Blog Archives
Glee the Christmas Goblin
Glee the Christmas Goblin, by Emily Jones and Fernando Olivo, gives the familiar Christmas Eve rescue story a playful twist. When Santa’s elves hide the presents because they’re tired of watching children receive gifts, Santa turns to Glee and his fellow goblins for help. The goblins initially eye the toys as treasure for themselves, but reading about the children on the Nice List changes their thinking. It’s an easy-to-follow setup with enough mischief to make this children’s book feel lively from the start.
The story’s real appeal is Glee’s change of heart. Generosity becomes something he experiences, and the other goblins make that discovery alongside him. Their delight in building toys, fulfilling wishes, and traveling with Santa gives the message a cheerful sense of momentum. Young readers can see how doing something kind creates its own kind of happiness, while the goblins’ impulsive personalities keep the lesson lighthearted.
The rhyming text is simple and direct, with short passages that should work well when read aloud. Santa’s worried reindeer, the rebellious elves, and the arrival of whole hordes of goblins give the plot an entertaining storybook bustle. The language places the theme front and center, particularly in the closing idea that taking fills pockets while giving fills hearts. That’s a memorable way to sum up the book’s view of generosity.
Rodrigo Magella’s illustrations make this picture book bright, busy, and warmly comic. Saturated reds, greens, and blues create a strong Christmas atmosphere, while the characters’ enormous shining eyes and exaggerated expressions make every emotion immediately clear. Fun background details, including scattered presents, toy-making goblins, cookie jars, and reindeer wearing name collars, reward a closer look. The parchment-style text panels also keep the rhymes readable without separating them from the action, giving the whole book the feel of an animated holiday special.
Grief and Loss
Pablo follows a beloved dog who is separated from his family and embarks on an unexpected journey home, forming an unlikely friendship and discovering the meaning of love, courage, and belonging along the way. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for the setup of Pablo’s story was one that just hit me all at once in a flash! A good friend of mine challenged me to write something, and I had long pondered that conversation – even debating with myself on what I wanted to write. Then the idea for Pablo hit me like a lightning bolt. I literally had the entire story laid out in my head in a flash of creative sorcery. It was remarkable! As I started flushing the idea out further, and being that PABLO is a Mexican dog, I had the idea to write PABLO in English with Spanish words and phrases. So children can learn some Spanish while reading the book. Then, when my mother suddenly passed away, I was grieving and had the idea to incorporate the Five Stages of Grief into the book to help parents and educators openly discuss grief and loss with children. I thought to myself, “If I can help one child deal with what I’m dealing with right now, it will all be worth it”. The response has been amazing. The grief component is really resonating with librarians and parents alike, and I’m very thankful for that.
The story combines comedy, adventure, and moments of grief. How did you balance those very different emotional tones for young readers?
The comedic and adventure components of PABLO can naturally flow while flushing out the story. The grief component was far more challenging. I wanted to subtly weave the Five Stages of grief into the book without forcing the Five Stages down readers’ throats. I wanted to make sure I handled all the stages of grief properly, but subtly, to make sure each stage was easily accessible to children and parents/educators. The lesson plan at the back of the book encourages open discussion about grief and loss with children, and the work Missy did with us on that is invaluable. There are also further lesson plan materials on our website at www.kidstori.com
How did you and illustrator Irvin Walkes work together to develop the visual world of Pablo?
Irvin did a remarkable job with the art on PABLO. It took almost three years to complete, as every page was hand-drawn and painted. Our process was not unlike Disney films of old, with the art. I always wanted to create a 1070’s throwback feel with a modern twist, and Irvin accomplished all that and more! There was Irvin the artist, Jason (Publisher), Rob (designer), and I getting together weekly to review and work on all the art. Some panels magically worked right away, while others took years of revisions. Irvin would board the panel, and we would tweak the art tirelessly to make sure it was perfect before we advanced to color or texture. If we did not like something, even the smallest little detail, Irvin went back to the drawing board, starting the panel from scratch until we all felt it was just right. We have thousands of iterations of the different panels of art in the book.
Do you see more adventures ahead for Pablo and his family?
Well… There may just be an easter egg in PABLO setting up a sequel… See if you can find it. 🙂
OH! – And when you finish reading PABLO, don’t forget to play PABLO: The Video Game! We spent three years working on that as well, and we feel it is a wonderful complement to the book!
PABLO
Pablo, written by Mar Andersons and illustrated by Irvin Walkes, is a lively children’s adventure about a beach-town dog in Mexico whose life suddenly takes an unexpected turn. Pablo is excited about becoming a father, but a trip to a resort leads to him being mistaken for a stray, taken away, and eventually transported all the way to Seattle. From there, the story becomes a cross-country journey as Pablo tries to get back to Arianna and their new puppies. Along the way, he meets Grandma Joan, a lonely widow traveling in an RV, and their separate stories gradually come together in a way that gives the book more emotional weight than its wild opening might suggest.
The story moves quickly and has a playful sense of humor. Pablo is dramatic, expressive, and constantly reacting to whatever bizarre situation he lands in next, whether he’s wearing a pink dress, escaping through a backyard, flying toward a highway, or helping Joan change a flat tire. The rhyming text keeps the pace energetic, and the Spanish words scattered throughout the story give Pablo a distinctive voice while also introducing young readers to simple vocabulary. A Spanish-to-English glossary near the end helps readers understand words such as amor, familia, gracias, and corazón. The humor and action make the book fun to read aloud, while Pablo’s determination to get home gives all that chaos a clear purpose.
The illustrations are fantastic. Walkes uses bold colors, exaggerated expressions, dramatic perspectives, and almost cinematic scenes to make Pablo’s journey feel big. Some pages are bright and cartoonish, such as the resort scenes with the mischievous twins, while others become darker and more atmospheric when Pablo is frightened or lost. The scene with the enormous cat Buttons feels almost like a suspense movie, while later pages showing Pablo and Joan traveling down the coast become warmer and calmer. The final beach scenes are especially striking, with soft sunset colors and the whole family gathered together by the water. The pictures don’t simply repeat what the text says. They add jokes, emotion, movement, and small visual details that give readers more to notice each time through the book.
What gives Pablo its heart is the way the adventure becomes a story about family, grief, companionship, and finding your way home. Pablo spends most of the book trying to return to Arianna, while Joan is quietly trying to cope with losing her husband. Their friendship helps both of them move forward. By the time they reach Mexico, Pablo is reunited with his family, and Joan finds a new sense of connection with them as well. The book even includes a section for adults about talking to children about grief, connecting Joan’s experiences to the stages of grief shown throughout the story. Pablo packs comedy, action, Spanish vocabulary, and some tender moments into one energetic story, making it a colorful read that can entertain kids while also opening the door to conversations about love, loss, responsibility, and belonging.
Pages: 53 | ISBN : 978-1-7381704-0-1
The Story of You
The Story of You is a heartfelt ode to human interconnectedness, identity, and the profound beauty within each of us. Through rhythmic prose and lyrical imagery, the author takes readers on a poetic journey that delves deep into our shared lineage, our cosmic origins, and the unending beauty of individuality. It speaks directly to the reader, offering a perspective that blends wonder, spirituality, and self-reflection. The narrative’s consistent themes of unity, boundlessness, and inner strength are a source of comfort and inspiration.
One thing I deeply appreciated was how the writing invited me to pause and reflect. Phrases like “You are one with All That Is and All That Was and Will Be” felt like gentle reminders of our vastness and significance. The author’s ability to weave simplicity with depth left me in awe. At times, the lines carried the soothing weight of a mantra, making me want to reread them out loud. The way the book connects humanity to the cosmos is nothing short of mesmerizing. Statements such as “We are enormous, we are small, we are a part of All” struck me deeply. I found myself pondering the infinite while simultaneously appreciating the mundane, like the microbes and atoms that make us up.
It’s rare for a book to simultaneously evoke feelings of humility and grandeur. What stayed with me most was the celebration of individuality as a symphony of collective history. “Galaxies, Geographies, and Peoples unique. Made up of countless stories you are.” This imagery resonated powerfully, making me feel both connected to others and wonderfully distinct. The metaphors of rivers and melodies painted vivid pictures, but the rhythm sometimes leaned too heavily into its song-like cadence, which may not work for every reader. For me, though, the book’s musicality was a highlight.
The Story of You is for dreamers and thinkers, for those seeking affirmation of their place in the universe. It’s perfect for anyone yearning to feel both connected to humanity and rooted in their individuality. If you enjoy poetic works that are equal parts meditation and celebration, this book will sing to your soul. I closed it feeling lighter, more expansive, and more in tune with the “Lovely Mystery” of being human.
Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0DMHL91J7
Creating Lasting Memories
In The Christmas Kittens, readers are treated to photos and rhymes that convey the warmth and joy of the Christmas season. What inspired you to write this book?
The inspiration for The Christmas Kittens came from wanting to create a lasting memory for my children, capturing the special time we shared during the pandemic while caring for six adorable kittens. It was such a fun and joyful experience that I wanted to preserve it in a way they could revisit and cherish. The idea of combining the festive magic of Christmas with the playful antics of kittens seemed like the perfect blend for a heartwarming story. A fun fact—one of the white curly kittens stayed with us, and my children named him Inteleon, after the Pokémon character!
I love the idea of using photos to illustrate poetry. Can you tell us a little about the process of getting that “just-right” picture?
It was a combination of patience, creativity, and a bit of luck! My children and I created a Christmas house for the kittens using a cardboard box, complete with a brick backdrop and a cozy fireplace, all using printed materials. We decorated the house with festive touches like a mini Christmas tree, a ceramic Mrs. Claus with her gingerbread cookies, and cotton-ball snow. While my kids played with the kittens, I snapped many shots, trying to capture that perfect moment of joy and playfulness. The photographic illustrations were brought to life using multiple artistic techniques, blending natural moments with creative backdrops for a truly unique visual experience.
What is one thing you hope young readers take away from your book?
I hope young readers take away the idea that the holiday season is about more than just gifts—it’s about joy, curiosity, and spending time with loved ones. Through the kittens’ adventures, I want children to see that simple pleasures like playing with ornaments, discovering new things, and being together are what make the holidays truly special. I also hope the rhymes inspire a love for language and that the book encourages them to explore reading in a fun and interactive way.
Can we expect to see more books from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes, absolutely! I am currently working on a few new projects, including a series of level-one reader books for young children. In addition, I’m excited to be working on a story about a fuzzy caterpillar and the wonder of its life cycle, introducing young readers to the magic of nature. My goal is to continue creating heartwarming, engaging stories for young readers that celebrate the beauty of everyday moments and the joy of animals.
Author Links: GoodReads | Book Review
The Christmas Kittens
Julia Metzler’s The Christmas Kittens is a captivating photo book that effectively embodies the joy and warmth of the holiday season. The book skillfully uses photography to showcase kittens in a series of playful and affectionate scenarios, bringing to life the coziness and companionship that pets offer. Accompanying these delightful images are rhymes that highlight traditional Christmas elements, like decorated trees, gingerbread cookies, and festive lights. The kittens, with their fluffy charm, are shown reveling in these seasonal delights, adding a layer of whimsy and enjoyment.
Metzler’s narrative is simple yet engaging, making it accessible for young readers. The rhymes are uplifting and concise, perfect for children beginning to read. Moreover, the book’s vibrant and festive imagery is likely to hold the attention of its young audience, providing not only a pleasant reading experience but also fostering a sense of positivity. The portrayal of kittens in this book not only reinforces holiday traditions but also subtly educates about pet companionship, reflecting Metzler’s deep affection for animals and her ability to convey this sentiment to her readers.
The Christmas Kittens is a charming and heartwarming book, ideal for parents and children to enjoy together. It not only celebrates the festive season but also subtly educates young minds about the joy and responsibility of caring for pets. Metzler’s passion for animals shines through, making this book a delightful addition to any family’s holiday reading list.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 978-1778137389
Billy Be Kind: The Kind Little Mouse
A kind little mouse scampers around the house cleaning, taking out the trash and mopping the floors, all while young Anthony and Ryan watch T.V. When their mom get’s home she asks the young boys if they did their chores. They lied and said they did, but their deception bothers them and, with a little help from a kind little mouse, the boys confess. The boys learn that lying is not good, and that the truth comes with its own rewards.
Billy Be Kind is an educational children’s book that informs young readers while entertaining them with cute imagery. I enjoyed how focused this story was on the singular lesson, because young children can get lost in the nuance of more detailed stories. Author Kim Adams does a fantastic job of distilling the moral problem down into something young kids can understand, and then explaining why it’s bad in terms that anyone will be able to comprehend. This is all done through rhyme, which adds a lyrical aspect to this wonderful kid’s book.
Every page is magnificently illustrated. There are a lot of little details throughout the house that build a backstory for the family. Billy Be Kind always has bright shiny eyes and a smile which made him feel welcoming and charming. The children are also emotive, making it easy for young readers to pick up on their emotions while parents read the story to them.
Billy Be Kind: The Kind Little Mouse tells a relatable and educational story about the importance of honesty. Children will learn that lying is bad and they’ll also learn to admit to their mistakes and trust that their parents will treat them fairly once they come clean. This is a cute story for kindergarten and preschool aged children and will be a wonderful addition to any teachers lesson plans on honesty and trust.
Pages: 32 | ASIN: B0B6L3Q3WS
