Into the Thicket Virtual Book Tour, Author Interview, and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

Into the Thicket
Written by Gail Kuhnlein
Illustrated by John Megahan
Ages: 4-7 | 60 Pages
Publisher: BookBaby (2025) | ISBN: 979-8990747807

Publisher’s Book Summary: Inspired by a true story, Into the Thicket begins with the moment the author’s young son discovered an injured baby rabbit — an encounter that sparked a heartfelt journey of care and connection.

This tender picture book follows a boy and the rabbit he hopes to help, gently exploring themes of compassion, courage, love, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go. It invites young readers to develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for the natural world, showing how even the smallest acts of kindness can ripple through a great, big world.

Featuring stunning watercolor illustrations by acclaimed Ann Arbor artist John Megahan, Into the Thicket is a story families will return to again and again. A portion of all proceeds benefits wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.

Available for purchase on: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, BookBaby, Bookshop.org.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gail Kuhnlein has been writing stories since she was young. Her first self-published picture book, How Happy Is a Lark?, made her as happy as a, well you know. She’s just as excited about her new picture book, Into the Thicket.

Gail majored in journalism and public relations at Michigan State University. She worked in the field for over 30 years, most recently at the University of Michigan’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. People she met at UM were instrumental in publishing her picture books, a long-awaited dream come true.

After surviving multiple life-threatening complications following heart valve surgery in 2022, including several weeks in an induced coma, Gail considers every day as “bonus time.” She savors life with her husband, Tim, just outside Ann Arbor, Michigan. They adore their two adult sons, Davey and Trevor, and bunk with the sweetest kitties in the galaxy.

https://authorgailkuhnlein.com/

https://www.instagram.com/gkuhny/

https://bsky.app/profile/gkuhny.bsky.social

https://www.youtube.com/@kuhny4

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583958753308


ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

John Megahan’s lifelong passion for art and nature has shaped his remarkable career. Growing up, he spent countless hours outdoors exploring and sketching the natural world around him. In college, he combined his interests by studying biology and art, which led him to the field of scientific illustration — a perfect blend of his interests.

After college, he worked as a freelance illustrator, developing a large clientele that included governmental and advertising agencies, universities, publishers, and more. After freelancing, John became the senior scientific illustrator at the University of Michigan’s Museum of Zoology, where he continues to work today. Alongside his illustration work, he has enjoyed teaching art and biology, inspiring others with his knowledge and enthusiasm.

John’s other children’s picture book credits include W is for Waves, An Ocean Alphabet, Thumping on Trees, and The Red Fox and Johnny Valentine’s Blue-Speckled Hound. He looks forward to creating more wildlife and nature-inspired artwork and illustrating many more picture books.

For more information, visit johnmegahan.com.


AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write this story?

Gail Kuhnlein - My inspiration for writing Into the Thicket came from our sons in our backyard. One fateful early summer day, over 20 years ago, they were playing football catch. The book begins exactly as it happened in real life, with a toss soaring over our younger son’s head. As he ran next door to retrieve the ball, he noticed “something” near it. From this point forward, I leaned into fictional storytelling to make the story more appealing to children: to add imagination, suspense, conflict, a crisis, and (spoiler alert) — a happy ending.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you hope readers will learn from this story?

Gail Kuhnlein - I hope readers take to heart the compassion for wildlife that’s modeled by our hero, Patrick. The story touches on overcoming fears with bravery, independence, falling in love, and the bittersweet reality that sometimes what’s best is learning to let go. I hope the deeply felt emotions help children who will inevitably deal with similar situations in their own lives. I hope children and adults alike will be more prepared if they find an injured or abandoned creature, knowing who to contact, and have handy resources about what to do until they can get to wildlife rehab. Notes in the back of the book cover these points. Perhaps more importantly, they’ll know when it’s best to let a nest of rabbits be. In case a family dog finds and disrupts a rabbit nest, I included ways to handle the situation expertly, with minimal effort.

On a grander scale, I hope that our book encourages a respect and love for nature and our environment, in the midst of our climate crisis. The new generation will be the ones to save the planet.

Life Is What It's Called - How does this book stand apart from others on the market?

Gail Kuhnlein - From what I’ve seen, I believe our book is fairly unique in its emphasis on wildlife rehabilitation, particularly regarding rabbits. It’s a hybrid of fiction and non-fiction. Pressed to choose a category, it’s fiction. While based on a true story, it’s highly fictionalized in its development.

I think our book could be especially great for children’s social-emotional development. Patrick’s character and how he influences even his older brother can be powerful messages. The book can also be integrated into an early elementary science curriculum. In these days of increased reliance on AI, I’m happy that the artist’s illustrations are hand drawn and painted. His painstaking work shines through every page, with incredibly detailed backgrounds and great care taken with each scene. John took my manuscript with its limited number of settings and created different perspectives and angles so that each page is surprising and delightful. He’s so naturally talented and I was fortunate to work with him. Having worked together for many years at the University of Michigan’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, we are a dynamic duo.

Life Is What It's Called - What was an unexpected challenge you faced when writing this book?

Gail Kuhnlein - That I was writing about a true story presented the unexpected challenge. There were elements that really happened that I happily included in earlier drafts. You’ve likely heard the expression “kill your darlings,” well, that’s what was needed. In other words, something I (as the writer) loved about the story was better off on the editing room floor because it didn’t really serve the narrative in a broader sense. This can be hard.

I had an expert editor who guided me through the tough task of fine-tuning. I’ll give one brief example. In order to give Patrick more independence, I pretty much wrote myself out of the story. In real life, and in early drafts, my son ran inside and fell into my arms to tell me what he found, then I joined him outside to see the small creature. Long story short, bye-bye Mama! There’s not a single illustration with me, or rather, “Mom” included, and that’s just fine. I do shout out from another room one time!

Life Is What It's Called - What is your favorite sentence from this story and why?

Gail Kuhnlein - I love this question and it really made me think. As you can imagine, I read through the book again with your question in mind. I have several, but the winner, short and sweet, is: “The sun kissed his pink ears.”

This is while Patrick’s emotions are torn, releasing the rabbit in his backyard. I like that such a short sentence is highly evocative. I think the personification of the sun’s kiss is special. I love seeing sun shining through a rabbit’s ears. This autumn, at dusk, several rabbits were grazing in our backyard. The sun, low in the sky, shone through a rabbit’s ears and they glowed with a pink hue. (I took a photo, of course.) These small moments in nature are so moving.

Life Is What It's Called - What other writing projects are you working on?

Gail Kuhnlein - My main project currently is marketing Into the Thicket. There is so much that can be done, especially with my background in communications/public relations. I’m happy I decided on this virtual awareness book tour.

I write a monthly blog post on my author website. As a newish self-published author, I write about my experiences, what I’ve learned (tips) and thoughts. I sometimes include fun tangents, like recommending not-too-scary shows for Halloween (I don’t like horror), or thoughts about my volunteer work at the University of Michigan NICU, which I have grown to love so much. Our youngest spent his first month in a NICU.

I have a couple of ideas for my next picture book. I have a couple of manuscripts drafted I may edit. I have one in particular in mind. Coincidentally, it’s also based on our youngest son, and fictionalized. Without saying too much, it focuses on his highly sensitive nature, particularly to how clothing felt, when he was young.

After a trip with a friend last summer to the Toledo Zoo, I was hit with a fun idea for a book that would be more akin to my first picture book, How Happy Is a Lark? When I Googled to see if anyone had written something like it, I came across at least one. But, I think similar ideas for books can be written in such different ways. I need to find that book to see how they did it, so that if I pursue the idea, I can be sure mine is quite different.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want readers to know about you as an author?

Gail Kuhnlein - This is a fun and interesting question! Let’s see. I have such a love and respect for children that writing for them is my great honor. One of the best memories I have from the time our boys were babies through their childhoods, was when we cuddled together, every night, reading. Such coziness! To write books that children and their adults will read (and maybe even love) is one of my fondest wishes. In this spirit, I hope our book is discovered and experienced far and wide.


GIVEAWAY

Enter for the chance to win one of three signed hardcover copies of Into the Thicket, each accompanied by a set of custom stickers featuring illustrations from the book. One grand prize winner will receive a signed hardcover of Into the Thicket with an adorable rabbit companion stuffie and a set of custom stickers, plus a signed paperback of How Happy Is a Lark? along with a singing lark stuffie.

Into the Thicket: Book Giveaway

This post is sponsored by Gail Kuhnlein. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.

Highland Holiday: A Scottish Christmas Romcom

ABOUT THE BOOK

One rejected kiss. Two clashing personalities. And a snowstorm that traps them in an isolated cottage.

Callie Winter is the kind of person who holds everything together—for her family, her friends, her coworkers. But this Christmas, she’s hoping to catch her breath in the Scottish Highlands and maybe rediscover a little joy along the way. A kiss with a charming stranger in a pub? The perfect holiday distraction.

Until he rejects her.

Gavin Mackenzie doesn’t do flings, especially not with tourists who’ll be gone before the snow melts. He’s got enough on his plate—keeping the old family cottage running, managing the quiet that sometimes feels like loneliness, and pretending he’s just fine, thank you very much. The last thing he needs is a whirlwind American trying to kiss him in a pub… or move into his personal space.

But when a snowstorm leaves them stranded together, Callie’s forced to stay with the last man she wants to face. She’s prickly and wounded. He’s charming but distant. And neither of them are prepared for the slow burn that starts to crack their walls.

In between the cocoa and the Christmas tree, they’ll both have to face what they’re really afraid of: asking for what they need… and trusting someone else to give it.

A grumpy-sunshine, snowed-in holiday romance about messy feelings, unexpected healing, and the kind of love that doesn’t need fixing—just the courage to claim it.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kasey Stockton is an Amazon bestselling author, Whitney Award finalist, and winner of the Swoony Award Book of the Year. She publishes both contemporary and historical novels, and all of her titles fall under clean romance. She loves reading, chocolate, and period dramas, but nothing tops exploring new places with her very own prince charming and their three children.


AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired Highland Holiday?

Kasey Stockton - When I visited the Highlands a few years ago, I was struck by the rugged beauty, but also by some of the one-track roads and how remote it felt. Shortly afterward, I saw a photo of the Highlands during winter, and all the snow gave me the thought that being snowed in would actually be feasible in a place like that. I've always known I wanted to write Luna's sister's story and that it would take place in Scotland, so I set up a character in Cotswolds Holiday who has family in Scotland in order to give me a reason to write a book there. And then it all came together!

Life Is What It's Called - What is your favorite sentence in this book and why?

Kasey Stockton - I’ve never had a hug make my knees weak. Probably because it highlights the beauty of slow burn romance and how underrated a good hug can be.

Life Is What It's Called -What do you think readers will like most about this book?

Kasey Stockton - The Christmas vibes and hot Highlander, Gavin MacKenzie, of course!

Life Is What It's Called - If this book was a food, what would it be and why?

Kasey Stockton - A cup of hot chocolate by the fire, sweet and it warms you inside.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want your readers to know about you?

Kasey Stockton - I write both modern romcoms and Regency historical romance! And this is my tenth Christmas book, so if holiday stories are your thing, I have you covered across both modern and historical genres.

BOOK REVIEW

In Highland Holiday: A Scottish Christmas Romcom, Callie Winter comes to Scotland to enjoy the Holiday season. After being rejected for a kiss and snowed in away from family, Callie learns to make the best of it by getting to know her host, Gavin McKenzie.

This romance is a fun one to read. The plot moves forward steadily with a few reveals. The characters are memorable and interesting. Callie is a relatable and engaging character. I enjoyed the asides that Callie has in her thought processes. They're hilarious. The hero, Gavin McKenzie is well-rounded with his own troubles. This story deals with mental health issues, family drama, and work troubles in a relatable helpful manner. There are some awkward moments, fun scenes, and a slow build up that makes this book a truly enjoyable read. To learn more, click here. 

Fans of Curtis Sittenfield, Sarah Adams, and Julie Wright will love this book.

Please note that I received a free ebook to read, however, this is my honest opinion. This post contains Amazon affiliate links. 

A Season of Wishes Book Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

This Christmas, the best wishes aren't found on a list.

The Trouble with Wishes by Julie Daines
Catherine Haywood is desperate to claim the affection of her long-time friend Frederick Milton, but Frederick only seems interested in courting the new young lady in town. Catherine makes a series of wishes, thinking that is the safer route rather than openly putting her heart on the line. But as each wish is fulfilled, she realizes getting what she wished for is not the same as getting what she wants.

We Wish You a Miserable Christmas by Samantha Hastings
Two secret pen fellows meet only to learn that they already know one another in this Christmas comedy of errors! Miserable Margaret resents Mr. Frank Warner and truthfully, he is a little afraid of her. They are thrown together in a Christmas house party in London and spend the season skating, decorating, going to the theaters, and even dancing. Margaret discovers that she isn't miserable after all. And Frank, with her help, finds the courage to believe in himself and work for his own happily-ever-after.

Pranks and Wishes by Rachel Kelley Stones
Elizabeth Quincy will do anything it takes to stop her childhood friend, Thomas Westin, from proposing marriage to her younger sister this Christmas. Thomas Westin has a plan. He’s determined to convince Lizzy to be his bride. Only, she keeps avoiding any conversation related to love. In this friends-to-lovers novella, Lizzy and Thomas must learn to trust themselves and each other to see if their feelings will be reciprocated.

BOOK REVIEW

These fun, festive stories will help set the mood for the Holiday season. These stories are entertaining, quick, and relaxing reads. The characters and plots in these stories are memorable and interesting. I really enjoyed these wholesome, clean regency romances. My favorite story was Pranks and Wishes. It was hilarious and several twists. To learn more about this seasonal collection, click here.

Please note I received a free ebook to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post contains affiliate links. 

Who Are the Women in the Bible? Book Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

Who was the first woman of earth? Who trusted God and cared for others? In this delightful and easy-to-read book, you’ll meet the strong and faithful women of the Bible—Eve, Ruth, Hannah, Esther, Elizabeth, Mary, and Martha.

Each story is told in simple, rhyming verses that help children understand the courage and love these women showed as they followed God.

Perfect for families, this book helps children see the powerful role of women in God’s plan and how their examples can inspire us all today.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Molly has been writing stories since she learned to read them. Born in upstate New York, she has lived in two countries and six US states. She earned her BA in English at Brigham Young University. She loves reading, writing, traveling, being outside and exploring new places with her favorite people. She is the author of middle grade books BEFORE and I'M STILL ELODY ELIZABETH, and several picture books including NOT SHEEP!, WAIT FOR ME, and THE LITTLE GREEN PUMPKIN. She has also had her poetry published in On Course Magazine. She currently lives in Arizona with her husband and three children.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write this book?

Molly McNamara Carter - This book is super special to me. I wrote it because I saw a very specific need. I wanted my daughter to have examples of righteous women and be more familiar with the stories of women in the Bible. The problem is there just weren’t that many picture books that were simple enough for young readers, yet ignited interest in the stories of these incredible women, so I decided to write one.

Life Is What It's Called - How is this book different from other books on the market?

Molly McNamara Carter - Like I said, there really aren’t that many picture books about women from the Bible. I hope this book actually inspires more PB writers to recognize the need and add their own work. Each of these incredible women deserve to have their story told, and our children, especially our daughters, need to know that these righteous women have played an important role in history.

Life Is What It's Called - Why do you think it's important to recognize women in the bible?

Molly McNamara Carter - I think by knowing these stories, not only do girls have an example of righteous women to be inspired by, it can also help them see the importance of their own role in building God’s kingdom. They too, have important work to do and important stories to tell. God loves and needs his daughters!

Life Is What It's Called - What do you hope the reader will learn from this book?

Molly McNamara Carter - I hope this will ignite all readers, young and old, or want to know more about women in the Bible. These women are so cool! And they did really brave things. They are people I want to know more about and people I want my kids to know more about.

Life Is What It's Called - How is this book similar to your other books?

Molly McNamara Carter - This book is written in the same question/answer rhyme style as two of my other books, Guess WHO’s in the Book of Mormon and Guess Who’s the Latter Day Prophet, all very child friendly, with bright bold colors that are attractive to young listeners. It’s really fun to have this one to add to the collection.

Life Is What It's Called - How is this book different from your other books?

Molly McNamara Carter - Most of my books are not Christian-based, but this one is unique in that it is based on the Bible. It also crosses a lot of lines and has a broader audience than my books that are specific to a Latter-day Saint audience, so it kind of has a cool audience base. I’m excited to share this with all Christian readers.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want people to know about you as an author?

Molly McNamara Carter - Gosh, a hard question. But my goal with my writing is to share light. I once heard Lois Lowry talk about writing. She said the only way to fight against the darkness in the world is to bring in more light. I believe that. There are a lot of dark things in the world I cannot change, but I hope this book, and all my books, bring more light into the world.

BOOK REVIEW

Who are the Women in the Bible? highlights women from the Bible. The illustrations are eye-catching, beautiful, and fun. Children will enjoy this lyrical picture book. The pictures and text are engaging and memorable. The text is easy-to-read. This picture book includes women from both the Old and New Testaments. Learn more about Who are the Women in the Bible? here.

Please note that I received an advanced reader pdf copy to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post contains affiliate links.

The Last Apple Tree Virtual Book Tour, Author Interview and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Last Apple Tree
Written by Claudia Mills
Ages: 9-12 | 264 Pages
Publisher: Holiday House (2025) | ISBN: 978-0823461882

Publisher’s Book Summary: Twelve-year-old Sonnet’s family has just moved across the country to live with her grandfather after her nana dies. Gramps’s once-impressive apple orchard has been razed for a housing development, with only one heirloom tree left. Sonnet doesn’t want to think about how Gramps and his tree are both growing old—she just wants everything to be okay.

Sonnet is not okay with her neighbor, Zeke, a boy her age who gets on her bad side and stays there when he tries to choose her grandpa to interview for an oral history assignment. Zeke irks Sonnet with his prying questions, bringing out the sad side of Gramps she’d rather not see. Meanwhile, Sonnet joins the Green Club at school and without talking to Zeke about it, she asks his activist father to speak at the Arbor Day assembly—a collision of worlds that Zeke wanted more than anything to avoid.

But when the interviews uncover a buried tragedy that concerns Sonnet’s mother, and an emergency forces Sonnet and Zeke to cooperate again, Sonnet learns not just to accept Zeke as he is, but also that sometimes forgetting isn’t the solution—even when remembering seems harder.

Available for purchase on: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Bookshop.org.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Claudia Mills is the author of over 60 books for young readers, including most recently the verse novel The Lost Language and the middle-grade novel The Last Apple Tree, as well as two chapter-book series: Franklin School Friends and After-School Superstars. Her books have been named Notable Books of the Year by the American Library Association and Best Books of the Year by the Bank Street College of Education; they have been translated into half a dozen languages. Claudia is also a professor emerita of philosophy at the University of Colorado and a faculty member in the graduate programs in children’s literature at Hollins University. She has written all her books in her faithful hour-a-day system while drinking Swiss Miss hot chocolate.

For more information, check out claudiamillsauthor.com.



AUTHOR INTERVIEW 

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired this story?

Claudia Mills - A few years ago, I saw an article in a University of Colorado newsletter about the Boulder Apple Tree Project, which is devoted to locating and preserving the county’s vanishing heirloom apple trees – one-of-a-kind trees whose genetic heritage is in danger of being lost forever. I have a weakness for people who try to save things, especially things that many people don’t know or care about. The Boulder Apple Tree Project also collects and preserves stories about these trees. This subject matter started to seem richer and richer! So I began pondering ideas for a book about an heirloom apple tree and the two seventh graders, a boy and a girl, who uncover its stories – including its secrets – when they interview her grandfather for a school oral history project.

Life Is What It's Called - How do you think The Last Apple Tree will resonate with the readers?

Claudia Mills - Both of my main characters, Sonnet and Zeke, are misfits in their middle school. Sonnet has just moved to a new town in a new state; her classmates are already formed into friendship groups. Zeke has previously been homeschooled; he, too, is an outsider. Even middle-schoolers who aren’t in a new school situation frequently feel as if they don’t “fit in” with their peers, so in this way they may identify with Zeke and Sonnet. Both Sonnet and Zeke also have difficult home situations. Sonnet, her mother, and her younger sister now live with her widowed grandfather who is still deeply grieving the recent loss of his beloved wife. Zeke’s father is highly critical of his son and engages in over-the-top environmental activism that Zeke finds embarrassing. Here, too, many adolescents feel uncomfortable in various ways within their own families. The central message of The Last Apple Tree is that belonging and healing come through honest communication – through sharing even our most painful stories and thereby allowing our families and friends to get to know us a little bit better. I think this is a message we all need to hear and one that will resonate with young readers.

Life Is What It's Called - Why is the message of The Last Apple Tree important in today's world?

Claudia Mills - We are currently living in a time of deep and seemingly unbridgeable political and cultural divides. The best way to try to connect with each other across these divides, in my view, is not through debate over whose views are the “right” ones. It’s through the sharing of personal stories, which allow us to see our commonalities despite our differences. When people of different political and religious beliefs share a meal, and in the process also share something of themselves, it’s harder to demonize those who voted for the other candidate and supported other policies. I believe that shared stories are our best hope right now.

Life Is What It's Called - If The Last Apple Tree was a food, what would it be and why? 

Claudia Mills - Well, given that the star of the book is an heirloom apple tree, it’s irresistible to suggest an apple dessert. The book focuses on connections across generations, so the apple dessert should be one from bygone days that our grandparents and great-grandparents would have enjoyed. Apple crisp, apple cobbler, apple dumplings, apple brown betty – preferably served with whipped cream fresh from the family cow! I’m getting hungry just thinking about this!

Life Is What It's Called - How do you see this book being used in classrooms?

Claudia Mills - Because the events of the story are built around a middle-school language-arts unit on oral history, it is tailor-made to supplement a similar assignment in upper-elementary and middle- school classrooms. It would be a rewarding assignment to have students interview their own family members or neighbors, particularly those who are aging, to hear their untold stories before it is too late. The Author’s Note at the end of the book refers readers to the Smithsonian Institution Archives materials on “How to Do Oral History.” These include questions like the ones Sonnet and Zeke ask Sonnet’s grandfather – as well as encouragement to deviate from these when interview subjects have stories close to their hearts that they need to tell, as Gramps does here.

Life Is What It's Called - Can you tell us about your writing background?

Claudia Mills - I loved to write little books from the time I could write anything at all. I still have the first one I wrote, unimaginatively titled My Book, which contained only “nacher pictures” with one-word captions: e.g., tree, cloud, flower, sky. But at the end of this tiny book, I included an “ad card” for a future “Thick Book, 100 Pages, My Life” and “Big Book, 100 Pages, Powatree [my spelling for poetry].” I did go on to write a thick book of 100 pages about my life when I was in junior high school, one devoured by all my classmates (since they all appeared in its pages!) and huge quantities of poetry (chiefly love poems for boys who didn’t love me back!).

I have now published 64 books for young readers, over a career of 40 years, and writing has continued to be the central joy of my life. As I have had another career as a college professor, my writing system has been to write for just one hour every day (well, on most days), early in the morning. I use a handcrafted cherrywood hourglass to time the hour, and I write by hand with my favorite pen on a pad of narrow-ruled paper, resting on an ancient clipboard. It works well for me to have this daily writing practice with lots of time in between writing stints to let what I have written “settle” and allow new ideas to germinate. Even if I have the whole day free to write, I still write only for an hour a day. It’s how I’ve always written, and how I think I always will.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want readers to know about yourself?

Claudia Mills - Hmm. That’s a question I need to think about! I guess I want them to know how much love I put into each book I write, hoping that this love shines through on the pages of the published story. I rely on a trusted writing group to give me honest critique of my work so I can revise it as best as I can before I submit it to my editor. Yet despite how much I heed the comments of my writer friends, my editor always finds much to criticize! Sometimes I get discouraged and need some sulking and pouting before I’m ready to revise the book yet again (and invariably she then sends it back to me for yet more revision). But I end up feeling deeply grateful for the opportunity to make each of my books the best book possible. That is what young readers deserve, and I hope they can sense the love that went into writing every single word.



GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win one ten signed paperback copies of The Last Apple Tree by Claudia Mills. But wait, there’s more! One lucky grand prize winner will get a special one-hour Zoom author visit with Claudia herself, plus signed copies of The Lost Language and a book from her wonderful chapter book series.

The Last Apple Tree: Book Giveaway

This post is sponsored by Claudia Mills. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.

Bella and the Bird Explore Anger Virtual Book Tour, Author Interview and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

Bella and Bird Explore Anger
Written by Deana Plaskon
Illustrated by Lea Marie Ravotti
Ages: 5-10 | 36 Pages
Publisher: Bella and Bird Books (2025) | ISBN: 79-8-9872684-1-4

Publisher’s Book Summary: “Can’t you tell?” said Henry. “This is my angry face!”

When Henry storms into the pasture, Bella, the wise horse, and her wisecracking sidekick, Bird, step in to help. Together, the friends set out to explore why Henry is angry and offer better ways to cope.

By the time Henry leaves the pasture, he’s gained new insights, is in better control of his feelings, and has tools to take along with him.

Bella and Bird Explore Anger helps children understand and manage their anger, making it a valuable resource for open and honest conversations about this challenging emotion.

Available for purchase on Amazon, Author’s Website, Oakiebees.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Deana Plaskon is an educator, licensed clinical therapist, mom, and author whose enchanting books entertain and inspire children to embrace, process, and manage big emotions and feelings. With a PhD in Education specializing in human behavior, a master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a master’s degree in education, Deana has a deeply informed yet engaging approach to children’s stories. Her Bella and Bird the Emotion Explorers book series is inspired by her real-life therapy horse Bella, and Bella’s friend Bird, the not-so-common barn swallow. Imbued with Bella’s calm, wise presence and Bird’s cheeky humor, these wonderfully unique children’s books are designed to delight and empower school-age children. These books combine three core elements: engaging storytelling, informed exploration of emotional intelligence, and science-based therapeutic tools. Each story captures children’s imaginations while also giving them powerful, practical tools to succeed.

For more information, visit https://bellabirdbooks.com/, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.


AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - Why is it important for children to develop emotional intelligence? And how does your book help with that?

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is an essential life skill. Learning and understanding EQ gives children the foundation for building healthy relationships, resilience, and self-understanding. Not only can children (and grown-ups) understand their emotions and feelings and build emotional literacy, but they can also thrive in an ever-growing complex world. Words are powerful but also difficult. And children don’t always have the words to express how they feel. My books are tools with simple, lifelong skills inside each book.

Emotional intelligence involves self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. In my books, I include each of these domains through storytelling. For example, when Henry comes storming into the pasture, Bella and Bird teach him how to recognize his anger with body clues (self-awareness) and then teach him how to manage his anger with simple skills such as box breathing (and others). Bella and Bird also teach Henry social awareness through a conversation about what went wrong when his mom wouldn’t let him have pie and how to express (using words with the emotion wheel) his feelings. Henry learns that the emotion of anger and underlying feelings such as being furious is okay; however, his behavior (how he reacts to not getting his favorite pie) is not okay.

Emotional intelligence (and my books) help children learn about themselves and others, increase communication skills, build stronger friendships, feel calm and supported, and opens avenues for stronger learning opportunities.

Life Is What It's Called - What makes your book stand out from others on the market?

My books stand out because they combine research-backed therapeutic strategies with engaging storytelling, giving children and adults practical tools and skills they can use when emotions feel overwhelming. Each story opens the door to honest, meaningful conversations between children and adults, while offering simple, effective techniques tailored to a specific emotion.

A signature feature is the Bella and Bird Emotion Wheel, created exclusively for this series. The wheel includes feeling words in every “slice,” helping children expand their emotional vocabulary and strengthen communication between child and adult. And the emotion wheel is great for adults, too!

What truly sets these books apart is the perspective behind them. I’m a mom, educator, licensed clinical mental health counselor, and expert in human behavior, and blend my professional expertise with my heart as a parent.

Life Is What It's Called - What is your favorite sentence in this book and why?

I love this question! My favorite sentence in the Bella and Bird Explore Anger book is: “Can’t you tell?” said Henry. “This is my angry face!”

It makes me laugh every time I read it because it’s so true to life! When we’re upset, we often want everyone around us to see it. Children do it, and let’s be honest, adults do it, too! Behind the humor, though, is something important: emotions are like signals that inform others that something is going on. Sometimes those signals are an invitation to be heard, understood and validated. And sometimes they’re just passing clouds that don’t need a spotlight. Not every emotion and feeling need to be recognized or fixed; and that’s okay. The important part is learning which needs attention, and which ones we can simply let drift by.

Life Is What It's Called - How do you see this book being used in homes, classrooms, and libraries?

At the heart of my book series is the idea that emotional intelligence grows best when adults model healthy responses, thereby helping children build empathy skills, and inviting ongoing conversations about emotions and feelings. That’s the connection of how my books can be used in homes, classrooms, and libraries.

•  In homes, parents can read to (and with) their children, pausing to talk about how Bella, Bird, or a character responds to an emotion and those underlying feelings. This not only opens honest conversations but allows parents to model these skills, too. For example, a parent might say, “When I feel angry like Henry, I take three slow breaths. What do you do?” And modeling in real-time shows children what emotional regulation looks like in everyday life.
  
  
• In classrooms, my books give teachers language and tools to normalize conversations about emotions and feelings. A teacher could use Bella and Bird Explore Fear (coming out in 2026) before a spelling test by modeling a breathing exercise with the class. This not only helps students manage their own anxiety but also teaches them to notice and respect how others might be feeling.
  
  
• In libraries, they can have emotional intelligence corners or displays where themes centered on emotional intelligence and emotional literacy can be shared. For example, my emotion wheel can be displayed as a colorful spinning wheel where children can easily spin and share feelings related to an emotion.

Also, my books can be used by therapists, too. They can read my books to or with clients and use them as conversation starters (for both children and adults). My books can also be used as homework between sessions. Therapists can also model the skills in my books and use them together in family therapy sessions by inviting parents and children into the story and helping them learn the skills together.

By weaving modeling and introducing open conversations about emotions and feelings, my books create opportunities to not only talk but practice the skills in each book together.

Life Is What It's Called -What would you like the readers to know about you as an author?

I’d love readers to know that my work comes from the perspective of being a mom, educator, and a licensed clinical mental health counselor. I’ve spent years researching, writing, and learning about human behavior including emotions and feelings. I’ve also lived through the real, everyday moments of parenting where emotions and feelings ebb and flow throughout the day. Having a book series with researched backed tools mixed with open, honest conversations so parents and children can learn together should be in every home.

At the heart of my books is a simple belief: emotions and feelings are meant to be explored, not ignored. But there’s a balance with teaching about emotions and feelings, too. While we don’t want to sweep them under the rug or over-coddle children, too, we do want to help them learn that emotional intelligence (and the skills in my books) can help children grow into healthy, resilient people by giving them lifelong skills. It’s about planting those little bird seeds they can use every day.

I also want families, teachers, therapists, and kids to see that talking about emotions and feelings can be practical, relatable and fun. Yup, I take emotions and feelings seriously but never without laughter (Bird wouldn’t allow that anyway!).


GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win one of ten signed hardcover editions of Bella and Bird Explore Anger! One grand prize winner will also take home a unique, handcrafted Bella and Bird book pillow.

Bella and Bird Explore Anger: Book Giveaway 

This post is sponsored by Bella and Bird Books. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.

Ginger's Courage Virtual Book Tour, Author Interview and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

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.

Available for purchase here.

Check out the educator guide here.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lynsey Patterson grew up in the beautiful town of Ballymena in Northern Ireland, the birthplace of many notable writers and artists. Lynsey, like many children of her time, found solace in the local library. Her love for all things writing has led Lynsey to write portfolios of poetry and fiction, as well as numerous non-fiction articles, which have been published in various magazines. Lynsey’s first children’s book, Ginger’s Courage, was inspired by her four adopted fur babies, all with different levels of trauma and disability. Ginger’s Courage is based on true events and is due to be released later this year. Lynsey’s background is in education with a passion for wellbeing and counselling. Lynsey has lived in the Northern Territory, Australia, for the past 16 years and is now writing her second children’s book, which is the sequel to Ginger’s Courage.

For more information, visit lynseypatterson.com, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.



ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Angelina Perrini is an artist who also teaches drawing. Her illustrations have been published in several children’s books. Angela loves working with both traditional and digital techniques. She has a degree in Art History and lives in Puglia, Italy.

For more information, visit angelaperrini.it.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write this story?
Lynsey Patterson - 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 this Ginger lost her leg in a country town called Quilpie when she was travelling through it. All of our dogs have been rescues and watching them with their struggles and issues inspired me to write this book. Their unique personalities and their lives all made me want to write about Ginger and them.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you hope readers will learn from Ginger?
Lynsey Patterson - I hope readers will learn the importance of resilience as well as understand the power of friendship and the difference good friends can make. I hope readers will think about how hard it is for someone when they suffer a life changing injury and how they can make someone’s life easier.

Life Is What It's Called - What did you learn from writing this story?
Lynsey Patterson - I learned that the writing process is difficult especially when writing picture books. I learned that Ginger became even more inspiring the more I wrote and I realised that Ginger had overcome more than I ever could.

Life Is What It's Called - If this story was a food what would it be and why? (Cheesy like pizza, cozy like a lasagna or soup)
Lynsey Patterson - I had to think about this question and after speaking to my mother she mentioned that she thought it would have to be pumpkin soup with a swirl of cream on top. It is the colour orange for a start but it is also light and nourishing. Ginger is a source of joy, love and warmth just like pumpkin soup.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want readers to know about you?
Lynsey Patterson - One of my first jobs when I was 16 was working in a toy show in Camerons Department Store. At the time I was living in a small flat where I had to boil the kettle if I wanted warm water. I also had an Australin friend living in the attic. Not longer after that when I turned 17, I went to Belgium where I worked as a nanny.



GIVEAWAY

Enter for the chance to win a copy of Ginger’s Courage!

Ginger's Courage: Book Giveaway

This post is sponsored by Lynsey Patterson. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.

Abigail and the Waterfall Virtual Book Tour and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

Abigail and the Waterfall
Written by Sandra L. Richter
Illustrated by Michael Corsini
Ages: 4-6 | 32 Pages
Publisher: IVP Kids (2025) | ISBN: 978-1514008928

Publisher’s Book Summary: Explore the wonders of creation with Abigail and learn to care for God’s good earth!

Abigail loves Saturdays—especially when her family goes hiking! Follow Abigail and her family as they hike through the lush landscapes of Appalachia, encounter fascinating animals, and marvel at a big, beautiful waterfall. On their adventure, Abigail learns about caring for creation — about loving and stewarding the world God created.

Written by parent and university professor Sandra Richter and brought to life with enchanting illustrations by Michael Corsini, Abigail and the Waterfall is more than just a storybook—it’s an invitation for families to discuss what the Bible says about caring for the environment, animals, and the beautiful world around us.

Why families will love Abigail and the Waterfall:

A captivating story about faith, nature, and stewardship

Thought-provoking themes to help kids learn to love the environment

A special note from the author to encourage meaningful conversations about creation care

Give your young readers a story filled with wonder and discovery. With Abigail and the Waterfall, families can experience the joy of exploring and protecting the world God has entrusted to us. Teach children to love all of God’s good earth and get your copy today!

Available for purchase on: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Bookshop.org and IVP Kids.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sandra L. Richter (PhD, Harvard University) is the Robert H. Gundry Chair of Biblical Studies at Westmont College, a member of the Committee on Biblical Translation for the NIV, and widely recognized for her work in Deuteronomy and the Deuteronomistic history. She is best known in the church for The Epic of Eden: A Christian Entry into the Old Testament, the video courses that have grown from that project, and Stewards of Eden: What Scripture Says About the Environment and Why It Matters. Her newest project, Abigail and the Waterfall: Loving God’s Good Earth, is a children’s book about stewarding the gifts of God’s creation.

For more information, visit sandyrichter.org or https://www.instagram.com/sandralynrichter.


ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Michael Corsini is an artist and illustrator with a BFA in illustration from Ringling School of Art and Design and an MTS from the John Paul II Institute in Washington, DC. His mission as an artist is to renew the church with works of beauty and music, and he has illustrated several children’s books including The Night the Saints Saved Christmas. Michael lives with his wife and their five children in northeast Pennsylvania where they are growing a small family homestead.


AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called -What inspired you to write this story?

Sandra L. Richter - I love this question! As an Old Testament scholar, I have written a number of technical articles, book chapters, and a book on environmental stewardship. And I have presented on the topic in dozens and dozens of settings. So when IVP decided they wanted to start engaging the topic with children they reached out to me. What IVP didn’t know, however, is that writing children’s books had always been on my bucket list. A bucket list I did not think I would get to until I retired from my “day job” as a professor. So IVP’s inquiry was my chance to bump that item up to the top of the bucket list! So now you’re asking “Why would someone with a degree in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations want to write children’s books?” And the answer is that I’m a Mom. And raising my kids has been the greatest adventure and privilege of my life. So the chance to take some of my adventures with my girls and put them into a story for others, and at the same time engage this topic that is so important to me—I said “yes” before they had finished asking!

Life Is What It's Called - Why is the message of the story important for readers?

Sandra L. Richter - There are so many answers to this question. But the primary one is because the message of this book is important to the message of the Bible. God commands Adam and Eve to “tend and defend” the Garden in Genesis 2:15. In fact, humanity’s proper stewarding of the earth is part of our creation “in his image” (Gen 1:26-27). Israel is commanded to care for their land and the wild and domestic animal as a part of honoring him. Because of who we are (made in his image), children see and hear God through his creation. They intuitively want to care for the creatures God has entrusted to us. Families grow stronger through shared adventures in creation. This book celebrates and encourages those truths in the lives of Moms and Dads and Uncles and Aunts and Grandmas and Grandpas, and most importantly, in the lives of the children they are raising.

Life Is What It's Called - How do you see this book being used in a classroom or home setting?

Sandra L. Richter - In the home this book is a delightful read that will encourage the whole family to get out there and find a “special place” of their own. In the classroom, it will help the teacher articulate the biblical theology of creation care and the benefits of an adventure in the great outdoors. In the church, it will reinforce all of those messages as well as help those visiting the Church to see that the people of God are taking the care of this planet and its creatures seriously.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want readers to know about you?

Sandra L. Richter - I want readers to know that they can trust me with their children. So readers will be interested to know that I started my professional journey in ministry and continue to serve the Church in any way I can. (They likely would be entertained to hear my stories of running “Toddler Church” at St. Pat’s Anglican in Lexington KY!). My academic credentials are strong—Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and Harvard University. I’ve served as a professor at Asbury Theological Seminary, Wesley Biblical Seminary, Wheaton College, and Westmont College. So I am deeply committed to good theology and good pedagogy. But perhaps most important, I am a parent. I treasure my children and am profoundly aware of the influence I have in their lives. What I teach them matters.

And my prayer is that this book will help to teach your children about the character of a God who loves his creation.

Life Is What It's Called - What writing projects are you working on?

Sandra L. Richter - I am working on several projects right now. I am writing the second edition of The Epic of Eden: A Christian Entry into the Old Testament with IVP. I am writing a textbook—an Introduction to Old Testament with Tremper Longman and Nancy Erickson with Zondervan. I am finishing up a new Bible study curriculum in “The Epic of Eden” series with HarperCollins. And I’m working on a commentary on Deuteronomy with Eerdmans. I’ve also just released a video lecture on “Women in Ministry” with Seedbed and I’m working with several organizations and local pastors to address the complex issues of environmental degradation in Appalachia due to mountain-top removal coal mining. Readers can find me through my web site SandyRichter.org or my public- facing Facebook page Sandra L. Richter.


GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win one of five copies of Abigail and the Waterfall! Plus, one grand prize winner will receive a special Book Lover’s Bundle—complete with a Starbucks gift card and the opportunity to select a book of their choice from Amazon.com.

Abigail and the Waterfall: Book Giveaway

This post is sponsored by Sandra L. Richter. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.

Accounting for the Pastor Book Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

The world is full of second chances...

She’s a divorced bookkeeper with secrets. He’s her new pastor. In 1951, pastors, divorcees, and small towns don’t mix.

After escaping an abusive marriage, Rose Olliver is starting over in the quiet town of Payson, Ohio, with her four-year-old daughter Liza. Between keeping her books in order and her past behind her, Rose has plenty on her mind, and she has no intention of getting involved—especially not with the handsome pastor who wants to break down her walls.

During the war, Caleb Bronson discovered his calling—bringing others to God. But not everyone in his new congregation likes the idea of a single pastor. He’s quickly overwhelmed by parishioners’ demands like field trips with octogenarians and a teens’ boxing club. He is deeply attracted to Rose and hires her to manage his calendar and help him say no.

When a letter arrives that ties Rose to a buried war crime and a man powerful enough to ruin her, Rose wrestles with a terrible choice: protect the life she’s carefully built or speak up.

Can Caleb help her carry the weight of the past? Or will her honesty cost her everything?


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Laura Rupper spent her first six years of life in Metlakatla, Alaska. There was no T.V. reception on the island, so a great love of books was born. Laura loves creative activities ranging from painting to designing fourth grade math lessons. Boring chores, like laundry, make her daydream of magical worlds and happy endings.

Laura has three beautiful daughters and one giant dog who was supposed to be 50 pounds but is almost twice that size. Laura is under five feet tall and hopes having lots of energy makes up for her lack of height. She has a degree in Human Biology and works as a school counselor because life can be hard and sometimes students need a helping hand.

REVIEW

In Accounting for the Pastor, Rose Olliver escaped from an abusive marriage and is starting over in a small town with her daughter. When Rose receives a letter asking her to step forward and speak-up about a buried war crime, she struggles with her conscience and the desire to protect her new life. As the past is haunting her, she gets to know the new pastor in town, Caleb Bronson. The new pastor has his own battles and as Rose helps him, she realizes that the past could cost her more than she realizes.

Accounting for the Pastor is such a fun read. The author does a good job of mixing drama, comedy, and romance. I loved the mix of light-hearted to heavy-hearted. The characters and side characters were interesting and dynamic. The author does a good job at painting the era. There were things that she mentioned reminded me of stories I've heard from relatives, old letters and other books from the time period. I felt like she did a good job of not modernizing the time period and capturing what post-WWII may have looked like. Overall, it was an enjoyable read. The romance was clean and sweet. To learn more about the book, click here.

Please note that I received a free copy to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post contains affiliate link that help support this blog.

Park Avenue Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

Jia Song has always been destined for greatness. As the daughter of Korean bodega owners, she promised herself that she would have every Fifth Avenue luxury when she grew up, and it is all finally within reach. She has just made junior partner at her prestigious Manhattan law firm, she can count on her two best friends to have her back, and she is about to score the ultraluxe gold-on-gold Birkin bag of her dreams. So, when her boss asks her to sit in on the hush-hush family implosion of a high-level client, she accepts without hesitation―only to find out that it is one of the most famous Korean families in the world.

The Park family’s net worth is estimated at a billion dollars, and their megasuccessful Korean beauty brand has shaped the culture for the past two decades. But the patriarch is filing for divorce while his wife is dying, and their three children can’t stop snapping at one another. With both the family fortune and legacy under threat from the worst kind of scandal, it’s up to Jia to set things right―and she only has a month to do it.

As Jia sorts through the lies and subterfuge, chasing the truth across the globe on private jets, she finds herself falling for this broken, badly-behaving family in ways she can’t quite explain. But it is also becoming clear that the Parks are hiding dark secrets. Can she find the truth in time to protect the Parks’ fortune and secure her success at the firm? And can she hold on to what’s most important, even if it means admitting that what she's always wanted isn’t what she actually needs?


REVIEW
Jia Song worked hard to become a successful lawyer. Her dreams of becoming partner are within her reach especially now that her newest clients are members of one of the richest Korean families in the world. However, she quickly discovers that her newest clients have dark secrets and manipulate those around them for their own means.

I enjoyed this book. The main character was likeable, and I felt like her inner struggles were relatable, balancing between culture expectations and her own, wanting to succeed, and figuring out what success means to her. The story has intrigue and twists and turns. The plot kept the reader interested and I found it to be a page turner and fast read. Overall, it was a fun summer read. Learn more here.

 An advanced copy provided by Flatiron Books. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

A Bachelor's Lessons in Love Book Review

About the Book

Former military officer Edward Halstead never imagined his quiet bachelor existence would be upended by the unexpected guardianship of a spirited young lady. When his late comrade’s daughter, Daphne Price, is placed in his care, Edward is faced with a challenge unlike any battlefield he has ever encountered, especially with her fiercely protective aunt, Felicity Price, staying in his home to ensure he doesn’t fail in his duty.

Felicity has dedicated her life to her beloved niece, and she has no intention of leaving Daphne in the hands of a gruff and emotionally distant bachelor. If Edward Halstead believes he can simply house, feed, and marry off her niece without regard for her well-being, he is sorely mistaken. Felicity will remain at Briarwood House as long as necessary to ensure Daphne’s future and to make certain Edward doesn’t ruin it. After all, she doesn't want her niece to end up a spinster...like Felicity.

With Felicity and Edward at odds over Daphne’s upbringing, propriety, and the girl’s future, tension sparks and tempers flare. Yet, beneath the clashes and differences of opinion, an undeniable attraction grows. As Daphne’s entrance into Society looms and Edward’s past resurfaces in unexpected ways, Felicity and Edward must decide if their partnership is merely one of convenience or if love has been the lesson they’ve both been waiting to learn.

Perfect for fans of witty banter, slow-burn romance, and fiercely independent heroines, A Bachelor's Lessons in Love is a Regency romance filled with heart, humor, and unexpected love. Part of the Bachelors of Blackstone's series, the books may be read and enjoyed in any order.

Review

Edward Halstead is charged with an unexpected guardianship of a young lady. Her fierce aunt, Felicity, arrives with her to ensure she receives the proper care. Edward finds himself at odds with the aunt and overwhelmed with his new duties. As he comes to get to know the aunt, he finds an unexpected romance.

I didn't read the description of the book before diving into it, and I was surprised by the plot as it unfolded. The author does a good job at developing her characters and she doesn't shy away from their mistakes or misunderstandings. It makes the characters come alive and seem realistic. She also uses minor characters to help continue the story forward. It's a fun, easy-to-read, and entertaining read. I was a little disappointed that the series was with other authors. It would have been interesting to see what the author would have done with this as a series. To learn more, click here.

Please note this post contains affiliate links. I received a free ebook copy to review, however, this is my honest opinion.

The Art of Us Book Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

Falling in love is complicated when you’re both keeping secrets.

On the surface, everything seems perfect for high school senior Ireland Raine. She’s intelligent and artistically talented, and her natural beauty and quiet charm are enviable. However, Ireland harbors a secret she’ll guard at any cost—she’s homeless.

When her crush, Kal Ellis, invites her on a date, she seizes the opportunity. Ireland has never had a boyfriend before, and Kal is not just a guitarist for the local band, he’s also an artist. Their connection is instantaneous, and he suggests they collaborate on the school mural. Working and laughing alongside Kal, Ireland can momentarily forget her problems.

However, when someone exposes her secret, Ireland ends up in a foster home alongside her most despised adversary, Mara Washington. To make matters worse, Ireland discovers it was Kal who revealed her secret.

Furious, Ireland must decide if she has the strength to forgive the boy who stole her heart or if she is better off alone.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Julie Wright (1972-still breathing) was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. She's lived in LA, Boston, and the literal middle of nowhere (don't ask). She wrote her first book when she was fifteen. Since then, she's written twenty-three novels and coauthored three. Julie is a two-time winner of the Whitney award for best romance with her books "Cross My Heart" and "Lies Jane Austen Told Me." The America Library Association listed “Glass Slippers, Ever After, and Me” in their 2020 top ten best romances and "A Captain for Caroline Gray" in their 2021 top ten best romances. Her book "Death Thieves" was a Whitney finalist. She has one husband, five kids, two grandbabies, one dog, and a varying amount of houseplants (depending on attrition). She loves writing, reading, traveling, hiking, playing with her kids, and watching her husband make dinner. She used to speak fluent Swedish but now speaks only well enough to cuss out her children in public. She hates mayonnaise.

REVIEW

In The Art of Us, Ireland Raine lives with a secret - she's homeless. As she juggles a new boyfriend and school, her secret is exposed. Ireland has to decide if she can forgive or if she's better off on her own.

I enjoyed the storytelling in this book. The author does a good job at addressing hard teen issues from homelessness to bullying to harassment and shame. The characters are realistic and grow as the story progresses. The author does a good job at developing the story and characters. The story not only addresses problems but different methods to solving them from reaching out to an adult, to being a friend, standing up for yourself and learning when to let go. I thought this book was amazing and the writing was very strong. It felt like a literary fiction for YA audiences. I look forward to reading more YA books from Julie Wright. To learn more, click here.

Please note that I received a free book to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post contains affiliate links to help support this blog.

The Adventurer's Guide to Dragonwatch Book Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

WELCOME TO THE GUILD OF DRAGONWATCH

Millions of Fablehaven fans will be eager to examine this illustrated field guide and learn what dragon slayers and other members of Dragonwatch have known for centuries.

Many adventurers risked their lives gathering the information found within this one-of-a-kind book—a compendium of the most dangerous mythical and magical creatures around the world, including invaluable illustrations that reveal for the first time what these creatures actually look like.

You will learn secrets of the magical realms, including the history of the five great monarchs: The Underking, the Fairy Queen, the Demon King, the Giant Queen, and the Dragon King. In addition, you will learn about the priceless stone called the Ethergem that powered the five crowns of the monarchs.

By the end of the book, you will know more about dragons and giants (and a host of other mythical creatures) than your average dungeon master. Make yourself familiar with an invaluable study of magical items and artifacts, including the five legendary swords, never-before-revealed in any other publication known to man or woman. This information alone is worth all the gold in your pockets.

In addition, you will find a personal letter from the world’s greatest adventurer, Patton Burgess. Take heed to what he has to say, and you may live to the ripe age of sixteen.

You are now part of a consortium of wizards, enchantresses, dragon slayers, and others who risked everything to free the world from the tyrannical rule of dragons. A word to the wise: If you are being hunted by a dragon, no stronghold or castle will hide you for long. The best way to survive a dragon is not defense, it is offense. Use the information inside this book and go forth and hunt!

BOOK REVIEW

The Adventurer's Guide to Dragonwatch is a reference book for the Dragonwatch series. My kids have read the whole series and really enjoy themed reference books. They check out themed reference books from the library quite a bit. I think this book is also beneficial for adults. We had listened to an audiobook of Dragonwatch in the car and I had forgotten some characters, but I didn't want to necessarily reread the whole series again. This book comes in handy if you want to refresh your memory. It also comes in handy if you haven't read the books and want to know what your kids are talking about. I like that there are illustrations in the book that help you visualize the characters.

To learn more, click here.

Please note that I received a free copy to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post contains affiliate links.

The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City Virtual Book Tour and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City
Written by Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay
Illustrated by Sanna Sjöström
Ages: 3-7 | 32 Pages
Publisher: Kendam Press (2025) | ISBN: 979-8-9900050-0-6

Publisher’s Book Summary: Charlie Wags is a seemingly ordinary pup. He sits on demand, is appropriately needy, and only sometimes begs for treats.

But Charlie has an extraordinary secret. He loves to travel the world and has a special trick to do so: his wagging tail can whisk him away to far-off places.

This time, he’s off to the Big Apple!

Embark on a panoramic tour of New York City led by ever-curious pup Charlie Wags! From the serenity of Central Park to the dazzling lights of Times Square, Charlie explores the city that never sleeps before returning home for bedtime.

Wherever you may be, The World Is Just a Wag Away.™

Available for purchase here.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sister-author duo Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay form the writing team behind The Tales of Charlie Wags picture book series.

As daughters of immigrants, their family heritage exposed the sisters to the importance of cultural diversity early on. Their parents prioritized showing them the world, even on a tight budget, instilling in them the idea that travel is one of the best forms of education.

Knowing that not all children had the chance to explore the world firsthand, they put pen to paper to create a tale about a globetrotting dog. They hoped their story would allow young readers to experience the wonders of the world without ever having to leave their homes.

Their series mission is simple: provide a conversational understanding of the world’s most famous cities through charming stories that make far-off places accessible to every child and family.

For more information, check out charliewags.com, Instagram, or Facebook.



ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Sanna Sjöström, known professionally as Sannadorable, has loved art her whole life. With an extensive background in watercolor painting, she found it increasingly difficult to find the time and energy for her art after having children. Realizing how quickly she could access her iPad, Sanna began experimenting with digital art, skillfully mimicking the look of watercolor.

Today, Sanna illustrates children’s books and also creates posters, cards, and digital illustration tools. Through her creations, she aims to bring joy and smiles to people’s faces.

Sanna’s distinctive style—rooted in her deep appreciation for nature and her love for finding beauty in the ordinary—brings iconic cities to life in enchanting, rose-colored hues throughout The Tales of Charlie Wags series.

https://www.instagram.com/sannadorable/

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write this story?

Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay: The idea for The Tales of Charlie Wags has been with us for years—long before either of us had kids. Growing up in a family of immigrants, we were surrounded by diverse cultures, traditions, languages, and foods, thanks to our Greek, Argentine, Spanish, and Italian roots. Our parents believed in the educational power of travel, so even on a tight budget, they prioritized family trips around the world. These experiences instilled in us an appreciation for different cultures and gave us a broader view of the world.

But as we went from children to adults with our own kids, we realized that not everyone has the opportunity to see the world firsthand. We wanted to share the cultural insights we gained from our parents and extended families so that kids, no matter where they live, could experience the world from home. Through Charlie’s adventures, we aim to open children’s eyes to the world’s wonders—without them ever needing to leave home. Our goal is to equip kids with the knowledge to talk about places they’ve never visited. While you and I might be familiar with Broadway, many children across the country may not even know what it is. Charlie helps break down that barrier, introducing young minds to iconic locations they may not have the chance to experience firsthand. It’s all about sparking curiosity and making the world feel more accessible, one adventure at a time.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you think readers will enjoy most about this book?

Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay: Aside from the gorgeous art and breezy rhyme, we wanted to create a book that is a fun, family- centered experience. The Tales of Charlie Wags is something that parents can enjoy right along with their kids—reading, learning, and bonding over Charlie’s adventures. At the back of each book, there’s a special Paws and Learn page that offers kid-friendly fun facts about each site, as well as questions to spark meaningful conversations between adults and children. This page invites families to dive deeper into the city and share the joy of exploration together.

Life Is What It's Called - If this book was a place, what would it be and why?

Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay: If we did our jobs correctly, this book is New York City! New York is the perfect blend of energy, variety, and wonder—much like Charlie himself. It's a city full of iconic landmarks, exciting experiences, and a sense of endless adventure. Though Charlie can whisk away to any part of the world with a wag of his tail, New York offers its own sense of limitless possibilities. There's always something new to discover around every corner.

Life Is What It's Called - What lessons will readers learn from this book?

Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay: Our series introduces children to the world’s most famous cities in a fun, easy-to-understand way. In New York City, kids will learn about iconic landmarks, and with the help of vivid illustrations, they’ll be able to connect the names to the places themselves.

One of the deeper lessons we hope to convey is that, despite all the amazing places Charlie visits, his favorite place in the world is still his home. We loved the idea of Charlie exploring the globe, but always returning home each night with a grateful heart. In a world where it’s easy to compare and wish for what others have, we wanted to emphasize the value of appreciating where you come from. Each of Charlie’s journeys ends with the reminder that home is where the heart is.

Life Is What It's Called - What can you tell us about your experience as authors?

Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay: Self-publishing is a rewarding but challenging journey. We started this process 1.5 years ago, drafting the first three manuscripts (NYC, London, and Paris) in 2023. It took a lot of poise to wait to release New York City with London (March 2025) and Paris (June 2025) right behind it, but it was the right strategic decision for us.

Writing the stories is just the beginning (and often the quickest part of each book’s process). We handle every aspect of our business—from hiring an editor and illustrator to managing logistics, legal, accounting, and marketing. But we’re also both mothers with full-time jobs. We’ve had to work on the series during naps, post-bedtime, weekends—anytime we could squeeze in a moment. That’s how you know you love what you’re working on—when you’re willing to give up the little free time you have to invest in a passion project.

The beauty of being hands-on with every aspect of the process is that we’ve learned so much, not just about writing, but about the business behind it. We also get complete control of the execution of this series, which was really important to us from the jump.

Self-publishing isn’t easy, but when you believe in your story and are willing to put in the effort, it’s incredibly rewarding. We’ve learned that you’re the one driving your success, and though it’s challenging, the satisfaction of seeing everything come together exactly how we envisioned it makes it all worthwhile.

GIVEAWAY

Enter our giveaway for a chance to win a hardcover copy of The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City, personalized by Charlie Wags himself! One lucky winner will also receive Charlie Wags greeting cards, coloring pages, and a $100 gift card to Amazon.

The Tales of Charlie Wags: New York City: Book Giveaway

This post is sponsored by Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.