Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Children's books, Young-Adult

“Having experienced the sting of being teased for my own name, I wanted to create something that would protect my son’s spirit”| Interview with author Paromita De

Today I’m hosting Paromita De, author of Paromita: The Value In a Name in my blog. It is my pleasure to welcome Ms. De to this episode of the author interview. 

Paromita De is a passionate children’s picture book author, dedicated high school teacher, loving wife, and mom who believes that every child has a story worth telling. With a deep commitment to nurturing creativity and curiosity in young minds, she blends her professional expertise in education with her creative passion for storytelling.

A proud graduate of the University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine), Paromita brings a unique, academic, and nurturing perspective to her children’s literature, crafting narratives that are both engaging and educational.

When she is not in the classroom inspiring high school students or crafting new, magical worlds for her picture books, Paromita can likely be found indulging in her favorite ritual: enjoying a quiet, comforting lavender latte while brainstorming her next story. Her writing is largely inspired by the daily wonders of life, the innocence of childhood, and the joys of being a mom. Paromita resides in California with her family.

Q:For readers meeting you for the first time, could you tell us a little about yourself and what first inspired you to become a writer? 

My dream of becoming a writer and a teacher started when I was just five years old—it was a simple, childhood dream to teach and tell stories.

The real turning point for me was high school. I was lucky enough to be part of the Live Poet’s Society, a space that gave me the quiet confidence to explore my own voice through poetry. I owe so much to my teacher, Mr. Root. He saw something in me that I hadn’t yet seen in myself. His mentorship was a gift that truly shaped my heart and my career, teaching me that being an educator is about so much more than just a lesson plan—it’s about inspiration

Q:Your book Paromita: The Value in a Name seems deeply personal right from its title. What made you choose to build a story around identity and the meaning carried within a name?

Paromita is really a piece of my heart. The deepest inspiration behind it was my son. Like me, he has an East Indian name, and I wrote this story because I want him to carry it with absolute pride. Having experienced the sting of being teased for my own name, I wanted to create something that would protect my son’s spirit

Q: The idea of names often carries emotional, cultural, and even generational weight. What does the name “Paromita” personally represent to you? 

My name represents my culture, my heritage, my identity, and the love of my parents and ancestors   Our names are the very first gift we receive when we enter this world. They are a sacred link to our past, carrying the weight of our culture and the deep love of the ancestors who came before us.

Q: Children’s stories may look simple on the surface, but they often carry profound messages underneath. How did you balance simplicity with emotional depth while writing this book? 

Kids already possess an incredible capacity for deep emotion; they just don’t use complicated vocabulary to express it. The illustrations did a lot of the emotional weight for me, and I am very grateful for the way that my illustrator, Abdullah was able to pair the illustrations with the depth of emotion in the book.

Q: Many writers say that writing for children is more difficult than writing for adults because children immediately connect with honesty. Was that true in your experience as well? 

Writing this book taught me that children don’t need us to protect them from big feelings; they just need us to be as brave and honest in our storytelling as they are in their everyday lives.

Q: There is a quiet warmth in stories that help children feel seen and accepted. Was there a particular emotional experience or memory that shaped this story? 

Writing this book was a deeply humbling process of looking back at my younger self and remembering the exact weight of those childhood anxieties.

Q: Identity and belonging are themes that resonate across all ages. Did you consciously write the book for parents and adults too, beyond young readers? 

My primary focus was simply trying to be as honest and gentle with my younger self as possible. Since identity and belonging are lifelong human struggles, I think the book naturally ended up speaking to the shared experiences of both generations.

Q: In a world where children are constantly exposed to labels and comparisons, what message do you hope young readers take away from your book? 

 My hope is for it to foster a world that is a bit kinder and more respectful of the unique names and different backgrounds that make up who we are, and for children to embrace their culture and identity with pride.

Q: As a debut author, what surprised you the most about the journey from idea to publication?

 Hearing children and parents interpret Paromita in ways I never personally intended has been the most beautiful, unexpected reward. I am filled with gratitude for the editors, illustrator, and early readers who actually brought Paromita to life.

Q: Finally, what kind of stories do you hope to continue telling in the future, and what can readers look forward to next from you?

I am currently writing a second book, and I hope to create more stories about Paromita’s experiences in the future.

Visit Paromita on https://paromitadebooks.com/

About the Book

Some kids worry about homework. Paromita worries about her name. When her teacher twists her name into something that sounds like a sputtering car engine, the whole class laughs, and Paromita’s confidence hits the floor.

Paromita follows a young Indian girl who once loved her beautiful name and the kathak dances she learned from her grandma. But at school, her name becomes a target. Between “Parooometer” and “Parrot,” she decides that life might be easier if everyone just called her “Pat.” Spoiler alert: it isn’t.

What follows is a story about pride, identity, and a seven-yard sari. Paromita finds her voice again at the school talent show, where she performs her kathak dance and tells everyone exactly what her name means, where it comes from, and why mispronouncing it is more than a simple mistake. By the next day, her classmates see her differently, and she learns that being herself is far stronger than trying to fit in.

This story gives young readers a look into how cultural identity and confidence can grow from pain and pride in equal measure. It shows how a child’s voice can shift how others see difference.

Purchase here:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Children's books, Travelogue

The Excellent Adventures of Hubie and Honey by T. J. Mueller : A Lesson in Courage and Connection

​We all have grand aspirations, but it’s often our own inner voice of fear that becomes the biggest discouragement. “The Excellent Adventures of Hubie and Honey” illustrates this meaningful concept perfectly. In just thirty-nine perfectly written pages, this small book imparts timeless wisdom to budding minds, crafting a beautiful narrative about overcoming one’s own insecurities and fears through meaningful and supportive relationships. 

This is far more than a simple story; it’s a guide to believing in oneself and understanding that every dream is achievable.​The book excels in its ability to present these profound life lessons within a well-paced and engaging narrative. The literary structure is certainly one of its greatest strengths; the author has skillfully organized the tale from beginning to end, using correct, evocative words that never hinder the story’s flow. The incidents are introduced at regular intervals, maintaining an even pace that keeps young readers thoroughly engrossed. It’s rare to find such a perfectly constructed piece of children’s literature that feels both effortless and meticulously crafted.

​The story centers on the unlikely duo in the Walker’s garden: Honey, the Italian greyhound dog, and Hubie, the worldly pond frog. Their friendship is founded on the thrill of adventure, fueled by Hubie’s incredible tales of his travels outside the garden’s boundaries. Honey’s great desire to see the outside world becomes a powerful illustration of dreaming big, but it is Hubie’s presence that provides the crucial spark of right guidance. This scenario beautifully conveys how important it is to circle yourself with friends who uplift your mindset and give you the courage to take the first step.

​The ensuing journey is an eventful trek that teaches children the necessity of helping each other in need and the pure joy of having fun together. No matter how daunting the world outside the garden may seem, the duo shows that if you are perseverant enough, nothing can stop you from reaching your goals. 

​Apart from the compelling narrative and its inherent moral value, the book is a visual delight. The vivid and beautiful illustrations certainly add another layer of depth, making the journey resonate even more strongly with the reader. 

Overall, “The Excellent Adventures of Hubie and Honey” is a well-written and well-meant book, a must-read for children and adults alike who need a reminder that adventure awaits just beyond their comfort zone.

Rating: 5/5

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Children's books, Young-Adult

“Write what you like to read and enjoy” author Lia Ginno on writing and launching her latest book, Turmeric and Magic

Today I’ll be hosting author Lia Ginno in my blog. She is a seasoned author with 8 children’s books in credit. Her latest release, Turmeric and Magic is now available on Amazon.com.

Lia Ginno is a retired college lecturer in Child development and she has been writing for years, every time she has a moment.  At the beginning for children (pen name Lia Ginno).  Her published writing started with the first book in 2006 – The LEGENDS and the Inca Crystals the first of a trilogy of magical adventures. It was a semi-finalist in the Brit Awards. The publishing company amalgamated with another firm that stopped advertising it so she bought back the rights and self-published it. Then she followed up with the second book – The LEGENDS saving the Rainforest Orchid.  Then next, the third The LEGENDS and the Bible Code Quest. To date, she has published eight children’s books. Two of her books The Gallant Three, and the latest Turmeric and Magic are stories that show positive image escapades for children with disabilities. She wrote these because she never saw such books in her workplaces, years back!  And there are still very few books that show them being hero’s, not just as ‘token,’ characters in a story. However, she had a mountain of unfinished stories for adults fading away in note pads and in files on her laptop.  So, in 2012, she published her award-winning debut sexy novel Set my Soul on Fire (pen name Celia). Next, she wrote a romantic thriller, Flashback, that has not been as successful.  Her latest release, just launched, is a romantic mystery set in Spain, Spanish Roots, that is selling well so far.

It is my pleasure to welcome Ms Lia Ginno to this episode of the author interview.

  • When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? 

In school, I wanted to be a journalist.

  • How long have you been writing? 

Since childhood, however, I had my first book published in 2007 The LEGENDS and the INCA Crystals First of a trilogy.

  • What inspired you to write Turmeric and Magic?

I used to work with children who had disabilities and there were not, and still, there are very few stories that have them as the main character with dreams.

You can now purchase and kindle and paperback version of Turmeric and Magic from Amazon.com

  • What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

Finding the right illustrator that has the vision to go with my story. Tamsin has achieved this with beautiful interpretation.

  • Who is your favourite author and why?

Difficult. I like so many. Roald Dahl, I loved his humour. Jodi Picoult,  Khaled Hosseini.

  • What inspires you to get out of bed each day?

The sunshine peeps through the curtains.  I live in Spain for most of the year.

  • If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Creative, optimistic, nutty.

  • Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

As I do not find writing emotionally draining or stressful this is hard to answer.  I find to a certain extent that writing is calming and fun. I love my characters and they drive my story.  My tip would be to write what you like to read and enjoy. Don’t worry about what the latest ‘read’ might be just write what is in your imagination.

  • Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

I am considering writing a series of bilingual books for primary children. You can follow me on Instagram @liaginnobooks to keep up-to-date about my new projects.

Amina Thajudeen Author Interview, Book Tour, Children's books

“You need to love the writing craft and be highly driven to take your dream from conception to publication”

Today I’ll be hosting author Jennifer Dovey on my blog. Her debut children’s book “The Clever Little Mouse“ will be available for purchase on Kickstarter.com

Jennifer Dovey is an English teacher, writer and author of children’s books. She is also a busy mum to three girls and one fur baby! She always loved to write and to share her ideas with the world. Crafty forms of expression constantly inspire her as well her writings which are so on point that you want to reach through the page, shake their hand and marvel at their genius.  She writes for the sheer joy of writing. For its own reward.

It is my pleasure to welcome Ms Dovey to this episode of the author interview.

  • When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

Ever since I was young – perhaps around the age of 8, I realised I could write stories and make up rhymes easier than other children in my class. As time went on, I developed a love for the aesthetics of good writing and loved sharing my work with others. It didn’t matter if it was a play or a short story, I simply enjoyed writing and sharing my work with others.

  • How long have you been writing?

As an English teacher, I have done my fair share of writing. On the side, I have worked as a professional writer for a few years now – mainly writing content for others to put on their website. ‘The Clever Little Mouse’ is my first children’s fiction book.

  • What inspired you to write The Clever Little Mouse?

The story just came to me one day while I was hanging out washing. I literally stopped what I was doing, went inside and wrote it down. I had read somewhere that ‘children don’t want boring books’ (I believe Aaron Blabey said this) and being a fan of ‘Pig the Pug’ I knew I didn’t want to do a boring book either. My own children love funny stories and I guess I wanted to write something they would enjoy too.

You can now order a Hardcover copy of The Clever Little Mouse on Kickstarter.com

Are your characters created from scratch or are they based on people from your life?

All three characters are created from scratch and are not based on any animals I know.

  • What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

I think good stories should have a clever or unexpected ending. Once you have worked this out, the hard part is over.

  • What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing your book?

I learnt more about how rhyme should really be used to weave a story together whilst deploying a high standard of the writing craft. Rhyme shouldn’t be used with reckless abandon for the sake of it, but to embellish what is already a decent story. Sometimes, when authors try to rhyme, they go on a rudderless hunt for rhyming synonyms and end up choosing words that are out of reach for young children. Rhyming should be complimentary to the story with words that are not bent and contorted just to fit in.

  • Who is your favourite author and why?

My favourite children’s author would be Roald Dahl. His books never fail to capture my imagination and draw me into his stories. He once said, “Books shouldn’t be daunting, they should be funny, exciting and wonderful.” His books certainly are and he is truly inspiring.

  • What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

‘Pig the Pug’ by Aaron Blabey; ‘The Very Cranky Bear’ by Nick Bland; ‘Green Eggs and Ham.’ By Dr Seuss; ‘I Want My Hat Back’ by Jon Klassen; ‘The Wonderful Things You Will Be’ by Emily Winfield Martin and ‘Giraffes Can’t Dance’ by Giles Andreae.

  • What is the best piece of advice you received about writing?

Children’s books should be able to be read by the child and not just by an adult reading to a child. If there are some words that children can’t pronounce or understand, then they’ll end up disengaged and disinterested pretty quickly.

  • What inspires you to get out of bed each day?

My children are big motivators in my life but equally the belief and value in the work I do, motivates me to get out of bed in the morning. I like knowing that I’m appreciated for my skills and efforts and that the work I do is making a difference. I’m also motivated to provide for my family and afford them with the absolute best life possible.

  • If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Entrepreneurial, creative and positive.

  • Writing can be an emotionally draining and stressful pursuit. Any tips for aspiring writers?

You need to love the writing craft and be highly driven to take your dream from conception to publication. Practice writing as much as you can in all forms and read great books with language choices that inspire you.

  • Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with your readers about?

My next book teaches grammar principles through amusing pictures and a narrative. As a teacher, I see a need for this, as there are common grammar mistakes that children make over and over again. I think it would be wonderful to have a book that illustrates the point to make it memorable for young readers.

You can follow me on Instagram @JenniferDoveybooks to keep up to date with my projects.

Reach out to me for more

https://jenniferdovey.com/
Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Children's books, Comics, Young-Adult

Delly Belly by Milan Paul Kumar | Review

What if a mysterious event could save you from your most embarrassing moments? What if it could teach you everything you need to know and transport you back in time to get it right on your second try? Meet Dele – a successful young boy with a magical secret…

Title: Delly Belly

Author: Milan Paul Kumar

Pages: 13

My review

Dele is an ordinary boy. But he has a secret. His secret saves him from embarrassing situations. He is often bullied and body shamed by his peers. Instead of shutting himself off or reacting angrily, he looks into the reason. He gains his power from the very own subject that he is bullied. He considers his body as an asset and treasure. He regains his strength in all adversities. He is not the one who easily gives up.

This small story teaches our children a lot of valuable lessons. Dele has no friends. He certainly doesn’t excel in studies or physical activities. But he is a fighter. If you put him in a situation he will fight with all his might. He has the strength to overcome his weakness. He has the determination to learn things that he doesn’t know. He has the fire to excel in every challenge. These all are undoubtedly the best qualities everyone needs to excel in life.

The illustrations are bright and vivid which surely create a spark of imagination in children’s minds. The author has narrated an excellent and meaningful story along with these illustrations.

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Children's books, Thriller, Young-Adult

Kay and Kai’s Kaleidoscopic Adventures by Brenell Ferguson-Saunders | Review

Kool, Kolors of Kreativity when learning science!

In the Kaleidoscopic Adventure Series, siblings Kay and Kai explore the magnificent natural world around them. In these short stories the siblings chronicle journeys of investigation and exploration. From learning about plants and animals, to the sun and moon, there is always something new to discover. For Kay and Kai the adventures are just beginning. Will you join them?

Title: Kay and Kai’s Kaleidoscopic Adventures

Author: Brenell Ferguson-Saunders

Pages:30

My review

Kay and Kai’s Kaleidoscopic adventures by Brenell Ferguson-Saunders is a beautifully illustrated and wonderfully narrated story. Kai is inviting us to join his little exploration. He uses his environment to gather more knowledge. He is trying to find answers about things around us. His mantra is Who? What? Where? Why? and how?

Inculcating curiosity is the first step towards education. This small story not only presents a message but also evokes the ability to think and question everything, before believing in them. This will encourage our children to pursue active learning rather than memorizing random facts from textbooks blindly.

The right learning should start from nature. It is where we all belong. It is an endless source of knowledge. That’s why the author adopted a science theme for this story. The author expressed this invaluable lesson through crisp and rhyming words.

Along with answering the basic question of plant growth, this story also conveys a beautiful message at the end. Ask questions, find things by yourself and it is the key to growth. This is nature’s law. Loved this incredible message.

Rating:5/5

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Children's books, Fantacy, Thriller

Bubba in Phantom Weenie : A fun Halloween mystery adventure with our Dachshund friends! by Greg LeFrancis

This spooktacular story follows our three weenie dog friends, Bubba, Hannah, and Amber, and their bird buddy, Yellow Boy through a fantastic Halloween night full of tall tales and trickery which in turn teaches one dog a lesson about stealing. A book for children ages 5 and up.

Title: Bubba in Phantom Weenie : A fun Halloween mystery adventure with our Dachshund friends! (Bubba and Friends Book Series 1)

Author: Greg LeFrancis

Pages:

My review

A perfect story for this Halloween!

Bubba in Phantom weenie is the celebration of this Halloween season. Written in the background of Halloween celebrations, this story is about three friends, Bubba, Hannah and Yellow boy. Their enthusiasm to celebrate the most awaited season is quickly intervened by another pirate dog, Amber. She tricks them for her selfishness. The three friends, together recover from the pitfall and celebrate the season happily at the end.

The beautiful story is accompanied with colourful illustration. The vibrant illustrations can strike a chord of imagination for sure. The author has made a small mystery thriller through very less pages and words. The story is written in a way to create curiosity to know what will happen next. In the climax, a valuable message of honesty and sincerity is also delivered. Loved the illustrations and story!

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Children's books, Young-Adult

My Best Pal: The Awesome Ethan by Karlene Stewart| Review

My Best Pal is the heartwarming story of a young boy who enjoys the company of his teddy bear Ethan. They go everywhere, and do everything together; until one day there is a big change, and nothing is the same anymore.

Title: My Best Pal: The Awesome Ethan

Author: Karlene Stewart

Pages: 34

My review

My Best Pal: The Awesome Ethan is a beautifully illustrated carefully crafted story. It is all about Jason and Ethan and their friendship. Jason was a very lonely boy before the arrival of Ethan. He was bullied and teased by other children in his school. But when he met Ethan, his entire life changed. He wants a friend who accept him and not judge him instead. He found his true companion in Ethan.

I loved this story. The full-size illustrations are the first thing that caught my eyes. But the author has penned a full story along with them. She carefully incorporated values such as care, acceptance, love and friendship in the story. This helps to inculcate these priceless emotions in my child from his young age. I believe these qualities will create a permanent effect on his behaviour. They will also help him to thrive in future.

The biggest message from the story is the acceptance. In a world filled with racism and divides, inclusiveness is an important lesson to teach our children. Our happiness depends on our thoughts and action. We can find happiness in every difficult situation with the right mindset. Loved this message!