In Nurse Florence, What is Type 2 Diabetes? by Michael Dow, students Condi, Jean, and Sonia embark on a lunchtime discussion about the future of the planet, sparked by a lesson on climate change. Their conversation takes a curious turn as they ponder whether a disease could affect the human body in the same way climate change impacts the Earth. Their curiosity leads them to Nurse Florence in the cafeteria, where they receive a thorough, yet gentle, explanation of type 2 diabetes, its symptoms, and its effects on the body.
This latest installment in the Nurse Florence series once again delivers valuable health information in a way that is both engaging and accessible. Before reading this book, I, like many others, had heard of diabetes and knew people affected by it, but I struggled to grasp exactly what type 2 diabetes is and how it impacts the body. Through the ever-inquisitive trio of Jean, Condi, and Sonia, I gained a clear understanding of the disease in a manner that was easy to digest. Nurse Florence carefully explains the signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes, shedding light on the factors that can contribute to the progression of the disease over time. She also provides practical advice on managing diabetes, emphasizing the importance of working with healthcare providers to adjust diet, exercise, and medications as needed. Diabetes can indeed be a daunting topic, but Nurse Florence’s approach is reassuring. She highlights the many ways to manage the disease and encourages readers to take proactive steps in protecting their health. The illustrations by Tim Kaney further enhance this message, portraying Nurse Florence with a warm and compassionate demeanor. Her calming presence, combined with the clear, informative content, makes the complex topic of type 2 diabetes approachable and less intimidating.
Designed for readers aged 7 and up, this book is a valuable tool for both parents and educators who want to teach children about type 2 diabetes in a non-threatening way. Whether read independently or together, Nurse Florence, What is Type 2 Diabetes? continues the series’ mission to educate and empower readers, one step at a time. This latest entry is a testament to the series’ enduring quality and importance.
Pages: 154 | ISBN : 1312585994
LITERARY TITAN 