Spotlight: Zicky by Darin S Cape & illustrated by Zeno Decrux and Hiorsh Gabotto

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For readers 9 and older, “Zicky: Wrath of the Rat King” bursts with monsters, mayhem, and heart. With its expressive visual style, cheeky humor, and emotionally grounded characters, Zicky puts a fresh spin on classic kai (portal fantasy) storytelling. Zicky is ideal for readers who love fast-moving fantasy with heart. A coming-of-age story set in a strange and dangerous world, this graphic novel delivers a unique voice and a vivid, unforgettable journey.

Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org

About the Author

Founded by SHAWN HAINSWORTH, SHP Comics launched in 2021 as an independent publisher aiming to deliver daring, intelligent, genre-bending comics and graphic novels. Hainsworth began his creative life as an award-winning experimental filmmaker before telling stories on the page under the pseudonym Darin S. Cape. The publisher, author and producer lives in Western Massachusetts with his wife, two kids and a hound dog mix. Learn more at shpcomics.com, and follow SHP on Facebook: @shpcomics and Instagram: @shpcomics.

Spotlight: The Wars Between by Lee J. Mavin

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With a richly imagined world — complete with sea fortresses, democratic republics, mythical creatures and a trade island that profits from both sides of the war — The Wars Between invites young readers to think critically about leadership, history and the power of language.

The book features a detailed map in the opening pages and cover illustration by Polish artist Karolina Piotrowska, a long-time collaborator with Lee.

In a world that is divided more than ever before, as a writer and a teacher, Lee wants students to think differently about conflict and leadership around the globe. 

Alongside the book, Lee holds creative writing and storytelling workshops which explore:

• The power of poetry and storytelling
• Questioning inherited narratives
• Leadership and responsibility
• Environmental ethics and food systems
• The economics of conflict
• Courage to think differently

Lee encourages students to examine how stories influence the way we see others, and how their own voices can shape the future.

Because sometimes, the most powerful warrior is not the one who lifts a sword,  but the one who dares to write.

Outis became the mightiest of word-warriors, swinging his pen-sword with such precision that he became a guardian of truth.

The Wars Between is out on April 30th. Make sure you grab your copy of the book at https://leejmavin.com/

About the Author

Lee J. Mavin is a Sydney-based author of children’s and young adult fantasy whose work blends adventure, satire and layered social themes. Across thirteen published books, he has built imaginative worlds that explore identity, courage and the power of storytelling.

His latest novel, The Wars Between, follows an unlikely young poet who sets out to end a thousand-year war with words instead of weapons. Written for readers aged eight to 14 and beyond, the book reflects Lee’s interest in how narratives shape nations, how myths endure, and how unlikely voices can create change.

Lee has lived in China and Japan and speaks three languages. His experiences in these countries inform his global perspective and storytelling. He is a school teacher and lives in Sydney with his wife and children and spends his free time reading, watching movies and listening to hip hop. 

Spotlight: Dibs the Dragon and the Marshmallow Rescue by Ellie Moss

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How does a bubble-blowing dragon make his very first friend?

In the magical land of Lickitypop, Dibs the Dragon hears a tiny cry for help from the sticky syrup swamp and discovers Mooch, a marshmallow mole who is very, very stuck. With a licorice vine, a bit of bravery, and a whole lot of heart, Dibs leaps into action—and begins a friendship that will change everything.

This gentle, whimsical picture book is filled with kindness, imagination, and cozy read-aloud moments that celebrate the joy of helping others and the magic of making friends.

Whether you're a parent, teacher, librarian, or cozy-color enthusiast, this sweet story is sure to become a beloved favorite on your shelf—and a magical introduction to the Lickitypop series.

Buy on Amazon Kindle | Hardcover | Paperback

About the Author

Ellie Moss is the creator of Lickitypop, an imaginative, candy-colored universe where jellybean forests shimmer, bubble scooters zoom through cotton-candy skies, and problems are solved with courage, connection, and a sticky SPLAT.

What began as an escape during a difficult chapter in her life quickly grew into a world that helped her find softness, hope, and joy again.​

​Her stories blend whimsy with emotional care: pastel illustrations designed for calm, playful sound words that encourage speech development, and gentle characters who model resilience, kindness, and friendship.

Ellie believes deeply that stories can be a form of healing for little readers discovering the world, and for grown-ups rediscovering their breath. Through Lickitypop, she invites families to step into a place where imagination is soothing, feelings are welcome, and magic is something we all deserve.

You can follow the author at: 

Her website: https://www.lickitypop.com/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lickitypop

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lickitypop/

Spotlight: Katie's Really Bad Day: A Story About Test Anxiety by Kathleen Jeffrey

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Big emotions often surface in unexpected ways at school. Katie’s Really Bad Day: A Story About Test Anxiety by Kathleen Jeffrey, illustrated by Susan Kilmartin, examines how anxiety interrupts learning and how support restores confidence.

Katie enjoys learning, but test days bring anxiety that overwhelms her. During a spelling test, her worry escalates, making it impossible to focus or complete the task. Her reaction leaves her feeling embarrassed.

With calm support from her teacher, Katie begins to understand her anxious feelings. She learns simple calming techniques that help her manage stress and regain focus. As she practices these tools, she realizes that nervousness before tests is common among students. The story emphasizes emotional awareness, self-regulation, and the importance of supportive adults.

Buy on Amazon Kindle | Hardcover | Paperback | Bookshop.org

About the Author

Kathleen Jeffrey is an author of children’s picture books, fulfilling her mission to create stories that shine with love, light, spirit, truth, and joy—helping children navigate life’s challenges, explore big emotions, and grow with courage, kindness, and wonder. 

Visit Kathleen at her website and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Spotlight: Nora & The Lighthouse by Robin Murphy

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Illustrated by April Burril

Genre: Children’s Picture Book 

Five-year-old Nora is thrilled for a sleepover at her Nana and Grandpa’s condo—but what she really dreams of is climbing to the top of the Concord Point Lighthouse. There’s just one problem: she needs to be 42 inches tall. Determined and hopeful, Nora spends the day imagining she’s grown just enough. After a fun-filled evening and a good night’s sleep, she finally visits the lighthouse. Is Nora tall enough? Will the view from the top be everything she dreamed it would be?

This heartwarming story celebrates the excitement of milestones, the bond between grandparents and grandchildren, and the thrill of achieving something new.

Buy on Amazon

About the Author 

Robin Murphy, an Amazon best-selling author, writes across genres including paranormal mysteries, humorous romance, chick-lit, and nonfiction. Based in Havre de Grace, Maryland, she also works as a self-employed virtual executive assistant and freelance writer. Her ability to blend imaginative fiction with practical, real-world topics showcases both her versatility and engaging narrative style.

Website * Facebook * X * Instagram * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

Spotlight: Not That Orange by Bailey Adams

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Not That Orange is a delightful and colorful tale about self-acceptance, diversity, and embracing what makes us unique!

Carrot is on a mission—he’s searching for his orange! But there’s just one problem… he’s green! With the help of a friendly orange from a nearby tree, Carrot embarks on a journey across the farm, asking the other crops for help. But as confusion grows, Carrot soon discovers something surprising—carrots can be all sorts of colors, not just orange!

Through fun, playful storytelling and charming illustrations, Not That Orange teaches young readers (ages 3-5) an important lesson: being different is not just okay—it’s something to celebrate! In a world that often focuses on fitting in, this book encourages little ones to embrace who they are and appreciate the beautiful diversity around them.

Perfect for preschool and kindergarten-aged children, Not That Orange is a wonderful addition to any home or classroom library, inspiring kids to be confident in themselves while learning about colors, friendship, and the joy of being uniquely you!

Excerpt

Once, there was a farmer who grew a lovely garden. One sunny day, the farmer went to pick some carrots.He pulled, and pulled, and pulled. Finally, some carrots came loose! He set them in a bushel. But the farmer noticed that one carrot was different. It was green! 

“A green carrot? That’s different,” he commented, before walking away. 

Later, the green carrot woke up from his nap. As he looked around the bushel, he noticed that he was not orange, like the others.

Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org

About the Author

Bailey Adams is a children’s author and dedicated educator with a passion for literacy and creative storytelling. Based in Metro Detroit, she currently works as an elementary P.E. teacher but has also taught third, fourth, and fifth grade. With experience as a Reading & Math Coach for Kindergarten and first grade, Bailey's ultimate dream is to become an Elementary Literacy Specialist while continuing to share her love of storytelling with young readers.

Bailey’s journey as a writer began in the fourth grade when she discovered the magic of crafting stories—and she hasn’t stopped since. She embraces an organic writing process, letting ideas flow naturally from inspiration sparked by books, shows, or random bursts of creativity. Instead of following structured outlines, she prefers to sit down and let the words lead the way, trusting that storytelling from the heart produces the most genuine and meaningful work.

Despite being a perfectionist in many areas, Bailey believes that writing should be an intuitive and soulful process, with revision and refinement coming later. She is passionate about inspiring young minds through engaging, heartfelt stories and hopes to make a lasting impact in both the classroom and the literary world.

Connect:

Website: https://baileyadamsbooks.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bailey.lynch.75/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/badams11_1_24/