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Profound Learning Experience
Freckles is the sweet and heartwarming story about the unlikely friendship between a young girl and a duck decoy who spreads the message that being unique is something to be proud of. What was the inspiration for your story?
My inspiration stemmed from my daughter’s charming and unique, real relationship with a duck decoy she named “Freckles.” Since she was three, Freckles has been her constant companion, and their unusual friendship has touched the hearts of many, spreading joy wherever they go. It became clear to me that this story was worth telling from the moment they started interacting with others.
I dove into the project, dedicating countless hours to writing and exploring the publishing landscape. Thankfully, I connected with a publisher who resonated with my vision and a talented illustrator who brought my ideas to life on the pages. This journey has been a profound learning experience, filled with late nights to bring this tale to light.
I’m excited to share this uplifting tale about friendship, self-discovery, and the power of kindness. It’s a family-oriented book that chronicles Freckles’ adventures alongside my daughter and captures their special bond. I hope it brings joy to all who read it.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The book is written simplistically but has some deep underlying and important messages for children, such as empathy and friendship, showing the importance of kindness, and reaching out to others. It also encourages imagination and creativity while fostering emotional growth and embracing one main, simple truth: it’s okay to be different. My goal was to allow children to learn some valuable lessons in a heartfelt, light, and meaningful way.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator?
Thank you! I wanted art for the book that was focused on being real and true to the story, so I set out on a journey to find the right illustrator to convey this tale with watercolor in the most vibrant way. The collaboration process was incredibly rewarding; I shared my vision and the essence of Freckles and my daughter’s adventures. The illustrator took the time to understand the emotions and nuances I wanted to capture, which resulted in an authentic representation of our story. Together, we explored various styles and color palettes, ensuring the art not only complemented the narrative but also engaged young readers. The exchange of ideas and feedback created a beautiful synergy, culminating in illustrations that truly brought our enchanting tale to life. Communication was absolutely key, and providing real-life images helped us get through all illustrated-related challenges!
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
We aren’t sure what’s next for Mave and Freckles, but we know they have many more adventures ahead!
Author Links: GoodReads | Blue Balloon Books | Instagram | Amazon
Freckles is a captivating children’s story based on a true friendship between a little girl named Mave and her beloved duck decoy, Freckles. From the moment Mave pulls Freckles out of the box, it’s clear that he is no ordinary duck.
As Mave takes Freckles to school, the library, and around the community, he quickly becomes a source of comfort and happiness for everyone he meets. He starts to make an impact with his unique presence, fostering connections and encouraging kindness in a world filled with challenges.
Throughout their adventures, Freckles proves that being different is not only acceptable but something to be celebrated. He teaches those around him the importance of joy, compassion, and friendship. The story culminates in a powerful message: It’s okay to be different.
The Willingness to Redefine Ourselves
Buried Treasure follows two women navigating pivotal crossroads in their lives who attend a mystical retreat, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and healing. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I felt inspired to write a story embracing Practical Spirituality in a way that encouraged waking up. But pondered how to share this in a wise, loving, and non-judgmental way. Finally, the idea took root to bring an older and younger woman together and then what better place to have them meet than at an Angelic Retreat. Bringing the characters together in this way allowed me to use the tools of conversation and reflection to weave the story. Interestingly the book didn’t follow the format I had originally envisaged. Yes, meeting at the retreat was always going to be the beginning. But then Buried Treasure evolved and took me along on the journey as well. And a memory of my own surfaced and was fulfilled. I had always wanted to write a story where the character ends up in another dimension. Couldn’t perceive how that would happen. But it did happen with ease, great delight, and joy.
Both Cassie and Stella undergo transformative journeys, each in their own way, in your book. What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
Both women are seeking to live lives in alignment with their own truth and clarity about their individual life paths. To be able to step out of confusion and the need to please others without voicing their own needs. They both find that doing so requires them to draw on their inner strengths to stand firm in order to discover what is best for themselves. While also understanding and without standing in judgment of another, that what may be true for each of them may not be true for another. They also both come to understand that they need to trust themselves and that they do have the ability to recognise and overcome the challenges that can hinder their journeys of transformation.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Firstly, something important for me is to get the message across that when we make choices that don’t work. We haven’t done anything wrong, and rather than stand in wrongness, use what you have learned to choose again.
Secondly, journeys of self-discovery take courage, then the willingness to redefine ourselves, and of course then trust the path we are taking on this journey.
Thirdly, the theme of remembering is very important for me. To remember that even though our minds and experiences might wish to prove otherwise. We are love and light beings. The saying we are here on earth as ‘spiritual beings having a human experience‘ is well worth remembering. And to move from focusing so much on past mistakes and regrets and begin to focus more on love.
And finally to remember that our core, or our essence, or our Soul–whatever name one gives to it, is our true self. Again, Stella says it often throughout the book. Because that is true for me it doesn’t mean it needs to be true for you.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
At present, I am working on a couple of projects, while slow will come together. One is developing wisdom cards. Especially focused on my love of acronyms. A wee bit quirky. And weaving story and poetry together. Unsure when this will be accomplished.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Meeting Adversity Head-On
Tales of Weirderland follows royal siblings who go on magical adventures throughout their kingdom and a journey of self-discovery, learning what the future might hold. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The short and somewhat uninspired answer is my children.
The more interesting answer is their imaginations and somewhat mischievous ingenuity. These stories originated from improvisational bedtime stories. They both loved hearing stories, and we loved reading to them, so it didn’t take long before we ran out of books we hadn’t read several times over. I couldn’t say who began growing bored first, them or us. So it began with a question: “If you were in a story, about you. What kind of adventure would you have?” Make us a princess and prince. Make the king sillier. We need a pet dragon. Make the ‘squid-o-pus’ rhyme.
I had three goals: to make them laugh. To tell them stories they inhabited and could help direct. And to wear them down until they could sleep. It wasn’t until they outgrew story time and being read to that I committed some of these stories to paper, so they could revisit them on their own as they learned to read. Later, as they grew, I wanted to give them fresh stories. Reflections of themselves, how I saw them growing, learning, and confronting the challenges that come with life.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you wrote?
Both my wife and I are fantasy nerds. It was only natural we fostered that in our children. The settings were of our home and places we loved to visit. Like a park with a playground built like a castle, the woods, and streams of the Rocky Mountain Foothills. Augmented with hints of films like Labyrinth, Spirited Away, and books by Bill Peet, or Terry Pratchett. Then, in the later stories, the settings were kinder incarnations of a hospital and hospice. Schoolyards and principals offices. Courthouses and Pride festivals.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Kindness. That meeting adversity head-on with kindness first should rarely be the wrong choice to make. Asking for help can be one of the bravest things any of us can do; too often, we are afraid or ashamed to ask. Fear of embarrassment, of appearing vulnerable or incapable, stops many of us from asking. And so, when someone asks for help, we should meet them with enthusiastic empathy.
Kids are far stronger and more resilient than we know. We should trust them to solve some problems and figure things out on their own.
Families grow, shrink, change, and should be cherished. They can get lost, but also chosen and found. Life is ridiculous and we should treat it as such. Otherwise, you risk taking life more seriously than life takes you. After all, no one escapes alive.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
Perhaps. Our children are all but grown now. Their adventures look far different going forward, as does our world. While I know there are many more stories to tell, I don’t know if their stories are mine to tell now. But, I know if I decide to the stories and adventures would be darker. How might Weirderland and the Wilding family survive a plague-riddled kingdom or a new tyrannical monarch?
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | BlueSky | Facebook | Linktree | Website | Amazon
In ‘The Quest for Ruben, ‘ the royal Wilding siblings must rescue a flying horse from the clutches of an evil dragon. Next, in ‘The Quest for the Mermaid’s Ruby, ‘ they heroically safeguard a mermaid kingdom from imminent destruction while on a beach holiday. Then, in ‘The Quest of the Fairy Fire, ‘ they are called upon by the King and Queen to restore the magic of the forest’s fairy guardians, safeguarding all humankind.
In their most challenging quest, ‘The Hopeless Quest, ‘ they selflessly venture into the underworld to seek aid for their ailing grandfather from the Dwarves. Finally, ‘The Luck of The Eyelash‘ and ‘The Nameless Quest‘ lead them on individual journeys of self-discovery, to learn who they truly are and what the future might hold. Experience the magic and adventure as the royal heirs navigate perilous challenges, forging their destinies in a world brimming with wonder and excitement.
Ancient Astrological Wisdom
Navigating Life’s Challenges provides readers with the tools necessary for cultivating emotional intelligence by way of the concept of Tai Sui. What inspired you to write this guide?
The inspiration for Navigating Life’s Challenges came from my own experiences of navigating uncertainty and growth during challenging times. The concept of Tai Sui, deeply rooted in Chinese astrology, resonated with me as a framework to explore how external and internal forces shape our lives. I wanted to blend this ancient wisdom with modern strategies to help readers cultivate resilience and emotional intelligence. By bridging mindfulness, self-reflection, and practical advice, I aimed to create a guide that not only addresses life’s inevitable obstacles but also empowers readers to thrive beyond them.
What is one thing you learned during your research for this book that surprised you?
While researching this book, I was surprised by how seamlessly ancient astrological wisdom can align with modern psychological principles. For example, the Tai Sui year’s themes of conflict and transformation mirror contemporary discussions on managing stress and adapting to change. This discovery reinforced the idea that ancient and modern wisdom can coexist and complement each other, providing holistic solutions for personal growth.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from the concepts presented in Navigating Life’s Challenges?
I hope readers take away the understanding that challenges, whether personal or external, are opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. By practising mindfulness, managing expectations, and cultivating resilience, they can transform adversity into a powerful catalyst for self-discovery and strength. Ultimately, I want readers to feel equipped with practical tools and inspired to approach life’s complexities with clarity, grace, and optimism.
Can we look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Yes, I’m always working on new projects! Currently, I’m developing the second installment in the Chronicles of the Enchanted Vanguard series. This new fantasy novel delves into ethical dilemmas, the philosophy of good and evil, and environmental issues, all presented through magical and fantastical narratives. The first book in the series, Chronicles of the Enchanted Vanguard: Seraphina and the Divine Mandate, laid the foundation, and I’m excited to expand this world further. The upcoming novel is an ambitious project that combines my passion for storytelling with a deep exploration of realism and fantasy, and I anticipate it will be ready for publication in 2025 or 2026.
In addition, I’m planning my next non-fiction work, which will build on the themes explored in Navigating Life’s Challenges. This book will focus on the philosophy of person-given names—the power they hold, the significance they carry, and how they can inspire individuals to embrace their identity and purpose. While I’m still conducting research for this project, I aim to publish it between 2026 and 2027.
Across both fiction and non-fiction, I remain committed to exploring themes of environmental stewardship, resilience, and personal growth. Readers can look forward to more thought-provoking and inspiring works that challenge perspectives and ignite imagination.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
THE UN-EXTRAORDINARY LIFE OF SOPHIE SIMPLETON
P.G. James’s The Un-Extraordinary Life of Sophie Simpleton is a heartwarming and nostalgic dive into the often-overlooked quiet wonders of an unassuming life. Told through the eyes of Sophie Simpleton, a reflective and whimsical narrator, the book chronicles her journey from a nature-loving, imaginative girl living on a mountain to a grandmother weaving stories for her grandchildren. The narrative captures the beauty of everyday life, laced with humor, hardship, and Sophie’s ever-present optimism.
What struck me most about this book was its ability to balance simplicity with depth. The story starts in “Kookaburras Rest,” where Sophie’s connection with her mountain home feels like poetry in motion. Her conversations with the “giants” (trees) and her playful rebellion against spelling rules, calling poetry “po-e-tree,” made me smile. It’s charmingly clear that Sophie finds solace in nature amid her struggles. One of my favorite moments was her rhyme to the trees, filled with vivid imagery of fluttering leaves as “ballerinas.” Her imagination becomes her sanctuary, and as a reader, I felt transported to her tranquil world.
The book doesn’t shy away from the sting of growing pains and social struggles. Sophie’s challenges with bullies and her heartbreaking realization that even her teacher underestimated her added emotional weight. Her candid inner monologue, paired with small victories like her triumph on the soccer field, kept me rooting for her. These moments reminded me of how childhood feels like a battlefield of tiny wars, where even small triumphs shine brightly. I also admired her relationship with Mrs. Templestowe, whose wise, grandmotherly advice gave Sophie strength in the face of rejection and isolation.
The writing itself carries a warm, conversational tone that feels like sitting down with an old friend. While the pacing meanders at times, particularly in the descriptive sections about nature and animals, it mirrors the reflective pace of Sophie’s life. One standout scene, her unintended destruction of the boys’ toilet window during soccer, masterfully mixes humor with Sophie’s dread of facing consequences. Her imaginative thoughts about booby traps and the surreal experience of entering the “dungeon of boy-dom” had me laughing aloud. It’s in these moments where the book’s charm shines brightest—finding extraordinary humor in the un-extraordinary.
The Un-Extraordinary Life of Sophie Simpleton is a delightful read for those who cherish stories about finding joy in the mundane. It’s perfect for anyone who loves heartfelt tales of self-discovery, childhood resilience, and a touch of quirky humor. Sophie’s world may be un-extraordinary, but her story reminds us that sometimes, the small, ordinary moments are the most extraordinary of all.
Pages: 200 | ASIN : B0DGGT8DXL
Flamin-Go BOB
Cheryl Spears Waugh delivers an inspiring tale that invites readers to celebrate individuality and embrace creativity. At the heart of the story is a flamingo named Flamin-Go BOB, a free-spirited character who proudly stands out from his flock. While his peers prefer calm conformity, Bob is full of energy and eager to live life differently. He struggles to fit into their routines, building a sandcastle instead of a traditional dome-shaped nest or gleefully doing somersaults in the rain while the others seek shelter from a storm. It’s only when Bob meets a kind veterinarian named Aleta that he discovers his unique path and realizes his true potential.
Bob’s charm lies in his unapologetic embrace of his quirks. Though his choices can be a bit reckless, his cheerfulness and authenticity shine through. He knows he’s different but doesn’t let that stop him from building connections. Cheryl Spears Waugh’s writing strikes a delightful balance. Its short and simple sentences make the story approachable for young readers, yet the playful details and humorous moments keep it engaging. The characters embody warmth and inclusivity, and the story emphasizes the importance of respecting differences. An added bonus is the educational section at the end, which shares fascinating flamingo facts.
The illustrations, while fitting the story, could have been enhanced with brighter, sharper backgrounds to better reflect Bob’s lively personality. At times, the darker tones feel slightly at odds with the vibrant energy of the narrative. However, this does little to detract from the book’s overall appeal. Children will find meaningful lessons woven throughout the story. Themes of kindness, teamwork, and empathy towards animals are presented naturally. Bob’s journey also shows that stepping outside one’s comfort zone can lead to personal growth. His time at the veterinary clinic not only helps him make new friends but also helps him uncover his purpose.
Flamin-Go BOB is a delightful story of self-discovery, individuality, and the joy of exploring new possibilities. It’s an engaging children’s book that inspires children to be true to themselves while embracing the adventures that come with trying something new.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B0DN8X35R5
Finding Common Ground
Karma and Kismet is an insightful and captivating literary work that delves into the intricacies of human connection and self-discovery. It is not just a personal memoir, but rather a profound exploration of the universal human need for understanding and meaningful relationships. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I obsessed about my story for over fifty years. My ruminationss were almost certainly neurotic, but perseverance eventually awoke an inner demand for expression of the story. I came to understand that I had gone through a unique passage that also perhaps would speak to others who might identify in some way. In a sense, I became the story’s servant and it expressed itself through me.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The main arc of the story could be codified as father-hunger, the universal craving for connection with their fathers felt by sons. I don’t know if I had a stronger case of this than most boys, but my familial and societal circumstances drove home the feeling of father-loss and it remained a strong undercurrent for my entire childhood and adulthood––until I was able to give expression to the voice that we discover in Karma and Kismet. I believe that father-son conflict is all too common, but what is not common are father-son stories that describe the entire cycle–– from violent conflict, estrangement and cutoff to reconciliation.
The ”lessons” that emerge all came inductively from the story and became a part of the book’s tapestry. Some of these include the impacts of earlier generations’ history––antisemitism and the Holocaust. Other themes include openness and curiosity, faith in going forward even when you don’t know what lies ahead, the kindness of family and strangers, the power of travel and cross-cultural immersion in shaping a new mindset. Taking risks, what one might call becoming a reasonable adventurer. The human need for belonging, purpose, and connection to others.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
There were many aspects of the story that were challenging to write––from the vivid scenes of fighting with my father, to my family’s terrible dynamics. But the intricacies of the peer relationships with my spiritual brothers and sisters in Vancouver was perhaps the most challenging because of the deep involvement of a powerful and charismatic guru figure from whom I needed to detach.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
I hope readers will find common ground in my story and double up their efforts toward connection, be it with a father, mother, or a friend.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
KARMA AND KISMET
Michael Shandler’s sixties and seventies spiritual odyssey catapults him across continents, cultures, and eras, after a turbulent childhood. KARMA AND KISMET is a wounded stranger’s testimony as he seeks reconciliation with his painful past and finding his people and place in new lands.
Shandler’s unflinching ride through the twists and turns of his karma is a personal and universal story of transformation, and a demonstration of kismet in shaping destiny.
Karma and Kismet
Karma and Kismet, authored by Michael Shandler, is a compelling memoir that traces the poignant journey of self-discovery. Michael, uprooted from his home at the age of 13, embarks on a quest in his adulthood to unearth his true identity. This quest is not just a geographical journey but an emotional one, marked by a rich tapestry of love, acceptance, belonging, and healing. As he navigates through varied landscapes and cultures, Shandler finds himself grappling with the concepts of Karma and Kismet, which play a pivotal role in his understanding of life and destiny.
Shandler’s narrative style is noteworthy for its vivid and immersive quality. His ability to draw readers into his world is remarkable, making them feel as if they are journeying alongside him. This vivid storytelling in this memoir transcends the confines of a mere travelogue, offering a window into the diversity of cultures and the intimate recesses of the author’s personal saga. It’s a tapestry interwoven with cultural richness and personal introspection. Shandler’s journey is not only geographical but also a deep dive into his psyche, prompting readers to contemplate their own sense of identity and belonging.
Karma and Kismet is more than an account of travel; it’s a source of inspiration. It encourages readers to venture beyond their comfort zones, suggesting that in such exploration, one might find a more profound sense of connection and belonging. Shandler’s story resonates with anyone who has ever sought their place in the world or questioned their identity. The book is infused with elements that enrich its narrative – impactful dialogues, encouragement for self-reflection, and a celebration of acceptance. These aspects make Karma and Kismet a heartwarming read that leaves readers with a sense of joy and introspection. One of the book’s central themes is the significance of hospitality and support in an often indifferent world. This theme adds depth, highlighting the universal need for connection and understanding.
Karma and Kismet is a beautifully balanced blend of heartfelt storytelling, serene narration, and meaningful dialogues. It’s a memoir that tells a story and invites readers to reflect on their journeys and the paths they choose in life.
Pages: 312 | ISBN : 979-8-88824-382-4
LITERARY TITAN 