Blog Archives

Bixby the Peacock on Maple Street

Bixby the Peacock on Maple Street bursts with color, curiosity, and charm, a lively children’s story that transforms a simple neighborhood mystery into an unforgettable adventure. Shani T. Night welcomes young readers into the vibrant world of Bixby, a confident, radiant peacock who saunters through suburbia with effortless flair and a personality as bold as his feathers.

Bixby’s arrival on Maple Street immediately sweeps readers into a lively blend of whimsy and discovery. The rhyming text creates a rhythmic, almost musical flow, ideal for read-aloud moments with children ages 4–8. Night’s spirited word choices and vivid scenes spark laughter and wide-eyed fascination as Bixby weaves through gardens, sidesteps household pets, crosses busy streets, and carries himself as if the entire neighborhood is his personal stage.

Beyond its cheerful storytelling, the book quietly delivers genuine peacock facts, offering an engaging dose of learning within the playful narrative. This smooth fusion of imagination and information nurtures a child’s natural curiosity about the world, presenting knowledge in a way that feels inviting, light, and wonderfully accessible.

As part of the Interesting Tales series, Night once again turns everyday surprises into moments of magic. Bixby’s escapade reminds readers, young and old, that extraordinary wonders often wait just beyond the front door.

Bright, witty, and beautifully composed, Bixby the Peacock on Maple Street is a heartwarming celebration of exploration, nature, and the delight of storytelling. It deserves a spot on bedtime bookshelves, classroom collections, and in the hands of any young reader drawn to animals or unexpected adventures.

Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0FNGVM32L

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Conquering a Challenge

Heidi Brooks Author Interview

Noodles Noodles Everywhere follows a spirited child who embarks on a whimsical adventure to conquer the challenges of dinnertime, one noodle at a time. What was the inspiration for your story?

My two-year-old granddaughter had just finished lunch and walked into the room, completely covered in noodles. I looked at her and exclaimed, “Noodles, noodles everywhere!” And that’s when the inspiration hit!

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

I’m a big fan of rhymes and stories where the child takes center stage as the hero. I wanted to create a story that shows a child conquering a challenge, all while blending humor with a fun, rhythmic rhyme.

The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Mark Nino Balita?

I shared my manuscript with Mark and asked him to design a character. I was thrilled with what he created. His artwork was incredible in my last book, and I had full confidence in his talent and illustrations.

Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?

This book isn’t part of a series, but I do have another one being released this month. It’s the first in a series about an adorable, dancing cow named Missy Moo and her barnyard friends.

Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon

A noodle-tastrophe is on the loose—can one clever kid save dinner time?

It starts with a plate of noodles—but before long, noodles are everywhere! From the floor to the door, the walls to the ceiling, this noodle disaster is quickly spiraling out of control. What began as a simple dinner has turned into a wild, wiggly mess as noodles take over every corner of the house.

As chaos erupts, someone must step up to stop the noodle madness before it’s too late. With the family scrambling to contain the disaster, it’s up to one clever little girl to find a solution. But where will all the noodles go when the madness finally slows down?

Packed with giggles, messes, and plenty of imagination, Noodles, Noodles Everywhere! is a deliciously fun story of a dinner gone wildly wrong—and how one child saves the day. Perfect for young readers who love big laughs, crazy adventures, and—of course—oodles of noodles!

Are you ready for a side-splitting, noodle-twisting adventure? Get your copy of Noodles, Noodles Everywhere! and find out how one clever kid saves the day—before the house is buried in spaghetti!

Noodles Noodles Everywhere

Noodles Noodles Everywhere is a delightful children’s picture book written by Heidi Brooks and illustrated by Mark Nino Balita. This engaging story follows a spirited child who embarks on a whimsical adventure to conquer the challenges of dinnertime, one noodle at a time.

The story is filled with humor and relatable scenarios that will resonate with both children and parents. The protagonist’s imaginative journey transforms the often mundane task of eating dinner into an exciting escapade, encouraging young readers to approach new experiences with courage and creativity.

The story is crafted with simple and accessible language, making it perfect for beginner readers to tackle with minimal assistance. The rhythmic flow and playful rhymes create a lively reading experience, helping young readers anticipate words and build confidence as they go. The repetition and engaging cadence make it easier for children to follow along, while the humor and excitement of the story keep them entertained.

Mark Nino Balita’s vibrant and expressive illustrations perfectly complement the lively rhyming story. The colorful artwork brings the story to life and captures the chaotic fun of noodles seemingly everywhere, and adds depth to the characters’ emotions and actions.

Noodles Noodles Everywhere is a charming and amusing read that entertains and encourages children to face new challenges enthusiastically. It’s an excellent addition to any child’s bookshelf, promising giggles and inspiration with every turn of the page.

Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0DT7T9F8Z

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A Magical Array of Colors

Hope LaVelle Author Interview

Princess Iridescent and the Cloudy Day follows a princess in a magical kingdom of color and light who encounters a cloud trying to take their colors away and teaches him about kindness. What was the inspiration for your story?

The inspiration for this book all started with my favorite word: Iridescent. It’s a magical array of colors that always brings me happiness when I see it. One day I wondered, “What would iridescence look like if it were personified as a person? Obviously a colorful princess, of course!” But she needed to be more than that, I wanted her to be a role model for all young readers to aspire to be like. I thought this Princess should embody kindness, empathy, and wisdom. And thus, the Princess was born! And when it came time to give the Princess an obstacle that could be a great lesson for young readers, conflict resolution with someone who was the opposite of her seemed like a fun story to me.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

Patience was the most important idea I wanted to share with this book. While it’s not the main theme of the story, I wanted Princess Iridescent to show, not tell, how it can be used to handle conflict resolution. Patience is not once mentioned in the book, but you can see it throughout the Princess’ actions. No matter how many times King Cloudius dismisses the Princess she never gets frustrated, knowing that staying calm and kind will be what helps King Cloudius in the end.

The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Patrizia Diana?

Getting to work with Patrizia Diana was a dream come true. She is so knowledgeable and skilled at what she does. While I had the story and a vision of what I wanted the book to look like, I have absolutely no art skills. So it was wonderful being able to rely on Patrizia to take just my words and bring them to life with her art. I learned so much from her, one of the biggest lessons being to take a step back and see what new ideas the artist can bring to your vision instead of micromanaging.

Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?

This is indeed the first book in the Princess Iridescent series! And I’m excited to announce the second book, Princess Iridescent and the Scary Night, will be coming to Amazon the first week of this October (2024)! This book is made for children who are afraid to go to sleep at night. We follow Princess Iridescent helping a young dragon pup face her fears of the creaks, bumps, and shadows in the night. The Princess will once again teach this lesson through patience, kindness, and empathy. You can expect this book to be just as colorful and magical as the first book! If interested, you can join the mailing list on my website below so you can be notified once it’s published!

Author Links: Instagram | X | Website | Book Review

The kingdom of Prismatica is a paradise of color and light. What could ever go wrong?
Well, when King Cloudius rolls in to take all the color of the kingdom away, its up to Princess Iridescent to show him that true colors shine brightest when kindled by kindness.
Cleverly woven into a rhyming story, Princess Iridescent teaches us that the best way to handle someone mean is by being nice. This beautifully illustrated children’s book will help little princesses and princes learn how to resolve conflict in a magical way. You’ll encounter adorable creatures that live throughout the kingdom, magic that brings color to life, and a princess who believes that a little compassion can go a long way.



Princess Iridescent and the Cloudy Day

Princess Iridescent and the Cloudy Day by Hope LaVelle is a captivating children’s book that transports readers to a vibrant world filled with color and light. The story unfolds in the idyllic kingdom of Prismatica, where everything is bright and beautiful. However, the tranquility of the kingdom is disrupted when King Cloudius arrives with a dark plan to steal all the colors, plunging Prismatica into a dull, lifeless state. The task of restoring the kingdom falls on the young Princess Iridescent, who understands that the true power of color and beauty comes from kindness and compassion.

Through a cleverly crafted rhyming narrative, Princess Iridescent embarks on a journey to teach King Cloudius that the most brilliant colors are those that are kindled by kindness. Along the way, readers are introduced to a host of charming creatures and enchanted elements that bring the kingdom to life. The story is a feast for the imagination and a gentle lesson in conflict resolution, showing that even the meanest of characters can be transformed through acts of kindness.

Princess Iridescent and the Cloudy Day is a delightful and enchanting read, perfect for young children and their parents alike. The rhyming text adds a rhythmic charm that makes the story enjoyable to read aloud, and the beautifully crafted illustrations bring the kingdom and its inhabitants to life in a magical and memorable way. One of the standout features of this book is its underlying message. In a world where children are often exposed to negativity and conflict, Princess Iridescent’s approach to dealing with King Cloudius serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and kindness. The story skillfully conveys that kindness is not a weakness but a strength that can overcome even the darkest of intentions. The character of Princess Iridescent is a wonderful role model for young readers. She embodies qualities such as bravery, compassion, and wisdom, showing that true leadership is about guiding others with a gentle heart. Including adorable creatures and magical elements adds an extra layer of charm that will undoubtedly capture any child’s imagination.

Princess Iridescent and the Cloudy Day is more than just a beautifully illustrated children’s book; it’s a valuable tool for teaching important life lessons in a fun and engaging way. Whether read at bedtime or during storytime, this book is sure to become a cherished favorite in any child’s library.

Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0CWKHKR66

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Laughter and Joy

Shani T. Night Author Interview

Mr. Nap A. Lot’s Merry Christmas Adventure follows a man strolling through the streets observing the Christmas magic present in the families he sees. What was the inspiration for your story?

The inspiration for Mr. Nap A. Lot’s Merry Christmas Adventure comes from a long-standing saying in my home for over 20 years. It started with my husband, the real Mr. Nap A. Lot, and his way of explaining Christmas to our kids. His belief that “the spirit of Christmas lives in us all” has always touched me deeply. This heartfelt sentiment sparked the idea for the story, capturing the magic of Christmas through the eyes of a Mr. Nap A. Lot strolling through the streets and observing the joy in the families he sees.

Christmas is my favorite time of year, not for the gifts but for being with family and friends. What comes to mind when you think of Christmas Magic in your own life?

Christmas is my favorite time of year, and when I think of Christmas Magic in my life, I think of the love shared, the stories told, and the memories made. The air feels magical as we prepare for the Holiday Season. It’s truly a time to believe in something bigger than ourselves. I’ve always noticed how people come alive during this season, filling rooms with laughter and joy. There’s something about the lights, the evergreen smell, the fireplaces, the family togetherness, the freshly baked goods, and the sound of children laughing – all of these ingredients make Christmas so memorable for me.

What was your favorite scene in this story?

I have so many favorite scenes from beginning to end, but the one where he finds love and the magic of Christmas sets his spirit free is my absolute favorite. I also can’t help but cherish the moments where he witnesses kindness and selfless giving. Finding the true meaning of Christmas is another favorite scene, making it a tough choice. Every time I re-read the book, it feels like a toss-up between these wonderful moments.

I hope the Interesting Tales series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?

Thank you! I hope the Interesting Tales series continues as well. I initially planned for six books in the series, so I’m thrilled it’s continuing to grow. This series is one of my favorites because it allowed me to have fun and not set boundaries. I want kids to gain a love for reading, and if one of my stories can do that, I’ve done my job. This series has given me so much joy and has allowed me to be a kid at heart. I have five new books already written, each covering new and funny events about families, animals, and another fun holiday. I’m continuously inspired to add to this series and take readers on delightful journeys. For an author, I think the best ingredient is inspiration, and that’s all I can ask for.

I can say that the Interesting Tales collection has three more books written and ready for release in 2025, all aimed at continuing the tradition of bringing imaginative and clever stories to young audiences.

Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon

Mr. Nap A. Lot returns for a captivating Christmas adventure, a whimsical tale that beautifully captures the true spirit of the season. Join him on a heartwarming journey that will spark the Christmas magic within you. This delightful story, sprinkled with simple rhymes, is perfect for readers of all ages. So, cozy up and let the enchantment of Christmas unfold in the most whimsical way!

Curiosity and Wonder

Gel See Author Interview

With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams centers on a mom reassuring her daughter that she will always be there for her in life and perhaps even in dreams. What was the inspiration for your story?

The inspiration for With Love, From Mom: The Journey of Dreams comes from my own experiences as a mother to my daughter, Audrey. Since she was little, we’ve bonded over bedtime stories, and I wanted to write a story that celebrates the bond between a mother and her child. I aimed to capture the warmth and comfort of knowing that a parent’s love is constant and unwavering, both in waking moments and in dreams. It’s a love letter to my daughter and children everywhere, reminding them that they are always cherished and supported.

The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Gail Rae Javier?

I feel incredibly fortunate to have collaborated with Gail Rae Javier. As a new author, working with her has been wonderful. She brought her own artistic vision to my words, creating whimsical, dream-like illustrations that resonate with both children and parents. Gail’s talent for capturing gentle, heartfelt, and dreamy themes was exactly what I envisioned for the book. I appreciated her artistic point of view, and each illustration beautifully complemented the narrative, conveying the emotions and adventures of the mom and daughter. Her ability to translate my words into vivid, enchanting visuals brought the story to life beyond my expectations.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

There were several key ideas I wanted to convey. First and foremost, the theme of unconditional love and the strong bond between a mother and her child. I also wanted to emphasize the power of dreams and imagination, encouraging children to believe in themselves and explore the world with curiosity and wonder. Additionally, the story supports social and emotional learning (SEL), highlighting themes of love, self-worth, and emotional bonding. It’s important for me that children feel secure in their parents’ love and grow up confident in their individuality.

What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?

I am currently working on a new book that continues the adventures of the girl and her bunny from With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams. This time, they travel around the world, learning about different cultures, respecting customs, and immersing themselves in local traditions. It combines education with whimsy, aiming to broaden young readers’ horizons and foster a love and appreciation for the world around us. I’m excited to share that it will be available next year, and I can’t wait for readers to embark on this new journey with us.

I will also be releasing two more books this year in a series called Blossomvale. Curly’s Giving Heart follows Curly the Caterpillar as he learns the importance of balance and self-care while helping his friends. Feather’s Healing Song is a touching story about dealing with loss and finding joy again. Both books explore universal themes of friendship, self-discovery, and resilience, designed to entertain and impart valuable life lessons to young readers. I’m excited to share these heartwarming tales with children and families everywhere.

AuthorLinks: GoodReads | Instagram | Website

Discover the enchanting world of With Love, From Mom: The Journey of Dreams, an award-winning and heartwarming tale perfect for bedtime. This lyrical story unfolds as a mother’s loving letter to her child, brimming with magical adventures of riding rockets, swimming with whales, and dancing among the stars. Each page celebrates the boundless possibilities of dreams and the nurturing bond of a mother’s love.
Experience the Magic:
“A nurturing sendoff into a dreamworld of playful wonderment.” – Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review, Get It Award)
“Each page feels like a mother’s hug, filled with love and care.” – Readers’ Favorite 5-Star Review
“A whimsical journey of fancy and love in the land of dreams.” – Reedsy 4-Star Review
A Poetic Journey:
Told with lyrical rhymes and vivid imagery, this book invites young readers to dream big and feel deeply loved. It’s perfect for sparking curiosity, fostering a sense of security, and creating cherished bedtime memories.
Award-Winning Author:
Winner of the Golden Book Prize 2024, this beautifully illustrated book is a testament to Gel See’s captivating storytelling and Gail Rae Javier’s stunning illustrations.
Ideal for children of all ages, from newborns to young readers, this book is a wonderful gift for baby showers, birthdays, and special moments.
Join this heartfelt journey of dreams, where a mother’s love lights the way to wonder and self-discovery!

With Love, From Mom: The Journey of Dreams

With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams by Gel See is a heartwarming tale that beautifully captures the bond between a mother and her daughter. The narrative centers on the mother reassuring her daughter that she will always be there for her, both in life and perhaps even in dreams. Together, they embark on various adventures, whether in the real world or the realm of dreams, exploring and sticking together no matter what.

The illustrations perfectly complement the story, showcasing the joyful moments they share, which adds a beautiful visual dimension to their journey. Mother and daughter are vividly depicted, highlighting the mother’s profound love and the daughter’s happiness. The tone of the story is gentle and loving, creating a soothing reading experience. The beautifully illustrated settings enhance the narrative, adding depth and warmth. The pacing is perfect, ensuring that there are no dull moments throughout the story. The story is wholesome and sweet, making it an excellent read for mothers and daughters to enjoy together. The rhyming adds a delightful dynamic, which children will love, reinforcing the story’s clear message: a daughter should always know her mother will be there for her. The illustrations are simply gorgeous—otherworldly and vividly colored, they suit the story perfectly and deserve special credit to the illustrator. The visual appeal adds an extra layer of charm to the already captivating tale.

With Love from Mom: The Journey of Dreams by Gel See is a beautifully crafted story that encapsulates the unconditional love and bond between a mother and her daughter. Its gentle tone, engaging rhymes, and stunning illustrations make it a delightful read for both children and parents. This heartwarming tale not only entertains but also reassures young readers of their parents’ unwavering support and love. Perfect for bedtime reading or any bonding moment, this book is a must-have for families who cherish heartfelt stories.

Pages: 24 | ASIN : B0D79KFSMJ

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