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Hidden Emotions
Oceans of Thoughts: An Inspirational Walk through the Inner Self, Life and History is a soul-stirring collection of poems and reflections that journey through loss, memory, identity, and spiritual awakening. What inspired you to write this particular collection of poems?
My work in poetry is written to resonate with those who read and those who hear about Oceans of Thoughts. My writing style in poetry is thought-provoking and is focused on my life experiences, to influence you to look within your inner self and experience some self-healing and inner peace.
In Oceans of Thoughts Book One, I wrote a beautiful poetry series about my experiences with the loss of my sister Yvonne and the emotions that loss had on my life. I dedicated Book One to Yvonne.
I also wrote in another section, about the dysfunctional effects of other family relationships and family discord. There are many differences and prejudices hanging over families. Oceans of Thoughts is written to touch lives, speak about social issues and current affairs, and to draw you to the effects those psychological trends have on mankind. Also, I expressed the grace of the selfless service in everyone to be able to give in unexpected circumstances. The desirable respect for seniors in ‘I AM SENIOR’ is another very impactful piece in Book One. There are also the lighthearted joys in poetry and Caribbean History that I share and are certain to enlighten the experience with Oceans of Thoughts.
I am inspired and guided by the limitless inspiration that directs my work in poetry. Oceans of Thoughts is inspired wholesomely by my life experiences and is directed to change lives and to touch the hidden emotions of its readers.
How did you decide on the themes that run throughout your poetry book?
Oceans of Thoughts is an inspirational poetry book series. I believe that the effects and emotions of the passing of my sister Yvonne propelled the direction and selection of the poems for Book One.
Did you write these poems with a specific audience in mind, or was it a more personal endeavor?
Oceans of Thoughts is written to influence a target audience in the age range of teens, young adults, adults, and seniors. The targeted audience can most certainly benefit from my work in this book series.
How has this poetry book changed you as a writer, or what did you learn about yourself through writing it?
Oceans of Thoughts Book One is the beginning of my published inspirational poetry book series and my life as a published author. Book One embarked on a journey of self-healing and motivation that influences people to look within the self. It is the beginning of many accomplishments achieved as an author globally.
One of the most important things that I learned about myself as the author of Oceans of Thoughts is that I must stay focused on the limitless inspirational gifts and talents to direct my path in poetry.
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Oceans of Thoughts Book One
Rosalind Severin McClean’s Oceans of Thoughts: Book One is a soul-stirring collection of poems and reflections that journeys through loss, memory, identity, and spiritual awakening. Woven with rich cultural threads from the author’s Dominican roots and anchored in emotional honesty, the book moves through grief and resilience—most notably in the heartfelt tributes to her late sister Yvonne—and offers powerful insights into family, society, and selfhood. Each piece pulses with raw feeling, blending biblical, spiritual, and philosophical touchstones with vivid, everyday language. There are sections dedicated to homeland pride, family struggles, and poignant memories of Convent School days in Dominica, all wrapped in poetic sincerity.
Reading McClean’s work felt like stepping into someone’s journal. Her voice is unfiltered, brimming with emotion, sometimes aching, sometimes rejoicing. She doesn’t just describe her pain; she hands it to you, palms open. Her poems about Yvonne—especially the “Floods of Emotions” series—hit hard. They’re full of yearning and beauty and that special kind of ache that comes from love not lost, but changed. And the spiritual reflections? They’re raw, unguarded. She praises, questions, and obeys the divine call, all in the same breath. There’s something brave in how she lets her faith carry the reader through the peaks and valleys of her experience.
But the book isn’t just about grief or even poetry—it’s about memory and voice. The school recollections are rich and playful, filled with sensory delight and childhood charm. Her style doesn’t chase polish. It doesn’t try to be highbrow. It’s emotional and lyrical, but not pretentious. Some lines are jagged, others smooth. And that’s the beauty—it breathes. Her use of dialect in parts adds authenticity and flavor, keeping the text rooted in the real while reaching for the divine.
This is not a light read, nor is it something you breeze through. It’s reflective, spiritual, and often mournful—but healing too. I’d recommend Oceans of Thoughts: Book One to anyone grieving a loved one, anyone who feels the push and pull of family ties, and anyone curious about the sacred in everyday life. It’s especially meaningful for those with Caribbean roots or a love for memory-laced storytelling. You’ll find yourself pausing, rereading, and maybe even crying. It’s not just a book. It’s a heart cracked open.
Pages: 165 | ASIN : B08NSCFR8W
Inspiring Children
Oceans of Thoughts Book Four: The Little Pianist follows several children who get together for a playdate, which becomes an adventure in learning and fun. What was the inspiration for your story?
I have been a pianist from childhood and have lived in a music family environment. I have seen different cultures embrace music in their own way, and how they relate to their baby’s attraction to the piano or any other musical instrument. Some mothers encourage the attraction of their children from a very young age, and others hesitate and pull them away from the piano keys, disturbing their flow of their frequency in music within their being. Oceans of Thoughts is an inspirational poetry book series and Book Four falls nowhere short of that inspiration. The Little Pianist is written with a burst of passion and meant to inspire the children, expand their creativity, excite their curiosity, and their science and observation skills.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I wanted to include much of music learning and interest the children in music theory and math skills. My goal was to educate the children along those lines and to show them that interactive learning with educational toys can be exciting and interesting and much fun.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Ali Raza?
Ali Raza is a brilliant illustrator. When I hired him, I told him that I wanted to take this project slowly. I wanted him to understand and to realize the mission on Oceans of Thoughts. It was difficult at first as the interest is to get the work done quickly, but I was not interested in that pace. I was not in a rush. I was interested in a slower pace and getting detailed work with those illustrations. And we persevered and did it . It took a lot more time than usual, but we had a triumphant finish. With patience comes excellence.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
Oceans of Thoughts is an inspirational poetry book series. Occeans of Thoughts Book Four was written after much interest from educators, teachers and parents for a book for the children. I only write from life experiences and so ‘The Little Pianist’ was written and published. The children’s passion is sure to continue. Look out for other books for children in the series.
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Mrs. Collins and her children, Joselyn, Jonathan and Jenny, invited Mrs. Jeffrey and her daughter Alana to their house one afternoon in June. Jenny and Alana had lots of fun together as they played happily with Jenny’s educational and musical toys. They played music on the pianos and used the abacus, reading books, and other toys that stimulate learning in childhood education. The children’s creativity and observation skills are shared with each other, along with their eagerness and encouragement for learning. All children are invited to dive into The Little Pianist to explore the adventure of reading.
Perfect for children ages 2-8 as a read along book. For children ages 5+ for independent reading.
Oceans of Thoughts Book Four: The Little Pianist
On a warm and sunlit June afternoon, Mrs. Collins and her three children, Joselyn, Jonathan, and Jenny, welcomed Mrs. Jeffrey and her daughter Alana for a delightful playdate in Oceans of Thoughts Book Four: The Little Pianist, a heartwarming children’s book by author Rosalind Severin McClean. Jenny and Alana, close in age, quickly bonded over an array of educational and musical toys thoughtfully arranged for their enjoyment. From engaging reading books and interactive math games to a variety of musical instruments, there was something to captivate every curious young mind. Even Sheba, the family’s spirited Golden Retriever, along with their two lively cats, Ginger and Tibby, joined in the playful chaos.
What sets this story apart is the palpable sense of creativity that flows through every page. The joy of discovery radiates from the children as they read, explore, and, most notably, gather around the piano, a central element in the story, as Mrs. Collins is a piano teacher. The energy and enthusiasm leap off the page, inviting readers to experience the magic of music for themselves. One particularly delightful moment is Sheba’s playful interaction with the piano, tapping the keys with her paws, an image that’s both charming and memorable.
This book stands out for its unique focus on educational enrichment through play. Few children’s stories place such a strong emphasis on learning tools, especially musical instruments like the piano. The narrative gently promotes early exposure to learning in its most joyful form, encouraging young readers to explore math, reading, and music as gateways to creativity and growth. It’s a gentle reminder that the earlier children engage with these enriching experiences, the more natural and enjoyable learning becomes.
A thoughtful touch at the end of the story is the inclusion of “Interactive Questions For A Child’s Creative Thoughts.” This section features eleven questions designed to reinforce comprehension and engagement, asking readers to recall details such as the book’s title, the names of the visitors, and even the pets. It’s a wonderful way to deepen the reader’s connection to the story while strengthening critical thinking skills.
The illustrations by Ali Raza are nothing short of vibrant and lifelike. Every page bursts with color and detail, offering full-page artwork that complements the text beautifully. These visuals invite young readers to linger, absorbing the intricate scenes and expressive characters. The depictions of Sheba, in particular, stand out as favorites, her playful spirit perfectly captured in each stroke.
Oceans of Thoughts Book Four: The Little Pianist is a delightful blend of fun, education, and artistic charm. With endearing characters, a creative storyline, and exquisite illustrations, it’s a book that will captivate both children and adults alike. It’s a joyful and enriching reading experience and is highly recommended!
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0DPTY7PN8
LITERARY TITAN 