Blog Archives
Keeping Life Real
Cotton Wood Adventures: New Beginnings follows Macy as she navigates the joy and challenges of ranch life, friendship, and learning to care for a horse with heart, humor, and an unforgettable black gelding. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I drew inspiration from my childhood growing up on a farm in rural Australia. There is currently twenty books in the series with another ten hopefully being released by Christmas 2025.
What inspired Macy’s character, and did you draw from any real-life experiences or people when writing her?
All the adventures Macy goes on are all based on true events and all the characters are real people.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Themes that were important to me when writing the books were honesty, loyalty, hard work, and kindness. I feel that maybe some of these values are being lost a little in today’s society and I really want the kids to hopefully learn from the books and Macy’s experiences through her farm life.
The emotional journey Macy goes through feels very honest. How did you approach writing the more difficult scenes?
I tried to be better as honest and real when writing the stories. Life is not always easy and I believe that keeping life real is very important, even if it’s not always rainbows and lolly pops. It takes great bravery to be honest and true. We have had some great times and some not-so-great times but all of them together help build the people we become.
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The Philly Phenoms
The Philly Phenoms is a heartfelt coming-of-age novel centered around Lee Lomax, a golf-obsessed fifth grader who leads his neighborhood friends in forming a makeshift golf tour on their elementary school grounds. What starts as a fun summer pastime quickly morphs into a deeper tale about friendship, family, courage, and grief. Through the eyes of Lee, we watch these kids battle broken windows, dig for softballs in overgrown woods, and wrestle with real-life events like 9/11 and a parent’s failing health. Author Nate Oxman captures all the chaotic beauty of growing up with humor and a whole lot of heart.
What really grabbed me about this book was how natural and funny the writing felt. Oxman writes the way kids actually think and speak, with a little bit of mischief and a lot of imagination. I felt like I was back on my own elementary school playground, sweating through a July afternoon and getting in just the right amount of trouble. The characters weren’t polished or perfect, which made them feel real. Latterman made me laugh, even while I was shaking my head at him. Lee’s voice is smart, tender, and stubborn in the best way. I found myself rooting for him, not just to sink his putts, but to figure out the messiness of life, even when it gets heavy.
The emotional core of the story hits hard, especially as Lee confronts his mother’s illness. Oxman handles grief in a way that’s quiet and gutting at the same time. There’s a chapter late in the book that completely broke me. The writing didn’t beg for sympathy; it just told the truth. That’s the power of this book. One minute you’re laughing about a kid trying to sneak a golf ball out of a broken school window, and the next, you’re blinking back tears as Lee tries to hold his world together. The pacing slows a little in the middle, and sometimes the golf lingo slowed me down, but overall, the story never lost me.
I’d recommend The Philly Phenoms to anyone who loves a good story about growing up, especially if you’ve got a soft spot for golf, tight-knit neighborhoods, or father-son bonds. It’s perfect for middle schoolers, parents reading with their kids, or adults looking to revisit the simpler, more complicated days of being a kid. If you’ve ever had a summer you didn’t want to end, this book will take you right back.
Pages: 272 | ASIN : B0F7NSDD78
Losing Austin
Losing Austin is a deeply emotional, raw, and imaginative coming-of-age story about a troubled boy named Colton whose nonverbal older brother, Austin, mysteriously vanishes during a rainstorm. The book follows Colton’s guilt-ridden journey as he tries to piece together what really happened to his brother, all while battling suspicion from his community, emotional distance from his parents, and his own inner demons. With hints of sci-fi mystery and a big heart, this young adult novel dives into themes of grief, sibling bonds, mental health, and belief in the unbelievable.
What grabbed me most was how real Colton felt. The kid is angry, vulnerable, funny in that painfully honest way, and sometimes downright heartbreaking. His voice in the book was authentic. It doesn’t read like a sanitized version of a teen. He messes up, but when he confesses that he told Austin, “I wish you were dead!” only to have his brother vanish hours later really tugs at the heart. The guilt and regret simmering under Colton’s skin are so raw.
And the ideas behind the book were wild in the best way. I loved how it straddles this hazy space between the possible and the unreal. When Keilani enters the story and says her brother disappeared the same day as Austin she thinks “the rain took them,” it gave me goosebumps. Bowler doesn’t spoon-feed you answers—he lets the mystery sit with you, build inside you and grow its own legs. That slow realization that other nonverbal kids, just like Austin, also disappeared during rainstorms is eerie and clever. Also, the mirror obsession, Austin’s backward drawings, and his love for rainbows felt symbolic without being pretentious. There’s something magical going on beneath the surface, and Bowler trusts readers to feel their way through it.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves character-driven stories with emotional depth and a twist of mystery. Teens, sure. Parents too. Even readers into speculative fiction would dig it. Losing Austin made me emotional, made me angry, and made me believe in the impossible for a second. If you’ve ever loved someone who was hard to understand—or ever felt like the world misunderstood you—this book’s going to resonate with you.
Pages: 213 | ASIN : B0DYZ9FSGV
Would You Rather…
Kimberly Baer’s Would You Rather… is a young adult thriller that starts as a harmless classroom game but quickly twists into something much darker. When a substitute teacher introduces a game of “Would You Rather” in physics class, the students think it’s just another way to kill time. But then, their chosen fates start coming true. Winning the lottery? Check. Losing hair? Check. Going missing forever? That’s when things get real. The story follows a group of high school students trying to unravel the mystery of their eerie predicament before it’s too late.
The dialogue is sharp, and the characters feel authentic. Henry, Blake, Ava, and their friends banter like real teenagers, sometimes goofy, sometimes awkward, but always believable. The moment the substitute teacher, Mr. Trinkley, enters the scene, the atmosphere shifts. He’s unsettling in a way that’s hard to pinpoint at first, but his chilling presence grows with every page. The game starts off lighthearted but quickly escalates. The moment Maddy pulls the card that forces her to choose between killing someone or being kidnapped by a serial killer? Goosebumps. It’s the kind of scene that makes you grip the book tighter.
Baer does a fantastic job balancing suspense with emotional depth. The friendships in the book feel genuine, especially the bond between the “Alphabet Quartet,” Ava, Blake, Charlie, and Deej. Their easy camaraderie adds a layer of warmth to the story, making the stakes feel even higher when things start spiraling. One of the creepiest moments for me was Reina’s hair loss. Her “Would You Rather” choice seemed harmless at first, but when her bald spots start appearing, it’s impossible to ignore the growing sense of doom. The way Baer describes it, little by little, until Blake accidentally yanks off her wig sent a shiver down my spine. It’s these slow, creeping horrors that make the book so effective.
The pacing is solid, though the middle drags a bit when the students are still debating whether the curse is real. I also wish we had more insight into Mr. Trinkley. He’s terrifying, but I wanted to know why, what his real deal was beyond being a creepy substitute. That said, once Maddy goes missing, the urgency skyrockets, and I couldn’t put the book down. The final chapters are a whirlwind of fear, desperation, and a race against time.
I’d highly recommend Would You Rather… it’s perfect for readers who love a mix of supernatural horror and high-stakes mystery, with just enough teenage drama to make it relatable. If you’ve ever played “Would You Rather” and thought, What’s the worst that could happen?—this book has your answer.
Pages: 178 | ASIN : B0DP364MX2
Shell Shocked: An Ocean Mystery
Kathleen Welton’s Shell Shocked: An Ocean Mystery introduces readers to 16-year-old Alex, whose passion for sea turtles transforms her summer into a thrilling yet treacherous adventure. Alex starts by volunteering at a local turtle rescue center, but her idyllic island life takes a dark turn as she and her best friend, Avery, uncover threats to the turtles she cherishes. Together, they navigate a dangerous mystery that puts both the turtles and their own lives at risk.
Welton captures the spirit of conservation beautifully, weaving Alex’s love for sea turtles into a compelling narrative. I particularly enjoyed the vivid descriptions of Cataluna Island, where the ocean’s beauty contrasts starkly with the shadowy threats beneath its surface. One standout moment for me was when Alex first encounters an injured loggerhead turtle, its scarred shell a haunting reminder of human negligence. The emotional weight of that scene stuck with me and underscored the importance of the book’s environmental message. Key moments, like the discovery of the mysterious markings on the turtles’ shells, carried significant intrigue, but some plot developments happened off-page or lacked depth. For example, Alex and Avery’s decision to confront the poachers directly felt rushed, and I found myself wishing for more buildup to heighten the tension. The stakes were clear, but the execution didn’t always deliver the urgency the story demanded. Alex is a relatable and determined protagonist, and her mentor, Maya, adds depth with her wisdom and wit. Avery’s role felt underdeveloped. His contributions to the plot were overshadowed by Alex’s larger-than-life drive, making him more of a sidekick than an equal partner in their shared mission. While their bond was endearing, I wanted more nuance in his character to balance the dynamic.
Shell Shocked offers an engaging tale for readers who love stories with environmental themes and strong-willed protagonists. The book’s heart is in the right place, and its vivid imagery and sincere message make it a worthwhile read. I’d recommend it to teens and young adults who enjoy eco-mysteries or are passionate about wildlife conservation. It’s a story that will make you think twice about the impact of human actions on the world’s oceans—and leave you rooting for every turtle that makes it to the sea.
Pages: 121 | ASIN : B0DRPC38HR
Ashes of the City
Ashes of the City by Quinton Taylor-Garcia delivers a gripping tale set in the aftermath of an earthquake that leaves a group of high school students stranded in a shattered urban landscape. Maya, a compassionate leader, strives to bring unity, while Jace, a ruthless pragmatist, champions strength as the key to survival. Their opposing ideologies fracture the group, igniting tension over scarce resources. As aftershocks loom and destruction mounts, both leaders grapple with harrowing choices and the weight of their decisions.
This novel is a riveting work of modern dystopian fiction. From the opening sentence, the author’s evocative prose commands attention. Vivid descriptions transform the ruined city into a visceral, almost living presence. Each crumbling building and each tremor in the earth feels real, immersing the reader in a world teetering on the edge of collapse. The story doesn’t just depict survival; it mirrors the fragility of the modern world, asking readers to confront unsettling truths about humanity and resilience.
The characters shine as the heart of this story. Maya and Jace, polar opposites, embody two sides of survival in crisis. Maya’s warmth and hope resonate deeply, offering a vision of collective strength, while Jace’s unflinching pragmatism challenges notions of morality when survival is at stake. Their clash is riveting, not only as a battle for leadership but as a commentary on what it means to remain human amidst chaos. The raw authenticity of their internal struggles makes them relatable, their humanity laid bare in every decision, every moment of doubt.
Themes of leadership, morality, and sacrifice pulse through the pages, creating a story that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling. The story moves with relentless energy, but it also takes moments to reflect, adding depth and nuance to the chaos. The contrast between destruction and the characters’ determination to survive is both haunting and inspiring.
Ashes of the City is an exploration of resilience, a challenge to consider how far we’ll go to endure, and a testament to the enduring power of hope. It’s a must-read for anyone drawn to dystopian stories.
Pages: 320 | ASIN : B0DK4397YD
Kianola
Nole, an eighth-grader who’s quiet, shy, and often overlooked by his classmates, discovers an unexpected side of himself in the virtual world of Enix. In this realm, he evolves from an awkward boy into a courageous hero, confronting mythical beasts and diving headfirst into thrilling adventures. Each triumph in Enix sparks a newfound confidence in him—a spark that he carries back into the real world, where he faces relentless bullies, an unspoken crush, and the daunting everyday challenges of middle school. Yet, the central question remains: Can this digital bravery withstand the trials waiting for him beyond the screen?
In Kianola, Nathan Roth crafts a touching, resonant story centered around Nole’s journey of self-discovery. The narrative pulls you right into the life of this timid eighth-grader, making his brave virtual escapades feel familiar and surprisingly uplifting. Roth’s vivid descriptions of Enix’s fantastical realm draw you in, making it easy to imagine standing beside Nole as he learns that the victories he earns in a game may shape the way he faces his reality. What stands out in Kianola is Roth’s nuanced portrayal of gaming not as mere escapism but as a space where Nole unearths parts of himself he never knew existed. The blend of real and virtual worlds is seamless, creating a singular, compelling journey that mirrors many young people’s struggles: dealing with bullies, navigating first crushes, and yearning to belong. Enix isn’t just a game; it’s a crucible where Nole’s courage is tested and forged, and Roth’s heartfelt crafting of this world gives it depth and resonance. The novel doesn’t shy away from meaningful themes. It touches on identity, courage, and the quiet struggle for self-confidence that many young readers will find relatable. Roth’s approach to these themes is refreshing—he presents Nole’s challenges with honesty and a light touch, never veering into melodrama. Each of Nole’s interactions, whether with his friends, family, or himself, unfolds naturally. We see how the smallest encounters can leave a lasting impact, shaping who he becomes. Roth reminds us that courage can be found in unexpected places and that even lessons learned in fantasy worlds can hold true in real life. Roth’s writing style strikes the perfect balance: engaging, straightforward, easy to connect with, yet rich enough to make Enix come alive. He brings just the right amount of detail to keep the fantasy realm exciting while grounding the story in the genuine, relatable experiences of middle school life. The dialogue flows effortlessly, making Nole’s world feel authentic and compelling. Roth creates a fast-paced yet meaningful narrative, where readers will find themselves cheering Nole on as he learns to face his fears, whether on-screen or off.
Kianola is a must-read for middle-grade readers, young gamers, or anyone who has ever felt like they don’t quite fit in. With relatable themes, engaging storytelling, and a protagonist you can’t help but root for, this book is a wonderful recommendation. For those who have ever wondered if the courage found behind a screen can translate into real-life bravery, Kianola offers a story that might just provide an answer.
Pages: 649 | ASIN : B0DH7T3V51
The Guardians of Earth
Guardians of Earth by Oriane Livingston is an eco-fantasy tale that combines myth, magic, and environmental activism. We follow Oona, a young girl who discovers that Earth is in grave danger, largely due to humanity’s actions and a sinister cosmic force known as the Dark Planet. Guided by Eterna, the spirit of Earth, Oona must rally her courage and inner powers to protect Earth’s balance. She’s joined by two other young guardians, Aqiwo and Nawal, as they navigate a world filled with talking animals, wise spirits, and ancient mysteries. Their mission is monumental. They must restore the sacred connection between humans and nature or risk losing the Earth forever.
Livingston’s writing has a beautiful and almost cinematic quality. She describes scenes with an awe-inspiring vibrancy, painting the natural world as though it’s a sacred tapestry. One passage that stood out to me is when Eterna, the spirit of Earth, speaks to Oona amid a lavender sky filled with giant lilac squirrels and fragrant blossoms. It’s so imaginative and surreal that I felt completely transported. Livingston doesn’t just show us nature’s beauty, she imbues it with a mystical glow. The writing is lush and evocative, yet at times, I felt like it leaned heavily on description.
Another aspect of the book that I liked is the powerful environmental message. Oona’s journey is driven by the need to reconnect humanity with Earth. This theme resonates strongly today, especially when we see Earth being harmed by pollution, deforestation, and climate change. One intense moment occurs when Oona witnesses majestic sequoias being cut down with the sap flowing like blood. The sorrow she feels as she watches helplessly is a reminder of the destructive impact humanity can have. Livingston’s clear passion for environmental activism shines here, making the book not just a fantasy but also a wake-up call.
Oona’s character is relatable and engaging. She’s young, curious, and brave but also vulnerable. Her connection to her mother and her struggles with her family add a touching depth to her character. The scene where her father dismisses her achievements hit me hard. It felt real and painfully relatable. It’s also a story about a girl finding her inner strength despite family issues and self-doubt.
Guardians of Earth is a unique and beautifully crafted tale that I’d recommend to anyone who loves stories where magic meets environmentalism. If you’re looking for a story that combines the wonder of fantasy with a heartfelt call to action, this one is worth diving into.
Pages: 164 | ASIN : B0DKG4RXQS
