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This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and T.E. Milburn. All opinions are my own.
Book Information
Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Trilogy
Written by T.E. Milburn Illustrated by Ayşe Yıldırım Ages: 7-12 | 403 Pages Publisher: T.E. Milburn (2025) | ISBN: 979-8991011488 Publisher’s Book Summary: Celebrate the wonder of the holiday season with Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Trilogy. Discover the heartwarming adventures of this highly rated series, now available in one beautifully illustrated edition. Calling All Heroes! A dark shadow looms over the North Pole, and we need brave readers like you to help us protect Christmas! Hi, we’re Noah and Alex James, and we’re excited to take you on this incredible journey. Here’s what we’ve uncovered so far:
We have received incredible support from amazing allies along the way— including super-chill yetis, quirky gnomes, talking animals, and other fantastical creatures. However, we still need your help to solve the mystery of who is attacking Christmas and why! Are you ready to dive into this magical adventure and join us in saving Christmas? If so, open your book and let’s go! Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for Magic in the Mountains?
On the surface, Magic in the Mountains was inspired by a creative writing lesson I had with my sons. We brainstormed some story ideas, and I found the process so enjoyable that I decided to develop the first book in the series. On a deeper level, though, I would say that Narnia significantly influenced my writing. The Chronicles of Narnia were the first books that truly transported me to another world, and the idea of children becoming heroes captivated me. These stories shaped my love of reading, but it wasn’t until we recently listened to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe during a road trip that I realized just how much Narnia had impacted my writing. I hadn’t read the books since childhood, but the influence was undeniable. What was your writing process like for this book? I wish I could say I have a structured writing process, but I’m currently a busy homeschooling mom who fits in writing whenever I can. For instance, I often find myself writing or editing in my car while my boys attend a class. I actually get a lot of writing done in the summer when we’re not in school. I can’t tell you how much work I got done this summer at our local Urban Air or at the neighborhood pool. With that said, I don’t typically make time for outlines or brainstorming. I prefer to let my thoughts flow when I finally sit down to write, and I’m often surprised by how things turn out. What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? What I love most about writing for children is interacting with them after they've read my stories. It brings me so much joy to hear a child say they enjoyed something I've written. During a recent school visit, one enthusiastic second grader couldn't stop chatting about one of my books. The teacher kept trying to gently pull her away, but I enjoyed her enthusiasm for reading so much that I could have talked to her all day long. What are you working on now? I am currently working on the next book in the Nessa Knightly and the Gnomes chapter book series. I refer to these books as “STEM-sprinkled adventures” because they blend science with fun and exciting stories. I have started two different projects: one focuses on states of matter, while the other explores animal classification. What is your favorite book? I don’t have a favorite book, but the last one I couldn’t put down was Kristin Hannah’s The Great Alone. I’m currently trying to read through the New York Time’s 100 Best Books of the 21 st Century list (for reference, I’m only 3 in). This has been really fun as it is making me read genres I usually wouldn’t choose. Giveaway
Enter for a chance to win one of five signed paperback copies of Magic in the Mountains: A Christmas Trilogy! One grand-prize winner will score a signed hardcover, a cuddly Arnan the polar bear plush, a mini crystal necklace, a holiday hot-cocoa mug with a hot chocolate bomb, and a special bookmark.
This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Jill Rosen. All opinions are my own.
Book Information
Ode to a Pug: NOT the VET!
Written by Jill Rosen Illustrated by Stephanie Rohr Ages: 4-6 | 21 Pages Publisher: Pug House Books (2025) | ISBN: 978-1-0695069-0-0 Publisher’s Book Summary: Do you ever get the feeling that something terrible is about to happen? Where the panic takes over, your eyes widen and you just need to zoom? Well, today is that day for our beloved pug Phoebe as she faces her biggest fear yet – THE VET! Laugh along to another silly, heartfelt and sweetly illustrated story from the author of the award-winning “Ode to a Pug”. Pugs aren’t really scared of much (except vacuums, tinfoil, bells, any loud noise…), but there is one place that causes our comical canine to cower – the DREADED VET’S OFFICE! Join on an epic journey of courage for a little pug with a big heart and a belly full of gas. An amusing rhyming story ideal for children ages 2-8 and dog lovers of all ages. Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for Ode to a Pug?
Just over four years ago a little, wrinkly ball of kisses and gas entered our lives. We named her Phoebe and fell in love instantly. Now, perhaps we should have known she was part gremlin when we first saw her with her littermates. She was the only one off tearing apart a shoelace while the others were sleeping or playing sweetly with each other. Although that wouldn’t have stopped us from falling under her spell! As soon as she came home, our house entered a state of chaos that one might expect if a velociraptor suddenly appeared on your couch. On one hectic day I came home to get ready for an event and found Phoebe happily chewing on the only shoes I owned that matched the only dress I had for the evening. I looked into her wide, innocent puppy eyes, shoe dripping and dangling from her mouth, and said, “Phoebe! That's it! You’re going back!” I didn't mean it, of course. It was just one of those sarcastic lines you throw out there when you are in a state of pug frazzlement. What I didn't know was that my youngest son overheard me and the next morning asked, “Mommy, are you really going to give Phoebe away?” I felt absolutely terrible. But that's when I had the idea of “Ode to a Pug. “ I wanted to reassure children that sometimes, when both kids and parents are frustrated, we say things we don't mean. We might get upset or exasperated from time to time with family or friends, but the love never changes. So I wrote my ode to our perfectly imperfect pug Phoebe. What was your writing process like for this book? I follow a similar process for all my books. They usually start with an actual life experience and inspirational moment that sparks an emotion. For NOT the VET, it was a particularly anxious vet visit with a shivering Phoebe that got my mind going. Seeing Phoebe stressed reminded me of when I took my sons to the doctor when they were little. My eldest was particularly terrified of needles. A story about fear started brewing in my mind. Usually there are also some key rhyming lines or verses that pop in to my head, and I scribble them down in the center of a big board. I then start to jot down scenes that could surround the key climactic event I'm envisioning. Once I have a bunch of vignettes, I organize them into a time sequence or storyline. I then begin writing page copy and playing with and perfecting the humor, words and rhymes. This stage is the longest part of my process. This is also when I bring Steph, my illustrator partner, into the development process and we work together to amp up the laughs, drama, and heart of the story by perfecting the combination of text and illustrations. Then the story really starts to come to life! Seeing Steph's first sketches is always one of the most exciting and fun parts of the journey. I also have an amazing editor who has worked with us on all the “Ode to a Pug” books. She truly understands our style and vision for the series and always ensures the final output is of the highest quality. I have to say, a pug in your life is just an endless supply of lovable and laughable moments that inspire all sorts of funny stories for children and dog lovers of all ages, so the ideas never stop coming! Thank you, Phoebe!! What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? My absolute favorite part is making children laugh and find joy in reading. I also love creating stories children can connect with and use to discuss how to manage strong emotions that they may have. Kids, like pugs, are bursting with thoughts and feelings they often cannot control. With my books, I hope to give young readers a humorous escape that makes them feel good about themselves and know that, like Phoebe, they can handle whatever life throws at them! What are you working on now? I am excited to share that “Ode to a Pug: I'm a BIG Dog!” will be releasing this spring! Phoebe and a little friend from “NOT the VET!” (minus the worms) will be out to prove they can hang with the BIG dogs. It is sure to be a hit with any child who has stared down a “You must be this tall to enter” sign! What is your favorite book? I am a big fan of “The Gruffalo” by Julia Donaldson. I would read this book over and over again with my boys until they were able to read it to me. Personally, I love everything by Dean Koontz. I always pick up one of his books every time I hop on a plane and read it from take off to landing. I'm a sucker for a good sci-fi thriller. Giveaway
Enter for a chance to win one of 10 hardcover copies of Ode to a Pug: NOT the VET! One grand prize winner will receive all three titles in the Ode to a Pug series, signed by author Jill Rosen, plus three custom pug plushies!
This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Melanie Moore. All opinions are my own.
Book Information
Adventures with Allie and Friends: Chef Cherie’s Cafe
Written by Melanie Moore Illustrated by Juan Diaz Ages: 3-8 | 40 Pages Publisher: Mascot Publishing (2025) | ISBN: 979-8891385351 Publisher’s Book Summary: Meet Allie! She loves helping her friends any way she can. She is always on the lookout for new ways to make a difference. In this first book about her adventures, Allie helps Chef Cherie with her restaurant. Will you come along with Allie and Chef Cherie? Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for Adventures with Allie and Friends?
I’ve been an educator for nearly 20 years and have often been asked by various teachers to write small social stories and plan activities for their students. I realized I had a passion for using creativity to support both teachers and students. It was these teachers and students who helped me discover my passion for writing and creativity. What was your writing process like for this book? Something I think that gets misconstrued is that the writing process is a one-person show. The writing process involves a team of people bringing ideas to the table in order to make a book happen! I know I couldn’t have done it without the great team at Mascot Books! What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? My favorite part is visualizing what the characters and settings look like and making them come to life on the page. What are you working on now? I am working on ideas for my second book in this series. What is your favorite book? My favorite children’s books are The Berenstein Bears and The Baby-Sitters Club book series. Giveaway
Enter for the chance to win one of 10 hardcover copies of Adventures with Allie and Friends: Chef Cherie’s Cafe by Melanie Moore!
This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Jennifer Ussi. All opinions are my own.
Book Information
The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat Who Got Lost in Africa: Book 1: The Pangolins
Written by Jennifer Ussi Illustrated by Lekshmi Bose Ages: 6-10 | 56 Pages Publisher: Little Boola Books (2024) | ISBN: 978-1-923356-01-6 Publisher’s Book Summary: Book 1 in The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat Who Got Lost in Africa introduces Casper, a curious, city-smart cat who suddenly finds herself lost in the wild African bush, far from everything she’s ever known. Terrified of the bugs, the dark, and the strange sounds all around her, Casper is sure the wilderness is no place for a little cat like her until she meets a shy, scale-covered creature called a pangolin. As she learns to see the world through new eyes, Casper discovers the power of trust, the meaning of courage, and why protecting vulnerable creatures like pangolins matters more than she ever imagined. Perfect for readers ages 5–10, The Pangolins is a beautifully illustrated chapter book filled with:
Written by award-winning filmmaker Jennifer Ussi and illustrated by Lekshmi Bose, this 5,000-word debut in the Casper series brings the magic of African wildlife to life while inspiring young readers to be curious, compassionate, and kind. Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat
Who Got Lost in Africa? The inspiration actually came from a conversation with my husband. We were traveling around Africa in our campervan and had spent a few hours watching wildlife at a waterhole in Namibia. It’s such a spectacular sight — all these different species gathered together, some wary, some bold, some darting in for a quick drink and disappearing again. Mark thought it would make a great book or film — the comings and goings at a waterhole — but I wasn’t entirely convinced. Ensemble pieces are hard to write, and I’ve never thought I was very good at them. Around the same time, I read about a cat in America that had gotten lost and walked over 300 miles to get home. I found myself wondering whether that cat might’ve asked other animals for directions along the way. I’ve always loved cats, and during Covid in Australia we had a little rescue — a tiny black cat with a white patch, my absolute soulmate. We called her Little Boo because she stayed small and sweet. Casper was really based on her — a brave, wise old soul in a little body, full of sass and just a touch of anxiety. What was your writing process like for this book? I find writing hard and easy, and each book is a little different. For The Pangolins – the very first book – it just came out naturally, Casper became alive on the page, for me, within minutes. Probably because I had Little Boo so real in my head that I just channeled her, gave her a voice and all the awesome things I know she would do if it was her lost in the bush. I wrote the first draft over a few days, and then, under the guidance of my husband, my very first reader, and my nieces and nephews, I added a few more characters and refined it a little before moving on to the second book, The Elephants. What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? I think my favorite part about writing these books for kids is that I know that they are learning about these amazing animals, and the more they know, the more chance the world has at long term conservation. I love to hear feedback from kids (many times teachers send me letters from the kids in their classrooms) about which animal/character they loved most, and how much they learned and how much more they want to learn. This, without doubt, is the absolute best part of writing! What are you working on now? I’m still writing the Casper series — I’m on the last book in the Africa collection, Book 10. It’s about a honey badger named Solo, who’s been chosen by the Animal Committee to escort Casper on the final stretch of her journey home. Their adventure’s a bit chaotic — honey badgers might have a sweet name, but they’re completely fearless and just a little unhinged. Together they make quite a team: Casper teaching Solo some city sense, and Solo teaching her bush smarts. And at last, Casper makes it home to a very emotional welcome from all the neighborhood animals, her brother Goulash the dog, and of course, her mum and dad. But of course, Casper’s adventures don’t end there — her mum and dad are moving to South America next. Would she really get lost again? Surely she wouldn’t get lost in a jungle… right? What is your favorite book? This is always one of the hardest questions to answer, and I bet it’s the same for everyone — there are just so many fantastic books. When it comes to children’s stories, I always go back to Roald Dahl. Such classics, so diverse, and such lovely stories. What I love is that they never talk down to children; they just invite them in and trust them to understand. For adult books, I’d probably say my all-time favorite is Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry. That book made me cry, laugh out loud, and honestly, I almost went into mourning when I finished it. I just loved being in that world. Giveaway
Enter for the chance to win one of 10 paperback copies of The Pangolins, the first book in The Incredible Adventures of Casper the Cat Who Got Lost in Africa. One grand prize winner will also receive a complete paperback set of the first four books in the series, perfect for young animal-lovers and chapter-book readers.
This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Samuel Warren Joseph & Phil Proctor. All opinions are my own.
book Information
The Magic Maze Trilogy
Written by Samuel Warren Joseph & Phil Proctor Ages: 9-12 | 244 Pages Publisher: Sam/Phil Books (2025) | ISBN: 979-8-9927464-6-4 Publisher’s Book Summary: The Magic Maze Trilogy includes three books: Tyler and Tess in the Magic Maze; Madness in the Magic Maze; and Escape from the Magic Maze. It is about eleven-year old fraternal twins, Tyler and Tess Porter, who accidentally get sucked up into the bizarre world of the Magic Maze. Geared to appeal to children from seven to thirteen and older fantasy fans as well, the story propels the twins into an “Alice in Wonderland/Wizard of Oz” world. In order to return home, they must get through twelve separate parts of the maze. Each is its own world with strange rules, riddles and puzzles that the twins must solve using their wits, knowledge and athletic prowess. Tyler and Tess learn how much they mean to each other as they evade the evil QUEEN ZEBRA and her ZENTAURIAN GUARD of two-faced POLINERDS, and a duplicitous wizard, SIMON PERCIVAL. They form alliances with the rebel TRIDGETS (tiny trolls with Mohawk hairdos) led by the feisty BELKIN, and an assortment of other bizarre and funny characters. At the end, they must track down and put back together three parts of a MAGIC AMULET before they can be finally transported home, safe and sound. Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for The Magic Maze Trilogy?
I had always loved fantasy but had mostly written feature films and animation. I was also teaching in the public schools at the time I conceived The Magic Maze and wanted to write a book in this genre that was also educational. After writing the first chapter of the book, I asked Phil Proctor to partner with me and he agreed. As a twin parent, I'm always interested in media that portrays twins. What led you to choose twin characters? I wanted to create a story about a brother and sister who had to go through this adventure together. I had spoken with and read about a number of twins over the years that seemed to have a unique bond. I thought it would be interesting to explore, especially if they were fraternal twins that had dramatically different personalities yet were super connected. What was your writing process like for this book? I really got to know Phil when he co-starred in a stage play I wrote that was produced in Los Angeles. Phil is famous in comedy circles as a member of Firesign Theater (look them up.) He is also the voice of many cartoon characters like “Howard” on Rugrats. During the production of the play, I asked Phil if he’d like to collaborate and he agreed. We first outlined the book describing what would happen in each chapter with a focus on how the twins would master that part of the Maze. We have some sort of puzzle or educational angle to each chapter. We then divided up the chapters and wrote them alone. Later, we literally sat in front of the computer editing the chapters together. What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? I think what Phil and I enjoyed most was creating exciting adventures that also had an educational component. We essentially snuck in learning while engaging the young readers in the story. What are you working on now? I am in the midst of writing a new stage play. Phil has a number of acting and voice- over bookings coming up and has a weekly radio interview show on KPFK-FM in Los Angeles (also available online). Phil and I are also discussing what we want to write together next. What is your favorite book? My favorite book is One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Phil’s is “the one that I’m reading now!” Giveaway
As part of this virtual book tour, one lucky winner will receive a classroom set of The Magic Maze Trilogy in paperback!
This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Nyasha Williams and Sidney Rose McCall. All opinions are my own.
Book Information
Once Upon a Kwanzaa
Written by Nyasha Williams and Sidney Rose McCall Illustrated by Sawyer Cloud Ages 4-6 | 32 Pages Publisher: Running Press Kids (2025) | ISBN-13: 978-0762487356 Publisher’s Book Summary: A celebration of the beauty, power, and faith of the African-American community as reflected in the principles of Kwanzaa, by the author of I Affirm Me: The ABCs of Inspiration for Black Kids. Kwanzaa is a holiday steeped in ancestral traditions collected over generations of people across the Black Diaspora. Once Upon a Kwanzaa introduces communities of all colors to the interwoven history and lived experiences connected to this time of year when families and loved ones gather to celebrate, share, and reimagine the past, present, and future. Sawyer Cloud’s stunning artwork showcases seven different BIPOC families and highlights how different peoples of the Diaspora can celebrate in their communities, from setting the table and lighting the Kinara to sharing meals and gathering at events. The book includes a glossary and pronunciation guide. Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for Once Upon a Kwanzaa?
Nyasha: The inspiration really came from a personal place and a need we saw in the broader literary landscape. Sidney and I were both starting to center Kwanzaa more intentionally in our lives. For me, it was a complete transition for my husband and me, from celebrating Christmas to celebrating Kwanzaa and that shift opened up so much curiosity, joy, and reflection. We wanted to create something that families could have during Kwanzaa that really solidifies the central points of the holiday. There are so many books for other holidays, especially Christian holidays, that center them fully in families’ celebrations. We felt there was room for Kwanzaa to have its spotlight, and for children and adults to understand the principles and bring them into everyday life, beyond just one week of celebration. Sidney: Once Upon a Kwanzaa grew out of many of the potentials of cultural holidays serving as vehicles and entry points for folks looking to gather in more community-minded ways. Just as Juneteenth offered people lessons on the histories of slavery, abolition, and freedom, Kwanzaa held the possibility of teaching everyone, especially our youngest readers, how to build up their communities through the holiday’s seven principles. Pushing beyond Judeo-Christian holidays and secular feast days – that often, intentionally and unintentionally, conceal much deeper, troubled histories – allowed for us to open Kwanzaa up to a broader community that, regardless of faith or culture, could find ways to incorporate the holiday into their seasonal gatherings and everyday practices. What was your writing process like for this book? Nyasha: The writing process for Once Upon a Kwanzaa was deeply collaborative and intentional. Sidney and I spent a lot of time thinking about how to honor the principles of Kwanzaa while making them accessible and engaging for children and families. We wanted the text to celebrate the holiday, its histories, and its Ancestral wisdom, to feel both warm and inviting while practical in guidance. It involved weaving together story and imagery in a way that could resonate on multiple levels, whether for a young child hearing it for the first time, or an adult looking to deepen their understanding of the holiday. We were very deliberate in making something that allows families to experience the joy, reflection, and connection that Kwanzaa offers. Sidney: Working on Once Upon a Kwanzaa felt like coming home in so many ways. From the character descriptions (and back stories) to the flow of words, everything felt like a collaboration in the truest sense of the word. While we initially started this project out as a singular story to introduce families and communities to the wintering holiday and expand the lens of cultural and historical practices of the Black Diaspora, Kwanzaa, as so often happens, demanded we dig deeper. The more we explored the principles, the more we came to realize that Kwanzaa, as a living depository of knowledge, memory, and history, could not be contained by seven days. Kwanzaa became an everyday mantra of miracles and magic; a creative landscape where young folks could take lessons from the past to reimagine the future; a journey for grown folks to sojourn and recover recipes of resistance and community building. Kwanzaa became more than a holiday. Kwanzaa transformed into an everyday thing — a portal to the past, and a promise for the future. What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? Nyasha: First, I’ll say that I don’t just write books for kids, I write picture books or illustrated stories that can be accessed wherever someone is on their journey. I truly believe that everyone has something to receive from the magic of picture books. My favorite part about writing for the community is helping people open their minds in relation to dreaming, dreaming beyond what currently exists. I love creating space for readers to expand their own perspectives, gaze, and lenses, to evolve and grow, and to tap into their own creativity. My work is meant to be a stepping stone, sparking imagination and inspiring others to envision what’s possible beyond my initial ideas. Sidney: Hmmm. I generally do not think of the stories I write and workshop based on their age classifications of readership. Rather, I like to visualise my works, especially ones where I have young readers in mind, as a pebble dropped in a pond. Pebbles might be small, but they have the potential to create powerful ripples with time and reach depths that make us search, recover, and reimagine ourselves and our world. Some of my earliest memories belong to the books I read as a child. Even when the books were not “children’s books” or the subjects were still fuzzy and forming in my developing mind, the words and illustrations continued to reach me and the ripples they inspired moved me to dream, change, and transform. That potential is what I hope to drop and deepen in all my stories – even when the conclusions do not bring forth solutions, their impact will serve as an encounter and entry point for young (and grown) readers to be amazed, moved, changed, transformed, and inspired. What are you working on now? Nyasha: Honestly, a little bit of everything I love! I’m expanding Once Upon a Kwanzaa with lesson plans with Sidney so people can really dig into the principles. Sidney and I are playing with the creation of a Kwanzaa countdown or advent calendar for those who celebrate. I'm also working on graphic novels, middle-grade stories, and screenplays. On top of that, I’m growing my publishing company, Fire + Honey, and building community spaces rooted in Ancestral wisdom and liberation. It’s all about sparking imagination, connection, and helping people see what’s possible. Sidney: Along with my history degree, I am working on an afrofuturism-fantasy epic alongside a children’s illustrated collection inspired by the works and wonders of Leo and Diane Dillon, Hayao Miyazaki, Mary Pope Osborne, and Dr. Margaret Musgrove. With Nyasha, I am building out Once Upon a Kwanzaa with lesson plans for students, grown folks, and community members to immerse their everyday practices in the principles of Kwanzaa. I am also expanding my education platform from my Patreon (www.patreon.com/uprootedgarden) to more accessible video and audio formats (so keep an eye on your YouTube recommendations for future upRooted history lessons~) What is your favorite book? Nyasha: Oh, I have so many favorites! For picture books, I love The 1619 Project: Born on the Water by Nikole Hannah-Jones and Renee Watson, illustrated by Nikkolas Smith; Safe Crossing by Kari Percival; and The Artivist by Nikkolas Smith. For novels, I’m drawn to Jambalaya by Luisah Teish, 78 Acts of Liberation: Tarot to Transform Our World by Lane Smith, Habibi by Craig Thompson; and Root Magic by Eden Royce. So, clearly, I have a focus in social justice, folklore, and spirituality, and I love characters who, through creativity, magic, or courage, use their gifts to transform our world. Sidney: An excellent question (and a near impossible one!) If I had to think back to the books of my childhood, I will always have a soft spot for Mary Pope Osborne’s Magic Tree House series and L. Frank Baum’s Oz books that nurtured my love of historical and fantastical worlds pressed on the pages. I still return to my collection of American Girl books, especially Connie Porter’s Addy series. Some of my favorite books now include Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower, Ntozake Shange’s Sassafrass, Cypress & Indigo, and Julie Dash’s Daughters of the Dust. I hold to the dream that works which weave history, memory, magic, resilience, and community together reveal visions from the future/past that feed our souls, grow our minds, and inspire our hands (and hearts) to change the world. Giveaway
Enter for the chance to win one of five hardcover copies of Once Upon a Kwanzaa! One grand prize winner will receive the book plus a complete Kwanzaa Celebration Kit—featuring a Kwanzaa Advent, Kinara, and ceremonial candles—to honor your family’s heritage and create meaningful traditions.
This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Sarah Scheerger. All opinions are my own.
Book Information
Dude. Be Nice
Written by Sarah Scheerger with Brent and Jamie Camalich Illustrated by Alex MacNaughton Ages: 3-7 | 32 Pages Publisher: Flamingo Books (2025) | ISBN: 978-0593350607 Publisher’s Book Summary: Meet Dude, the nicest Dude in town! Or so he thinks . . . One day, Dude decides that he wants to do nice things for his friends and neighbors all day long. But Dude isn’t exactly attentive and tends to forget the most crucial part of helping people: asking first. So when Dude unravels a sweater, frees some dogs, and ruins an ice cream social, he needs to reckon with his own niceness: is it really nice if he wasn’t that helpful? Can Dude and his best friend Fizz save the day before Dude makes too big of a mess? With hilarious text from Sarah Scheerger and gorgeous illustrations by debut children’s book artist Alex MacNaughton, Dude. Be Nice is a tale of good intentions and not-so-good outcomes, sure to make readers giggle along the way. Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for Dude. Be Nice?
This book was inspired by the real-life Dude. Be Nice Project, a video series with more than 80 million views. I just happened upon their website. I was prepping for a presentation at a school where I provide counseling services and looking for an engaging video to spark discussion. I found a DBN video, within which a school honors and celebrates their special custodian. I love to hear about good things people are putting out in their communities, and I feel that so much of our media consumption focuses on negative or traumatic things happening in the world. Yet around us, every day we have heroes who are doing the right thing. I think it's important for people and even more so for children to know and feel the love and good qualities that are around them every day. Not only was I inspired by their content, but this image of a Dude character came into my head. The idea lived there for several years until I wound up interacting directly with the owners of the company and mentioned “have you ever thought of writing a picture book with Dude as a main character?” They had, in fact, thought of that, and we decided a partnership could work out. I was excited to write a story that would amplify this company. I would love to help them extend their reach. We need more videos from dude. be nice. We need more people out in the world recognizing unsung heroes. What was your writing process like for this book? This writing process was unique because I feel like I created the “character” initially, not the story itself. I knew I wanted a character named Dude. I knew he should be “nice,” but I wasn’t sure if Dude was a story for very young children (similar to Pete the Cat) or if Dude would be for slightly older children (similar to Dragons Love Tacos). I wasn’t sure if Dude was funny or just sweet. I tried multiple different versions. My editor was interested in this project early on. I think she also loved the character Dude but was searching for the right expression of his voice and story line. I went from sweet and rhyming (early version), to breaking the fourth wall (mid process version), to the current deadpan humor version. I confess I did struggle a bit to figure out the best path forward, but I’m grateful for the struggle because I love the final version best. What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? I love the quiet space of creating. My favorite part of the process is when I have a solid first draft, and I am finessing it. It’s also very exciting when I get the first burst of idea and I can’t wait to write it down. I also love talking to kids about books and getting them excited about reading and about creating. What are you working on now? I’m always dabbling with different ideas. I’m never sure if what I’m working on will become a published book. I just follow whichever storylines spark my interest and sound the most fun to spend time with. Right now, I’m playing with a middle grade novel. It’s still in the early stages, so we’ll see. I’ve also been doing quite a bit of work to create an extensive SEL curriculum to pair with my book Dude. Be Nice. My goal is for teachers to be able to read this book and step easily into an activity and classroom discussion that aligns with the storyline. What is your favorite book? That’s a very hard question. I’ll focus on books I’ve read in the last ten to fifteen years. I am a huge fan of the book Wonder. I love the way teachers read it in classrooms and use it to foster meaningful classroom discussions. I just read two amazing books with my daughter--The War that Saved My Life and Out of My Mind. If you’re asking me to pick some of my own favorite books (that I wrote myself) I’d say Operation Frog Effect and Dude. Be Nice. Giveaway
Enter for the chance to win one of ten hardcover copies of Dude. Be Nice! One grand prize winner will receive the ultimate kindness bundle: a complimentary virtual author visit with Sarah Scheerger (available anywhere) and an autographed copy of Dude. Be Nice, a Dude. Be Nice apparel item (your choice of shirt, sweatshirt, or hat), and one additional book by Sarah Scheerger to add to your collection!
This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Rashad Mirzayev. All opinions are my own.
Book Information
Mimi & Ary
Written by Rashad Mirzayev Illustrated by Ken Sheykh Ages: 3-12 | 74 Pages Publisher: MindStir Media (2025) | ISBN: 978-1966074847 Publisher’s Book Summary: Mimi & Ary is a whimsical and heartfelt story about a curious girl named Mimi and Ary, a wise, protective blue bird who finds her lost in a magical jungle. As they journey together in search of her parents, Ary teaches Mimi life lessons about fear, trust, awareness, and love. Along the way, they meet a glowing ladybug, a majestic horse named Sema, and a witty, misunderstood cat – each adding charm and insight to their adventure. Through meaningful conversations and shared experiences, Mimi learns to overcome fear, embrace gratitude, and trust herself. The jungle becomes a space of growth, where she gains confidence and forms strong bonds. Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for Mimi & Ary?
My daughter, Madina, who is often called Mimi by her grandparents, is my inspiration for the story. A friend once suggested that I could order a custom-made children’s book online through print-on-demand services where you can input a photo and your child's name to receive a personalized copy. However, I didn’t want to use such a service; I wanted to create something of my own, with eternal value and an unforgettable memory. This desire to make something meaningful and unique motivated me to craft Mimi and Ary’s story. A story that my daughter will cherish forever and if I am lucky she might be reading it to her kids someday. What was your writing process like for this book? Fluidity is the word that best describes my writing process. I was able to write the story, create the characters, develop their traits, and include actual dialogues I’ve had with my daughter in just one day. However, the editing and touch-ups took several weeks. I wanted to ensure that the story would leave a meaningful impact on every reader, whether it’s a child reading it or a loving mother reading it aloud to her little one. What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? My favorite part about writing books for kids is discovering that a little adorable creature is actually enjoying the book, including the story, illustrations, and characters. That feeling is truly priceless. Ultimately, I wrote this book so that kids can enjoy and learn from it! What are you working on now? Currently, I am working on my short articles, typically 5 to 15 minutes to read. I enjoy writing about topics that stimulate my curiosity or feed my brain. Recently, I have written about envy, Denis Diderot, Nikola Tesla, and Stoicism. What is your favorite book? I have got a few... Prophet by Kahlil Gibran, Principles by Ray Dalio & Almanack of Naval Ravikant. Giveaway
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This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Expound Publicity. All opinions are my own.
Book Information
Luella’s Library
Written by Tara Lala Illustrated by Francesca Pesci Ages: 8-10 | 38 Pages Publisher: Mascot Kids (2025) | ISBN: 979-8891384798 Luella loves to read books, but her best friend, Lino, doesn’t. What Lino soon discovers is that the books in Luella’s library are magical! When one of her books transports them to an enchanted land, they have to face unexpected obstacles and help new friends. Will Luella and Lino complete their journeys along the way? Will they be able to help their new friend find his way back home? Or will Lino choose his phone over the adventures Luella’s library has in store? Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for Luella's Library?
In the past few years, I’ve seen a major shift in how young kids spend their free time. Rather than using their imaginations to play games, read a book, or enjoy the outdoors, I’ve noticed that their play-time is heavily spent on their iPads and phones. It’s become less reading, and more tapping. If this trend continues, kids won’t know the experience of getting lost in a book anymore and expanding their imagination. Will kids even be creative if they’re always told what to believe through their iPads and never form opinions of their own? Getting lost in a book gives kids the opportunity to connect with characters, go on wild adventures, and make choices and opinions based on the plot. So, I decided to write Luella’s Library to show kids the magic of reading a book. Children will be able to follow Luella and Lino on the many adventures their book takes them on. Lino is inspired by one of my own cousins who loves to spend time playing games on his iPad, and Luella has traits of my sister, who has a library of books in her bedroom. Adults will be able to see that the message is to put down the electronics and pick up a new book. My goal is to show children in a fun, interactive, and relatable way that picking up a book can be more of an exciting experience than picking up an iPad. What was your writing process like for this book? The writing process for this book was actually the easiest compared to my others books. My first three books are chapter books, and those require a lot more detail and time. My fourth book was my first picture book, so it took me a long time to learn how to write a short book…it was tougher than I thought to compact all my ideas into a simple story with a few pages! By the time I wrote Luella’s Library, I found it quite easy because my previous book had taught me to write concisely. My mind was filled with several ideas of where my main characters could travel, so it was a fun process to write this book during my sophomore year of university. What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? Growing up, I loved watching Disney and Barbie movies…and I still do! It’s a magical escape into places where characters can go on adventures that humans can’t. They don’t have to face real-world problems, but teach real-world lessons. I’ve always loved lighthearted stories and happily-ever-afters, which is why I chose to write for children. I hope to evoke that same sense of imagination and wonder in them that these films and books once evoked in me. What are you working on now? I am currently a student at the University of Southern California and have been taking a lot of screenwriting classes, which is a newfound interest. I am currently working on a princess fantasy-romance screenplay for family audiences. What is your favorite book? Stephanie Garber’s Once Upon a Broken Heart trilogy! It’s a perfect mix of fantasy, mystery, and romance. Her world-building is incredible and she does an excellent job of keeping you turning the page and wanting to find out what’s next. Giveaway
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This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Lynsey Patterson. All opinions are my own.
Book Information
Ginger’s Courage
Written by Lynsey Patterson Illustrated by Angela Perrini Ages: 4-6 | 18 Pages Publisher: Little Steps Publishing (2025) | ISBN: 978-1915641366 Publisher’s Book Summary: When Ginger, a spirited dog, faces a life-changing injury, her world is turned upside down. But with the support of her friends and a heart full of resilience, she discovers a newfound positivity that helps her embrace life’s challenges. Author Interview
Where did you get the inspiration for Ginger's Courage?
Gingers Courage was inspired by my partners dog who has become a big part of my life. My partner rescued Ginger from a rescue centre in Newcastle and not long after Ginger lost her leg. All of our dogs have been rescues and watching them with their struggles and issues inspired me to write this book. What was your writing process like for this book? The writing process has been ongoing over years. Initially, the story looked very different. After working with many editors I managed to finish the book. Although they look simple, picture books are more difficult than you think to write. A big problem I have is with over editing. It can be hard to settle on a final copy as I cn always see something that needs to change. What is your favorite part about writing books for kids? My favorite part of writing books for kids has always been finding a way to inspire a child as well as making them think about what someone else has gone through. The visuals in a picture book can make a child see behind the scenes and have the ability to make children think. What are you working on now? I have nearly finished the second book in the picture book series. I have unfinished pieces sitting in my office waiting for me to find a way to finish them. I am also working on a fiction book but I need to find my creative place again. It has been difficult with work and life and it has been harder than usual recently. There are times when it is easier to write than others. What is your favorite book? A favorite book of mine as a child was The Secret Garden. There was something magical about finding a secret garden. We had a lovely garden years ago but had to move when my parents divorced. Living in a council house we didn’t have much of a yard so it was even more appealing to imagine a secret garden where everything was peaceful. Mary was an orphaned child who ended up moving to the Yorkshire Moors with her Uncle and cousin who lived in a mansion which was full of secrets. Working in the garden and reviving the garden, Mary and her cousin managed to heal themselves and the garden. The pages took me to somewhere comforting and even now as an adult I could read that book over and over again. Giveaway
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