Blog Archives
A Step in the Right Direction
Stormy Sailing follows a young boy and his father, on a journey with their refugee family, who get separated from the rest of the family and try to find a way to reunite with them. What was the inspiration for your story?
Even today, conflicts surround us, impacting people—families and children, too—in various ways. Some of us follow such events in the news. For others, social unrest and even war situations are part of their daily lives, forcing them to fight for survival.
It’s painful to witness world events that cause suffering, especially for children. They are innocent of the conflicts that displace families from their homes. Under inhumane conditions, little ones begin their lives without the security and joy that should be inherent to every child’s life. All means that could assist in this regard must be utilized.
There are influential individuals in society who possess the keys to important solutions, but we, the ordinary people, can affect them. We can also elevate the voices that might otherwise be silenced.
I feel like I’m an insignificant influencer, yet I strive to make these challenging situations visible through my children’s books. A storybook is a humble way to spread attitudes and feelings that, in turn, influence actions. It could be a step in the right direction.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The main themes of Stormy Sailing are the strength of close relationships and the significance of collaboration during challenging times. For family members, this is based on their love for one another and their readiness to make sacrifices for each other’s well-being.
The story’s overwhelming difficulties are portrayed through the eyes of the two main characters, a father and a son after their other relatives have already departed for the other side of the sea. Although the narrator describes the events from an outside perspective, the dialogues uncover the different perspectives of the adult and the child.
The father has his own role as an adult. He represents a parent who strives to ensure his child’s survival in every way possible. On the other hand, the child also has strength and refuses to give up. His sincerity and childlike optimism motivate the father to do his best from nearly impossible starting points.
For me, one of the most difficult parts of the story to write was when the father instructed his son to hold on to him as long as he was afloat. In other words, this means that the father tells his son to let go of him if necessary, in order to save himself. The father acts calmly, as a parent should behave to prevent the child from panicking. – In the most challenging situations, the greatest love also appears purest.
What is one thing that you hope the reader takes away from Stormy Sailing?
Earlier, I discussed the themes I consider most important in my story. If I were to highlight one more idea that could provide valuable support for the reader’s journey, it would be perseverance.
There are times in life when it seems like all means have been exhausted. It may appear that trying is no longer worthwhile. Even then, the Finnish saying “while there’s life, there’s hope” holds true. Although the outcome may not meet our expectations or may even be miserable, it feels better to have had the courage to make the attempt.
Even if our efforts were unsuccessful, we can at least be sure that nothing more could have been done. There is no blame or regret afterward. This relates to self-respect and confidence as well. Making the most of every opportunity strengthens us for the next time when that strength is needed.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m continuing my work on the Lyrics of Life Series, including Stormy Sailing. The second volume, illustrated by Spanish artist Catty Flores, has already been published and is titled Carried by Wings. The next two volumes in the series, The Hermit’s Hut and A Star Gazer are currently in progress, both illustrated by Nyamdorj Lkhaasuren from Mongolia.
My favorite songs inspire the books in my Lyrics of Life Series. Music is woven into my writing in various ways. Sometimes it plays in the background while I sit at my computer, immersed in a story. At other times, it creates moods that motivate me to explore new topics.
What has happened with this series is inspiring. I noticed that certain songs have played a significant role in my life at various times. Initially, they were on the radio when I was a child or teenager. Later, I rediscovered them as I sought the memories and emotions they evoked. Ultimately, they now serve as a source of inspiration for the children’s book series that has emerged.
In Stormy Sailing, waves from Rod Stewart’s “Sailing” were echoing in my mind. The song was written by Gavin Sutherland in 1972. In Carried by Wings, the winds of the Andes were blowing in my mind, and so was the Simon & Garfunkel song “El Cóndor Pasa” (“If I Could”). The original music was composed by Daniel Alomía Robles in 1913. These popular songs play in the background of the two latest episodes. I won’t reveal the other two until Nyamdorj Lkhaasuren and I have finished the books.
I have truly enjoyed writing the Lyrics of Life Series, and I hope the melodies resonate with the stories, even if they are not played out loud. Music has a wonderful effect and connects people everywhere, even when we do not realize it. Various forms of art inspire one another, and together, they influence human lives, including children’s lives.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Can a homemade ship, assembled from the wreck of a sailboat, last in a stormy sea? Will father and son survive the sea crossing and find the rest of the family?
The Power of Stories
Our Song, Our Voice follows a young golden crow as he embarks on a journey to save his grandmother and preserve his flock’s fading traditions, proving that courage, wisdom, and song can bridge generations. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The main inspiration for this Our Song, Our Voice can be found in the UNESCO Indigenous Languages Decade (2022-2032). When I learned more about the topic on their website, the idea of approaching the issue through nature developed in my mind. After all, human cultures are directly connected to nature and the changes that occur within it. Just as indigenous peoples are affected by the changes caused by the modern world, the ecosystem, with its animals and plants, also undergoes a similar experience.
In my story, golden crows that once inhabited vast areas have become increasingly rare as wilderness areas shrink and diminish. Their customs and songs, which correspond to the cultures and languages of smaller groups of people, are also threatened.
I feel great sympathy for the languages of the people. Small language areas, in particular, are in danger when larger languages encroach upon them. The new unilateral development is gaining momentum from global communication, where a few languages dominate. It is inherently good that the people of the world understand each other as widely as possible and without linguistic barriers. Alongside such development, we should also strive to preserve the languages of smaller regions, peoples, and cultures. This is essential for individuals’ identity.
What role do you believe storytelling plays in preserving cultural traditions in the real world?
The power of stories is eternal. It has undoubtedly been utilized for as long as humans have been able to speak. Even in its simplest and most original form, it has been, after primitive basic skills, the most crucial tool for the survival of the human species and the development of culture. In addition to transmitting knowledge and skills, stories have conveyed all the human experiences and emotions that have fueled the progress of the human species, enabling complex forms of cooperation to arise.
The power and need for stories have not diminished as societies have evolved. They are used everywhere: in education, politics, and marketing; the list is endless. The immense power of storytelling can serve both good and bad purposes. At best, it continues to convey valuable information and emotion, forming the basis for human action. At worst, its messages are deliberately distorted, aimed at manipulating people to serve questionable goals and selfish interests.
In my children’s books, I explore and utilize the possibilities of storytelling for various essential purposes. I aim to convey information about today’s world, including history and traditions, to children in an appropriate manner. I believe this approach helps them gain a better understanding of society and function within it.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
A central underlying theme in this storybook is the changes occurring in nature. The consequences of drastic economic projects for all living beings are often alarming and, at worst, irreversible. Increasing numbers of animal and plant species, as well as entire ecosystems and life forms, are under threat.
However, I believe that changes in nature should not be presented to children in an overly frightening or threatening way. My goal is to instill in them a respect for nature and a sense of responsibility for preserving it, rather than blaming them or projecting overwhelmingly disturbing images of danger.
I want to highlight the significance of cooperation and care between different generations as a vital foundation of humanity. By being deeply connected with people of various ages, we can pass down traditions and transfer knowledge to future generations as part of human interaction. The experiences of our predecessors pave the way for subsequent travelers on the paths of life.
My little protagonist’s name is “SISU,” a Finnish word that reflects an important theme in the story. It means determination, not giving up, and trying hard despite difficulties. It represents a stubborn strength that doesn’t make a big fuss about itself but acts regardless of obstacles. I thought it was a funny name for a little character, but it holds significant meaning and plays a crucial role in the national identity of people from my home country.
How did you develop the deep, heartfelt bond between Sisu and his grandmother, Una?
Relationships between members of different generations have always been meaningful to me. Important individuals older than me have greatly influenced my life.
To describe the special bond between Sisu and her grandmother in the story, I have drawn from moments and conversations I shared with my grandparents, who were part of my life for the longest time. Now, they are just a dear memory.
My grandfather, who lived in northern Finland, was an honest, old-fashioned man. He was skeptical of reforms that changed his world too much or too quickly. One detail in the story particularly relates to him: using tree resin for healing.
I have heard that my grandfather collected resin while walking in the forest and rolled it into a ball to take home. He would cut off pieces as needed and treat wounds or skin lesions with that gift from nature. Today, the disinfectant properties of resin are also recognized in medicine.
The story also reflects the peaceful togetherness I’ve experienced with my grandparents. They made time for me and shared many lessons that I still carry with me on my life journey.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Sisu’s grandmother Una wants to teach him important lessons about life, including the crows’ traditional songs and language. The flock is among the last of their species, and Grandma worries their unique songs and customs will disappear forever.
Then little Sisu takes on a big task, a journey that is not only important to his grandmother but also to the future of all golden crows.”
Leaving the Nest
Carried by Wings follows a young condor learning to fly who is terrified and experiencing self-doubt as his brother eagerly soars into the sky. What was the inspiration for your story?
I listen to a wide range of music, from classical to folk and popular genres. I have many favorite songs in the lighter realm of music that evoke nostalgic memories and experiences. The concept of children’s books, even when loosely connected to my favorite songs and the emotions they inspire, has led me to create the Lyrics of Life book series.
I immediately listed my five favorite songs over the years, and my imagination began creating stories for children. While writing the Carried by Wings storybook, tunes from the Andes played in my head. I sometimes hummed along to the imaginary pan flute in “El cóndor pasa” or the vocal version “If I Could” by Simon and Garfunkel.
There is something very appealing about both versions of this well-known song. One can easily imagine scenes associated with high mountain peaks and steep slopes on stormy shores. The birds that live there represent a kind of primitive courage and survival that one cannot help but admire. – I wanted to include that in my story of two condor siblings.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I want to highlight a scene that felt special to me. Writing that spread wasn’t just fun; it evoked a deeper feeling I would describe as a mix of freedom and happiness. I’m referring to the particular morning in my story when anticipation, excitement, and self-conquest culminated in Walter’s takeoff.
I’m especially moved when I think of young people who constantly face new situations requiring new skills, courage, and self-control. Life is full of these challenges as children grow up. Things become even more complicated when they have to reconcile their dreams and fears with the demands and expectations of their environment.
As I wrote that scene, I felt joy for all the main characters. The condor family’s nestling had truly crossed a significant threshold by stepping out of the nest and soaring into the skies. The parents had also accomplished their essential mission. They had nurtured their child and helped him develop to the point where his independent life could begin.
That part of the story is closely connected to the song “El cóndor pasa” playing in my mind. Although I have never been to the Andes, I enjoy watching nature documentaries about the highest slopes and their wildlife. For instance, the survival of birds in such harsh conditions is incredible.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
This book on growth and development benefits both children and the adults who guide them.
In this story, we can view the same situations from the perspectives of different characters. The young condor eagles, representing the child, perceive the challenges of growing up very differently from their parents. Even the two siblings interpret their current challenge of leaving the nest in quite opposite ways. One chick is filled with enthusiasm and takes its daring step too early, leading to tragic consequences. The other chick becomes increasingly cautious, effectively paralyzed by fear, and no longer believes in its abilities or chances of success.
This situation contains an important observation. Children starting in their own lives are individuals, and they should not try to follow others but instead trust their own judgment. Parents should also respect this. No matter how well-intentioned the educator may be, they can act against the child’s best interests.
Harm occurs when the adult rushes the learning schedule or pressures the child to do more or different things than are actually good for them. Additionally, there is a risk that parents may feel inspired through their children to pursue something they themselves have failed to do or achieve.
What is the next book in the Lyrics of Life series that you are working on and when will it be available?
The next two books in the Lyrics of Life series will be illustrated by Nyamdorj Lkhaasuren from Mongolia. One will direct our thoughts to space, while the other will immerse us in the life of a writer and his shepherd friend on a mountainside.
A Stargazer tells the story of a child fascinated by space who believes he sees more than others. Whether this is merely the child’s imagination is for the reader to decide. I’m looking forward to this book because I was interested in space as a child and often wondered what might be found there.
The main characters in The Hermit’s Hut represent the older generation. Some might argue that it’s odd to choose them this way. However, to me, this feels natural because I have always valued the connection and cooperation between different generations. In this book, the author of many books unexpectedly discovers a new way to pursue his life’s mission. Combining idealism with a new approach proves to be the solution. Of course, there are also children in the story, because a storyteller needs a diverse audience.
I hope this new series of mine, the Lyrics of Life, will resonate with readers. I believe it has the ingredients to work on two levels: one for children and one for adults. I’m sure a few imaginary background melodies won’t hurt either!
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The brave and curious brother, Arthur, rushes off too soon, while the cautious brother, Walter, does not want to leave the nest at all. His parents encourage him, and finally, it’s time for the young condor to conquer his fear.
A Museum Robbery
A Museum Robbery by Tuula Pere is a fun little mystery starring two kids, Emma and Oliver, who find themselves tangled in a museum heist. Their school’s grumpy old museum caretaker, Mr. Oddyman, finally retires, making visits much more enjoyable. But just as they’re getting comfortable, the museum is robbed! The police are stumped. Weeks go by with no leads. Then, by sheer luck, Emma and Oliver uncover the surprising truth: Mr. Oddyman isn’t just a grump… he’s also a thief! Turns out, he’s been hiding the stolen treasures inside jam jars, waiting for the perfect moment to smuggle them away.
I read this one with my kids, and honestly, it’s got a great mix of humor, mystery, and just the right amount of suspense to keep them hooked. I loved how Emma and Oliver felt like real kids. They were curious, a little mischievous, and always on the lookout for adventure. The way they accidentally crack the case made us laugh. My son thought it was hilarious that a detective had been following Mr. Oddyman for weeks, only for a spilled jar of jam to solve everything. The book doesn’t try too hard to be overly clever, which I appreciated. It’s just a fun, straightforward mystery with a lighthearted tone.
I wish the story had a bit more buildup to the reveal. The moment Emma and Oliver figure things out happens so fast that it almost feels too easy. A little more sneaking around, maybe a few more red herrings, would have made the mystery even stronger. Still, the story kept us entertained, and the characters were fun to follow.
One thing that really stood out to me was the chalk art style throughout the book. The soft lines and textures made the scenes feel warm and inviting. But my favorite detail was the colored highlights in Emma’s hair. My daughter noticed it right away and loved it. They popped beautifully against the backgrounds, giving her a playful look.
If you’ve got kids who enjoy short, adventurous mysteries, this is a great pick. It’s light, easy to read, and full of fun moments. Young readers who like solving puzzles will enjoy playing detective alongside Emma and Oliver.
Pages: 34 | ISBN: 952820029X
Luke’s Sailing Adventure
Luke’s got big dreams of sailing, but waiting for summer camp feels like torture. To keep him occupied, his family gives him a model sailboat for his birthday. Building it is no easy task, but with some help from his sister Emma, he manages. The real adventure begins when Luke takes the boat out for a test run, first in a small pond and then into the river. The current is too strong, and before he knows it, he’s in serious trouble. Lucky for him, Emma realizes something’s wrong and rushes to save him, just in time. The book wraps up with an important lesson about safety and responsibility, as well as a promise that Theodore (his boat) will sail again—this time, in calmer waters.
I loved the way this children’s book captured childhood impatience and excitement. Luke is so eager to experience real sailing that he makes one reckless decision after another. That part felt very real. Kids don’t always think things through, and sometimes they learn lessons the hard way. The writing is simple but effective, moving the story along without unnecessary fluff. The best part is Emma’s role. She’s not just a bossy older sister. She genuinely cares, and when things go wrong, she steps up.
The illustrations in Luke’s Sailing Adventure are absolutely charming, and they really bring the story to life. They have this soft, textured look. Almost like they were drawn with chalk, which gives the book a warm and nostalgic feel. The colors pop in all the right places.
This picture book is a great pick for young readers, especially those who love adventure. It’s perfect for kids around 5-8 years old, as it’s simple enough to follow but still carries a strong message. It’s also a good choice for classroom discussions about safety, responsibility, and how to handle unexpected dangers.
Pages: 36 | ISBN: 9528200214
Carried by Wings
Carried by Wings is a heartwarming children’s book that tells the story of two young condor brothers, Arthur and Walter, as they grow and prepare for flight. Arthur is bold and eager, ready to take to the skies without hesitation, while Walter is hesitant, clinging to the safety of the nest. As the story unfolds, Walter struggles with fear and doubt, but with gentle encouragement from his parents, he eventually finds the courage to spread his wings and embrace his destiny. It’s a beautiful tale about facing fears, growing at your own pace, and discovering the confidence that was inside you all along.
What I love most about this picture book is the way it captures emotions so simply and honestly. Walter’s fear of flying feels so real. He isn’t just nervous, he’s absolutely terrified. When he tries to dig himself into the ground instead of taking off, I couldn’t help but smile. His slow journey to bravery, from watching his parents soar to finally taking that first leap, felt natural and deeply relatable.
The writing itself is easy and rhythmic, making it a great read-aloud book. The dialogue between Walter and his parents feels warm and reassuring, just like a parent encouraging a child who’s scared to try something new. The descriptions of the Andes mountains, the roaring sea, and the wind rushing around the nest create a vivid. The balance between action and introspection keeps the story moving, while still letting kids connect with Walter’s thoughts and emotions.
Catty Flores has done an incredible job bringing the story to life. The colors are rich, the landscape is breathtaking, and the condors themselves have so much personality. You can see Walter’s uncertainty in the way he tucks his wings in, the way he looks up at the sky with a mix of awe and fear.
I’d recommend Carried by Wings to any child who has ever been afraid to try something new. It’s perfect for bedtime reading, classroom storytime, or even as a gentle reminder to adults that sometimes, you just have to trust yourself and take the leap. It’s uplifting, beautifully written, and full of heart.
Pages: 40 | ISBN : 9528201970
The Ghost of the Deserted House
The Ghost of the Deserted House by Tuula Pere is a delightful children’s story about summer adventure, friendship, and a little mystery. Oliver and his best friend, Liam, spend their vacation at a summer cottage. What starts as an ordinary trip filled with fishing, homemade soup, and comic books takes an exciting turn when the boys decide to sleep in the attic of an old, deserted house. Their nighttime adventure quickly becomes suspenseful as an unexpected visitor appears, leaving the boys to wonder if the house is truly haunted.
I adored the way the story captured the magic of childhood summers. The setting felt so familiar. Lazy afternoons by the lake, the excitement of sneaking away, and the slight fear of the unknown. Oliver and Liam’s friendship was the heart of the book. The scene where they build their own sleeping nest in the attic brought back memories of my own children making forts and creating their own worlds.
The suspense was well done without being too scary. The moment Liam woke up to a dark figure looming over them was both thrilling and funny. I loved how the author balanced fear with lightheartedness, especially when the “ghost” turned out to be Oliver’s snoring father. As a mother, I appreciated that the book delivered excitement without crossing into anything too frightening. It gave just the right amount of mystery for young readers.
One of my favorite aspects of the story was how it encouraged independence. Oliver and Liam made their own plans, problem-solved, and experienced small risks in a safe way. While they did sneak away, their intentions were innocent, and the story ultimately reinforced the importance of communication.
I would highly recommend The Ghost of the Deserted House for young readers, especially those who love light mysteries, sleepover adventures, and stories about friendship. It’s perfect for kids who enjoy books like The Boxcar Children or The Magic Tree House series.
Pages: 34 | ISBN : 9528201873
Stormy Sailing
Stormy Sailing tells the story of Liban, a young boy on an endless journey with his refugee family, searching for a place to call home. From the first pages, you can feel the exhaustion of his parents and the weight on his little shoulders. The story follows Liban and his father as they are separated from their family, forced to build a makeshift boat, and sail into the unknown, hoping for a reunion on the other shore. The ending, though bittersweet, leaves you with a sense of relief.
What I loved most about this picture book is how real it felt. Liban isn’t some larger-than-life hero, he’s just a kid trying to be brave. The moment when he begs his parents not to leave his old uncle behind? That one really got me. It’s heartbreaking because you know he’s right, but there’s no good choice. And then there’s his dad, always trying to stay strong, even when you can tell he’s just as scared. The scene where he promises Liban, “Tomorrow everything will be better,” even though they both know that’s not true, was so raw and honest.
The writing is simple but powerful. It doesn’t waste words, which makes every moment hit harder. Watching Liban and his dad gather scraps and somehow turn them into something that could carry them across the sea was oddly hopeful. It was messy and desperate, but it was also kind of beautiful. And when Liban says, “No one else has anything like this!” you can feel the pride in his voice, even though you know how fragile that little boat really is.
Then came the storm. That scene was terrifying. And when Liban’s dad tells him, “As long as I stay afloat, don’t let go!” I actually teared up. The stakes were so real. It’s not a story where you know everything will be okay. This is survival.
Stormy Sailing is for anyone who wants a story that makes them feel something. It’s not just a children’s book, it’s a book for anyone who’s ever felt lost, scared, or hopeful. It would be a great read for older kids who can handle serious topics, and for adults who want a deeper, emotional story in a simple, beautiful package.
Pages: 42 | ISBN : 9528202071
LITERARY TITAN 