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Do You See Me Playing Sports?
Ever wondered how a young kid perceives their first sports experience? Do You See Me Playing Sports? is a delightful children’s book that takes you right into the heart of that journey. It’s a charming tale of a young child, affectionately part of the Chipmunks sports group, navigating the big, noisy, and often intimidating world of sports.
Author Tuula Pere’s use of simple language and relatable situations makes it easy for young readers to connect with the protagonist’s feelings of excitement, fear, and eventual joy. The narrative flows smoothly, capturing the child’s emotions brilliantly as they face various challenges. One moment that stood out was when the child felt overwhelmed by the huge stadium and the idea of competing on such a large field. It’s so relatable for anyone who’s ever felt out of their depth in a new environment.
The illustrations by Majigsuren Enkhbat are vibrant and playful, perfectly complementing the story. Each page is a visual treat that keeps things fun and light. I particularly loved the sequence where the Chipmunks are encouraged to jump over a stretchy band instead of a high bar. It’s a great example of how the book encourages adapting sports to fit the needs of younger kids, making the experience less daunting and more enjoyable.
What I appreciate most about this picture book is its gentle approach to introducing sports. It acknowledges that sports can be scary and overwhelming for young children but also offers solutions to make them more accessible and fun. The idea of starting races with a clap instead of a pistol or playing barefoot soccer are fantastic ways to ease children into sports without the pressure of competition and noise. This book has the ability to make children feel less intimidated by sports, instilling a sense of reassurance and comfort in parents.
Do You See Me Playing Sports? is a heartwarming read that would be a fantastic addition to any child’s library. I think it’s perfect for parents who want to introduce their kids to sports in a gentle, fun, and supportive way. Highly recommended for ages 3 to 7, and a must-read for any parent looking to make their child’s first sports experience a positive one.
Pages: 32 | ISBN : 9528200370
Hope, Faith, and the Power of Love
Stella and the Magic Stone follows a young girl visiting her grandfather who wants to find a magic stone to help him heal after an accident. What was the inspiration for your story?
Stella and the Magic Stone is primarily inspired by my childhood. Stella’s world is familiar to me in many ways. When you have had the opportunity to live in a scenic village in the Finnish lake district, it touches you for the rest of your life.
In the Stella books, I wanted to describe the safe experience that Finnish children have traditionally been able to experience in their environment. The possibility to move around alone and make your own decisions is perhaps more comprehensive than in many other countries or cultures. I understand that not all of Stella’s activities are suitable elsewhere, so she is not meant as a role model. I just tell readers about Stella’s life and environment as it might be inspirational.
Various experiences related to nature have always been important to me and have also inspired this book. There is summer with thunder, berry-picking, and playing in the middle of the forest – everyday activities for most Finnish children.
Another inspiration for this book comes from the relationships between children and grandparents. I think they can play a significant role in each other’s lives. That’s why I wanted to focus on an extraordinary period of the accident and its effects on the girl and her grandfather.
Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your story?
Stella and the Magic Stone is an important book for me, with many personal experiences behind the story.
As mentioned earlier, Stella’s activities and the surroundings of the events have a solid connection to my own childhood.
I must also admit that the book’s main character carries two versions of myself with her. The first one is the independent little girl riding the little red bike in the home village and the roads around it, and the other one is the adult worried about her seriously ill father.
I was surprised by the power with which the story, my childhood memories, and my worries as an adult intertwined in this fairy tale. In writing the story, I went back to my childhood activities with my father – even though he turned into the main character’s grandfather in the fairy tale.
The situation related to the creation of this book, where I finished the manuscript and put the last point at the end of the text, was a special moment in another sense as well. At that particular second, in real life, I received a call from a doctor from the hospital where my father had just survived a major operation and was transferred to the recovery room.
Is there any moral or idea that you hope readers take away from the story?
A child’s relationship with nature and trust in its power is a central theme in this book, although the main theme is the deep connection between the girl and her grandfather.
When my book came out, some adults pointed out that miracles seem to play a significant role in the story. I think that’s precisely what fairy tales are often about – miracles that lift our experiences above everyday life and encourage us to trust ourselves even when we face difficulties.
For me, the miracles of the fairy tale represent hope and faith in the extraordinary power of love. I like to bring in nature experiences because, at least for me, nature has often offered help in many ways in difficulties. It can sometimes provide a refuge or a friend and support. The magical details nature offers – like the magic stone the girl found in this book – can become a symbol of life forces and give us faith in survival.
However, the most important message of this book is that affection and love between two people – the girl and her grandfather – are patient. From that, the girl in the story gets the strength to visit her unconscious grandfather’s hospital bed again and again.
Even in a fairy tale, I don’t want to claim that the stone healed the grandfather. But I want to show how important it was that Grandpa could feel and sense the girl’s visits on some level. It certainly helped him to regain consciousness and recover.
Where does the next book in the Stella stories go, and what adventures will she have?
I have already written two other books about Stella – Stella and the Berry Bay and Stella and Her Spiky Friend. And more stories about this active girl’s adventures are ready in my head!
In the second one, Stella and the Berry Bay, her life takes a surprising turn when the family moves to another town. Moving away from their old home takes place in a difficult moment because Stella has imagined going to a familiar school with her friends. Now everything has changed: a new home, a new school, and new friends. But together, we can get through this, too!
In the third book, Stella and Her Spiky Friend, the girl meets interesting people in a new environment. In addition to her hedgehog friend, she gets to know the strange pharmacist whom the other children are afraid of.
My Stella books continue along the same line of encouraging children. In these stories, children have much freedom to act independently in a safe environment. I also describe cooperation between different people and people of different ages.
In real life, I learned a lot about this kind of interaction in my childhood. Seeing how different people could cooperate and work together was useful for my upbringing. The community also included those whose actions could not be accepted or who harmed others. Mostly, though, problems were solved together. Small towns and country villages are good teachers!
Author Links: Facebook | Website
No one is quite sure how to help Grandpa until Stella gets a wonderful idea. She will go back to the quarry and locate a magic stone!
Challenging Situations are Valuable Lessons
Do You See Me when We Travel follows a small child who is unsure about new experiences as their family travels to a new city, the parents help the child see new things are not bad. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
I think family vacations have always been the best! Many surprisingly small things can influence their success. I have tested my methods in our close circle for decades – and dare to recommend them to others. They guarantee everyone good experiences and happy memories of shared moments.
In my time, I had three children in the same car, plane, ship cabin, hotel, or foreign city. Our family traveled every year to many destinations together. We learned to reconcile different wishes and take care of the needs of travelers of different ages.
I already have two grandchildren, with whom we have also been abroad – my dream is to introduce them to interesting places in the same way I did to their parents when they were children.
What was the most interesting place you ever visited?
This is a difficult question because there have been many unique travel destinations. Our best travel experiences with the family often involve historically significant places or cities. My favorite cities are probably Istanbul, Rome, and the old inland towns of Spain – especially Toledo, Seville, and Granada. The great mountain areas in the Alps and the northern parts of Spain will also remain in my mind forever.
Perhaps my most cherished memory is connected to Toledo and its magnificent Catedral Primada Santa María. My older children could already read, and they had noticed the big streetside ad about the extensive church art exhibition in that incredible building. To my surprise, they suggested that we go there. “You would like to, though, wouldn’t you, Mom?”
Our visit to the Toledo Cathedral lasted hours because the extensive exhibition covered probably twenty different rooms. Even our youngest, just a toddler, was excited about various artwork and didn’t rush away. I remember how my children found a statue that they wanted me to see among the objects. In that special work of art, Baby Jesus tickled Mother Mary under the chin and made her laugh! The message was clear to me, too. A parent and a child need to be close and have fun together – even on trips!
I also want to praise historic hotels – like Paradors all over Spain – which are often incredible buildings full of stories that I have been able to tell my children. That way, traveling gets a deeper dimension. Of course, everything we have done and discussed has been adjusted to suit the children’s age.
What book changed your life or greatly influenced you?
As a child and teenager, I read a lot. The interest changed from children’s to non-fiction books and novels for adults early on. As a memorable book experience, I have cherished Mika Waltari’s ”Sinuhe”, whose narrative and historical background made a great impression on me. Later, I read more of Waltari’s historical novels, but my first experience with ”Sinuhe” remained invincible.
It is important to me that the background of the book is authentic and that the author has both knowledge and the ability to tell the story impressively by using quality language. I am a fan of reflective books. I want to get deep into the thinking of the main characters and try to understand their choices in life.
Waltari’s epic novels are full of incredible events and fantastic adventures, but I think the main thing in them is the main character’s inner life.
Different twists and turns are interesting in children’s books, but I like to write books with small and ordinary events, too. They are just a frame for the personal development and thinking of the main characters.
Will there be more “Do You See Me” books?
My “Do You See Me Series” already has three books. The other two are “Do you see me at home?” and “Do you see me in nature?”
I have already written also the fourth manuscript, where we are in the world of sports activities. Adults and children may look at it from very different perspectives. There will be challenging stunts, noise, rush, and pressure to perform – sometimes even unpleasant surprises.
The “Do You See Me?” Series is quite exceptional among the children’s books I have written. I wanted to make a series where the point of view of a small child would be the absolute focus. I have written these books in a new way, all based on a pure conversation between an adult and a child. The lines have different colors depending on the speaker.
The topics of the “Do You See Me?” books are very familiar to most families with children. Challenging situations where help and understanding are needed can be found both at home and in the nearby environment – or further away as we travel. The adult must have time to listen and consider the concerns and wishes of a small child. It often helps if adults try to remember their own experiences as children. After all, we all carry our childhood experiences still with us.
I have received excellent feedback on the parental and educational aspects of these ”Do You See Me?” books. Many adults have said that the conversations are very realistic, and they recognize the situations of the stories in their family life. Readers have also liked my Mongolian illustrator Majigsuren Enkhbat’s vision, where a small child is often surrounded by new or overwhelming things – and the little ones are often literally presented surrounded by the feet of adults.
I want to give all my experience of everyday family life, travels, and celebrations with children to the use of others. I believe there is a great need for books like these as they can help everybody. The families will develop mutual understanding by reading the books together.
Everyone benefits if challenging situations are resolved in a good spirit. Being and doing things together is valuable!
Author Links: Facebook | Website
When your family takes a trip, it may feel too long; the food may taste strange; and the unfamiliar people may seem scary. A quick visit to the playground, a little taste of food served in a fun way, or a word game on a road trip may be just the thing you need. Luckily, when staying the night in a strange place, you can move your rollaway bed closer to your parents.
Have a wonderful trip, everyone!
People Of Every Age Have Value
Circus Dogs Roscoe and Rolly follow two circus dogs, one old and wise the other young and full of energy, who must work together when a crisis happens to save the show. What was the inspiration for your story?
It might sound strange if I admit that my main inspiration for this story comes from the working life of adults. Most recognize workplace situations where people of different ages and in various professional situations struggle with their particular challenges.
In offices, shops, factories, educational institutions, and hospitals – in all kinds of communities – there are people with various capabilities, ambitions, and possibilities. It would be best if these differences were recognized, and the individuals would receive the support and opportunities they need. This would benefit both the people themselves and the entire working community.
Although crossing one’s limits gives self-confidence at best, it may lead to too much strain and pressure. A young person may worry that he is not yet mature for a demanding task, and an older person may fear that he cannot take it anymore. Continuous learning is a far more significant challenge today than in working life years ago.
Roscoe and Rolly highlight the difference between older vs younger generations yet show how they complement each other as well. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
The purpose of my book is to show that a community needs a variety of members. Everyone can find a place that suits them when the right kind of support is available.
I consider it necessary that different people are respected and valued in workplaces. The work environment is not a battle arena but an opportunity for cooperation. The work results are in a completely different category if people do not always have to worry about their position.
The difference between the main characters in this story is mainly related to their ages. One circus dog starts his career, and his fellow is ending it. The friendship between them helps both in demanding situations.
The young circus dog aims to grow to his full extent as a new talent and professional. And the old dog’s depression is heart breaking. It’s not nice to discover that you can no longer do the same things you earlier used to. In that situation, the support of a friend is necessary.
Of course, the story’s suspense element – the child’s disappearance – plays an important role in the book. In a tight situation, the special skills of an old dog are crucial. With this, I also wanted to highlight the theme of caring for children and loving them, which is the old dog Roscoe’s special talent and trait.
In my own life, I have enjoyed the wise support of people more experienced than me. Even a tiny recognition or a friendly word of encouragement can be an essential support. They are like precious pearls that can be gathered into a string during working life. If you have a moment of disbelief, you can take such a pearl in your fingers, spin it a little and feel better…
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Above I described some of the most important themes in my story, Circus Dogs Roscoe and Rolly – such as noticing different talents in the workplace, finding suitable tasks, and providing the necessary support. I want to highlight one more theme.
Not all things can be measured in money. In working life, it has often become an ideal to emphasize the efficiency of everything – especially cost efficiency. This kind of thinking seems to be going through the head of the circus director in my book as well. When only the cash register is rattling in the brain, many other valuable things remain unnoticed.
A small memory of real life could be in place to describe this matter. A town I know had several grocery stores. One of the shops belonged to a merchant family, whose owner-lady sat at the cash register and chatted with everyone while taking care of the business. That store was always crowded.
The shop was always packed with customers, and the checkout line was long. But nobody complained. It was precisely because of those relaxed moments of conversation that everyone wanted to do their shopping in that store. – For your information, the shop was also financially successful as long as the old lady continued working there.
Will there be more adventures for Roscoe and Rolly? If so what can you tell us about it and when will it be available?
This book will probably be the only story about circus dogs Roscoe and Rolly. I think I’ll leave the circus dogs’ next steps up to the reader’s imagination. Although on the other hand, never say never… I might still want to write about Roscoe’s retirement days or Rolly’s brilliant career in the circus limelight – maybe even the dog family’s little puppies. Having said that, I feel now slightly excited, though!
The circus theme is delicious, and I have already used it in two of my children’s novels Mr. Cannelloni’s Circus and Circus Cannelloni Invades Britain. I plan to write more adventures in that series.
The colorful life of the circus offers the writer many opportunities to let her imagination run wild. This rich environment includes a lot of cooperation between people and animals, and possibilities for exciting events, too. With the help of fiction, the whole group can be sent on a fantastic adventure in unusual places.
I know readers will be happy to be a part of these journeys with the circus crew and their animal friends!
Author Links: Facebook | Website
When a crisis interrupts the Christmas performance, it’s up to old Roscoe to save the day! His golden heart and incredibly sensitive nose come in handy. As Roscoe himself says, “I may forget everything else, but I will never forget the smell of a child.”
Susie & Johnny Grilled Cheese Take An Out of this World Adventure
Susie and Johnny are headed off on another exciting adventure, this time into space! They get their own unique space suites and a super fast rocket. This allows them to travel to a space restaurant on Mars, then head out to explore the planet before zipping off to Pluto. Together they learn fascinating facts about the planets they visit, make unforgettable memories together, and make new friends.
Susie & Johnny Grilled Cheese Take An Out of this World Adventure is a fun-filled adventure story for young readers in preschool through early elementary grade levels. Author Erin Jones truly captures the magic and wonder children feel and appeal to their interests, especially with food. I laughed as Susie and Johnny talked about their food and could easily imagine young children having this conversation and relating to the characters.
While mixing fiction and facts, children will learn about the planets of Mars and Pluto in this picture book. The artwork by Baginda Adriansyah brings the story to life. The full-color pages and adorable aliens make this book a pleasure to read. Children will learn not just about the planets but about the importance of imagination and creative thinking. Did Susie and Johnny dream the adventure, or did they really travel into space together?
Susie & Johnny Grilled Cheese Take An Out of this World Adventure is a magical picture book that takes young readers on an adventure in space and teaches them fun facts about Mars and Pluto. This book is part of a thrilling series that shows children the value of imagination and exploration, encouraging their curiosity about the world around them. I can not wait for the next installment in the Susie and Johnny Grilled Cheese adventure series.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0BW6MJ24N
A Butterfly’s Song
A small little butterfly emerges from her cocoon, amazed by the world around her. Her joy and wonder are soon diminished as a bright-colored, and outgoing butterfly group flutters by but ignores her when she tries to make friends. Pupa is not brightly colored or large like the other butterflies and blends into the land around her. She feels as if there is nothing special about her and grows sadder at the moment. When she tries to sing like a nightingale, she is unable to and curls up crying. When a kind and friendly, gentle breeze spots Pupa, he stops to show her that she has beautiful music inside her and teaches her that she is special.
A Butterfly’s Song by Tuula Pere is a magical story for children that teaches them that how a person is on the inside is more important than what they look like or what special skills they have, like singing. They will learn that real beauty comes from inside and that everyone is unique and has something to contribute, even if it seems small. This wonderful message about positive self-esteem and not trying to be something that you are not are important lessons for young children to grasp early on. The sooner they learn that they are perfect just the way they are, the sooner they will discover their hidden talents and abilities.
The illustrations by Roksolana Panchyshyn in this picture book are whimsical and engaging. Children will be able to see the emotions Pupa is feeling as they read through this story. Each full-colored page will draw in children and keep them engaged in the tale.
I recommend A Butterfly’s Song by Tuula Pere for all preschool and kindergarten classrooms and for families. This beautifully written story will inspire children to love themselves and appreciate who they are.
Pages: 38 | ISBN : 9523578421
Room in the Nest
Room in the Nest by Holly Marlow is a beautifully written story about foster care for preschoolers and young elementary-age children. First, Mr. and Mrs. Swan build a giant, comfortable nest with enough room for themselves and anyone needing a safe place to stay. Then, one day, Caring Goose comes by and asks them if they have room to take in Baby Pigeon for a few days while her mom makes her house safe. They, of course, agree to help out. This is the start of the Swan’s ongoing mission to help other little birds that, for one reason or another, need a safe and loving place to stay, no matter if it was a few days or a few years.
Holly Marlow has written a children’s book that explains in child-friendly terms what foster care is and some of the many reasons why children may end up in foster care. This magnificent story shows sensitivity to the topic and complicated feelings surrounding foster care. She explains how the Caring Goose always tries to help the parents out first and give them guidance and that she is not trying to rip families apart but instead shows compassion and works to try and keep families together. Still, sometimes that is not always best for the children.
Room in the Nest is a heartwarming picture book that teaches children about foster care, foster placements, long-term fostering, kinship care, reunification, adoption, and a broad look at family court. This is a beautiful story to share with children that have to go through this process to help ease their fears and for other children to understand what happens if someone they know goes into foster care. This honest and beautiful look at the system is a much-needed resource for families, teachers, social workers, and anyone working with troubled families.
Pages: 25 | ASIN : B0BBBRWLMS
LITERARY TITAN 