Blog Archives
I then had a story to write!
Snoodles in Space: Escape from Zoodletraz follows a Zoodle who breaks a rule by getting a pet, he winds up in a prison no one has ever escaped from. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration came from my illustrator, Andy Case. In November 2023, he released his first album, Leap of Faith. There were three songs that came one after the other that set up the story in my head. Literally, it was one song after the other! “Lost Souls in the Dark” had that guitar rift that remined me of U2’s “Sunday Bloody Sunday” but in a darting kind of way, and I pictured Snoodles flying through space to rescue our heroes. The next song “Break Free” had a slower guitar play and reminded me of a spaceship slowly rising from the planet. Then came “Should Have Sent a Card”. It is a hysterically funny song about someone trying to write a love song and failed. Because he failed, he sings out “I should have sent a card!”
I then had a story to write!
In your story, Droodle meets some amazing new characters. What was your inspiration for their characters’ interactions and backstories?
Well, they are inspired by Pop Culture! Swifty Swoodle is definitely Tayor Swift. Grandfafoodle was inspired by the crazy father of Dick VanDyke in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The Trash Can Cats was inspired by seeing a bunch of cats around a trash can looking for mice in NYC.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
This is the fourth book in the series. I couldn’t write a book just to write a book knowing that it was not up to the first three. I had to write something that would surpass them, and make the universe of character bigger and the story crazier. I felt with this book, it was “mission Accomplished!”
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
We will find out that Cloodle did not come from the planet Zoodle! Similar to the Superman story, Cloodle is a baby on a planet that is disintegrating because of global warming, and he is put in a small spaceship with his poodle, Krazoodle, and lands on the planet Zoodle. Strap up because you will be in for quite a ride?
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Enter a cast of brilliantly bonkers heroes: noodle-powered scientists, intergalactic musicians, talking cats with trash can drum kits, and a villain so cranky he reads self-help books about revenge. There’s also a Jalapeño Popadoodle Noodle, a flying Balloonadoodle, and something called a Cloakadoodle Swoodle Car. Don’t ask, just roll with it.
This wackadoodle tale is packed with vibrant art, making it perfect for young and old readers who love silly stories, bold visuals, and absolutely zero boring parts.
Whether your kid’s obsessed with noodles, aliens, or saying the word “Groodle” over and over again, Snoodles in Space: Escape from Zoodletraz! is the laugh-out-loud ride you’ve been waiting for.
Time to get ready for your NEXT GREAT ESCAPE!
Snoodles in Space: Escape from Zoodletraz
When Droodle the Poodle and Doo Doo Kidoodle tied the knot, they shattered the biggest rule on planet Zoodle: no pets allowed! As punishment, poor Droodle finds himself locked away in Zoodletraz, a prison from which no one has ever escaped. The question that drives the story is irresistible: can Droodle outsmart his captors and return to his beloved Doo Doo Kidoodle?
From the very first page, what stands out most is the comic book format. Children’s literature rarely embraces this style, making Snoodles in Space a delightful exception. Its layout instantly captures attention, not only from young readers but also from parents and educators seeking something fresh and visually engaging. Even reluctant readers will be drawn in, eager to follow the wild adventures of this eccentric cast.
Steven Joseph brings remarkable depth to his characters. In just a few panels, each one comes alive with personality and charm. Readers quickly form connections and root for them as if they’ve known them for ages. This emotional resonance, achieved through vivid details and playful dialogue, ensures that children will feel immersed in the world of Snoodles, Zoodles, and beyond.
The story also shines in its portrayal of community spirit. Whether celebrating victories or lending a hand in tough times, the inhabitants of Zoodle remind young readers of the value of kindness and cooperation. Through these moments, Joseph subtly imparts a lesson: helping others, no matter your age, shapes you into a compassionate, well-rounded person.
Andy Case’s illustrations elevate the story even further. His dynamic art bursts with energy, color, and imagination. Presented in a comic-book style, each page feels alive with detail and movement. The unique character designs and bold hues keep the reader’s eyes dancing from panel to panel. It’s the kind of book that invites you to linger and explore every corner of the artwork.
Snoodles in Space: Escape from Zoodletraz is a story that entertains both children and adults alike. With its clever concept, lively illustrations, and heartfelt humor, it’s a comic adventure that will have readers laughing, learning, and turning pages long past bedtime.
Pages: 80 | ASIN : B0FMKSM2CK
The Good Kid Hero
Snoodles in Space, Episode 2: The Zoodles Strike Back follows two heroes who face off with a disgruntled inventor and set out to save the world’s water supply from being poisoned. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I had just watched the Original Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and I noticed the media frenzy surrounding the visit to the factory. In the movie, Charlie as the good kid hero, and I started to think how the media covered the spoiled kids, even picturing how they would be portrayed on social media today. That was the spark, and I had the story to make these kids the heroes in the end.
Do you have a favorite scene in this novel? One that was especially fun to craft?
Well, I love my illustrator, Andy Case, and I love the job he did with Chunky Chocodoodle’s factory. I also love the wedding scene with Droodle the Poodle and Doo Doo Kidoodle.
The imagery in your book is phenomenal. What was the collaboration process like with illustrator Andy Case?
Andy is amazing. I do the story blocks and give him my vision of what I see on the pages. He just then ramps it up a bit. When he sends me the illustrations, it is like opening up presents by the Christmas tree!
Can fans look forward to another installment of the Snoodles in Space series? If so, where will it take your characters?
Yes. Andy is now working on Snoodles in Space: Escape from Zoodletraz. It is music-themed, inspired by Andy’s first album Leap of Faith. We have some fun new characters like Swift Swoodle and the DooWopadoodles, Flootle the Poodle, and the Trash Can Cats, and there are even more!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
In this third instalment of the Snoodles series, the Zoodles are determined to have revenge and with the help of a grimy millionaire whose fallen on hard times, they intend to poison the Earth’s water supply and turn everyone into Willy Nilly’s and Dilly Dally’s.
Can Briana and Ricky save the Earth again? Will the outcast kids on the other side of the track rise to the challenge and help save the world?
Snoodles in Space, Episode 2: The Zoodles Strike Back
Steven Joseph’s latest addition to the Snoodles in Space series, Episode 2: The Zoodles Strike Back, continues the engaging sci-fi adventure of Ricky and Briana. Having previously saved Earth, they are celebrated heroes, honored with the key to the city. However, their new-found fame attracts the ire of Grumpy Grimy Groodleman, a disgruntled inventor. Groodleman’s creation, the Groodle, a pungent and polluting vehicle, has not only tarnished his reputation but also led to his children’s disgrace over a candy scandal. Determined to undermine Ricky and Briana and reclaim his status, Groodleman allies with Evil Kidoodle from Planet Zoodle, setting the stage for a fresh cosmic threat.
Joseph’s storytelling opens with a cinematic recap, a technique that smoothly immerses readers into the current plot while recalling past events. This approach provides a seamless context, making it accessible even for those new to the series. His creative narrative style stands out, offering a world brimming with whimsical names and inventive elements. The plot, filled with unexpected twists and engaging complexities, is bolstered by a diverse cast of characters, each with distinct and well-defined traits that add depth to the narrative. This dynamic ensemble ensures that the story maintains its momentum, keeping readers intrigued throughout.
The comic format of the book is visually compelling, featuring a retro aesthetic that brings a unique charm. The character designs are vibrant and varied, adding depth and interest to the story. The environments are colorful and dynamic, enhancing the visual appeal. The playful language and inventive wordplay contribute to the book’s distinctive and engaging style.
The rich vocabulary and intricate wordplay add to its charm. Fans of imaginative and humor-filled science fiction will find Snoodles in Space a delightful read, rich with humor and a captivating adventure that sparks the imagination of children.
ASIN : B0D3WVVH5K
Embrace Crankiness
Cranky Superpowers: Life Lessons Learned from the Common CrankaTsuris Chronicles is a collection of thought-provoking and humorous stories about the challenges people face in their everyday lives. What was the inspiration for this collection of stories?
My first book was a children’s book titled The Last Surviving Dinosaur: The TyrantoCrankaTsuris, and a reviewer wrote that I didn’t talk about overcoming crankiness. But the whole point was to embrace crankiness. I started a blog, and I wanted to be both funny but to highlight that since this is about all of us, I wanted to explore how it can be our strength.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Patience, empathy, overcoming obstacles, and finding strength inside of us when we have those cranky moments.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Cranky Superpowers?
I hope that readers will see themselves in the stories, and find inspiration to take on life’s challenges that we all face.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
My third Snoodles book. Snoodles in Space: Episode 2. The Zoodles Strike Back will be available in late Winter/Early Spring.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Peppered with captivating tales, both fresh and familiar, “Cranky Superpowers” unveils the often-missed hilarity in our everyday grumbles and groans. But it’s not all laughter—this witty guide offers priceless insights into our hidden “Cranky Superpowers,” powers that when harnessed correctly, can ignite a more understanding, patient, and positively cranky version of ourselves.
“Cranky Superpowers” is a rollicking journey of self-discovery, one that not only entertains but enlightens. So, put on your favorite cape and tights, and get ready to unlock your potential, unleash your better self, and find a little bit of humor in the perfectly imperfect art of being human.
Cranky Superpowers: Life Lessons Learned from the Common CrankaTsuris Chronicles
Cranky Superpowers: Life Lessons Learned from the Common CrankaTsuris Chronicles is an engaging anthology blends humor, wisdom, and fresh takes on life’s everyday challenges. Penned by Stephen Joseph, the book captivates readers with its playful narrative style and colorful array of characters, dilemmas, and solutions.
From its initial pages, the collection charms with its witty language and imaginative spins on timeless fairy tales. As you turn each page, stories unfurl that will evoke laughter and spark moments of reflection. Joseph’s adept handling of language and his flair for surprising narrative twists ensure that every reader will discover delightful segments to savor, no matter their comedic taste. Tailored for casual reading, it’s an excellent companion for your living room table, beckoning for spontaneous dives into its light-hearted world. Given its brevity, it’s also a fitting choice for brief intervals, like waiting times, as it promises easy immersion without the commitment of lengthy plots.
But don’t let its comedic facade fool you. Amidst its humor, the collection also offers valuable life lessons, guiding readers through challenges such as impatience, weariness, or overwhelming dynamism. While certain tales deliver unadulterated amusement, others provoke introspection, further enhancing the allure of decoding their underlying messages. Though the distinctions among the various CrankaTsuris forms may be subtle, they create an intriguing quest for readers to decipher and relate to. Each CrankaTsuris, much akin to Pokémon, boasts its distinct traits: some demand control, others call for proactive measures, and a few signify attributes worth cherishing. This vagueness beckons readers to delve deeper, enriching their engagement.
Cranky Superpowers is an enchanting compilation, interweaving sheer entertainment with occasional idiosyncrasies. This treasure chest of humor and insight is undoubtedly worth exploring. Dive in for a read that teeters on the brink of excellence, and you won’t be disappointed.
Pages: 246 | ASIN : B0CH1FTZSV
Inspire Curiosity
Snoodles in Space follows a group of extraterrestrial visitors to Earth who are in dire need of help to save their leader and their ship. What was the inspiration for your story?
I was reading a news story about how we are producing less scientists, and I had the thought about a planet that had no scientists left because everyone was discouraged to become one. So, I wanted to write a story about discouragement but also put a light on the effect of encouragement as well.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I wanted to inspire curiosity, and taking on complex problems and having fun at the same time. Every Snoodles book also has to have a museum built. This book has a museum on space exploration. The last book had an art museum. There will be an aquarium in the next book. Kids should be excited about going to a museum, even more so these days.
The art in this book is fantastic, giving the story a comic-book quality. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Andy Case?
It was amazing and the most fun. I did the story blocks describing what I have in my head and Andy always amplified everything in his drawings. After he did the book, I flew to England just to visit Andy in Nottingham. I plan a second trip in January. I can’t thank him enough. We talk on Zoom and I have to hold back breaking down to cry because he has moved me so much!
Do you have more stories planned about the Snoodles? If so, what can your fans expect in the next story and when will it be available?
Yes! Snoodles in Space, Episode 2: The Zoodles Strike Back! I introduce Grumpy Grimy Groodleman, and the Groodle powered by stinky Grool! I do a revision of sorts on the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Story. I make the kids who didn’t do too well and probably were shamed because of the negative publicity, and turn them into the heroes in the book.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
In this follow-up book, when the Zoodle Kidoodles from the planet Zoodle abduct Norman Noodle and Sally Stroodle, the Zoodle Kidoodles threaten to take all of Earth’s noodles— unless they perform the necessary brain operation on their grand leader, Cloodle the Grand Roodle, and fix their spaceship’s failing engines.
The one problem? Norman Noodle and Sally Stroodle are simple bakers. Sour Croodleman’s Prickly Peppered Purple Propulsion Powered Pickle invention is their only hope, but will he unite with Herbie Snoodleman to save the planet?
The answer is here, in this Wackadoodle Tale from Outer Space!
Snoodles in Space: A Snoodle, the Zoodle Kidoodles, and One Happy Schmoodle
Dive into an entertaining cosmic escapade with Snoodles in Space by Steven Joseph. This captivating tale catapults us into a futuristic realm where brilliant inventors shine, introducing us to characters like Herbie Snoodleman, the mastermind behind the noodle-fueled Snoodlemobile, and Sour Croodleman, the imaginative force behind the zany Prickly Peppered Purple Propulsion Powered Pickle.
But even amidst the astonishing technological marvels, a hiccup arises in the form of the Zoodle Kidoodles, extraterrestrial visitors with an unusual request. Their leader, the illustrious Cloodle the Grand Roodle, requires a critical brain operation, and their spaceship’s engines are in dire need of repair. A humorous twist of fate lands a pair of bakers in their clutches, setting the stage for a quirky adventure.
What truly captivated me about Snoodles in Space are the clever wordplay elements that infuse the story. Not only do they provide an entertaining puzzle for young readers, but they also foster smoother reading skills. Steven Joseph’s narrative is brimming with wit, underscored by a wildly inventive storyline where the rules of a noodle-powered world bring about delightful surprises at every turn.
The journey commences on Earth, a vivid backdrop that sets an exuberant tone and establishes the characters in a playful palette of colors. This vibrant start seamlessly transitions into an interstellar odyssey, where the fantastical flourishes and takes on new dimensions. The book’s visual allure is heightened by its vibrant illustrations, bringing to life the technological wonders and the story’s unique charm.
With its comic-style format, Snoodles in Space is tailor-made for fledgling readers taking their first steps into the world of literature. However, the abundance of character and invention names might pose a challenge for some young minds. I recommend this gem to elementary school children who have embarked on their reading journey and gained some familiarity with it.
Snoodles in Space strikes a beautiful balance, making it an ideal tool to kindle a passion for reading. Its approachable text length offers comfort to young readers while the ongoing wordplay sustains their curiosity. This narrative adventure is enthralling and promises an enjoyable reading experience that young minds will treasure.
Pages: 59 | ASIN : B0BV5S8HL5
LITERARY TITAN 