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Blending Music, Art, and Faith
The Prodigal Son: Illustrated Lyrics of Faith is a poignant adaptation that blends Joe Guadagno’s lyrical poetry and scriptural passages with stunning illustrations, retelling the parable of redemption and forgiveness for both young and old readers. Why was this an important book for you and your husband to publish?
Producing Christian children’s books has been a long-standing aspiration of mine, but finding the right entry point into the genre was a challenge. Then, an idea given to me from above came all at once, providing incredible inspiration. I could hardly sleep that night, so eager was I to begin this new project.
My husband, Joe Guadagno, led a Christian band called JGnFriends where I contributed with keyboards and vocals. Over the years, Joe composed many beautiful original songs that conveyed parables and inspirational biblical messages resulting in two CDs of heartfelt music.
In my recent moment of inspiration, it became clear that while Joe’s music is available on major streaming platforms, his reflective lyrics could also be shared in a different way—through a book that families, starting with young children, could enjoy together. This led to the creation of The Prodigal Son: Illustrated Lyrics of Faith, a picture book that combines Joe’s lyrics with stunning watercolor-style illustrations to retell the parable of redemption and forgiveness.
The book offers a unique experience by integrating QR codes that allow readers to listen to the accompanying music while they read. “The Prodigal Son” is one of Joe’s most cherished and popular songs, making it the perfect choice for the first installment of our “Illustrated Lyrics of Faith” series. This project is important to me because it merges my faith and my passion for children’s literature with Joe’s musical legacy, creating a rich, multi-sensory experience that fosters discussion and can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
The positive feedback from our live audiences and listeners on streaming channels plus the beautiful review from Literary Titan Book Reviews have been heartening. In today’s world, where we often face challenges and uncertainties, “The Prodigal Son” serves as a poignant reminder of the power of God’s love and forgiveness, showing that He is always waiting for us, ready to help and welcome us with open arms.
Can you share more about the creative process behind the watercolor-style illustrations and how they complement the narrative?
Creating the illustrations for The Prodigal Son: Illustrated Lyrics of Faith was a collaborative journey. We spent countless hours searching for the perfect style and imagery to complement each part of the song and communicate its message deeply. Each illustration was thoughtfully crafted to enhance the accompanying lyrics and evoke the emotional depth of the story. Our aim was to create a visual experience that truly resonates with readers and enriches their engagement with the music.
How did the collaboration between you and Joe Guadagno influence the final version of the book, especially regarding the integration of his song?
The collaboration between us profoundly shaped the final version of The Prodigal Son: Illustrated Lyrics of Faith. Every element of the book was meticulously crafted to enhance the lyrics and convey the story’s emotional depth. The discovery that QR codes could be included and make the music newly accessible to many was an awe-inspiring moment for us. Additionally, including the actual scripture of the parable at the end of the text provides context and encourages further discussion.
Bringing Joe’s music to life in this new way was deeply moving for us both. Translating his song into book form allowed us to explore and express its message through both text and illustrations. The final images often moved us to tears as they resonated with the lyrics, guiding us to ensure the book was both emotionally impactful and true to the song’s spirit. We hope this unique product brings joy, meaningful discussions, and the message of God to many.
This project has been a significant experience for us and has inspired us to continue this journey together. We look forward to adapting more of Joe’s songs into new books for our series, creating additional opportunities to share our passion for God’s truth and Word with readers.
As this is the first book in a series, can you give us a glimpse into what other biblical stories or themes you plan to explore in future installments?
Absolutely! We have an exciting lineup planned and can’t wait to share it with our readers. Future installments will explore a variety of biblical stories and themes through Joe’s music and beautiful lyrics. Upcoming entries will include the book of Jonah, the story of a woman healed by Jesus, and Jesus calming the storm. We’ll also delve into songs of invitation and inspiration, the wisdom of the Father, and the heartfelt prayers Christian parents have for their children, and more.
Each book will follow the same format, featuring captivating illustrations and providing access to Joe’s words, music, and the related scriptures for your family’s enjoyment. We’re eager to continue this journey and bring more of these timeless Bible truths to others through our series.
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Experience one of the world’s most beloved parables in this beautifully illustrated book, where each page is adorned with stunning artwork that vividly brings Joe Guadagno’s touching song, The Prodigal Son, to life. His lyrics, which form the text of this captivating picture book, are complemented by images that enhance the story’s emotional depth.
Based on the timeless biblical account, this book explores themes of decisions and consequences, repentance, and the profound power of forgiveness. It will resonate with families and readers seeking a message of hope and reconciliation, as well as those who love Scripture.
As the first book in a series, it is an excellent read for families, Sunday school classes, and anyone interested in exploring biblical stories. Future installments will continue to draw from Joe’s many Christian songs, offering additional inspirational picture books for the whole family. The actual verses of the biblical account of the prodigal son are included in the text, and readers can access the song through an included QR code as they read for a truly immersive experience.
Little Joe and The Big Rain
Little Joe enjoys taking naps in his basket on his front porch. One day, his friend Hopper invites him to his house to make fly soup. Being naturally curious and adventurous, Little Joe eagerly agrees. On their way to Hopper’s house, it starts to rain, forcing them to seek shelter from the storm. In their search, they encounter a hungry bear named Roxy. Little Joe helps Roxy, and in return, she provides them with shelter and tea until the storm passes. Afterward, Little Joe rushes home to tell Anna all about his exciting day.
One of the most engaging aspects of Mike Darcy’s Little Joe and the Big Rain is its delightful character development. Little Joe’s curiosity and bravery are infectious, making him a relatable and inspiring protagonist for young readers. Hopper’s enthusiasm and big-heartedness bring a light-hearted energy to the story, while Roxy’s nurturing nature adds a comforting presence. Their interactions are heartwarming and often humorous, illustrating how different personalities can complement each other perfectly. The narrative flows smoothly, with each chapter presenting new adventures and lessons.
The book’s gentle teachings on diversity and friendship are seamlessly integrated into the plot. The characters’ differences are highlighted in a way that celebrates uniqueness rather than division. This thoughtful approach helps young readers appreciate and embrace diversity naturally.
Little Joe and the Big Rain, by Mike Darcy, is a delightful read that offers more than just an adventure; it’s a journey into understanding and embracing diversity. The story’s engaging characters, smooth narrative, and gentle yet profound lessons make it a perfect addition to any child’s bookshelf. It’s particularly well-suited for young readers who are just beginning to navigate the complexities of friendships and differences. This book is sure to encourage children to look beyond the surface and discover the friend in everyone they meet.
Pages: 28 | ISBN : 978-1964544007
A Happy and Uplifting Character
Gigglet, The Happy Little Piglet Goes To The Beach, follows an energetic piglet on an adventure exploring the beach. What inspired your story?
I love everything about the beach and Maui happens to be my favorite island with some of the most magnificent beaches in all the world. When the Maui fires befell this beautiful island and caused such devastation, I felt this book come to life with every fiber of my being. I knew immediately that my sweet little Gigglet would be on my favorite beach in Maui ‘getting her giggle on’ and living her best life. Thus my book’s dedication “To the forever beauty of Maui, my island of inspiration”. Gigglet is such a happy and uplifting character that even on the worst of days, it’s hard not to smile when looking at her, reading about her adventures, or even just having a casual conversation about her being the happiest little piglet in all the land.” Maui will always be beautiful and will always be a symbol of hope, strength, and love.
Gigglet has a wonderful time exploring all the different things at the beach. What is one of your favorite memories of going to the beach, either as a child or as an adult?
I didn’t get to see my first beach until I was 15 years old when my family moved to South TX near South Padre Island. I will never forget that day…The sound of the ocean waves crashing along the shoreline, the warm sand and crushed seashells under my feet, the flocks of seagulls hovering above in search of food, and the sounds of families laughing, splashing, and playing in the water. Everything about that day was magical, exhilarating, and unlike anything I had ever experienced. The beach is the perfect place for me to lose my mind and find my soul.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?
Always write 100% from your heart and follow your gut. Don’t listen to naysayers. Don’t force anything. Writing should always be about ease, flow, and allowing.
Where is Gigglet off to next, and when will that story be available?
I’m so excited to share the third children’s picture book in the Gigglet series! Our giggly little piglet is off to summer camp to have a fun adventure with two of her best pals Dandy and Waddles. They enjoy summer camp to its fullest embracing the fun and activities that wait around every corner! Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes to Summer Camp is available now in hardback and ebook and also has an activity/coloring book that can be purchased as a companion to the book. All three books can be purchased on Amazon.
The Gigglet series can also be accessed via my new website.
Coco’s Courage: Meeting The Dentist
Coco’s Courage: Meeting The Dentist, by Dr. Shon Shree Lewis, is an engaging and educational children’s book that follows Coco on her first day of kindergarten. Eager to make new friends and learn new things, Coco’s excitement is palpable. However, during lunchtime, she finds a bag of fruit candy on the floor and, with no one around, decides to take it and hide it in her pocket. She brings the candy home and hides it in her closet, planning to indulge in the sweet treats whenever she wants. As Saturday arrives, Coco is thrilled about a sleepover at her grandmother’s house. That night, after her grandmother falls asleep, Coco helps herself to more candy from a jar on the table without asking for permission, intending to add it to her secret stash at home. But soon after consuming the hidden candy, Coco starts experiencing pain in one of her teeth. She confesses to her parents, who then make an appointment with a children’s dentist to check for cavities. Aware of her wrongdoing, Coco decides to come clean to her parents about sneaking the candy. During her dentist appointment, Coco learns she does indeed have a cavity. Despite her mistakes, she feels relieved that God has forgiven her and grateful for the strength and courage to face the dentist.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Coco’s journey. She made mistakes by taking the candy from school and her grandmother’s candy jar, but deep down, she knew it was wrong. This story is highly relatable for children and teaches them that actions have consequences. Through Coco’s experience, young readers can understand the importance of honesty and the inevitable consequences of their actions. Parents, grandparents, guardians, and school staff will appreciate the valuable lesson conveyed in this delightful children’s book.
The illustrations, by Viona Betzy and C. Lola, are vibrant and captivating, perfectly complementing the story. The pictures bring the narrative to life, making readers feel as if they are right there with Coco. Each page features beautiful illustrations that enhance the overall reading experience.
Coco’s Courage: Meeting The Dentist is a wonderful story that teaches children the importance of making the right choices to avoid negative consequences. This book serves as an excellent teaching tool, delivering an essential lesson in an engaging and memorable way.
Pages: 28 | ISBN : 978-1667892337
The Prodigal Son: Illustrated Lyrics of Faith
“The Prodigal Son: Illustrated Lyrics of Faith” is a beautiful and evocative adaptation of the biblical parable. The book intertwines lyrical poetry with scriptural passages to retell the timeless story of redemption, forgiveness, and unconditional love. Accompanied by beautiful watercolor illustrations inspired by Joe Guadagno’s song, the narrative follows the younger son who, after squandering his inheritance, finds his way back to his father’s forgiving arms. This retelling not only breathes new life into an ancient story but also offers a fresh perspective that is accessible to both young and old readers.
From the beginning, the poetic cadence of the book captivated me. Guadagno and Victoria Winifred’s collaborative effort shines through in the rhythmic verses that convey the emotional journey of the prodigal son. The imagery of “calloused hands and a hardened heart” paints a vivid picture of the son’s initial state, making his eventual redemption all the more powerful. The authors’ choice to juxtapose modern, lyrical interpretations with direct biblical excerpts adds depth and resonance to the story, making it a moving experience for readers familiar with the parable and newcomers alike.
One of the standout features of this book is its ability to balance modern creativity with reverence for the original scripture. The lyrical sections are engaging and easy to read, making the story accessible to younger audiences without losing the message. The use of recurring motifs, such as the “candle in the window,” symbolizes hope and forgiveness, reinforcing the book’s central themes. Additionally, the integration of Guadagno’s song provides a multimedia dimension that invites readers to listen to the music that inspired the book and enhances the overall experience.
“The Prodigal Son: Illustrated Lyrics of Faith” is a heartfelt and inspiring book that successfully bridges the gap between ancient text and modern interpretation. This is the first book in a series and is an excellent read for families, Sunday school classes, and anyone interested in exploring biblical stories through a contemporary lens. Guadagno and Winifred have crafted a picture book that is both educational and emotionally resonant, making it a valuable addition to any Christian literature collection.
What Is Math Good For, Anyway?
Math is present all the time and everywhere. However, for some children, it can be hard to see its practical use. But once they do, everything becomes easier. Nicole Frankel teaches us just that in What is Math Good For, Anyway? The story follows Bennie, a boy who hates math because he thinks numbers are boring. As his day progresses at school, he unknowingly uses math, and his teacher explains it to him. We see him counting cookies to trade snacks with a friend and using numbers to play games. After school, he continues using math to buy ice cream and engage in other activities, illustrating that different areas of math are all around us.
I loved What is Math Good For, Anyway? because all the examples are at a level children can relate to and use in real life. It covers addition, subtraction, measurement conversions, geometric shapes, and more. The story’s pace is lively because math problems are constantly solved as if they were fun games. Nicole Frankel’s narrative style is clear, educational, and entertaining. All the examples are well-explained with short, concrete sentences.
The illustrations are fun and eye-catching, representing a variety of situations and places. I also liked how Bennie gradually changed his attitude and started seeing math with excitement. I found it to be a wonderful book that reflects a pleasant school, social, and family environment. It’s an excellent tool to help children understand math and encourage them to overcome challenges in their daily lives. Children will not only develop a more positive attitude towards math, but it will also help them improve their problem-solving skills, just as Bennie shows.
What is Math Good For, Anyway? will boost young readers’ confidence, helping them perform better in school and develop critical thinking skills. This book is highly recommended for parents and educators looking to make math more approachable and enjoyable for children.
ASIN: B0CTHP2SSJ
Instill Kindness and Compassion
Rufus Finds His Way Home follows a teacher at an international school in Thailand who discovers a family of dogs and takes care of them. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setup of my story is inspired by my commitment to rescuing dogs and adopting street strays, as there are many dogs in need of a forever home. Rufus, an intelligent, loyal, sweet, and devoted dog despite his rough start, exemplifies this belief. As an elementary school teacher with over 20 years of experience, I aim to instill kindness and compassion in my students, values I believe are crucial in today’s world. The story, Rufus Finds His Way Home, is a fictionalized account based on Rufus’s real-life journey, which began in Rayong, Thailand, in 2013. I’ve tried to make my narrative showcase the power of love and the importance of giving all creatures a chance at a better life.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Ayan Mansoori?
The collaboration with illustrator Ayan Mansoori was a seamless and rewarding experience. Ayan, a talented artist based in India, was chosen for his unique style and portfolio, which perfectly captured the essence of what I envisioned for Rufus in illustrated form. We went through many, many revisions to get the illustrations just right, ensuring that every detail reflected the character’s spirit and the story’s tone. The final artwork exceeded my expectations, and I couldn’t be more delighted with the results. Ayan’s talent and dedication have been invaluable, and I’m thrilled to announce that he will continue as the illustrator for the next book in the series.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
In crafting this children’s book, it was crucial to incorporate educational aspects that emphasize spreading kindness and compassion, fundamental values I strive to instill in young readers. Beyond these core themes, another important aspect was to create a strong emotional connection with Rufus, allowing readers to experience the same affection and bond I felt when I first met him in 2013. By fostering empathy and understanding through Rufus’s journey, the story aims to teach children the importance of caring for others, both human and animal.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, Rufus Finds His Way Home is the first book in a planned series exploring the many adventures of Rufus, our lovable rescue dog. I’m thrilled to announce that the second book, Rufus Finds His Calm, will be released on September 1, 2024. In this heartwarming sequel, Rufus faces new challenges as he moves to a new home. As he navigates the anxiety and fear that come with big changes, Rufus learns to find his calm with the love and support of his family. This story draws a parallel between Rufus’s experiences and the feelings children sometimes face, demonstrating that everyone can discover their inner peace with a little help. Perfect for young readers, Rufus’s journey is a tale of courage, friendship, and finding joy in new beginnings.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Then Mr. Parsons has an even worse surprise: Rufus goes missing. The worried teacher searches the entire school grounds…and even plunges into the pool! But to Mr. Parsons’ dismay, Rufus is nowhere to be found. Where will Mr. Parsons find his beloved dog? Will there be a happy ending for the puppy with the key to Mr. Parsons’ heart?
Rufus Finds His Way Home is a delightful book based on the author’s true-life story. Children will fall for this adorable little puppy, and they’ll be touched by the tale of a teacher’s devotion. Filled with beautiful illustrations, this heartfelt story encourages its audience to care for all creatures. Readers will also discover that, in this diverse world, everyone is deserving of love. A testament to the power of kindness, this memorable book contains an important lesson.
LITERARY TITAN 