January is a great time to highlight our Tellwell authors and their work. This month, we’re sharing a collection of author spotlights and book reviews, celebrating the creativity and dedication that goes into each story.
Through these features, readers can discover engaging new books while learning more about the people behind them. It’s a way to celebrate the talent and passion that bring stories to life.
Author Spotlight
Lucas wants a tarantula—not a toy, not a picture, but a real eight-legged friend! The only problem? Mom is terrified of spiders.
In this sweet and funny story, Lucas uses patience, courage, and plenty of fun facts to win her over. Now featured in KidlioMag, K.M.’s book, Lucas Gets a Tarantula is capturing young readers’ hearts and sparking brave conversations at home. Perfect for kids, parents, and anyone learning that courage sometimes comes with eight legs. 💛
The Adventures of Gregg the Fainting Goat by Steve Mo is also featured in KidlioMag! 🐐
Gregg isn’t your ordinary farm goat—he faints whenever he gets too excited or scared. When he dreams of joining the rodeo, his kindhearted friend Sharon helps him take on the goat-tying event. Full of humor, heart, and farmyard fun, this story shows that what makes you different can also be your greatest strength. Perfect for ages 3 to 7, it’s a tale that will leave kids laughing, cheering, and celebrating themselves.
Discover the magic of The Lonely Dragon: The Adventures of Astrid the Viking by Ruth Tobiassen, now featured in KidlioMag! 🐉
When a lonely dragon meets a brave Viking girl, a story of friendship, courage, and kindness unfolds. This beautifully rhyming tale shows that true friendship begins with understanding and heart. Perfect for bedtime or quiet reading, it blends gentle rhythms, memorable characters, and a message young readers will cherish.
Review
Wendy Maclean’s Santa Also Forgets has earned a five-star review from Reader’s Favorite! Based on true events and inspired by Wendy’s family trips to Santa’s village, this heartwarming story captures the magic of the season and the joy of kindness.
Santa Also Forgets by Wendy Maclean is built around humor, warmth, and relatable holiday moments. The writing is gentle, making it easy for young readers to read, while Amelina Jones’s illustrations bring all the pages to life.
-Readers’ Favorite Book Review
Cody Cole’s Auke-wingeke-tawso, or, ‘Defender of His Country’ has received a five-star review from Reader Views! This detailed account of Charles de Langlade’s life highlights the bravery and endurance of the Green Bay forest settler, whose actions in the French & Indian War earned him lasting respect. Rich in historical detail, the book brings to life a fascinating figure often overlooked in history. Cody Cole, a history enthusiast from Kawartha Lakes, Ontario, combines meticulous research with a passion for storytelling to make this remarkable tale accessible to readers today.
Overall, Auke-wingeke-tawso is a solid work of historical scholarship that successfully conveys the history and influence of one of the most important Métis war captains, traders, and diplomats of the colonial era.
-Reader Views Book Review
